Rhodesian Ridgeback

Size: Large

Weight: 65 - 85 lbs.

Height: 24" - 25"

Life Span: 10 - 14 years

Health Problems: Requires an experienced dog owner. Breed-related health problems: hip dysplasia; dermoid sinus; deafness.

Origin: South Africa

Also Known As: African Lion Hound

Group: Scenthound

Category: Companion Dog

Exercise Needs

The Rhodesian Ridgeback is best suited for suburban or rural homes that have a yard. This breed requires a significant amount of rigorous exercise each day.

Grooming Needs

The Rhodesian Ridgeback needs little grooming.

Temperament

The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a loyal guard dog, as well as an exceptional hunter. With proper training and early socialization, this breed makes a good family dog that gets along well with children. However, these dogs can be too rambunctious for smaller kids. This is an active breed that needs daily mental and physical exercise in order to feel satisfied. The Rhodesian Ridgeback can be wary of strangers and is sometimes aggressive toward other animals.

Compatibility with Kids

With proper training and early socialization, this breed makes a good family dog that gets along well with children. However, these dogs can be too rambunctious for smaller kids.

History

The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a mix of a ridgebacked dog owned by the Hottentot people of South Africa and European mastiffs, scent hounds, Great Danes and Greyhounds. The breed became popular in the 1920s when it was taken to Rhodesia to hunt lions.

Pet Facts

The Rhodesian Ridgeback is known for the ridge of hair that grows along its spine. It ranges in color from wheat to red-wheat and sometimes has white markings on its chest or toes.