Rhodesian Ridgeback Dog Breed

The Rhodesian Ridgeback dog breed, also known as the African Lion Hound, was originally bred in South Africa during the early 1800s to function as both a Sight and Scenthound. The harsh South African landscape lead European settlers to develop a new breed of dog that was as resilient as it was powerful. A dog that could hunt big game in a treacherous climate as well as protect the family was in high demand.

European dogs such as the Great Dane, Mastiff, Bloodhound, Pointer, Staghound, and Greyhound were crossed with Hottentot tribal hunting dogs that had a distinctive ridge of hair growing down their backs to create the first Rhodesian Ridgebacks. They would become famous as lion hunters in Rhodesia during the 1870s, and their population exploded well into the 1920s when the breed standard for the Ridgebacks we are familiar with today was established.

Rhodesian Ridgeback Dog Breed: Temperament

The Ridgeback can be very protective of its family; however, they seem to get along with children very well. They do at times tend to be too much to handle for small children when they are playing. Their instincts as a guardian and protector can lead some to attempt to dominate aspects of family life, but proper training can reverse this trend if it becomes problematic.

Rhodesian Ridgebacks generally will get along with other dogs just fine so long as they are females, but the males tend to start fights with other males. Cats should be fine in the household if the Ridgeback has grown up along side them as a puppy.

Rhodesian Ridgeback Dog Breed: Health

These dogs tend to become depressed if they are not exercised regularly. If you are an avid jogger or enjoy regular canine friendly outings, then this just may be a perfect match for you. Their coat is very easy to maintain and requires brushing once a month or so to get rid of any dead hair. This breed does best as a house dog that is allowed full run of the yard.

There are no severe health conditions associated with this particular breed; however, other minor conditions to look out for include hypothyroidism, elbow dysplasia, and canine hip dysplasia.

This canines life span ranges from approximately 10-12 years.