What Is a Rhodesian Ridgeback?

The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a breed of hunting dog developed in Africa to hunt big game animals. Brought to the United States in 1950 and recognized by the American Kennel Club by 1955, the Rhodesian Ridgeback takes its name from a distinct ridge of hairs that runs the length of its back, notes Dog Breed Info. This breed is a good fit with older children and it is an athletic dog that enjoys exercise.

  1. Size

    • Male Rhodesian Ridgebacks average between 25 and 27 inches tall at the shoulders. A healthy weight for the average male specimen is approximately 80 to 85 lbs. Females are slightly smaller at the shoulder, measuring from 24 to 26 inches. They weigh less than the males do, averaging between 65 and 70 lbs.

    Appearance

    • Big and muscular describes the Rhodesian Ridgeback's appearance, with the head featuring a broad look, flattened between the ears. The dog's eyes typically are brown and its nose may be black, brown or liver-colored. The ears are medium-sized, with a wide base but rounded ends. The Rhodesian Ridgeback has a long muzzle and its coat comes in what the American Kennel Club calls a "light wheaten to red wheaten" shade. Some white on the chest or on the toes is not uncommon with this breed.

    History

    • Rhodesian Ridgebacks were bred in South Africa to be hunting dogs, guard dogs and retrievers. Rhodesian Ridgebacks are the result of crosses between dogs featuring ridged backs that were native to the region and breeds such as the mastiff and deerhound. In 1877, they were introduced into Rhodesia, and hunters quickly saw that they had great value as hunting dogs. Packs of Rhodesian Ridgebacks hunted animals as fearsome and large as lions, giving rise to the breed's nickname of lion hounds.

    More Facts

    • Huge temperature changes do not affect the Rhodesian Ridgeback, and the dog has a great deal of stamina, meaning you can take it for long walks and jogs. The average life expectancy for the breed falls between 10 and 12 years. The dog is loyal and smart, but may tend to be a bit too rough as a companion for very small children. Rhodesian Ridgebacks are an extremely healthy breed of canine, but one problem they may encounter is hip dysplasia.