Rhodesian Ridgeback Facts

Rhodesian Ridgeback Facts
Rhodesian Ridgeback, also known as African Lion Hound, is large dog that belongs to the group of Hound Dogs. It was created in Zimbabwe, once known as Rhodesia (hence the name), at the beginning of the 20th century by mixing European hunting dogs with African dogs. Rhodesian Ridgeback served as guardian on the farms and it was used to facilitate hunting of lions and boars in the past. Aside for hunting, it is also kept as a house pet today. Rhodesian Ridgeback is not very popular outside its homeland (South Africa). It is currently listed as 54th most popular breed in the USA.
Interesting Rhodesian Ridgeback Facts:
Rhodesian Ridgeback can reach 24 to 27 inches in height and 75 to 80 pounds of weight.
Rhodesian Ridgeback has short, shiny, smooth red or tan-colored coat.
Rhodesian Ridgeback is named after a tiny Mohawk, ridge of hairs that runs along the spine in the opposite direction than the rest of the fur. This ridge cannot be seen in all Rhodesian Ridgebacks.
Rhodesian Ridgeback has broad head, long muzzle, round, brown-colored eyes, medium-sized, drooping ears, large muscular body, long legs and long tail.
Rhodesian Ridgeback is affectionate, quiet and intelligent dog. It is suitable for the families with children and other pets. Rhodesian Ridgeback can be aggressive toward unfamiliar cats and dogs.
Because of its large size and stubborn nature, Rhodesian Ridgeback is not a good choice for inexperienced owners. It needs to be trained from the early age to learn to respect boundaries set by its owner. Rhodesian Ridgeback responds well to the positive reinforcement methods.
Rhodesian Ridgeback likes to hike, run and play with its owners. It requires plenty of mental stimulation to prevent boredom and development of destructive behavior.
Rhodesian Ridgeback can be kept both in the apartments and houses with fenced backyards. It belongs to the group of moderately active dogs that require one or two walks per day.
Rhodesian Ridgeback has strong impulse to chase the prey and it can easily escape from the backyard when it detects small, furry animals in the neighborhood.
Rhodesian Ridgeback is territorial and protective dog. It is not very friendly toward the strangers, but it doesn't bark unless it is absolutely necessary.
Rhodesian Ridgeback can achieve good results at the competitions in agility, lure coursing, tracking and obedience.
Rhodesian Ridgeback is an average shedder. It requires weekly brushing.
Rhodesian Ridgeback gives birth to 7 to 8 (6 on average) puppies. They are exuberant and very active during the puppyhood.
Rhodesian Ridgeback is healthy breed, but it can suffer from hip and elbow dysplasia, bloat, ocular and skin disorders. It likes to eat and it can easily become obese without well-planned diet.
Rhodesian Ridgeback has an average lifespan of 10 to 12 years.


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