OT rhodesian ridgeback dog

periwinklerocket · ‎06-30-2010

Anyone own one? And what do you think of breed?

Nana5 · ‎03-09-2010

Just my observations. Our neighbors have a RR dog and they love her. She has a huge fenced yard and loves to bark at us whenever she hears or sees us. We talk to her from our yard but I would never consider getting close to her. She seems very territorial. She was a rescue dog so she may have some scars from her former life. Good luck in whatever decision you make.

songbird · ‎03-21-2010

It's been on the 25 most "dangerous" breeds. No, they aren't attack dogs. But they are one person dog. Not an ideal pet for a family. They quite strong. And rather big. This was a African breed and they were originally trained to keep lions away from cattle. I think they are strong enough to bring down cattle. Intelligent, but aloof. And sometimes dangerous to strangers.

Here is one list, but they are on most dangerous breeds listing usually.

http://list25.com/25-most-dangerous-dog-breeds/

chessylady · ‎05-01-2010

My brother has had two. The first one was very aggressive and territorial. He would be wagging his tail one moment and lunging and growling the next. My brother later told me he had trained the dog to be mean. Now they have a female who is friendly but a little wild and hyper. No, I would not be getting one.

tdog · ‎04-05-2010

I don't particularly like them, because most of the ones I know are on the aggressive side, especially if there are two or more of them. My labs have been harassed by them a number of times. I know a couple of mellow ones, also. I would find out a lot more about them before getting one, unless you are a very experienced dog owner.

JeanLouiseFinch · ‎10-03-2011

My niece had one. He was a very handsome dog, but they had to find another home for him because he had a very threatening demeanor and nipped at the kids and the cat more than a couple of times.

feline groovy · ‎07-29-2014

From my own experience and education:

Since they were bred in Africa, they do better living in a hot and dry climate (like Arizona). And they love to go hiking with you.

They're beautiful and energetic (& that ridge of hair growing in the opposite direction is really cool to run your finger down; ask the owner 1st if their's is friendly), but also a bit guarded and standoffish.

Just like with ALL pets, and of EVERY species, they're not born 'bad' and cannot choose who will raise them. It's nurture rather than nature, and this also applies to human beings.

They're not for for newbie dog owners, and they must be properly socialized as puppies.

from the AKC:

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.

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.

PERSONALITY:

Dignified, even tempered; affectionate toward loved ones, reserved with strangers

COAT & GROOMING:The short, dense, sleek coat is an average shedder

ENERGY LEVEL:Somewhat active. Athletic, quick, and strong, RRs need lots of exercise and socialization

SIZE:

They stand 24 to 27 inches at the shoulder and weigh between 70 and 85 pounds

WHAT ARE THEY LIKE?

Imposing enough to make intruders think twice, yet swift enough to run with Greyhounds in the sport of lure coursing, Ridgebacks are formidable creatures. They can be strong-willed, independent, and sometimes domineering.

RRs must be guided with a firm but patient hand from early puppyhood. These are true-blue loyal friends who look after their humans and are meltingly affectionate with those they trust. Still, Ridgebacks might be too much hound for a family of first-time dog owners.

suzyQ3 · ‎03-09-2010

We have what is most likely a Lab/Rhodesian Ridgeback mix. She is a wonderful dog without any aggression toward humans. But she is very territorial, and from what I understand, that is typical of the RR breed.

We don't do purebreeds, but if we did, I don't know that would be my first choice. I do love our mixed one, though.

~Who in the world am I? Ah, that's the great puzzle~ Lewis Carroll, Alice in Wonderland

Nikalette · ‎07-09-2012

They are very beautiful, but I think if you get a puppy, it would take an experienced dog owner. These dogs need a lot of exercise also. They are a very powerful breed. Now if you get a mature dog, you can know more about its temperament. My daughter is a dog behaviorist, just starting out, and can handle most dogs. I am not sure about what they were originally bred for...you could check online...they may have been herding and hunting dogs. You didn't mention why you are considering the dog. All dogs can be great companions but the pure reds were all bred for a purpose.