![]() ![]() The resulting breed could run at great speeds, withstand harsh weather conditions, and hunt by sight or scent. ![]() They adapted the Rhodesian Ridgeback to the purpose of hunting lions and other large game, probably by crossing it with large breeds that came with them such as the Bloodhound, Greyhound, and Great Dane. European settlers of Rhodesia in the 1700’s found a domesticated dog with such a ridge among the native Khoisan tribe. The Rhodesian Ridgeback (also known as the ‘African Lion Dog’, ‘African Lion Hound’, and ‘Van Rooyen's Lion Dog’ for its capacity to harass lions) was bred in Zimbabwe (formerly Rhodesia) and is named for the distinctive ‘ridge’ on its back, which is formed by hairs running in the opposite direction to the rest of its coat. It is reserved with strangers and can be aggressive toward strange dogs and animals. It is strong-willed and powerful some can become domineering. It is good with children, especially protective of those in its family, but it is sometimes overly boisterous in play for small children. Not only is it a keen and versatile hunter, but it is a loyal guardian. The Rhodesian Ridgeback is the hound group's answer to a somewhat protective dog. A distinctive feature is the clearly defined ridge, which should start with two identical whorls just behind the shoulders and taper to a point between the hipbones. The short glossy coat is adapted for working in hot climates. Because the lion is not the only quarry of the Ridgeback, the dog must also be strong enough to bring down other large game. The Ridgeback must have an athletic build to enable it to catch up to a lion and then harass it without being hurt. Slightly longer than tall, the Rhodesian Ridgeback combines speed, power and endurance.
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