The Rhodesian Ridgeback originated in southern Africa during the 19th century. Their ancestors were mixes of local ridged Khoikhoi dogs and Greyhounds and terriers brought by Dutch colonists. The Rhodesian Ridgeback came into existence when Rhodesian hunter Cornelius van Rooyen bred their ancestors into his pack of lion-hunting dogs. The offspring were able to chase down and hold lions until the hunter arrived with the rifle, guard the homestead, and serve as gentle companion animals.