Rhodesian Ridgeback Temperament

The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a dog that has plenty of energy, especially as a puppy, and needs an owner that can provide plenty of stimulation and interaction. These dogs are friendly, but aggression can be a problem in some lines, which means that early socialization is essential. Serious, sensible, and dignified, the Rhodesian Ridgeback is a very independent and confident breed, and is best suited to owners with confidence, assertiveness, and experience in dog ownership. He is an intelligent dog and is quick to learn, but training may prove a challenge as he can also be very testing. This is a dog that demands respect in order to give respect, and can be a dominant, demanding, and controlling. However, with the right owner and the right training, he can be a well balanced, loving family pet and companion.

The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a very loyal and protective dog. His suspicion of strangers makes him an effective protector. He will get along well with children when brought up with them, but younger children are not recommended, as these dogs do not like to be handled roughly. With early socialization he tends to get along okay with other animals, although he may be bossy with them. A devoted sight and scent hound, the Rhodesian Ridgeback is prone to wander off of something stirs his curiosity, and therefore a safe, secured area is essential unless he is on a leash. With early socialization, consistent training, and a confident, assertive owner, the Rhodesian Ridgeback can make a very good family pet.

History
The country formerly known as Rhodesia is now Zimbabwe, and this is where the Rhodesian Ridgeback originates from. These dogs were used to hunt in packs, and their ability to hunt big game such as lions earned them the nickname of African Lion Dogs. The breed was registered with the AKC in 1955.


Appearance
The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a handsome dog, and carried himself with a certain dignity. Large in size, he has a well muscled, sturdy build, and an intelligent expression. His coat is short, close fitting, and glossy, and the coloring is golden tan or reddish tan (light or red wheaten). The weight of the Rhodesian Ridgeback is around 70-75 pounds for females, and around 75-85 pounds for males. The height of these dogs is around 24-26 inches for females, and around 25-28 inches for males. One distinctive feature that has helped the Rhodesian Ridgeback earn his name is the strip of hair along the dog's back, which grows in the opposite direction to the rest of the coat and forms a ridge.


Grooming
The grooming requirements for the Rhodesian Ridgeback are low, and his coat simply needs to be brushed occasionally to keep it looking good. The odd wipe down with a soft, damp cloth will also help it to keep its shine. He is a light shedder, and therefore may be suited to some people with allergies.

Health
The life expectancy of the Rhodesian Ridgeback is around 12 years, and there are a number of health problems to look out for with this breed. This includes thyroid problems, cancer, cataracts, deafness, HD, dermoid sinus, and bloat. The parents of the Rhodesian Ridgeback puppy should have OFA and CERF certificates.

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