Description: A Rhodesian Ridgeback's uniqueness is the ridge on the back, formed by the hair growing in the opposite direction to the rest of the coat. The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a strong, muscular and active dog, symmetrical in outline and capable of great endurance with speed.

Other Names: African Lion Hound

Height: 24 - 27 inches
Weight: 65 - 85 lbs.

Colors of the Rhodesian Ridgeback: Light wheaten to red wheaten.
Coat: Short, dense, sleek and glossy.

Temperament: The Rhodesian Ridgeback is friendly, obedient.
With Children: Yes, as long as they are not pestered.
With Pets: The Rhodesian Ridgeback needs socialization when young to accept cats, dogs and other pets.
Special Skills: Hunting dog, watch dog and family pet.

Watch-dog: Very High
Guard-dog: Very High

Care and Exercise: Minimal grooming of the Rhodesian Ridgeback's short coat is required. Brush with a firm bristle brush and shampoo only when necessary. The Rhodesian Ridgeback needs a great amount of exercise as they have tremendous stamina. The Rhodesian Ridgeback loves to swim.
Training: The Rhodesian Ridgeback needs a consistent and equable approach to training. The Rhodesian Ridgeback is intelligent but stubborn. Start training when they are young and easy to manage.
Learning Rate: High, Obedience - Low, Problem Solving - High

Activity: Indoors - Low, Outdoors - Very High
Living Environment: A fenced yard is essential for the Rhodesian Ridgeback in an urban environment. The Rhodesian Ridgeback thrives in a large property where they can patrol their home ground. The owner of a Rhodesian Ridgeback should be able to control a large, independent, athletic dog.

Health Issues: Hip irregularities, sinus problems, osteochondrosis.

Life Span: 12 Years
Litter Size: 7 - 8

Country of Origin: Zimbabwe (Rhodesia)
History: Named after the country of Rhodesia which is now Zimbabwe they were once called the Lion Dog as they would hunt lions and other big game in packs. The Rhodesian Ridgeback was developed from crossing the local dog (the African Hottentot Hunting Dog) who had a distinctive ridge of hair growing in the reverse direction along their back to the Pointer, Mastiff, Greyhound and Bulldog.

First Registered by the AKC: 1955
AKC Group: Hound Group
Class: Hound
Registries: AKC, ANKC, CKC, FCI (Group 6), KC (GB), UKC

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