Rhodesian Ridgeback

This breed’s distinguishing ridge of hair growing forwards along the spine is unique among recognized breeds. Dogs with this characteristic were kept as companions and used for hunting by the Khoikhoi of southern Africa. In the 19th century, they interbred with the Dutch and German mastiffs and scent hounds of the settlers, and the best attributes of five existing dogs were combined into a breed standard at a meeting of breeders in 1922. The Rhodesian Ridgeback was used in “lion country” in Rhodesia, now Zimbabwe, and was once called the African Lion Hound. It was never used to attack lions, but as a scent hound to bring game to the hunter’s attention, although its size and strength did offer hunters some protection should they suddenly find themselves the prey. Today, the breed is more often found as a guard dog or companion; males need an experienced hand at home.