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Rhodesian Ridgeback Information & Dog Breed Facts

Collection of all the general dog breed info about Rhodesian Ridgeback so you can get to know the breed more.

Group Hunting Dogs
Popularity Rank41
Reviews7
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Rhodesian Ridgeback dog profile picture
OriginZimbabwe flagZimbabwe
Common Names & Aliases
What other names is a Rhodesian Ridgeback known by? Discover all traditional, regional and informal names used for this breed.
African Lion HoundAfrican Lion Dog
Breed Classification
What type of dog breed is a Rhodesian Ridgeback? Learn about its genetic classification and breeding category.
Purebred

Rhodesian Ridgeback Size and Weight

Size Classification
What size category is a Rhodesian Ridgeback? Learn how big the Rhodesian Ridgeback breed typically grows.
Large
Weight Statistics
How much does a Rhodesian Ridgeback weigh? Discover typical weight ranges for adult males and females of the Rhodesian Ridgeback breed.
Male: 80-90 pounds (36-41 kg), Female: 65-75 pounds (29-34 kg)
Average Weight
What is the average weight of a Rhodesian Ridgeback?
Male: 85 pounds (38.5 kg), Female: 70 pounds (31.5 kg)
Height
How tall is the Rhodesian Ridgeback? Rhodesian Ridgeback height:
Male: 25-27 inches (63-69 cm), Female: 24-26 inches (61-66 cm)
Average Height
What is the average height of a Rhodesian Ridgeback?
Male: 26 inches (66 cm), Female: 25 inches (63.5 cm)

Rhodesian Ridgeback Price and Availability

Price Range
How much does a Rhodesian Ridgeback puppy cost? Find current market prices and factors affecting Rhodesian Ridgeback costs.
$900-$1200
If you choose to purchase the Rhodesian Ridgeback, you should know that the mentioned amount of money is an average of the collected data from breeders’ sites and puppy finder places. If you have a Rhodesian Ridgeback for sale, please advertise it on a reliable website to make sure the Rhodesian Ridgeback gets to a happy place.
Availability
How easy is it to get a Rhodesian Ridgeback? How many Rhodesian Ridgeback are there in the world?
Very frequent: The Rhodesian Ridgeback is quite easy to get. There is a risk of overbreeding, as it is an extremely popular breed.

Inbreeding is common because of its popularity. A new study suggests that inbreeding contributes to the incidence of disease and health problems.

So be careful, buy from a trustworthy place or kennel and seek the help of an experienced person, a professional, to make the right decision.

Rhodesian Ridgeback Trainability and Intelligence

Intelligence Rating
How intelligent is a Rhodesian Ridgeback? Discover the Rhodesian Ridgeback's intelligence ranking and learning capabilities.
Average: It takes patience to teach this breed any tricks or commands, but the effort is worth it. They understand and remember new commands after an average of 25-40 repetitions.

The Rhodesian Ridgeback ranks average in the intelligence ranking of dogs.

Training Difficulty
How easy is it to train a Rhodesian Ridgeback? Learn about the Rhodesian Ridgeback's trainability and response to training methods.
Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs are quite easy to train. Sometimes they can be challenging, but if you're consistent in teaching new commands they will obey for sure.
Watchdog Rating
How good is a Rhodesian Ridgeback as a watchdog? Learn about the Rhodesian Ridgeback's alertness and guarding instincts.
Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs are average watchdogs. If they sense something different, they will alert you, but observation isn't considered their main job.
Territorial Protection
Is a Rhodesian Ridgeback protective of its territory? Learn about the Rhodesian Ridgeback's guarding instincts and behavior.
Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs strongly protect their territory. This breed is a complete security guard, so you don't have to be afraid in case of danger.

Rhodesian Ridgeback Personality and Temperament

Personality Traits
What personality does a Rhodesian Ridgeback have? Learn about characteristic Rhodesian Ridgeback temperament and behavior traits.
DignifiedSensitiveIntelligentLoyalStrongWilledMischievous
Sensitivity Level
How sensitive are they? Rhodesian Ridgeback sensitivity:
They are a little bit more sensitive than other dog breeds. Soft punishment affects them emotionally. Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs don't tolerate irregular daily routines, noisy households, and frequent guest visits really well.

