HUNTER AND PROTECTOR

Stories of unusual origin, romantic exploits in hunting African big game, courage and skill of a silent scent hound with a specific hunting technique have earned acknowledgement and fame for the breed that, until recently, was fairly rare.

Notable combination of cunningness, sharpened sight and smell, and astonishing speed of this relatively large dog often manifests itself in the most modest spaces. Ridgeback moves in a way that is pleasant to the eye - unrestrained movement and elegance leave an impression of inexhaustible strength, while the rhythm of the movement at the same time combines the softness of a cat with the ease of a trained horse. The joy of life, willingness to please, that is what made the Ridgeback so recognizable and unforgettable. The hair that grows along the back in the opposite direction and forms a characteristic “ridge” is another trait of the breed, which characterizes only Rhodesian and Thai Ridgebacks.

First and foremost, Rhodesian Ridgeback is a scent hound, and must be capable of performing the task it was bred for. At the same time, it is a companion dog and protector of the family. Because of its size and strength, but mainly because of the fact it lives among humans, as a member of the family, a Ridgeback must have stable temperament and high degree of self-control. Also a dog of the pack, it must cooperate and get along with other dogs well, regardless of the sex.

During daily walks it will only passingly glance the other dogs or, Rhodesian Ridgeback style, dominantly observe from the side, concealing its audacity. Contrary to the common belief, it never craves fight, avoiding trouble whenever possible. However, it cannot stand being insulted. It will wait as long it takes to settle the score.

COMPANION AND FRIEND

As a companion and a friend, it shows outstanding devotion and love to the owner and family. It is loyal, willing to cooperate, but cannot stand being mistreated, as it will cause it to completely lose the will to work. Lack of human contact and lonely life in a crate will leave negative consequences on its temper. Working, one has to constantly keep cooperation in mind, as it does not tolerate force and violence. However, consistent training is necessary. Lots of praise expressed quickly and generously, firm reprimand when necessary - will do wonders. Due to the protective nature, no guard training is necessary, but its inborn capabilities have to be combined with obedience training and control. It matures somewhat late, around two and a half years of age, and has good learning capacity. Therefore, it is vital that owners establish gentle, but firm authority over their companion during the first few months. Ridgeback remembers people’s actions extremely well. It promptly reacts to flattery, praise, and firm hand. Because of its strong will and determination it can not be forced into obedience - a subtle approach brings out the best of its nature. Usually just a change in the tone of voice is sufficient to impose discipline. It considers training to be a game and wants to please the owner by being obedient.

Rhodesian dog never barks unnecessary, but only when it needs to warn about an intruder. Most of the time it dozes on the threshold or, which is more common, on the sofa, but will promptly react when necessary. Most often just by raising the head to show awareness, but that there is no imminent danger. However, when necessary, Ridgeback will stand still, its head lowered and neck fully extended, growling in a low voice, fixating the intruder with a firm, cold gaze. Few strangers would dare to provoke such a standoff. Only owner’s command or opponent’s withdrawal will end this terrifying confrontation.

And while unwanted guests will be met with menace and owner’s friends with indifference - love is reserved for favourite people only. It handles children with varying degrees of tolerance, from indifference to love of confusing proportions.

INTELLIGENT AND STRONG-WILLED

It is naturally lazy and capable of endless naps, not using a bit of energy more than it is necessary. Sometimes it forgets its usual lightness and stealth, and seems like it is moving through the objects, instead around them. In dog shows it often acts lethargic and bored, unlike other breeds. But it will exuberantly present itself in all its beauty, galloping on a parking lot - after the show. One should never expect a Ridgeback to run around on its own or play fetch while the owner rests. It will not move an inch unless its owner moves, too. All this might seem like a departure from the dynamism described earlier. But, no matter how much such “outbursts” might cause owner’s anger or laughter, all this is part of the temperament which sometimes conceals the high intelligence of these dogs. Stubbornness, strong will, physical strength, and talent to do as it pleases must always be taken into account when handling this dog.