A Rhodesian Ridgeback dog poses near a flowering tree.

Rhodesian Ridgeback

Height

24 - 27"

Weight

70 - 85 lbs

Type

Hound

Life Expectancy

8 - 12 years

Area of Origin

Africa

The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a large, stately scent-hound that was used by hunters to track lions in late 19th-century Rhodesia (present day Zimbabwe). Possessing a characteristic ridge of hair that runs vertically down their backs, they were once referred to as “the dog with the snake on its back.” Rhodesian Ridgebacks are easy to care for and very loyal to their families. When well exercised and provided with adequate enrichment, they make quiet, low-maintenance, well-behaved household pets. Powerful, strong-willed, and protective of their families, they are excellent guardians for the home. They also make for very attractive pets with their impressive stature, sleek coats, and distinctive ridge of backwards-growing hair.

Energy Level

Playfulness

Friendliness to dogs

Friendliness to strangers

exercise requirements

affection level

friendliness to other pets

watchfulness

Grooming Requirements

Vocality

Where Are Rhodesian Ridgebacks From?

Ancestors of the Rhodesian Ridgeback breed can be traced to the 16th century, belonging to the Hottentot people of southern Africa. The following century, they were crossed with large dogs of European settlers to create a powerful breed of scent-hound that could be used to hunt wild game in Africa. In the late 19th century, the breed was taken to Rhodesia, where they propagated and became known for assisting big-game hunting. Official breed standards for the Rhodesian Ridgeback were created in 1922. They were officially recognized as part of the Hounds category by the American Kennel Club in 1955.

Caring for a Rhodesian Ridgeback

What Kind of Diet Does a Rhodesian Ridgeback Need?

The Rhodesian Ridgeback thrives on a high-quality, large-breed diet. They love to eat and are prone to obesity, so careful portion control is imperative.

How Much Grooming Does a Rhodesian Ridgeback Need?

The Rhodesian Ridgeback has a sleek coat that does not require much grooming. Occasional brushing can help remove dead hair and keep the coat shiny. Regular nail trimming is advised and should begin when the dogs are puppies.

Are Rhodesian Ridgeback Dogs Healthy?

Rhodesian Ridgebacks are relatively healthy dogs. On average, they live about 8 – 12 years. An inherited, autosomal recessive trait specific to Ridgeback dogs is the dermoid sinus, a cyst-like remnant of the embryonic neural tube that persists under the skin after birth and is sometimes connected to the spine. Clinical signs typically present themselves in puppyhood and include swellings, draining tracts along the skin of the back, meningitis, or myelitis. As this is a genetic trait, responsible breeders should be effective at preventing this trait in their litters.

The Rhodesian Ridgeback is predisposed to: gastric dilatation volvulus, hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, degenerative myelopathy, osteochondrosis, congenital deafness, entropion, and allergies.

How Much Training Does a Rhodesian Ridgeback Need?

Rhodesian Ridgebacks are powerful and can be headstrong. They are naturally protective and suspicious of strange animals and humans, so early training to prevent aggression should be started when young. Their dominant nature is counteracted best with a firm handler; obedience training and thorough socialization should begin in puppyhood.

How Much Exercise Does a Rhodesian Ridgeback Dog Need?

Rhodesian Ridgebacks are athletic and have a strong natural inclination to chase prey. As such, they should always be kept on a leash outside if not in a fenced-in area. They are a bright breed and thrive under adequate mental stimulation and physical exercise. Regular play outside with the ability to run will prevent monotony and boredom, which could manifest as destructive behavior in the home. Rhodesian Ridgebacks are good family dogs and great with children, although small children should be supervised so that they don’t get injured amid the Ridgeback’s rambunctious style of play.

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What Are the Physical Characteristics of a Rhodesian Ridgeback?

How Tall Are Rhodesian Ridgebacks?

The average height of the Rhodesian Ridgeback is 25 – 27″ for males and 24 – 26″ for females. They generally weigh 70 – 85 pounds, and are a strong, active, and muscular breed.

What Color Eyes Do Rhodesian Ridgebacks Have?

Rhodesian Ridgebacks have round, bright eyes that are reasonably spaced. The color of the eyes corresponds to the color of the nose: black-nosed dogs have dark eyes and brown-nosed dogs have amber eyes. Their heads are moderately long, with a flat, broad skull and tight facial skin. The ears are of medium size and positioned relatively high on the head.

What Is the Ridge on a Ridgeback Dog?

The characteristic, clearly-defined ridge of hair on Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs grows in the opposite direction of the rest of the coat, creating its distinct look. The ridge is thicker between the shoulders due to two symmetrical, parallel whorls (also known as crowns) and tapers as it approaches the hind end.

Is the Rhodesian Ridgeback Tail Curly?

The tail of the Rhodesian Ridgeback is not curled. It has a strong base with a tapered end, and is held with a slight upward curve.

Rhodesian Ridgeback Front Legs

The Ridgeback’s forelimbs are thick-boned and straight. The shoulders are sloped and muscular. The feet are compact, with a good arch and tough, protective pads.

What Color Are Rhodesian Ridgebacks?

The Rhodesian Ridgeback color ranges from light- to red-wheaten (which is a pale yellow). A small amount of white coloring may be present on the chest and/or toes. The coat is trim and shiny.

Rhodesian Ridgeback Hind Legs

The hindlimbs are as thick-boned and muscular as the forelimbs. Hocks should be down.

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