Rhodesian Ridgeback

Hound Group

Rhodesian Ridgeback lying down in front of white background

Height at Shoulders

Females 24-26 in, Males 25-27 in

Weight

Females ~70 lbs, Males ~85 lbs

Life Expectancy

10-12 yrs

History

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.

Breed Characteristics

While not all Rhodesian Ridgebacks share the exact same personality and temperament, there are certain generalizations that can be made about the breed. In addition to genetics, a dog’s environment, training, socialization, and many other factors all contribute to their personality and behavior.

Intelligence

Affection Towards Family

Friendliness Towards Strangers

Friendliness Towards Other Dogs

Exercise Needs

★★★★★

★★★★☆

★★★☆☆

★★☆☆☆

★★★★★

Energy Level

Sensitivity

Noise Level

Prey Drive

Shedding

★☆

★☆

★☆☆☆

★★

★☆

Intelligence

★★★★★


Affection Towards Family

★★★★


Friendliness Towards Strangers

★★★


Friendliness Towards Other Dogs

★★☆☆☆


Exercise Needs

★★★★★


Energy Level

★☆


Sensitivity

★★★★☆


Noise Level

★☆☆☆


Prey Drive

★★


Shedding

★☆

Common Traits

Gentle, tolerant, and affectionate

Escape artists that are known to wander and even blaze through underground electric fences

Protective of family and make good guard dogs

May become destructive if not given enough mental stimulation or exercise

Confident, outgoing, and often stubborn

Known to compete for dominance with other dogs, especially of the sam sex

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