Catch Me If You Can
Being natural born hunters, Rhodesian ridgebacks love to chase. Although it is fun to play with dogs that have an impulse to chase, it should only be done in a controlled area with a high fence. These are fast dogs, notorious for misbehaving when off-leash and can be mischievous enough to find a way over a low fence or wall.
Ridge on Back
Rhodesian ridgebacks, aka "Ridgies," are so named for the ridge of hair running along their spine. It runs in the opposite direction to the rest of their fur coat. Although it is a very distinctive feature of the breed, not all Ridgies have it.
Hunters at Heart
This breed was developed in Africa as hunting dogs. They were used to chase and corner large game like lions, bears and boars. Rhodesian ridgebacks are still often used as hunting dogs today.
Bring on the Food
Ridgies love to eat! They will literally make themselves sick by eating too much if given a lot of food. Because of their love of food, they can easily get overweight. Owners must exercise them daily and closely monitor their diet.
The Perfect Playmate
Rhodesian ridgebacks are great with children, almost overly so. They can be too rambunctious with young children and may knock them over when trying to play. Their love doesn't stop with children, however. Ridgies are very protective of all members of their family.
Only When Necessary
Rhodesian ridgebacks are tolerant dogs and will not bark unnecessarily. They only use their voice as a warning or if there's a sign of danger. They won't even bark when the doorbell rings, so something needs to be seriously wrong for them to be upset.
Loved by Celebrities
This breed has been popular among celebrities for decades. Famous owners include Patrick Swayze, Grace Kelly and Prince Rainier, Errol Flynn and Blake Griffin.
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Friends With Cats
Rhodesian ridgebacks can be very fond of cats and other animals. If they're raised in a house with other pets from a young age and familiar with each other, they can be very adaptable dogs.
Stranger Danger
This breed is known to be aggressive towards strangers and unfamiliar animals. Keep a tight hold on them during walks, and keep a close eye on them at dog parks. Never let Rhodesian ridgebacks off-leash unless it is in a controlled environment away from unknown dogs.
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Strong and Sweet
Rhodesians are usually healthy, robust dogs. However, they're prone to a skin condition called dermoid sinus. The genetic disease is usually found on the midline of the tail, neck and back. Although it is not pretty to look at, surgery can remove the lumps that appear on your dog's skin.
