Rhodesian Ridgeback

Genetic Predispositions and Health

Rhodesian Ridgebacks are generally healthy dogs, but may suffer from elbow and hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, deafness, and dermoid sinus. As for all breeds, genetic screening for hereditary conditions is recommended to assist veterinarians with diagnosis and proactive care, as well as help breeders identify affected and carrier dogs.

Personality and Behavior

Rhodesian Ridgebacks are known to be loyal, intelligent, and somewhat aloof to strangers but without any signs of aggression or shyness. They are generally good with children, but their size can make them somewhat clumsy with small kids. They're also independent and strong-willed, which can make training a challenge, especially for first-time dog owners. Despite this, they are very protective of their homes and families.

Herding Dog Lineage

A canine genetic lineage is a group of individuals or entire breeds that descended from common ancestors predating modern breed formation. Often these lineages are associated with a ‘type’ of dog with a unique historical working role and associated behaviors (e.g., herding, scent hunting, etc.).

Herding dogs are known for their high intelligence, trainability, and strong work ethic. These breeds originated in areas where managing livestock was an important part of daily life and had large pastoral lands. These breeds were specifically developed to help farmers and shepherds move, manage, and protect herds of livestock. Breeds within the herding dog lineage are agile and are known to have a natural herding instinct, where they like to keep their animals together. They are loyal and attentive to their handlers and are eager to please and are also highly aware of their environment. Many breeds within this linage have gone on to work as rescue and police dogs.

Example breeds with ancestry from this lineage include Border Collie, Cardigan Welsh Corgi, and German Shepherd.

Fun Facts

The breed's ridge runs opposite the direction of their coat and is unique to the breed. It's actually a part of the breed standard, and a Ridgeback without a ridge may be disqualified from show competitions.

Despite their African origin, the Rhodesian Ridgeback has been an effective dog breed in various climates around the world due to its resilience and adaptability.

Due to their history as a hunting companion, Rhodesian Ridgebacks have an impressive speed and can reach up to 20 miles per hour.

References

https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/rhodesian-ridgeback/
https://www.ukcdogs.com/rhodesian-ridgeback
https://www.fci.be/en/nomenclature/RHODESIAN-RIDGEBACK-146.html