LEARN / THE BREED
The Rhodesian Ridgeback.
The ridge is said to have derived from a dog from the South of Africa, where it was domesticated by a tribe of people known as the “Khoikhoi”. One such dog was unearthed at a place called “Orange River” South Africa by archaeologists where they discovered the remains of a dog with a ridge that was clearly discernible.
Eventually, the Rhodesian Ridgeback dog became revered because of its hardiness in the harsh African Veldt and soon the Europeans began trying various crosses, perfecting the breed for their own needs. A few notable people began focusing on shaping the breed for hunting big game, mostly lion. The rigors of African life required an extremely versatile dog, smart enough to protect itself from danger and at the same time, courageous enough to defend life and property, if need be. Thus, the Rhodesian Ridgeback dog was born.
The original standard Rhodesian Ridgeback was constructed by F.R. Barnes in 1922, and was accepted by the South African Kennel Union in 1926. With the direction and help of Ridgeback fanciers - including Margret Cook - the breed was eventually accepted in the United States in 1955 by the American Kennel Club.
The overall appearance of the Rhodesian Ridgeback dog, formerly the “African Lion Hound,” or the “Van Rooyen Lion Dog,” is one of charisma, strength and poise. He should be well muscled, with apparent agility and grace coupled with power. This is not considered “pretty,” but rather is said to be “handsome” with the look of noble character. Frequently you will hear him spoken of as regal or austere in temperament and personality.
The ridge.
The hallmark of the breed is a neat, symmetrically balanced ridge of hair growing in the opposite direction of the rest of the coat. It starts in the middle of the shoulder blade area, where there should be a symmetrical fan with two whorls (swirls) of hair on either side of the ridge. From here the “ridge” should proceed neatly along the spine all the way to the front of the croup (rear) tapering gently until it ends, forming a point.
Born without a ridge.
It is possible, and in fact, a 2% probability that a Rhodesian Ridgeback dog can be born without a ridge. This should not be considered a health issue, nor is it an aberration. This is simply in the genes due to the fact that in the early history of the breed there were ridgeless dogs. Reputable breeders, such as ourselves, will not breed ridgeless dogs as the ultimate goal is to eliminate ridgelessness altogether.
Adapted from the original Hunterson Farms website.
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