About the Breed
The unusual name of this breed is derived from the raised line of hair along its back, which forms two whorls or crowns just behind the shoulders. The Rhodesian Ridgeback evolved in southern Africa, and this characteristic pattern reflects an ancestry that extends back to an old breed known as the African Hottentot Hunting Dog. The Ridgeback was bred by European settlers who were seeking a dog that could survive in the harsh and often inhospitable African climate. For a period, they were used to hunt lions, and so became known as the African Lion Hound.
Rhodesian Ridgebacks enjoy human company and are affectionate by nature, but they will not tolerate trespassers on their property. Although not common, the breed still enjoys a dedicated following. These are truly unusual dogs with an interesting history, and while they may sleep longer than other breeds, Rhodesian Ridgebacks will spark into life when out for a run. They are an attractive shade of wheaten colour, and may also show traces of white on their chest and toes.
The most generally accepted view is that this breed is the product of the Cuban Bloodhound and the Hottentot Hunting Dog, the latter supplying the characteristic ridge of hair which grows in the opposite direction to the rest of the coat. The work for which they were originally intended was the tracking and bringing to bay of lions. It was essential that they should be strong and fearless.
Height 25-27 in (63.5-68,5 cm), bitches 24-26 in
Weight 85 lb (38.6 kg), bitches 75 lb (34 kg)
Coat type/colour Coat short and dense, sleek and glossy, but neither woolly nor silky. The ridge should start immediately behind the shoulders and continue to the hip bones, and should contain two identical crowns opposite each other. The lower edges of the crowns should not extend further than one-third of the length of the ridge. Colour light to red wheaten.

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