Rhodesian Ridgeback - TOP 10 Interesting Facts

1) Origin

The breed's history dates back to the 16th century when the first Europeans explored the South Africa. The Rhodesian ridgeback was bred by the Boer farmers who needed a good hunting dog who can hunt in the wild Africa. This dog had to pull down large wounded animals, but also flush game and guard the farms.

2) The Ridge

They are named Ridgeback because of the ridge of hair running along their spine. It runs in the opposite direction to the rest of their fur. It is the most unique and distinct feature of Rhodesian Ridgeback and thanks to this, you can always easily tell them apart. But allthoug majority of the Ridgebacks have this ridge, there can be few exceptions without it.

3) Quiet Dogs

Rhodesian Ridgebacks are barking only very rarely when they are provoked or they feel in danger. Otherwise, they do not bark unless when absolutely necessary, and when inactive it can be easy to forget that they are present at all.

4) Cat Lovers

Rhodesian Ridgebacks are known for developing great relationships with cats. They are totally disproving the belief that dogs and cats are the worst of enemies. You can easily socialize them to be okay around any home pets.

5) African Lion Hound

This is fearless dog breed which has no problem to standing up against the king of the jungle – the lion. Of course, they can not hunt lion by themselves, it is impossible, but they were used to corner the lions.

6) Fast Runners

Rhodesian Ridgebacks were bred to hunt, and they had to be fast runners to catch their prey. And guess what, they have it in their blood even today! The hunting instinct and fast running are two traits that describe the Rhodesian Ridgeback well. Because of that, you should let them off leash only when you are 100% sure they will come back on command or in fenced area.

7) Around kids

Rhodesian Ridgebacks are very playful and tolerant, which makes them great play companions for older children. They are not the best for younger kids, since they can knock them down without even knowing what they are doing.

8) Protector

Rhodesian Ridgebacks might be gentle, tolerant and friendly towards their family and their owners, but when they meet some strangers, they are not very trusting towards them. The same goes with unfamiliar animals. And thanks to their fearless and brave personality, they make excellent guards and protectors.

9) Celebrities

Many people around the world fall in love with the Rhodesian Ridgeback and celebrities are no exception. The list of celebrities who own or owned a ridgeback includes Grace Kelly, Patrick Swayze, Blake Griffin or Errol Flynn.

10) Size

The Rhodesian ridgeback is a strong, muscular, balanced and athletic dog. They should be between 24-27 inches tall which is 61-69 cm. Their weight should be between 64-90 pounds which is 29-41 kg.