"Pride. It's word that signifies an awareness of the recognition of innate talent and the importance of continuing achievement."
Pride. It's word that signifies an awareness of the recognition of innate talent and the importance of continuing achievement. It's also a word that perfectly defines the character of Rhodesian Ridgeback. This breed is self-assured, completely confident and completely conscious of his own speed, agility and limitations. But his temperament contains interesting complexities — alert, arrogant, devoted, independent, self-reliant and non-combative are all terms that specialists have used to describe the Ridgeback.
And all have some element of truth — for superior animals, like people, are not simple creatures. Place the Ridgeback in certain situations and his breed's behaviour can be easily recognised. Quite simply, this is a great tracking dog, as has been proven time and time again, and able to put this talent to work both by air and ground contact. Frequently, the Ridgeback will instinctively herd other animals into a tight-knit group simply by circling them.
Guarding & Intelligence
His guarding reactions can vary. Because of the breed's above-average intelligence, a great deal of mental stimulation is required by the Ridgeback. Repetitive and regimented obedience routines don't spark this breed — game-playing is how they like to learn and develop skills from an early age.
The Ridgeback is not a dog that will blindly obey commands. He thinks for himself and will question instructions that seem pointless to him. This independence of mind is one of the breed's most endearing qualities — but it also means that training must be consistent, patient, and reward-based. Harsh methods are counterproductive and will cause the Ridgeback to simply disengage.
Family & Social Life
With his family, the Ridgeback is gentle, affectionate and deeply loyal. He forms strong bonds and is particularly good with children he has been raised with, though his size and exuberance mean that interactions with very young children should always be supervised. He is not typically aggressive, but he is a powerful dog and can knock a small child over simply through enthusiasm.
The Ridgeback is generally reserved with strangers — not unfriendly, but dignified and watchful. He will not fawn over visitors, but neither will he be hostile without cause. This natural wariness makes him an excellent watchdog. He will alert his family to anything unusual, but he is not a nuisance barker.
With other dogs, the Ridgeback can be dominant, particularly with dogs of the same sex. Early socialisation is essential. Introduced properly and from a young age, most Ridgebacks will live harmoniously with other dogs. With smaller animals — cats, rabbits, and the like — caution is advised, as the prey drive in this breed is strong.
Exercise & Environment
The Ridgeback is an athletic breed that requires substantial daily exercise. A long walk or run is not a luxury — it is a necessity. A bored, under-exercised Ridgeback will find his own entertainment, and that entertainment is rarely what his owner had in mind. A securely fenced garden is essential; this is a breed that can clear a modest fence with ease and will follow an interesting scent for miles if given the opportunity.
Despite their size and energy, Ridgebacks are surprisingly adaptable to different living situations, provided their exercise needs are met. They are clean, relatively low-maintenance in terms of grooming, and are not excessive shedders. They do feel the cold, however, and should not be expected to live outdoors in northern European winters.
Is This the Right Breed for You?
The Rhodesian Ridgeback is not a breed for everyone. He requires an owner who is confident, consistent, and willing to invest time in training and socialisation. He is not suited to a sedentary lifestyle, nor to an owner who wants a dog that will simply comply without question. But for the right person — or the right family — he is an extraordinary companion.
He is sensitive beneath that proud exterior. He responds to kindness and fairness, and he will give back everything he receives — and more. He is funny, curious, and endlessly entertaining. He is also, when the situation demands it, courageous and protective in a way that few breeds can match.
"This means that a properly-trained and socialised Ridgeback is a good-natured and exceptionally versatile dog which will give his owner many years of pleasure and companionship. You are not only gaining a pet, you are gaining a wonderful experience — and a brave, loyal friend."