They are receptive to their owner's emotions and make wonderful family companions.

Affection Level
How affectionate are they? Is a Rhodesian Ridgeback a good family dog?
High: Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs are genuinely loyal, soft and gentle, loving, and affectionate dogs toward their handlers. They enjoy quality time with their owners despite the activity and are considered great therapy dogs for those in need. This breed responds strongly to their handler's emotions because they bond closely. Their happiness is your happiness.
Social Needs
How much social interaction does the African Lion Hound need? Rhodesian Ridgeback social needs:
Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs are a social breed. They enjoy being around people or other animals. This breed doesn't tolerate being left alone.
Impulse to Wander or Roam
How likely is the Rhodesian Ridgeback to run away? Does this breed explore or wander a lot? Does Rhodesian Ridgeback roam?
Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs have high wanderlust potential, which means that this breed has a strong desire for exploring the world. Safer to walk them on a leash unless you teach them how to get back to you on command. This breed is also able to cause damage to your fence.
Prey Drive
Do this canine have a strong prey drive? Does Rhodesian Ridgeback have high prey drive?
Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs have a high impulse to chase and catch something. Cats or any other small animals are in danger. It's a natural instinct, doesn't necessarily mean that Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs are aggressive. Better to keep this breed on a leash.

Rhodesian Ridgeback Activity and Playfulness

Barking Frequency
Does a Rhodesian Ridgeback bark a lot? Learn about typical Rhodesian Ridgeback vocalization patterns and triggers.
Low to Average: The Rhodesian Ridgeback rarely barks. This breed could be a good choice if you're looking for a quiet breed. They don't bark unless there is a good reason.

Top reasons for barking: protection, alarm, fear, boredom, attention-seeking, greeting, separation anxiety, compulsive barking.

Playful Nature
How playful is a Rhodesian Ridgeback? Understand the typical play drive and energy level of the Rhodesian Ridgeback breed.
The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a playful breed. Excited barking and sometimes nipping will alert you to play.
Apartment Adaptability
Can a Rhodesian Ridgeback live in an apartment? Learn about the Rhodesian Ridgeback's suitability for apartment living.
It is not the best choice if you want to keep them indoors, however, with careful exercise and several walks a day, they will tolerate the indoor environment, so it is possible to keep Rhodesian Ridgeback indoors.

Rhodesian Ridgeback Adaptability and Independence

Lifestyle Adaptability
How adaptable is a Rhodesian Ridgeback to lifestyle changes? Learn about the Rhodesian Ridgeback's flexibility to new situations.
Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs adapt well to lifestyle changes and different living environments. They don't mind moving from one place to another with their owner.
Alone Time Tolerance
Can a Rhodesian Ridgeback be left alone? Learn about the Rhodesian Ridgeback's tolerance to solitude.
Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs do best when a family member is at home during the day or if their workplace is dog-friendly so they can take the dog at work.

Rhodesian Ridgeback Bite Characteristics

Bite Risk Assessment
What is a Rhodesian Ridgeback biting potential? Learn about the Rhodesian Ridgeback's bite risk factors.

Low 🔽

The Rhodesian Ridgeback has a low chance of biting somebody. Top reasons for dog bite: protection, pain, excitement, herding instinct, being provoked. (Data based on the available online bite statistics.)
Mouthing Tendency
Is a Rhodesian Ridgeback mouthy? Learn about the Rhodesian Ridgeback's tendency to use mouth during play.
Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs have an average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people. It's a common habit during puppyhood, not aggressive behavior. These "bites" don't hurt, but Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs need to be taught a good attitude.
Bite Strength Rating
How strong is a Rhodesian Ridgeback bite? Learn about the Rhodesian Ridgeback's bite force measured in PSI.

