Physical Characteristics
– Weight:
– Males: 36.5kg (80lb)
– Females: 32kg (71lb)
– Height:
– Males: 26–29in (66–74cm) at the withers
– Females: 24–26 inches (61–66cm) tall
– Coat:
– Short and dense
– Sleek and glossy in appearance
– Light wheaten to red wheaten color
– Permissible white on the chest and toes
– Permissible dark muzzle and ears
– Coat and Nose Color:
– Short, dense, sleek, and glossy coat
– White acceptable on the chest and toes
– Excessive black hairs throughout the coat are undesirable
– Dark mask permissible
– Nose should be black or liver, no other color permissible
History and Kennel Club Standards
– Origin:
– Rhodesian Ridgeback originated in Southern Africa
– Descendants of semi-domesticated ridged hunting and guardian dogs
– Interbred with European dogs by early colonists of the Cape Colony
– Breed Standard:
– KUSA standard
– Fédération Cynologique Internationale standard
– Unique Status:
– Only registered breed indigenous to mainland Southern Africa
– Original Breed Standard:
– Drafted in 1922 by F.R. Barnes
Popularity in Media
– Movies and Shows:
– ‘From A Far Off Place’
– ‘Pup Star World Tour’
– ‘Dark Vindicta (2020)’
– Commercials:
– Opendoor commercial
– Upcoming Projects:
– ‘Junkyard Dogs (2024)’
– TV Shows:
– ‘The Supervet: Noel Fitzpatrick’
– Other Breeds with Similar Coat:
– Phu Quoc ridgeback dog
– Thai Ridgeback
Temperament and Health
– Temperament:
– Loyal and intelligent
– Somewhat aloof to strangers, but not aggressive without reason
– Consistent training and socialization important
– Not the best choice for inexperienced dog owners or families with young children
– Rough treatment should never be administered, especially when young
– Health Conditions:
– Hip dysplasia and dermoid sinus
– Rank number six in terms of most affected breeds for thyroid problems
– Average lifespan of 11 years, with some reaching 17 years
– Dermoid sinus is a congenital neural-tube defect
– Degenerative myelopathy and hypothyroidism are also health concerns
References and Related Topics
– See also:
– Dogs portal
– List of dog breeds
– Hound
– References:
– Various scientific studies and publications related to Rhodesian Ridgebacks
– Kennel Club and Breed Associations:
– FCI
– Rhodesian Ridgeback Club of Great Britain
– American Kennel Club (AKC)