Appearance

The distinguishing feature of a Ridgeback is the hair along the spine of the back running in the opposite direction. This area of hair is called a "crown". Some Ridgebacks are born without the ridge along their back. These dogs are spayed or neutered by breeders to ensure they will not be bred, and are sold as pets. Ridgebacks are muscular looking dogs, with a light wheaten, or red wheaten coat, which is short, smooth and glossy, has dark eyes with a black nose or amber eyes with a liver nose. Liver noses are not as common as black noses.

Behavior

Ridgebacks are intelligent and cunning. They are not timid dogs and are very resevered to strangers. They are loyal, brave family protectors that can be aggressive and territorial. Ridgebacks are not for first time dog owners. They require and experienced owner that knows how to exude natural authority. They tend to get along with other pets as long as they have been socialized at an early age. Under most circumstances they mix well with other dogs. They are kind with children, so long as they are not pestered by them. Ridgebacks are hunting dogs, so exercise is a must.

History

Ridgebacks have been used for lion hunting since the 1800's. The breeds that are believed to have been used by Cornelius Van Rooyen to develop his famed lion-hunting dogs are: the Collie, Bulldog, Greyhound, Airedale, Irish Terrier, Pointer, and domesticated dogs from the Khoisan tribes. Great Dane and Deerhound may have also contributed to the gene pool. Ridgebacks, when hunting, were sent out in packs of two or more to wear down and confuse a lion by tauting it until their master came in for the kill. Ridgebacks themselves did not kill the lions, but keep it occupied until the hunter came along. When not hunting they are used for driving cattle, family and property guardians, and family companions.