Rhodesian Ridgeback (African Lion Hound).
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Rhodesian Ridgeback
Form and function
The Rhodesian Ridgeback is slightly longer than its height, but it has the ability to combine speed, power and endurance. The Rhodesian Ridgeback is athletic in build. Their stride is long and efficient. Their glossy, short coat is well-suited for hot climates. The distinctive feature of this ridge is its two identical whorls that start just behind their shoulders and then taper to their hipbones.
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Breed Traits
ENERGY LEVEL
3 out of 5
REQUIREMENTS FOR EXERCISE
3 out of 5
PLAYFULNESS
3 out of 5
AFFECTION LEVEL
3 out of 5
FRIENDLINESS TO DOGS
2 out of 5
FRIENDLINESS TO OTHER PETS
3 out of 5
FRIENDLINESS TO STRANGERS
1 of 5
WATCHFULNESS
4 out of 5
EASY TRAINING
3 out of 5
GROOMING REQUIREMENTS
1 of 5
HEAT SENSITIVITY
3 out of 5
VOCALITY
4 out of 5
Histories
Temperament
Maintenance
Health
Disclaimer
Pets Available
Histories
Temperament
Maintenance
Health
Disclaimer
Available Pets
Breed Attributes
TYPE
Hound
WEIGHT
70-85 lb
HEAD
24-27"
FAMILY
Scenthound, Sighthound
AREA OF ORIGIN
South Africa
DATE OF ORIGIN
1800s
OTHER NAMES
African Lion Hound
Histories
Expand History content
In South Africa, European settlers arrived in the 16th and 17th centuries with a variety of breeds, including the Greyhound, Great Danes, Bloodhounds, Pointers, Bloodhounds, Staghounds, and Pointers. The settlers wanted a dog that would be comfortable in hot and cold conditions, with limited water and rough bush, as well as perform the duties of a hunting dog. They created a hybrid of European and Hottentot tribe hunting dogs. This dog was distinguished by the ridge of hair that runs in the opposite direction from the top of the dogs' backs. These dogs were loyal protectors of their families and hunted using both scent and sight.
Many of these dogs were brought to Rhodesia in the 1870s to guard against lions. They tracked them down and kept them away. They quickly became a popular breed, with their distinctive ridge being a trademark. In Rhodesia, there were many types of ridged Lion Dogs. A meeting was organized to determine the best traits of each breed. This became the basis of the current breed. Rhodesian Ridgebacks were dogs that met the standards.
In the 1930s, Rhodesian Ridgebacks were introduced to England and then to America. Both breeds were recognized in the 1950s and attracted many admirers. The breed was recognized as a sighthound in the 1980s and is now eligible for sighthound field trials. The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a popular breed today, as they are a graceful and athletic companion with a handsome, sleek body.
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Temperament
The Rhodesian Ridgeback can be a bit assertive. Although they are good with children and can protect their family members, Rhodesian Ridgebacks can sometimes be a bit too assertive in playing for young children. They can be strong-willed, powerful, and domineering. They are reserved around strangers. Ridgebacks can be socialized with other dogs but two males are best. If they are socialized and introduced to cats, Ridgebacks can be good with them.
Maintenance
The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a lover of running and needs to be kept active. They make a great companion for hiking and jogging. They require very little care, other than occasional brushing to remove any dead hair.
Health
There are major concerns.
Minor concerns: CHD and hypothyroidism.
Sometimes seen: dermoid sinus, deafness
Suggestions for tests: Hip, elbow, thyroid, thyroid, dermoid sinus (as puppy).
Life expectancy: 10-12 Years
Disclaimer
Notice: Although the traits listed here may be representative of this breed, dogs are individuals with personalities and appearances that will differ from one another. For more information on a particular pet, please contact the adoption agency.