Rhodesian Ridgeback

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History/Origin
The breed of Rhodesian Ridgeback has an impressive history that can be traced back to the early days of 17th century Europe. This breed has been domesticated primarily to assist humans in hunting for food. When not used by their masters for hunting, these animals were family pets, and guardians of property and pasture.

Many accepted the belief that this breed came from the cross-breeding of Khoi dog, greyhound, bulldog, collie, pointer, and terriers because they have distinct characteristics that are similar with the previously named. Despite this, the true and actual origins of the Rhodesian Ridgeback is still shrouded in mystery.

Description
The Rhodesian Ridgeback has an overall appearance of symmetry and strength, and is characterized as strong, handsome, and agile, with great speed and endurance. This breed's most familiar feature is their hair ridge, which runs towards the opposite grain of their coat. Some of the Ridgebacks are unfortunately born without any ridges, and during the old times, these puppies were then culled after birth.

The males are said to be around 25 to 27 inches, and weighs at 85 lbs approximately, while the females are around 24 to 26 inches and weight around 70 lbs. The Rhodesian Ridgeback has a smooth yet strong tail that is usually curved upwards. They have round, dark eyes and muzzle or amber colored eyes with color of light wheat or liver colored nose.

Temperament
The Rhodesian Ridgeback are popular because they are loyal, gentle, independent, and intelligent. However, they are also famous for being aloof to others, especially to strangers. This kind of dog requires a patient and experienced owner or trainer in order to be able to control it successfully. These dogs have unsavory traits of being too willful, clever, yet always looking for mischief. Most of them can even open cabinets in order to steal food.

Despite being trained for the outdoors, the Rhodesian Ridgeback prefers to be inside the house, together with their masters. They also have a sensitive nature that makes them extremely moody. When disciplining them, do not use excessive methods, as the dog may have the tendency to rebel against the trainer or master. However, they can easily accept correction, if it is justifiable and fair, and if it is from their trusted master. Rough treatment, especially to the young ones are greatly discouraged, as such actions can easily break their mood.