The Dutch settlers living in South Africa in the 16th century described this breed of dog as ugly. However, European settlers recognized many fascinating characteristics of this African dog breed. It turns out they are resourceful yet ruthless, which is why they were used to hunt lions.
This breed is known as the Rhodesian Ridgeback. Their main task is not to kill lions but to surround and hold them until hunters arrive. Not only do they represent modern-day hunters, but they are also guardians, protectors, and intelligent companions for families.
History of the Breed
Rhodesian Ridgeback.
The Rhodesian Ridgeback is derived from African hunting dogs brought from Europe to Africa in the 16th and 17th centuries. Initially, these dogs not only participated in hunting but also served as guardians and showed considerable ruthlessness when confronting enemies. Dutch settlers described them as ugly yet fierce.
“A tuft of hair along the spine is the most distinctive feature of these dogs.” For over 50 years, Dutch settlers (whose descendants are known as Afrikaners) used local dogs with a unique coat to protect their livestock farms and for hunting. They turned out to be quite skilled at hunting and could hunt lions alongside mounted hunters. Because of this skill, they were given another name: African Lion Dog.
Gradually, people began to breed them with European breeds, including the Deerhound, Borzoi, English Mastiff, and even the Great Dane. The breed standard was established in Rhodesia in 1922.
“The Lion Hunter”
By the late 19th century, several South African Ridgebacks were brought to Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe) by big-game hunters. There, they were further improved by crossbreeding with other breeds, such as the Dogo Cubano – an extinct breed used for dog fighting and protection.
The goal was to create a dog capable of hunting lions in packs, by stalking, luring, and distracting them until the hunter arrived.
Legend has it that a group of three South African Ridgebacks could hunt a lion. Although the size of Rhodesian Ridgebacks is quite different from that of lions, in combat, they excel at teamwork to compensate for their physical disadvantages. When hunting lions, they would circle the enemy and look for a breakthrough point.
To gain the notorious nickname “African Lion Hunting Dog,” the South African Ridgeback not only possesses a strong, energetic, and courageous body but can also endure harsh conditions that few dog breeds worldwide can handle.
In arid environments like Africa, they can go all day without drinking water. The hot weather during the day and cold nights in Africa cannot defeat them.
Appearance
Rhodesian Ridgebacks have long, drooping ears, round eyes, and are usually brown.
Rhodesian Ridgebacks are muscular and large. They have a broad, flat head, a long and deep muzzle, and a nose that can be black, brown, or liver-colored (depending on the overall coat color). They have long ears that droop down to the cheeks. Their round eyes are usually brown. The front legs are very straight and strong. The tail is relatively long, tapering towards the end.
The coat is smooth, shiny, short, and dense, with colors ranging from wheat to reddish; sometimes featuring white markings on the toes and chest. The characteristic tuft of hair (ridge) on the back is due to hair growing in the opposite direction from the rest of the coat. This ridge is typically about 5 cm wide at its widest point. It is believed to be inherited from the original African dog breeds.
Temperament
In addition to being excellent hunters, Rhodesian Ridgebacks are also good, gentle, and kind companions. They have a gentle nature, but can be rough with children when playing, potentially causing harm to a child.
Certainly, Rhodesian Ridgebacks are very intelligent, with great loyalty to their owners. They are alert and courageous. They tend to be aloof with strangers but are not shy. Rhodesian Ridgebacks have very strong endurance; thus, if they do not receive enough physical and mental activity, they can become hyperactive and unpredictable.
What Does a Wise Owner Need?
Rhodesian Ridgebacks require a wise, responsible, strong-minded, and confident owner. You must play the role of a “leader.” Only then will a dog follow commands and rules applied both inside and outside the house. Under proper supervision, they will become excellent companions for families. However, Rhodesian Ridgebacks are not for everyone, as most dog lovers may not have enough time and energy to meet the demands of owning such a special dog.
Rhodesian Ridgebacks enjoy tranquility.
In addition to their strength, Rhodesian Ridgebacks appreciate peace, so training must be assertive and patient. Training these dogs is not overly difficult as they learn quickly, although they can be very stubborn and rebellious. However, if you start training in their early years, it will be much easier.
A properly raised Rhodesian Ridgeback will be able to live under one roof with cats and other dogs, provided they are exposed to them from a young age. Thanks to their excellent physical condition, Ridgebacks can be great running companions.
“The Guardian”
In a captive environment, South African Ridgebacks are very devoted to their families and generally get along well with other pets and house dogs. However, some may be aggressive towards strange dogs and many show aloofness towards strangers. The formidable presence of a Ridgeback will make any intruder think twice.
Although they can be stubborn during training, Ridgebacks have a high level of obedience. Their strong protective and guarding abilities greatly satisfy their owners.
“The Companion”
This breed is very affectionate, making them ideal companions and protectors for people of all ages, though they are quite strong and can overpower children or the elderly.
Ridgebacks typically do not bark much. Therefore, if they bark at someone or something, it usually means that something is wrong or unusual.
In addition to these advantages, they also have a very high IQ, stable temperament, and great loyalty to humans, which is why they are used as search and rescue dogs, as well as guard dogs in many countries.
Rhodesian Ridgebacks and Interesting Facts
- The name of this breed comes from the old name of Zimbabwe – Rhodesia and the characteristic ridge on the back.
- Many dogs of this breed have black tongues.
- Other breeds with ridges on their backs include Thai Ridgebacks and Phu Quoc Ridgebacks.
- This breed has cases of skin diseases, paralysis, hypothyroidism, and gastric torsion.
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