Between 200 and 400 PSI

Rhodesian Ridgeback bite force: Ordinary. Bite force Rhodesian Ridgeback measurements typically fall within the range of 200 to 400 PSI. The bite force of a Rhodesian Ridgeback is considered ordinary when compared to other dog breeds, but it is still quite powerful. This Rhodesian Ridgeback bite force PSI can cause bite wounds. Rhodesian Ridgeback bite PSI is not something that should be feared if the dog is well-trained and managed. To avoid any issues, it's essential to learn how to train a Rhodesian Ridgeback puppy not to bite from an early age.

The Rhodesian Ridgeback, and many others, have a fearsome presence because they have significant jaw strength, so it is important not to anger the dog and have it around strangers until it is fully trained.

However, they are usually quite calm and good companions, they work well in families and are easy to care for.

In conclusion, while the Rhodesian Ridgeback bite force is certainly an interesting aspect of the breed, it is important not to let it overshadow the many other reasons why these dogs are so loved and respected. With proper training and socialization, a Rhodesian Ridgeback can be a loyal and protective companion for your family.

Rhodesian Ridgeback Health and Lifespan

Average Lifespan
How long does a Rhodesian Ridgeback live? Learn about the typical lifespan of the Rhodesian Ridgeback breed.
10-12 years
The average lifespan of Rhodesian Ridgeback: 11 years
Climate Tolerance
How well does a Rhodesian Ridgeback handle different weather? Learn about the Rhodesian Ridgeback's climate adaptability.
Tolerates warm and cold weather
Dogs that tolerate hot and cold weather are typically those that have a double coat of fur. Dogs with a double coat of fur have a layer of fur that insulates their skin and helps protect them from the cold and the heat.
Health Concerns
What health issues are common in a Rhodesian Ridgeback? Discover typical conditions affecting the Rhodesian Ridgeback breed.
The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a healthy breed, but there are certain health issues that you should check with your vet regularly.
Vet Care Frequency
How often does a Rhodesian Ridgeback need vet visits? Learn about the Rhodesian Ridgeback's veterinary care requirements.
Average
The Rhodesian Ridgeback should have a complete physical check-up at least once per year. If your dog shows any symptoms, call your veterinarian.
Health Problems
What genetic/health problems does the Rhodesian Ridgeback breed have? What are the health issues and concerns of the Rhodesian Ridgeback breed? Most common health risks of Rhodesian Ridgeback:
Hip Dysplasia Dermoid SinusElbow Dysplasia

Rhodesian Ridgeback Energy and Activity

Energy Rating
How energetic is a Rhodesian Ridgeback? Understand daily activity needs of the Rhodesian Ridgeback breed.
Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs have a higher energy level than other dog breeds. If you want a dog for snuggling on the couch, this breed isn't the perfect choice for you.
Activity Requirement / Exercise Need
How much exercise does a Rhodesian Ridgeback need? How much exercise do Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs require per day?

Do Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs need a lot of exercises?

Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs need quite a lot of exercise. Daily walks should be on schedule. If you live an active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
Sleeping Need
How much sleep does the Rhodesian Ridgeback breed need?
Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs are quite energetic dogs and they don't spend too much time with sleeping. If you live an active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.

Rhodesian Ridgeback Diet and Weight Management

Obesity Tendency
Is a Rhodesian Ridgeback prone to weight gain? Learn about the Rhodesian Ridgeback's obesity risks.
Average: The Rhodesian Ridgeback has an average risk for obesity. Daily walks should be on schedule. To make your dog happy and fit, feed him with quality dry dog food and live an active life together. Try to find the happy medium between exercise and feeding.

If you notice any weight gain, consult your veterinarian and make a diet plan. Reduce unhealthy food and snacks, and measure the Rhodesian Ridgeback weight regularly.

Food Consumption
How much food does a Rhodesian Ridgeback need daily? Learn about the Rhodesian Ridgeback's feeding requirements.
Recommended daily amount: 2 3/4 to 4 3/8 cups of a high-quality daily, divided into two meals.

