Rhodesian Ridgeback
(African Lion Dog, Ridgehound, Rhodesian Lion Dog, Van Rooyen Dog, African Lion Hound)
Introduction

One of the most formidable of all scenthounds, descended from ancient European mastiff dogs and scenthounds, crossed with local African dogs.
Origin

The Rhodesian Ridgeback descends from ancient ridgebacked hunting dogs belonging to the Hottentot people (Khoi dogs). A man called, Gert Pienaar, obtained two Hottentot dogs and crossed them with various kinds of scenthounds, mastiffs and the Great Dane in the mid-19th century. This new big and powerful breed of scenthound was brought to Rhodesia were it became very popular with the local big-game hunters.
Temperament

A fierce hunting dog, but good-natured as a family pet. Obedient and affectionate with its owners, but stand-offish to strangers. Their very intimidating, low growl alone will discourage any would-be intruder.
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Please send us your Rhodesian Ridgeback photos !
Photo: Sally Wallis
Appearance

The Rhodesian Ridgeback is one of the three only dog breeds (together with the Thai Ridgeback and Phu Quoc Dog) to present a distinctive ridge all over the back. The ridge is formed by a crest of hair growing in reverse direction of hair growth along the dog's spinal region.
Rhodesian Ridgeback from the backside showing the bautiful ridge on the back
Photo: Nancy Dressel
Rhodesian Ridgeback
Rhodesian Ridgeback
(Comprehensive Owners Guide)
(Hardcover)
by Ann Chamberlain
More information
Rhodesian Ridgeback
Rhodesian Ridgebacks
(Complete Pet Owner's Manual)
by Sue Fox

More information:
As soon as the 1930s Rhodesian Ridgebacks were exported to India and Canada and a breed club was formed in the 1920 with the aim to help standardize the breed.
Male Rhodesian Ridgeback
Photo: Anke Van Wyk
Brown eyes are associated with black-nosed dogs, while a amber eyes are preferred with a liver nose. The eyes should always be in the same shade as the coat color.

Height: 27 inches (68 cm) at the withers for males and 26 inches (66 cm) for bitches.


See also:
Thai Ridgeback
Phu Quoc dog
Telomian
Aidi
African dog breeds