The Rhodesian Ridgeback is the only CFI-recognised dog breed that originated in South Africa. He is a dignified, brave, very intelligent four-legged friend who does not hesitate to defend his loved ones in emergency situations. On a daily basis, he is characterized by a gentle, calm character and unconditional loyalty to his guardian.
The Rhodesian Ridgeback breed has its roots in South African semi-feral dogs bred by the Rhodesian Hottentot and Khoikhoi tribes. These dogs were crossed with breeds brought to this region of the Black Continent by Dutch settlers - Boers in the XNUMXth century, primarily: Mastiffs, Great Danes, Bulldogs, Hounds and Greyhounds. European settlers began to breed a special breed aimed at developing hunting and guarding skills in extreme climatic conditions. Especially in extreme temperatures.
In this way, a dog was created that was an excellent hunter, specialized in hunting big game, as well as a good guard of the farm and defender of the family. At the same time, the Rhodesian Ridgeback showed his great attachment and loyalty to his loved ones, which meant that his popularity was constantly growing. In the XNUMXs, dogs of this breed were brought to England and then to America.
The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a large, solid-colored hound with a muscular symmetrical build. According to the FCI classification, it belongs to the 6th group: hounds, bloodhounds and related breeds. The weight of an adult male is 30-39 kg, and bitches 30-39 kg. The height of dogs at the withers varies between 63-69 cm, while bitches 61-66 cm. The Ridgeback's back is strong and the feet are compact with well arched toes. An elongated head with a flat skull is set on a rather long neck. The dog's eyes are round, shiny, brown or amber in color. Set high on the head, medium-sized ears, narrowing towards the end. The Ridgeback's muzzle is long and the jaws have a scissor bite. The tail is slightly curved upwards.
Here are the suggested sizes for adult dogs of this breed. They were selected on the basis of many years of experience in sewing accessories and the most common choices of other dog owners of this breed. Remember, only measuring will give you 100% certainty - every dog is different.
The Rhodesian Ridgeback's coat is short and smooth with a stripe not seen in other breeds, running along the spine of the fur, from the shoulders to the hip bones. Because the ridge runs in the opposite direction to the rest of the coat, the dog is somewhat reminiscent of a jackal or semi-wild tribal dog. Ridgeback coat comes in colors from light beige, through red to light brown. According to the standard, only small amounts of white or black hair are desired in designated areas, such as the chest or toes.
Because the Rhodesian Ridgeback was bred to hunt big game (including lions), this athletic dog has a strong, innate hunting instinct. He guards his home with equal commitment. Due to its independent character, it needs an experienced owner who will guide it with empathy, patiently and consistently train it, and thus help it in optimal development. Friendly, caringly brought up, he becomes an obedient and gentle member of the family. In contacts with loved ones, he shows loyalty, sensitivity and caring. Due to their unpredictable temperament, care should be taken when dealing with small children. He is rather reserved with strangers.
The Rhodesian Ridgeback is an active dog that needs daily exercise. Walking, jogging or swimming together are best. This dog does well in dog sports, such as agility or coursing (chasing a bait dragged on the ground in natural terrain). During walks, it is better to keep your pet on a leash, because its hound instinct and
hunting can make him suddenly follow another quadruped.
The Rhodesian Ridgeback is an easy-care breed. She sheds little hair, so her coat only needs a weekly brushing. Brushing for ten minutes with a hard bristle brush or grooming mitt will give this dog a showy appearance. During the period of intensive moulting, in spring and autumn, the dog requires more frequent brushing. Do not use frequent baths, once every two months is enough. Like other breeds of dogs, the Rhodesian Ridgeback requires frequent eye care, a weekly check of the condition of the ears and a monthly check of the claws.
The Rhodesian Ridgeback is considered a healthy breed, with an average lifespan of 10 to 12 years. However, the breed is prone to congenital conditions, including: hip and elbow dysplasia, which can lead to mobility problems, and thyroid diseases and eye problems. In individuals of this breed there is also the so-called leathery sinus. The term describes a disorder as a result of which a channel of different depth is formed on the ridge, made of changed skin.
Photo in the entry: Petrweg, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
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