42" dog crate
Right-sized for a large dog, cozy not cramped.
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Rhodesian Ridgeback
The fearless African lion hound
Hound group
Southern Africa (Zimbabwe/South Africa)
Large
Lifespan10-12 yr
Weight32-41 kg
Height61-69 cm
OriginSouthern Africa (Zimbabwe/South Africa)
The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a powerful, athletic hound bred in southern Africa to track big game and guard the homestead. Known for the distinctive ridge of backward-growing hair along its spine, it is loyal and protective yet independent and strong-willed.
Great points
- Loyal and devoted to its family
- Low-maintenance short coat
- Athletic and a great exercise partner
- Naturally protective watchdog
Things to consider
- Strong-willed and needs firm training
- High prey drive toward small animals
- Requires plenty of daily exercise
- Can be aloof or wary with strangers
The story
Developed by European settlers in southern Africa who crossed European breeds with the ridged Khoikhoi dog, the Ridgeback was used to hunt and corner lions and to guard farms. The breed standard was set in Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe) in 1922.
Training
Intelligent but independent, the Ridgeback responds best to calm, consistent, reward-based training started early. Firm and patient leadership plus thorough socialization are essential to manage its strong will.
Grooming
The short, dense coat is easy to care for and needs only a weekly brush to control light shedding. Bathe occasionally and keep nails trimmed and ears clean.
Food & diet
Feed a quality diet measured to its large, active build and avoid overfeeding to prevent obesity and joint strain.
Exercise
Plan for at least an hour of vigorous daily exercise such as running, long walks, or active play to satisfy its stamina.
Health to watch
Generally hardy but prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, dermoid sinus (a congenital ridge-related condition), hypothyroidism, and bloat (gastric torsion).
Fun fact. A pack of just two or three Ridgebacks could hold a lion at bay until the hunter arrived, earning the nickname African Lion Hound.
Frequently asked questions
Are Rhodesian Ridgebacks good family dogs?
Yes, they are devoted and protective family companions that do best with older children and owners who can provide firm, consistent leadership and plenty of exercise.
What is the ridge on a Rhodesian Ridgeback?
The ridge is a strip of hair along the spine that grows in the opposite direction to the rest of the coat. It is the breed's signature feature and should be clearly defined and symmetrical.
Do Rhodesian Ridgebacks need a lot of exercise?
Yes. As an athletic hunting breed they need at least an hour of vigorous activity each day, and without enough exercise they can become bored and destructive.
Essential gear for the Rhodesian Ridgeback
A few breed-right basics for a new Rhodesian Ridgeback.
Large orthopedic bed
Joint support, sized to a large frame.
View pickSlicker brush
Keeps a low-shed coat tidy.
View pickLarge-breed formula
Joint and growth support for big dogs.
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