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The Canine Chronicles Directory
Rhodesian Ridgeback
Rhodesian Ridgebacks have short dense coats that are light wheaten or red wheaten
in color. Some dogs may have white marks on their chest and feet. The unique feature
of this breed is the ridge of hair that lies along their spine and grows in the
opposite direction of the rest of their coat. The long head is broad between the
ears and the skull is flat. The powerful muzzle is long and deep. The round, well-set
eyes are either dark with a black nose or amber with a brown nose. The medium-sized,
pendant ears are set high and carried close to the head. The powerful jaws have
teeth that meet in a scissor-like bite. The muscular neck should be long and the
deep chest moderately broad. The well-developed legs should be straight and the
round, compact feet should have well-arched toes. The tail tapers to a point and
curves slightly upwards.
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Temperament
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The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a gentle, loving breed. They are good natured and enjoy
being around children. They are wonderful family dogs and have a gentlemanly character.
Although mild at home, this breed is generally wary of strangers. Rhodesian Ridgebacks
can also be stubborn and willful. Since they are pack dogs, leadership needs to
be established by the owner at an early age. The unique thing about the Rhodesian
Ridgeback is that they adapt well to high temperatures and can go without food and
water for over 24 hours.
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Height, Weight
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Male Height: 25-27" ; Weight: 80-90 lbs.
Female Height: 24-26" ; Weight: 65-75 lbs.
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Health Problems
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Ridgebacks are prone to hip dysplasia, dermoid sinus and cysts.
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Living Conditions
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Ridgebacks will do fine living in an apartment if they are sufficiently exercised.
They do best with an average-sized to large yard.
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Exercise
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This breed loves to exercise and is tireless. They will adapt their exercise regiment
to yours.
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Life Expectancy
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About 10-12 years
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Grooming
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The smooth, glossy coat of this breed is easy to care for. Brush or comb weekly
to remove dead hair and only bathe when necessary. This breed is an average shedder.
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Origin
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Records have been found that shows the Hottentots in South Africa using ridge-backed
dogs since the 15th century. They discovered using these dogs in packs was effective
against lions. This in turn helped to create the other name that they are known
by, the African Lion Hound. Several breeds were imported to South Africa during
the 16th and 17th century by Boer settlers. The Rhodesian was created by crossing
the native ridgeback dogs with these imports which included Great Danes, mastiffs,
and various scent hounds. Although this breed was developed for hunting they are
rarely used for this purpose now. The breed was recognized by the AKC in 1959 and
by the UKC in 1980.
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Group
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AKC Hound, UKC Sighthound and Pariah Dog
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