The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a large, athletic breed originating from Southern Africa, known for its distinctive ridge and versatility. They are intelligent, loyal, and protective dogs that require high exercise needs and firm training.
Origin and Purpose
Developed in Southern Africa to hunt big game, especially lions, and act as a family guardian.
Appearance
Dimensions
Gender
Height
Weight
Female
24-26 inches
70 pounds
Male
25-27 inches
85 pounds
Coat
Attribute
Notes
Color
Light wheaten to red wheaten
Type
Short, dense, and glossy
Length
Short
Care
Attribute
Notes
Shedding
Moderate
Grooming
Weekly
Drooling
Low
Body
Attribute
Notes
Head
Moderate length, flat and broad between the ears
Skull
Flat and broad between the ears
Ears
Set rather high, medium-sized, wide at the base, and tapering to a rounded point
Eyes
Round, moderately well set apart, and in harmony with the coat color
Nose
Black or brown
Muzzle
Long, deep, and powerful
Teeth
Well-developed, with a scissor bite
Neck
Fairly long and strong
Forequarters
Straight and well-boned
Fore Legs
Straight with good bone structure
Hindquarters
Muscular and powerful
Hind Legs
Strong with well-defined hocks
Feet
Compact, round, with well-arched toes and tough pads
Tail
Tapering, carried with a slight upward curve, but never curled
Gait
Free, balanced, and athletic
Temperament
Dignified, intelligent, and independent with a strong protective instinct.
Social
Attribute
Notes
Affectionate with Family
Very affectionate
Good with Children
Good with older, respectful children
Good with Dogs
Can be good with other dogs with proper socialization
Good with Cats
May have a high prey drive, so supervision is needed with cats
Openness to Strangers
Reserved and wary of strangers
Playfulness Level
Moderate
Protective Nature
Very protective
Adaptability Level
Moderate
Working Roles
Hunting, guarding, and companionship
Exercise Needs
High
Health
Prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, dermoid sinus, and hypothyroidism.
Additional Notes
The breed is known for the distinctive ridge of hair running along its back in the opposite direction of the rest of the coat.
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