|
|
RHODESIAN RIDGEBACK — BREED DESCRIPTION & INFORMATION
Breed Description / Health Issues / Breed Standards / Training / Additional Information
Breed Description
|
| Breed Registries: |
- Canadian Kennel Club (CKC) - Hound
- American Kennel Club (AKC) - Hound Group
- United Kennel Club (UKC) - Sighthound and Pariah Dogs
- The Kennel Club [U.K.] (KC) - Hounds
- Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) * - No. 146
|
|
Note: The breed registries indicated above are the most recognized all-breed registries. The breed may also be recognized by other registries not indicated here. For further details about dog registries, please see the document: Dog Breed Registries in North America.
* — The Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) is the World Canine Organisation, which includes members (one member per country) that each issue their own pedigrees and train their own judges. The FCI recognizes 332 breeds, with each being the "property" of a specific country. The FCI is not a breed registry nor does it issue pedigrees. |
| Origin: |
South Africa |
| Height: |
25 to 27 inches (64-69 cm) |
| Weight: |
75 lbs (34 kg) |
|
The Rhodesian Ridgeback, sometimes referred to as the African Lion Hound, is the only recognized breed originating in South Africa. Unique in having a ridge of hair in the shape of a dagger on his back, he is said to have descended from native ridged dogs known in South Africa since the 16th century.
When the breed was imported to Rhodesia, big game hunters found the Ridgebacks to be excellent hunters and used them to hunt lions. In North America, the Ridgebacks' hunting talent of being able to corner their prey has been used to hunt bobcat, mountain lion, bear, coyote, deer, wild boar and raccoon.
The Ridgeback is a dignified and even-tempered dog, extremely tolerant and an excellent companion for children. Generally reserved with strangers, he is a strong protector of the home. He is muscular and active, capable of great endurance and a fair amount of speed.
In the United States, the Rhodesian Ridgeback is classified as a Sighthound and is eligible to compete in Lure Coursing Trials. He is also seen participating in Field Trials, Herding, Tracking, Agility, Obedience and Conformation.
This breed has a strong prey drive and is known to chase, and even kill, small animals — including the neighbourhood cat. Therefore, care should always be taken to ensure that he is kept leashed and/or in an enclosed area.
His coat is short, dense, sleek and glossy. Accepted colours include light wheaten to red wheaten and a small amount of white on the chest and toes is also sometimes found.
|
For additional books, gifts & merchandise, CLICK HERE
|
TOP
Health Concerns for the Rhodesian Ridgeback:
The Rhodesian Ridgeback, as will all breeds, is susceptible to certain genetic problems, including:
If you are considering the adoption of a Rhodesian Ridgeback puppy, or any breed, it is very important to be selective in choosing a responsible and reputable breeder. Ensure that the prospective puppy's parents have all health clearances. Testing for the Rhodesian Ridgeback should include hips, elbows and thyroid as well as testing to ensure that eyes are normal. Breeding of any dog should not be done until after they have been proven to be free of evidence of significant hereditary diseases. (For more information on selecting a breeder, see the articles on the main Breed Listing and Breeders page.)
Additional Health Resources:
TOP
Breed Standards:
TOP
Training Resources:
The Rhodesian Ridgeback is known as an intelligent breed and a fast learner. However, he can be stubborn and independent with a typical hound dog temperament. This simply means that, if he is not inclined to obey, he may not. Training should be consistent and fair. In addition, because of his strong protective instinct, early socialization and training is a must for this breed.
TOP
Additional Information:
- Breed Specific Legislation — Information from the Rhodesian Ridgeback Club of Canada — Various jurisdictions in Canada have either enacted breed specific legislation (BSL) or are proposing enacting legislation that SPECIFICALLY names Rhodesian Ridgebacks as a restricted breed. The Rhodesian Ridgeback Club of Canada has formed a committee whose sole purpose is to fight BSL across Canada. If you want more information about BSL or if you want to volunteer in the fight against BSL please contact Barb McClarty at: ofcourse@shaw.ca.
- Information About Breed Specific Legislation (BSL) — What is BSL; which breeds are affected.
- Is the Ridgeback the Right Dog for Your Family?
- POST - Rhodesian Ridgeback - Pedigree Online Search Tool
- Clubs, Sports & Activities — Here you will find information on various dog sports and activities, including obedience, conformation, field trials, carting, and much more, along with listings of non-breed specific clubs from across Canada. (Note: For Rhodesian Ridgeback breed clubs, see the Breed Clubs section.)
- Working Dogs — This section is dedicated to the working dog and includes information on several dog jobs, including Therapy Dogs, Service Dogs, SAR Dogs, Police K9s, and much more. Also included are listings of organizations from across Canada.
- Rhodesian Ridgebacks Galore — Discussion Forum
- RR-Folk — A Discussion Forum with more than 800 members from around the world.
|
|
|
Copyright © P.Mitchell 2004. All Rights Reserved.
All content, including graphics, on the Canada's Guide to Dogs Website is Copyright-P.Mitchell,
unless otherwise noted, and may not be copied or reproduced without prior written permission.
Back to Breed Listing >>
Canada's Guide to Dogs' Home Page >>
Last Updated: 20 June 2008
|