Rhodesian Ridgeback Allergies and Grooming

Allergy Friendliness
Is a Rhodesian Ridgeback hypoallergenic? Learn about the Rhodesian Ridgeback's suitability for allergy sufferers.
No
Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions. Some dog breeds are even considered to higher possibility of an allergic response. Coat type isn't necessarily relevant, because most people are allergic to dander (flakes on the dog's skin) or saliva, not actually to dog hair.
Coat Colors
What colors does a Rhodesian Ridgeback come in? Discover all possible Rhodesian Ridgeback color variations.
Gray Red White Golden Wheaten Copper
Grooming Requirements
How much grooming does a Rhodesian Ridgeback need? Learn about Rhodesian Ridgeback coat maintenance requirements.
Effortless: The Rhodesian Ridgeback requires minimal grooming. Seasonal flea treatment is needed, but cutting the dog's hair by a professional groomer isn't necessary.

Ears and eyes should be cleaned sometimes to avoid infections. Rhodesian Ridgeback is one of the best choices if you don't have the time, skill, or money to take care of a high-maintenance dog.

Highly recommended for beginners.
Drooling Tendency
Does a Rhodesian Ridgeback drool a lot? Learn about the Rhodesian Ridgeback's drooling habits.
The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency. If you're disgusted by slobber spots on your clothes, the Rhodesian Ridgeback could be a perfect choice for you. Drooling is the unintentional saliva flowing outside of the mouth. It can be completely normal or a sign of a health problem. Certain dog breeds drool minimum compared to others, just like the Rhodesian Ridgeback.

If you notice any change in your dog's drooling habit, you should contact a vet as soon as possible.

Stinkiness Rating
Does a Rhodesian Ridgeback smell bad? Learn about the Rhodesian Ridgeback's natural odor levels.

Medium

The Rhodesian Ridgeback has an average chance of bad smell. Top reasons for dog stinkiness: infection of bad tooth/ear/skin folds, gas attacks.
Coat Characteristics
What type of coat does a Rhodesian Ridgeback have? Learn about the Rhodesian Ridgeback's fur characteristics.
Dense
Bathing Needs
How often does a Rhodesian Ridgeback need baths? Learn about the Rhodesian Ridgeback's bathing requirements.
4-6 weeks
Average. Experts recommended at least every 4-6 weeks for this family pup. According to a study, 56% of pet parents don’t bathe their dogs as frequently as they should, and 60% use the sniff test when deciding when it’s bath time.

Bathing your dog is beneficial to them in more ways than just one. It’s also a good time to look for unusual scratches, bumps, fleas, and other irregularities. When their hair is wet and flat against their body, these details are more visible.

Shedding Level
How much do Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs shed? How to control, reduce and prevent the shedding of the African Lion Hound? Do Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs shed a lot?
Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs shed none to minimal. Having a puppy from this breed you don't have to be afraid of your couch or car being covered by dog hair. Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs could be the best choice if you don't tolerate dog hair.

Rhodesian Ridgeback Good With

Child Compatibility
Is a Rhodesian Ridgeback good with children? Learn about the Rhodesian Ridgeback's behavior around kids of different ages.
Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs are very kid-friendly dogs. This breed enjoys being surrounded by children.
Pet Compatibility
How well does a Rhodesian Ridgeback get along with other pets? Discover the Rhodesian Ridgeback's compatibility with other animals.
Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs usually don’t get on well with other pets.
Stranger Friendly
Are they aggressive or friendly towards/with strangers? Rhodesian Ridgeback temperament with other people:
Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs are not the most stranger-friendly dogs.
Cat Friendly
How well do Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs get along with cats? Are they good with kittens? What is this fido's temperament with cats? Can they be good with cats? Can the Rhodesian Ridgeback breed live with a cat?
Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs are not the most cat-friendly dogs.
Dog Friendly
Is Rhodesian Ridgeback good with other dogs? Are they dog-friendly dogs? How well do Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs get along with other dogs?
Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs are not the most dog-friendly dogs. If you want more dogs in your family or you'd like to join dog meetups, the Rhodesian Ridgeback is not a good choice.
Good For First Time Owners
Is Rhodesian Ridgeback breed good for first-time owners? Do they make a good dog for novice owners? Is Rhodesian Ridgeback breed suitable for first-time owners?
Yes
Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Office Friendly
Are Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs good office canines? Do Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs make good office-friendly pets? Can they be office dogs?
No
Rhodesian Ridgeback is not the best dog breed for office environment.
Senior Citizens Friendly
Are they senior citizens friendly dogs? How well do Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs get along with the elderly people? What is the African Lion Hound temperament with senior people? Are Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs good for elderly owners?
Rhodesian Ridgebacks are one of the best breeds for elderly people.

