Height: 24-25 inches
Weight: 65-85 lbs.
Life Span: 10-14 yrs.
Breed Group: Sight Hounds
Overview
Rhodesians are good dogs in the right hands, but they must have proper training
and exercise. Without this they can be undisciplined and aggressive. They
may be stubborn and difficult to train if obedience school is not started
early or if the owner is inexperienced.
They should be socialized with children and other animals at an early age.
Their caution with strangers makes them reliable watchdogs and guard dogs.
Appearance
The hallmark of this breed is the ridge of hair that grows forward along
the center of the back. Its coat is short, dense, sleek, and glossy. Its
color ranges from light wheaten to red wheaten. A little white may appear
on the chest or toes.
Grooming & Exercise Needs
Rhodesians need only a quick brushing once a week. They require vigorous
daily exercise and so do best in the suburbs or country.
Origins
The Hottentot people of southern Africa had a ridgebacked dog that 19th-century
Dutch and German settlers crossed with European mastiffs, scent hounds,
greyhounds, and Great Danes to produce the Rhodesian Ridgeback.
Special Alerts
The Rhodesian Ridgeback is not suitable for inexperienced dog owners.
Breed-related health concerns: hip dysplasia, dermoid sinus (opening
of skin on the back that can cause infection of the spinal cord), deafness.
Reference: AKC - American Kennel Club |
