Rhodesian Ridgeback

Rhodesian Ridgeback Facts

Rhodesian Ridgeback Information

Rhodesian Ridgeback Description:

Rhodesian Ridgeback Care & Grooming:

Rhodesian Ridgeback Health Problems:

Group:	Hound
Size:	Large
Life Span:	10-12 years
Height:	Male: 25-27 inches
	Female: 24-26 inches
Weight:	Male: 80-90 lbs
	Female: 70-80 lbs

Coat :	Smooth, dense and glossy
Gait :	Long, free and effortless
Color(s) :	Light wheaten to red wheaten
Living Area :	Any
Hair Length:	Short
Exercise Need :	Daily long walk and jog
Recognized By :	(CKC) Canadian Kennel Club (FCI) Fï¿½dï¿½ration Cynologique Internationale (AKC) American Kennel Club (KCGB) Kennel Club of Great Britain (CKC) Canadian Kennel Club (ANKC) Australian National Kennel Council (NKC) National Kennel Club (NZKC) New Zealand Kennel Club (RRCUS) (APRI) America Pet Registry, Inc. (ACR) American Canine Registry (DRA) Dog Registry of America
Date of Origin :	19th Century
Place of Origin :	South africa
Todays Use :	Guard Dog
Originally Used :	Lion Hunter, Guard Dog
Other Name :	African Lion Hound

The origin of the Rhodesian Ridgeback dates back to the 19th century. They were developed in the Cape of Peninsula region in South Africa. In the 17th century, the Khoikhoi people bred local breeds which were known for their lean and muscular frame. By the end of the 19th century, the region was inhabited by the Europeans who brought their own breeds such as the Greyhounds, Bloodhounds and the Terriers. These European dog breeds were then crossbred with the local breed of the Khoikhoi people and thus, the Boer hunting dog was created. The Boers were the ancestors of the modern Ridgebacks. It was in the 1870s that Reverend Charles Helm took a couple of specimen of the Boers along with him Southern Rhodesia and crossbred them with his own breeds. This cross breeding resulted in the formation of the Rhodesian Ridgeback. In those days, the breed was used to hunt lions as well as other animals such as wild pigs. The breed was first recognized by AKC in 1955.

The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a large breed with a muscular yet athletic frame and symmetrical features. It has a long head in proportion to the body; round and bright eyes with color in accordance with the color of the coat; high-set ears with a rounded tip which lie close to the head; a long muzzle which is filled and powerful; thin and taut lips which are dark in color with teeth which meet in scissors bite; a medium sized nose with color in accordance with the color of the coat. This breed has a long tail which is broad at the base and tapers to a point with a slight curve towards the end. The tail is always carried down. It has a short, dense, smooth and glossy coat. The color of the coat can be light wheaten to red wheaten having a little white on the chest and toes.

The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a hunting breed with a calm demeanor when not hunting. It is a good natured dog which is obedient and loyal towards its master. It is an excellent guard dog since it is protective of its territory and is reserved with strangers. However, it is not too good with kids. Given its large size and aggressive instincts, it can be rough while playing and hence, pose a threat to kids. Although it can be a good companion dog, a lot of effort is needed in training in them. It is a quick learner but requires consistent and repetitive training methods. Thus, it is not recommended for families having kids. If sufficiently exercised it can adjust well to an apartment lifestyle but they are more comfortable in large areas.

The Rhodesian Ridgeback is an average shedder. Its short coat does not require much grooming. Brushing once or twice in a week with a firm bristle brush is sufficient to maintain its coat. It should be bathed only when necessary using a mild shampoo. Its ears and eyes should be cleaned regularly and nail should be trimmed properly to avoid any injury.

This breed needs a lot of daily exercise. Apart from a daily long walk, jogging and running should be made a part of the regular routine for optimum physical and mental development of the breed. Lack of exercise may create behavioral problem in the dog and can also make it destructive.

Grooming:

Shedding:

Energy Level:

Protection:

Watch Dog:

The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a healthy breed with relatively few health issues like hip dysplasia, cysts, thyroid, dermoid sinus etc.

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