General information about the Rhodesian Ridgeback character¹

The real Rhodesian Ridgeback

If the Rhodesian Ridgeback were a human, it would be characterized as eccentric with an ever-present sense of humor. The true Rhodesian Ridgeback exudes an unassailable arrogance. Descriptions such as "agile and swift," "brave," and "the bravest of all hunting dogs" are justified. These experiences stem from observations from earlier hunting missions in Africa. These traits are still prevalent today, after generations of domestication—provided they are not suppressed through training. Although the Ridgeback in Europe is usually only given rabbits or squirrels as hunting targets, it nevertheless demonstrates its distinctive combination of intelligence, excellent eyesight and sense of smell, and its surprising speed and agility for such a large dog. Despite this apparent dynamism and athleticism, the adult Ridgeback's strength lies in its calm composure and self-control.

The young Rhodesian Ridgeback

The young, adolescent Ridgeback (up to approximately 2-3 years of age) exhibits a tendency toward exuberance and naughtiness, even boorishness, which conceals the adult dog's true character. During the first few months, it is important for the new Ridgeback owner to assert his dominance sensitively but firmly. The Ridgeback is very strongly and sustainably influenced by environmental influences and training methods and has a truly "elephant-like" memory. He therefore responds very well to consistency, praise, and flattery; on the other hand, he is also easily unsettled by incorrect handling or negative experiences.

Equipped with a strong will, he can never be made submissive by uncontrolled harshness, unintelligible sharpness, or even blows; on the contrary, he will become stubborn and aggressive. The best results in training and education are achieved through friendly motivation and patience; a scolding, raised voice is usually enough to achieve the necessary discipline. In an emergency, a firm, firm grip on the neck or around the muzzle and a serious look into the dog's eyes while scolding will do the trick.

As a companion and friend, the Ridgeback is unwaveringly loyal and affectionate to its family, which includes people, pets, and the farm. It often becomes particularly attached to one person, to whom it bestows a special loving bond. It is said that a Ridgeback is not owned, but rather possessed by one. For this reason, it is an excellent guardian and protector of its family.

The Rhodesian Ridgeback as a guard

Rhodesian Ridgebacks rarely bark without reason and only bark as much as necessary to warn of danger. This trait, coupled with their relaxed attitude to life, is deceptive. This seemingly immobile, lazy dog, who sleeps for hours on end – preferably on the sofa or in bed – can instantly transform into an incorruptible protector. Signs of alertness can be a raised eyebrow or a moving ear (with closed eyes). Only when absolutely necessary will they stand up, wide awake, with the hairs on the back of their neck standing up, and bark or growl threateningly. Often, a raised head, accompanied by a growl, rumble, or simply a puffing out of the cheeks, indicates that there is something there that is being noticed but does not pose a threat.

His behavior towards other people

He is reserved toward strangers. Family acquaintances are greeted, but treated with some reserve. An exuberant, boisterous greeting is only given to "favorites," although a Ridgeback never forgets a friend, even after years of separation.

The Rhodesian Ridgeback and children

Their attitude towards children varies greatly. As with every dog, this depends very much on their experiences as a puppy and teenager. If they have few or bad experiences with children, they will be indifferent or even avoidant towards them. If they have met children early on and associate positive experiences with them, they will sometimes react with intrusive affection. If children and dogs are together, an adult must always be present to guide the children in how to interact with the dog and to explain the dog's behavior. Only older children who are experienced with dogs may be left alone with a dog that is also experienced with children. The adult always bears responsibility. The danger from a Ridgeback lies more in its size and strength, which it cannot always control when playing exuberantly with people (children or adults). A Ridgeback (like any dog) should not be treated as a toy, but must be respected as a fully-fledged, independent personality with its own rights.

The Rhodesian Ridgeback's need for exercise

A rather lazy fellow by nature, a Ridgeback will never expend more energy than is absolutely necessary to achieve his goal. He genuinely enjoys wasting time and lazing around. For this reason, it is important to give him exercise on long walks; he won't do it on his own, even in a huge garden! But once he is out and about, and the walk is interesting, he is fully committed. During these daily walks, he should be able to play with other dogs. In true Ridgeback style, he may even be carried away by a dominant gesture from time to time. Fighting rarely occurs, however, as he usually prefers to avoid unpleasantness and difficulties. Harassment from other dogs is generally not tolerated. The Ridgeback puts in just the right amount of effort to maintain his self-respect.

Training and sport with the Ridgeback

If he wants to, the Rhodesian Ridgeback can hide his high intelligence behind a mask of apparent stupidity, slowness of the mind, stubbornness and clumsiness, much to the annoyance or amusement of his family. Therefore, training with a Ridgeback, be it obedience or ring training, often ends in frustration and you have to make concessions to his strong will, assertiveness, personality and talent for doing things his own way. For example: repeatedly throwing away an object and asking him to bring it back will lead the dog to believe that if you keep throwing it away, it is probably no longer needed. Conclusion: after the second time, he will leave it there and walk away disinterested! If a trainer does not show a lot of patience, motivation and empathy and cannot explain to him the meaning of the required task, a Ridgeback will always try to take the path of least resistance and least effort.

Exhibitions with the Rhodesian Ridgeback

In the show ring, the Ridgeback—unlike many other breeds—often adopts a bored, almost lethargic pose, and it takes great skill to conceal this. As soon as he's released from the ring, he'll jump and romp with great enthusiasm and speed.

Fazit zum Rhodesian Ridgeback

In summary, the Ridgeback, with a great sense of humor and personality, integrates calmly and willingly into its environment. It responds quickly and perfectly to everything you ask of it, but only when it suits it and when it sees a purpose. Despite appearances to the contrary, it is a constantly attentive, intelligent, and loyal dog. It does not hide its (fierce) affection and is always ready to protect its family.



Many thanks to the British Rhodesian Ridgeback breeder Alex Dixon

1 Source: Alex Dixon (2008) / GB

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