Rhodesian Ridgeback As a Working Dog

Service Dog Capability
Can a Rhodesian Ridgeback be a service dog? Learn about the Rhodesian Ridgeback's service work potential.

Not really

This breed generally not used as a service dog. A service dog is a term used in the USA to refer to any type of assistance dog specifically trained to help people who have disabilities, such as visual impairment, hearing impairments, mental disorders, seizures, mobility impairment, and diabetes. Service dogs are protected under the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act).

Rhodesian Ridgeback is not the best breed for service purposes.

Therapy Work Suitability
Is a Rhodesian Ridgeback good as a therapy dog? Learn about the Rhodesian Ridgeback's therapy work aptitude.

Not really

This breed is generally not used as a therapy dog. A therapy dog is a dog that might be trained to provide affection, comfort, and love to people in hospitals, retirement homes, nursing homes, schools, hospices, disaster areas, and people with anxiety disorders or autism.

Rhodesian Ridgeback is not the best breed for therapeutic purposes.

Scent Detection Ability
Is a Rhodesian Ridgeback good at detection work? Learn about the Rhodesian Ridgeback's scenting abilities.

Not really

They are not typically employed for this type of work, but there may be exceptional cases. A detection dog or sniffer dog is a dog that is trained to use its senses (mostly its smell) to detect substances such as explosives, illegal drugs, wildlife scat, currency, blood, and contraband electronics such as illicit mobile phones.

Rhodesian Ridgeback is not the best breed for detection purposes.

Search & Rescue Potential
Can a Rhodesian Ridgeback do search and rescue? Learn about the Rhodesian Ridgeback's SAR capabilities.

Not really

This dog breed is not typically used as a search and rescue dog. The use of dogs in search and rescue (SAR) is a valuable component in wilderness tracking, natural disasters, mass casualty events, and locating missing people.

The Rhodesian Ridgeback is not the best breed for SAR purposes.

Maritime Work Ability
Is a Rhodesian Ridgeback good on boats? Learn about the Rhodesian Ridgeback's maritime capabilities.

Not really

Rhodesian Ridgeback breed usually doesn't like being on a boat.

Boat dogs were typically bred for their strength, stamina, and water resistance, as they were often required to perform tasks such as pulling in fishing nets, and jumping into the water to retrieve ropes or lines, or helping to move cargo.

Sailor dog is a type of dog that was bred to accompany sailors on their voyages. They were typically used for three purposes: as a working dog, a watchdog, and as a companion. A boat dog is a term used to describe a type of dog that was traditionally bred and used as a working dog on boats.

Draft Work Capability
Can a Rhodesian Ridgeback pull carts? Learn about the Rhodesian Ridgeback's drafting abilities.

Not really

A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling. Dogs bred for this work have strong builds and qualities that are needed, strength and determination.

Rhodesian Ridgeback is not the best breed for drafting purposes.

Military Service Background
Was a Rhodesian Ridgeback used in military service? Learn about the Rhodesian Ridgeback's military history.

Yes

In history, this breed was unfortunately used for combat dogs. A combat dog is a specially trained dog that is used in warfare to help protect military personnel and assets. Combat dogs are often deployed in areas where there is potential for contact with the enemy, such as during raids or search operations. Combat dogs are typically assigned to either infantry or special operations units. They are used for a variety of tasks including area security, sentry duty, trackers, and explosive detection. In addition to their combat roles, combat dogs also play an important role in troop morale by providing companionship and emotional support.

