Rhodesian Ridgeback

The majestic Rhodesian Ridgeback was originally used to track lions in Africa before becoming one of the more loyal companion breeds worldwide.

Ridgebacks are an imposing breed with a history of not just hunting lions but retrieving and carrying items and guarding children. Therefore they thrive on having a purpose and being included in family and household activities.

Personality

Powerful, courageous, intelligent and strong-willed
Suffers from separation anxiety if left without company for too long
Must be socialized early on to avoid problems with their instinctive dominating nature

Size

70 to 85 pounds
24 to 27 inches at the withers (shoulder)

Lifestyle

Excellent guardian and companion for older children
Puppies and toddlers or the elderly are not a good match given the strength and exuberance of a young Ridgeback
Can excel as city dogs if given proper space, exercise and dog run activity
The yard must be fenced in properly or the athletic Ridgeback will have no problem scaling the fence

Training

Early training is best for this strong-willed breed
A firm but gentle, consistent reward-based approach works best
Natural chasers, they require training not to “hunt and track” dogs, livestock and/or joggers

Exercise

Needs above-average exercise: multiple daily walks with free run at a dog park or enclosed area

Coat

Short coat that is generally a variant of red with an occasional splash of white
Weekly brushing to remove dull hair will keep the coat shiny and healthy

Health

Can be prone to hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, thyroid problems and cataracts

Lifespan

10 to 12 years

Rescue

To adopt one of these dogs, visit Rhodesian Ridgeback Rescue.

PHOTO: Bonnie van den Born

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