Description
The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a large, handsome, muscular hound.
Its name describes its most unique characteristic, a clearly defined
symmetrical ridge running the length of its back, formed by hair
that grows in the opposite direction from the rest of its coat.
The short, sleek coat comes in light to dark wheaten, sometimes
with small white markings on the chest and feet. The head is long,
the skull is flat and broad with extremely powerful muzzle and
jaw. Ridgebacks have well developed teeth, and a marked stop.
The bright, sparkling eyes are round with an intelligent expression.
The nose color should be either black or brown, depending on the
color of the coat. The front legs should be very straight and
strong, with heavy bone. The strong tapered tail is fairly long
and curves slightly upward.
Temperament
A fine hunter, the Rhodesian Ridgeback is ferocious
in the hunt, but in the home it is a calm, gentle, obedient, good
dog. Good-natured, but some do not do well with children because
they do not want to be pestered or played with roughly. They are
intelligent, cunning but straight-forward dogs that are loyal
to the family, have something of a mind of their own, are brave,
vigilant, reserved toward strangers, and possess considerable
stamina. This breed needs thorough obedience training, socialization
with people and other dogs, and firm owner leadership to become
the excellent companion he can be. Ridgebacks react best to an
extremely consistent and equable approach to training. They are
intelligent and learn quickly, but they are also strong and a
bit stubborn. Training should be gentle and start young while
the dog is still small enough to manage. They are also very good
watch dogs, but not suggested for guard dogs. They are very protective
of owners! This has to be addressed during their early training.
This breed can be more destructive than a Lab if left unsupervised!
Do not overfeed this breed. Males may be combative with other
dogs. Provided this dog meets cats and other pets when it is young,
any potential problem will be prevented. Ridgebacks make excellent
jogging companions.