Rhodesian Ridgeback Reproducibility

Puppy Litter Size
How many puppies does a Rhodesian Ridgeback usually have? Learn about typical litter sizes.
6-8 puppies
Pregnancy Duration
How long is a Rhodesian Ridgeback pregnant? Learn about the Rhodesian Ridgeback's gestation period.

60-64 days

Reproductive cycle of the female Rhodesian Ridgeback: The first period called Proestrus lasts for about 9 days.

During this time the females start to attract males. You can notice by swelling vulva and bloody discharge.

The second part is the Estrus when the female is receptive for the male. It lasts for about 3 to 11 days.

The sign of the proestrus part is the soft and enlarged vulva. The discharge decreases and lightens in color.

The third part is the Diestrus. Normally, it occurs around day 14. In this period the female’s discharge changes for vivid red and coming to its end. The vulva returns to average, and she will no longer permit mating.

The fourth part called the Anestrus. The time frame between heat periods normally lasts about six months.

Breeding Frequency
How often can a Rhodesian Ridgeback have puppies? Learn about safe breeding intervals.

Once a year.

More frequent breeding is not healthy. It is very important not to buy a dog from a puppy mill, where the needs of the pups and their mothers are ignored. It's an inhumane high-volume dog breeding facility, where puppies born several times a year.

Rhodesian Ridgeback Recognition

AKC Classification
What AKC group is a Rhodesian Ridgeback in? Learn about the Rhodesian Ridgeback's AKC classification.
Recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1955 as a Hound breed.
FCI Classification
What FCI group is a Rhodesian Ridgeback in? Learn about the Rhodesian Ridgeback's international classification.
Recognized by FCI in the Scent hounds and related breeds group, in the Related breeds section.
Kennel Club Recognition
Which kennel clubs recognize a Rhodesian Ridgeback? Learn about the Rhodesian Ridgeback's official recognition.
American Canine RegistryAmerican Kennel ClubAmerica's Pet RegistryCanadian Kennel ClubDog Registry of America Inc.Federation Cynologique InternationaleKennel Club of Great BritainNorth American Purebred Registry, Inc.American Canine Association, Inc.Australian National Kennel CouncilContinental Kennel ClubNational Kennel ClubNew Zealand Kennel ClubRhodesian Ridgeback Club Of The US

Rhodesian Ridgeback Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Grooming Requirements: Effortless: The Rhodesian Ridgeback requires minimal grooming.
  • Shedding Level: Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs shed none to minimal.
  • Drooling Tendency: The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency.
  • Lifestyle Adaptability: Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs adapt well to lifestyle changes and different living environments.
  • Child Compatibility: Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs are very kid-friendly dogs.
  • Senior Citizens Friendly: Rhodesian Ridgebacks are one of the best breeds for elderly people.
  • Good For First Time Owners: Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Cons
  • Allergy Friendliness: Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions.
  • Impulse to Wander or Roam: Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs have high wanderlust potential, which means that this breed has a strong desire for exploring the world.
  • Alone Time Tolerance: Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs do best when a family member is at home during the day or if their workplace is dog-friendly so they can take the dog at work.
  • Cat Friendly: Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs are not the most cat-friendly dogs.
  • Dog Friendly: Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs are not the most dog-friendly dogs.
  • Office Friendly: Rhodesian Ridgeback is not the best dog breed for office environment.

Rhodesian Ridgeback History

The Rhodesian Ridgeback was once known as the African Lion dog, a hunting dog that was used to track big game animals such as Lions and Cheetahs, hence the name. The breed was developed in South Africa by farmers who needed a versatile hunting dog who could withstand the extreme temperatures and terrain of the bush, survive when water rations were low, protect the property and be a companion to the family. From early in its origins the Ridgeback has been loved for its loyalty, mild temperament, and braveness.

