The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a very distinctive breed, renowned for the unique “ridge” of hair that runs down its back in the opposite direction to the rest of the hair. The breed originates in Southern Africa where these hounds were initially bred to track and trail large game animals, including lions, and and hold the prey at bay. This ability earned them the nickname “African Lion Hound.” The courage, agility, and resilience of these dogs made them invaluable as hunting partners, while their loyalty and protective nature assured their place as treasured household companions and defenders of the homestead.
Hound
24 – 27 Inches
70 – 85 Pounds
10 – 12 Years
| Country of Origin | Zimbabwe |
|---|---|
| Bred For | Trailing and Tracking Large Animals, Guarding, Companionship |
| Known For | Athleticism, Independence, Symmetry |
| Popularity | High |
| Temperament | Devoted, Dignified, Even-Tempered |
| Activities | Coursing, Running, Hiking, Conformation Shows, Dog Sports |
The history of the Rhodesian Ridgeback is as intriguing as its distinctive appearance. The breed’s origins can be traced back to the Khoikhoi people, the indigenous bushmen of present-day Namibia. The Khoikhoi dogs, known for their hunting prowess, were crossed with European dogs brought by early Portuguese explorers and traders in the 16th century. This fusion of breeds resulted in the creation of versatile hunting dogs that would lay the groundwork for the creation of the Rhodesian Ridgeback.
Fast-forward to the 19th century when Europeans, most notably the Boers who traced their ancestry to Dutch, German, and French Huguenots, moved into what is now Zimbabwe and South Africa. These people recognized the unique qualities of the native hunting dogs and began to breed them with the breeds they brought with them, including the Greyhound, Mastiff, and Bloodhound. Their goal was to produce a dog capable of withstanding the local environment, who that was adept at guarding their homes and aiding in the hunting of big game, most notably the lion. The dog that resulted became skilled at distracting lions and holding them at bay until the hunters arrived. This ability earned the dogs the moniker “African Lion Hound.”
The breed’s distinctive ridge of hair along its back, running in the opposite direction to the rest of the coat, became its hallmark feature. While the genetic origins of the ridge remain a subject of debate, it is believed that the Khoikhoi dogs had a role in its manifestation.
The formalization of the Breed Standard occurred in the late 1920s in Rhodesia, now Zimbabwe. Reverend Charles Helm and Francis Richard Barnes played instrumental roles in this effort, ensuring the breed retained its unique African heritage while meeting specific physical and behavioral criteria. Interestingly, the two men modeled the Ridgeback’s Standard on the that of the Dalmatian.
International recognition ultimately followed. The Rhodesian Ridgeback was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1955. Meanwhile, the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) and The Royal Kennel Club (UK) have also given their nods to this handsome and athletic breed, solidifying its place in the global canine community.
The journey of the Rhodesian Ridgeback from the savannas of Africa to show rings and homes worldwide speaks to its adaptability, resilience, and undeniable charm. Today, while it may no longer hunt lions, the breed’s regal presence and loyalty has made this upstanding hound a treasured companion for many in Africa and around the world.
Adult male Rhodesian Ridgebacks typically stand between 25 and 27 inches tall at the shoulder, with mature females being typically shorter at a height ranging from 24 to 26 inches.
When considering weight, males usually tip the scales at around 85 pounds, while females, being generally lighter, weigh in at approximately 70 pounds.
The Rhodesian Ridgeback boasts a harmonious blend of strength and speed. The breed’s proportion is just slightly longer than it is tall, providing a pleasingly symmetrical and balanced appearance. Its musculature is well-defined without being bulky, and its overall appearance is handsome, upstanding, and smooth in outline. The Ridgeback is a surprisingly quick and agile dog for its size, with a protective strength and a quickness that allows it to avoid harm.
Texture: The Rhodesian Ridgeback possesses a short, dense coat that is sleek and glossy in appearance. The coat is somewhat smooth to the touch and lies flat against the body, providing a streamlined look that suggests the breed’s fair amount of speed and its athletic prowess.
| Standard Color | |
|---|---|
| Light Wheaten | ee |
| Light Wheaten Black Nose | ee |
| Light Wheaten Brown Nose | ee |
| Red Wheaten | ee |
| Red Wheaten Black Nose | ee |
| Red Wheaten Brown Nose | ee |
| Wheaten | ee |
| Wheaten Black Nose | ee |
| Wheaten Brown Nose | ee |
| Standard Marking | |
|---|---|
| Black Mask | ee |
| White Markings | ee |
A Note About Color: The color of the Ridgeback’s coat is wheaten, in shades ranging from light to gold to red. The coat consists of banded hairs that are lighter at the base and darker at the tip. As a result, the dogs can appear to have highlights over their neck and/or shoulder blades. Ridgebacks may be clear-faced or have black on the muzzle and/or around the eyes and on the ears; however, the black should not appear as a solid mask around the eyes. Likewise, a few black hairs throughout the coat (dark brown hairs on dogs with liver-colored noses) are acceptable. White may appear on the chest and toes, although white socks are not unheard of in the breed. All other coat colors and patterns, including brindle, black brindle, black and tan, silver, and other dilute colors, are not acceptable in the breed.
The tail of the Rhodesian Ridgeback is an essential breed feature, highlighting the dog’s balanced physique and lively demeanor.
The Ridgeback’s tail is an extension of the topline and is strong at its base, tapering towards the end with a slight upward curve. In terms of its length, the tail extends down to the hocks when the dog is at rest, or it may be tucked towards the abdomen. When the Ridgeback is alert or in motion, the tail is typically elevated but does not curl over the back.
The tail’s coat remains short and dense, consistent with the body’s coat. While some Ridgebacks have a white tail tip, it is not a common characteristic for all.
The Rhodesian Ridgeback uses its tail to communicate its mood and its intentions. It is never docked. Whether wagging in happiness or used for balance during a hunt, the tail plays an essential role in the life of this active and energetic hound.
The decision to welcome a Rhodesian Ridgeback into the home is one that promises years of companionship, loyalty, and adventure. However, as with any dog, it is essential to understand the nuances of the individual’s needs and behaviors. Known for its stamina, strength, and intelligence, this African original demands attention, understanding, and commitment from its human companions.
The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a resilient and durable breed known for its hardiness. However, even with its robust nature, it can be predisposed to certain health conditions. It is important for potential owners to be informed of these concerns and to collaborate with a reputable breeder and veterinarian to provide the best healthcare for their dog throughout the years.
Lifespan: The average lifespan of a Rhodesian Ridgeback is around 10 to 12 years. With attentive care, regular veterinary visits, and a well-balanced diet, many can live a full and vibrant life, sometimes even surpassing the average typical lifespan.
The Rhodesian Ridgeback, while generally hearty, is not without its share of vulnerabilities. Some of the healt
