| Height |
24-25 inches |
| Weight |
65-85 lbs. |
| Life Span |
10-14 yrs. |
| Overview |
Rhodesians are good dogs in the right hands, but they must have proper training and exercise. Without this they can be undisciplined and aggressive. They may be stubborn and difficult to train if obedience school is not started early or if the owner is inexperienced.
They should be socialized with children and other animals at an early age. Their caution with strangers makes them reliable watchdogs and guard dogs.
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| Appearance |
The hallmark of this breed is the ridge of hair that grows forward along the center of the back. Its coat is short, dense, sleek, and glossy. Its color ranges from light wheaten to red wheaten. A little white may appear on the chest or toes. |
| Grooming & Exercise |
Rhodesians need only a quick brushing once a week. They require vigorous daily exercise and so do best in the suburbs or country. |
| Origins |
The Hottentot people of southern Africa had a ridgebacked dog that 19th-century Dutch and German settlers crossed with European mastiffs, scent hounds, greyhounds, and Great Danes to produce the Rhodesian Ridgeback. |
| Other |
The Rhodesian Ridgeback is not suitable for inexperienced dog owners.
Breed-related health concerns: hip dysplasia, dermoid sinus (opening of skin on the back that can cause infection of the spinal cord), deafness.
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