According to historians, the origins of the foundation dogs can be traced back to Ethiopia or Southern Sudan. A drawing had been found in an Egyptian tomb, from 4000 BC, that shows a hound with dropped ears and what appears to be a ridge on its back. Many believe that this was most likely the ancestor of the breed that was domesticated by the indigenous tribes of Africa. Another evidence of the Rhodesian Ridgeback which was found is a rock painting near Rasape in Zimbabwe, that was used for the preparation of the burial of a chief.

Moreover, there are ridged dog breeds that were found in Thailand, Cambodia, and other Asian areas so some people believe that it is impossible to tell if the ridged breeds moved from the East to Africa or the other way around, perhaps they developed totally independently. 

Later on, when European Boer settlers arrived in South Africa in the 16-17th centuries, they brought with them such breeds as the Great Danes, Mastiffs, Greyhounds, Pointer, and Bloodhounds among others. They started by crossing the dogs they brought with a half-wild native dog kept by the Khoikhoi (pastoral people) which were the ancestors of the Ridgebacks. These dogs hunted by both sight and scent and were devoted protectors of the entire family. However, at first, the Boers used the dogs to flush partridge or bring down a wounded buck. When big-game hunting became popular, they found that the dogs were well suited for accompanying them when they hunted lions.

Although for more than a hundred years, after 1707, European immigration was closed and the importation of these dogs and also other breeds became hard to come by so their value went up.

Furthermore, when people heard how useful they were for hunting lions, several dogs in the 19th century were taken to Rhodesia. They were so successful, they became popular and their distinctive ridge becoming a trademark of quality. A hunter called Cornelius von Rooyen started a breeding program in Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe). Soon a breed standard was set down at the beginning of the 20th century and in 1924 the Rhodesian Ridgeback was officially accepted by the South African Kennel Union. Some Rhodesian Ridgebacks may have made it to the USA as early as 1911, but it wasn’t until after World War II that large numbers of the breed were imported to the USA, Britain, and Canada. The first one of its type registered by the American Kennel Club was Tchaika of Redhouse, in 1955, the same year the breed was recognized by the club.

Today, the Rhodesian Ridgeback ranks 54th in popularity among the 155 breeds recognized by the AKC. It is quite popular in South Africa where the breed first began its journey.

Rate The Rhodesian Ridgeback Breed

Rhodesian Ridgeback Comments, Reviews and Questions

  • Owns a ridgeback

    Nov 20, 2024, 7:58:25 PM:

    Are amazing dogs and love to play only need 1 hour excessive a day. Love kids so much a strongly guard their territory. They don’t shed at all and need minimal grooming. High recommended.

  • Bobby

    May 20, 2021, 12:34:59 AM:

  • Helga K

    Nov 17, 2020, 1:35:29 AM:

    Intelligent, loyal, clean, quiet, confident, easy going. Trainable, especially with a purpose. Protective of home and occupants, but not aggressive. All of my RR's had their own personality traits. Consistency and leadership will pay off.

  • Joe

    Oct 26, 2020, 5:28:27 PM:

    Great guard dogs but extremely social away from home. Never bark, great hunting dogs. Pack oriented, don't just get one. You must prove yourself a worthy leader to these dogs. Best and most loyal dogs I've ever had.

  • Boer bull * Rhodesian ridge back

    May 4, 2020, 5:47:38 AM:

    Curious,sensitive,playful and a compassionate dog.Black in color.Aggressive.

  • Ridgebacksalltheway

    Mar 7, 2020, 3:42:19 PM:

    Best dog! Smart, affectionate, sweet, beautiful, loves to snuggle for a lazy night in, but she’s always up for a nice long run. Patient with young kids. Trained a lot: coach able, stubborn, but very well behaved Gets along well with other dogs

  • nomahn

    Feb 23, 2020, 8:30:01 PM:

    Not for rookie dog owners. Best breed I've ever had. A bit arrogant, smarter than your honor student and are almost regal in a way.