If you are looking for a large dog that constantly wants to climb on your lap, one that eats you out of house and home, that people walk to the other side of the street to avoid and that can be extremely excitable, the Rhodesian Ridgeback is for you! They are delightful dogs who love nothing better than curling up on your lap for a cuddle (they obviously don't know how big they are!) and sneaking food from the countertops. A family oriented dog, they are also great watch dogs and are very intelligent.

History
Rhodesian Ridgebacks are an old breed of dog, originating from Southern Africa. They were used as hunting dogs, but not for a fox, or a rabbit that other dogs are used for. These dogs helped in the hunt for lions! That alone should give you some idea of the size, power and intelligence behind these dogs. They were sent out in pairs or packs to wear a lion down and eventually corner it. The owner would then come in and kill the lion.

They were not only working dogs though. The protectiveness and loyalty to family members that they showed made them popular as a companion animal and for the protection of the house and stock.

Appearance
Their distinguishing feature is a ridge of hair along its back that runs in the opposite direction to its coat. It has two crowns or whorls of hair, and it tapers from behind the shoulders down to its hips. They have a light wheaten or red wheaten color coat that is short, dense and glossy and that does not shed excessively.

Males are approximately 25-27 inches tall and weigh about 85 pounds (or 36 kgs). Females are 24-26 inches tall and 70 pounds.

Temperament
They are very loyal, intelligent and strong dogs. They are very close to their family, but can be wary of strangers.

As they a very intelligent breed and are quite strong, they do require a significant amount of consistent training. They are very strong willed and stubborn, so owners must be prepared to be the leaders of the pack.

The Ridgeback will love all members of your family, including the children. That being said, young children should never be left alone with any dog. Ridgeback puppies have a tendency to get overexcited, and may accidentally knock over small children. Training is important to ensure that as the dog gets bigger, he learns that jumping is not allowable behavior. Like all dogs, they tend to be protective, and should be taught from a young age to share their food and toys, to prevent aggressive behavior against children

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