Rhodesian Ridgeback

It is believed that the Rhodesian Ridgeback originated in Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe), South Africa between the 17th and 18th centuries. Also known as the African Lion Hound, it was developed by Boer farmers as a versatile hunting dog that could withstand extreme weather. Its ancestor breeds are thought to be the Greyhound, the Great Dane, the Mastiff, the Bloodhound, and the Saluki brought by Dutch and German settlers that were crossed with the native Hottentot “ridged dog.” The resulting dog became the forefathers of the Rhodesian Ridgeback breed that we see today.

The Rhodesian Ridgeback’s primary role was to flush partridge or bring down an injured buck but eventually excelled in big-game hunting. It bravely held down lions until its human hunters arrived. The breed later on became a popular family dog because while it was bred as a fierce hunting dog, it is kind to humans by nature. It is recognised by The Kennel Club under the Hound group.

The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a handsome large dog with an average size of 61 to 69 centimetres and 70 to 79 pounds. It has a distinctive ridge that adds charm to its strong and muscular body. This hound has a long and broad head with a well-defined stop, black or brown nose depending on its coat, a strong jaw with a perfect scissor bite, and long powerful muzzle. Its round eyes can be dark or amber, which show an alert and intelligent expression. Its moderately large ears are set high on its head and are wide at the base.

The Ridgeback has a beautiful short, dense and sleek coat, highlighted by its ridge that runs full length on its back. According to KC standards, the accepted colours are light wheaten, red wheaten, and red wheaten.

Grooming this breed is very easy because it is a clean dog that is virtually odourless. It only needs brushing and wiping with chamois leather once or twice a week.

To complete the Ridgeback’s grooming routine, brush its teeth twice a week to avoid dental problems, trim its nails when you hear clicking sounds on the floor, clean its ears regularly to remove wax build-up, and check its skin for bumps and parasites.

The Rhodesian Ridgeback forms a strong bond with its family members but it can be taught to be on its own without feeling anxious. That being said, owners should not leave their dogs for long periods of time or they may develop unwanted behaviour when they get bored or lonely.

This brave breed is a great watchdog and guard dog because it is a natural protector. However, instead of barking, it would rather put itself in between those it deems a threat. It is gentle toward children but because of its size and lively personality, it is better off to families with older kids. Because of its previous job as a big-game hunter, it is easy to assume that it can be aggressive toward other dogs. However, it actually does fine living with them and has no problem meeting new ones. When it comes to smaller pets, it is better to avoid them altogether because of its strong prey drive.

Owners need to research about the basic nutritional needs of their Ridgeback as a breed but they should also know the individual characteristics of their own pet. This is a reason why working hand in hand with a trusted veterinarian is important.

Typical calorie needs of adult Rhodesian Ridgebacks per day:

• Senior and less active: up to 1,500 calories daily
• Typical adults: up to 1,700 calories daily
• Physically active/working dogs: up to 1,880 calories daily

An important thing to consider in owning a dog is the cost of keeping it healthy and happy. The price to purchase a well-bred Rhodesian Ridgeback is around £800 to £1,000. Insurance costs start at £50 for basic coverage.

To make new Ridgeback comfortable in your home, you have to buy basic equipment like a bed, toys, bowls, a leash and a collar, and others, which will be around £200. Feeding your Ridgeback high-quality food will set you back £40 to £50 a month. A huge yet important expense will be veterinary care, which will include necessary check-ups, vaccinations and other preventive treatments, costing you as much as £1,000 a year. This does not include expenses when your dog becomes ill or gets into an accident.

You will encounter more expenses as your dog grows up but a rough estimate for basic expenses in caring for a Ridgeback will be £100 to £120 a month, depending on the insurance premium you choose.