Dog breed · Hound
Rhodesian Ridgeback
A strong, self-reliant hound bred to track and hold big game, requiring confident and consistent handling.
Large10–12 yearsSouthern AfricaNeeds more space
Breed characteristics
- Group
- Hound
- Origin
- Southern Africa
- Size
- Large
- Weight
- 29–41 kg (64–90 lb)
- Height
- 61–69 cm
- Lifespan
- 10–12 years
- Coat
- Short, dense wheaten coat with a dorsal ridge
- Temperament
- IndependentDignifiedAthleticProtective
History
Developed in southern Africa by crossing European hunting dogs with the ridged dogs of the Khoikhoi.
Appearance
Muscular and wheaten-coloured, with a distinctive reversed ridge of hair along the spine.
Exercise and activity
Ninety minutes or more daily, including free running in secure areas.
Care and grooming
Minimal grooming; focus energy on training, recall and impulse control.
Health considerations
- Dermoid sinus
- Hip and elbow dysplasia
- Hypothyroidism
- Bloat
- Degenerative myelopathy