... BREED STANDARD ...

ABOUT RHODESIAN RIDGEBACKS

The Rhodesian Ridgeback, also known as the African Lion Dog, is a dog breed that originated in South Africa, gaining its name from the characteristic "ridge" along its back which is formed by the hair growing in the opposite direction to the rest of the coat.

This is a large dog that stands at 61- 69 cm. Their athletic build and deep dark-wheaten coloured coat fully justifies the other name of the breed - the African Lion Dog. It is a strong, muscled dog, formerly an unsurpassed lion hunter. Selection started when the white pioneers started crossing the imported dogs with the local breeds found in Africa. The peculiar ridge along the back is possibly inherited from the Hottentots' hunting dog.

Ridgebacks are a hunting breed, not a fighting breed as it is sometimes mistakenly assumed. When this dog hunts, it uses not only its brilliant nose but also the sharp vision. The Rhodesian Ridgeback is an intelligent, open-hearted dog that is loyal to his owner and family. In our days Ridgebacks are alert, fearless guard dogs as well as family friends that need an active lifestyle and long walks. They are incredibly enduring hunting dogs that long for physical activity, therefore they need long walks. The short coat is easy to maintain. This is a very rare breed in Latvia. The first representative of this breed was imported into Latvia in the 90's of the 20th century.

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