Vegas Valley Dog Obedience Club - VVDOC - Breed of the Month February 2012

JUST FOR FUN

OBEDIENCE

ACTIVITIES FOR YOU AND YOUR RHODESIAN RIDGEBACK
The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a high energy dog that thrives on vigorous exercise and athletic
activities. You will need to play with your Ridgeback, giving him/her time for a good romp several
times a week or long walks for at least 30 to 45 minutes 3-4 times a week.

The Rhodesian Ridgeback can get involved in activities like agility or flyball, which will help him
expend energy and give him a purpose. Obedience training as a puppy is a must. The Ridgeback is
an able competitor in lure coursing, and becoming involved in that sport will show you a side of the
Ridgeback that harks back to his heritage on the plains of Africa.

In addition to hiking, jogging, and obedience, you and your Rhodesian Ridgeback might enjoy the
following activities:

Here are some pictures of the VVDOC Rhodesian Ridgebacks enjoying their favorite activities !

===>>> Click on any image to view a larger version. <<<===

VEGAS VALLEY DOG OBEDIENCE CLUB

" COOPER "

A large and muscular dog, the Rhodesian Ridgeback was not only developed as hunter but also as a
family protector. The breed can be light wheaten to red wheaten and are sleek and glossy in
appearance. Originally bred to hunt lions the breed is also known as the African Lion Hound.

A Look Back
A native of South Africa, the Rhodesian Ridgeback was bred by the Boer farmers to fill their specific
need for a serviceable hunting dog in the wilds. In 1877 Reverend Helm introduced two Ridgebacks
into Rhodesia where big game hunters found them outstanding in the sport of hunting lions on
horseback. They raised and bred these dogs with an appreciation for their exceptional hunting
qualities, the ridge on their back becoming a unique trademark. In 1950 outstanding specimens were
imported to the United States and the breed was admitted to registration by the AKC in 1955.

Right Breed for You?
Due to their short coats Ridgebacks shed very little and require only weekly brushing and occasional
baths. The breed is also athletic, requiring regular exercise. Trustworthy with children, they are
"people" dogs and like to be where you are, possibly curled up on the couch if permitted.

Did You Know?

The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a large, muscular dog originally bred in South Africa to hunt
lions. It is also known as the African Lion Hound.

The peculiarity of the Ridgeback breed is the ridge of hair which grows forward on his back.

In 1922, a group of Rhodesian breeders set up a standard for Ridgebacks which has remained
virtually unchanged ever since.

The Rhodesian Ridgeback was admitted to registry by the AKC in 1955.

The breed was created by the Hottentots, a native race of South Africa, and the early Dutch,
German, and Huguenot settlers who emigrated there. They combined Danes, Mastiffs,
Greyhounds, Bloodhounds, Terriers, and other breeds with the half-wild Hottentot hunting
breed to create the Ridgeback.

Not surprisingly, the lack of a defining ridge on the back is unacceptable in the Ridgeback
breed.

Summary

Hound Group; AKC recognized in 1955.

Ranging in size from 24 to 27 inches tall at the shoulder and 70 to 85 pounds.

Lion hunter; guard dog.

© The American Kennel Club, Inc.

The Rhodesian Ridgeback Breed Standard - www.akc.org/breeds/rhodesian_ridgeback/

History of the Rhodesian Ridgeback - www.akc.org/breeds/rhodesian_ridgeback/history.cfm

National Breed Club - Rhodesian Ridgeback Club of the United States - www.rrcus.org

RALLY