Rhodesian Ridgeback picture
Rhodesian Ridgeback

African Lion Dog, African Lion Hound

Overview

Slightly longer than tall, the Rhodesian Ridgeback combines speed, power and endurance. The Ridgeback must have an athletic build to enable it to catch up to a lion and then harass it without being hurt. Because the lion is not the only quarry of the Ridgeback, the dog must also be strong enough to bring down other large game. Its stride is efficient and long. The short glossy coat is adapted for working in hot climates. A distinctive feature is the clearly defined ridge, which should start with two identical whorls just behind the shoulders and taper to a point between the hipbones.

The Rhodesian Ridgeback is the hound group's answer to a somewhat protective dog. Not only is it a keen and versatile hunter, but it is a loyal guardian. It is good with children, especially protective of those in its family, but it is sometimes overly boisterous in play for small children. It is strong-willed and powerful; some can become domineering. It is reserved with strangers and can be aggressive toward strange dogs and animals.

Size Large
Height Male: 25-27 inches (63-69 cm)Female: 24-26 inches (61-66 cm)
Weight Male: 80-90 pounds (36-41 kg)Female: 65-75 pounds (29-34 kg)
Lifespan 10-12 years
Colors Golden Gray Red Wheaten White
Origin Zimbabwe
Classification Purebred
Good Lapcat
Good In Apartments

Rhodesian Ridgebacks will do okay in an apartment as long as they get enough exercise. They are relatively inactive indoors and do best with a large yard.

Good With Children

Good with Kids: This is a suitable breed for kids and is known to be playful, energetic, and affectionate around them.

Good With Dogs

Good With Cats

Exercise Needs

These dogs have great stamina and you will tire long before they do. They need to be taken on daily, long, brisk walks or jogs. In addition, they need plenty of opportunity to run, preferably off the leash in a safe area. If these dogs are allowed to get bored, and are not walked or jogged daily, they can become destructive and start to display a wide array of behavioral problems.

Trainability

Moderately Easy Training: The Rhodesian Ridgeback is somewhat stubborn, so a consistent approach to training is required. However, Rhodesian Ridgebacks have a sensitive nature belied by their commanding appearance, so harsh training methods are not recommended and are likely to backfire.

Affectionate

Playfulness

Grooming Requirements

Low Maintenance: Ridgebacks have an easy-care short coat. A Ridgie will shed a bit all year long, but it’s not bad. Run a brush over his coat once a week, and bathe him when you think he needs it. Brush his teeth with a vet-approved pet toothpaste, clean his ears, and trim his nails regularly, and that’s it.

Shedding

Minimal Shedding: This dog will shed a negligible amount. Recommended for owners who do not want to deal with dog hair in their cars and homes.

Vocalization/Barking

Occassional

Rhodesian Ridgeback Pictures