Origins of the Rhodesian Ridgeback

Many breeds went into the formation of the ridgeback although there are very few records of how the breed evolved.  We do however know of some of the breeds which were in Africa and also the evidence of our own eyes.  When we came into our breed 22 years ago there were some exhibits which possessed much Bullmastiff type which is not so evident today.

We know that William Charles Baldwin who travelled between 1852 to 1869, who incidentally provided the first sketch of a ridged European dog in 1858, particularly favoured a Greyhound/Bulldog cross with a dash of Pointer.  Very few of his dogs would stand up to lions and those that did were bred from.

The first Rhodesian Ridgeback book by Major Hawley (considered by Ridgeback clubs to be "The Bible") writes of crosses which were particularly useful and used during the mid to late last Century Bullmastiff-Foxhound and Stag-Bloodhound.  Mastiff crosses would hunt Baboon and Bulldog-Mastiff crosses were also capable of hunting leopards.  Steekbaards (which were probably derived from Irish Terrier and possibly old Deerhounds) are also mentioned and it is likely that they were the foundation for Von Rooyen's pack.

Most importantly there was the native Hottentot dog which was particularly prized by the Hottentots for their natural wariness and instinct for sensing danger, (which was essential lest they become the hunted), ability to harry lion and the most important and unique factor of all - the Ridge.  For the above reasons the first pioneers in the 17th Century soon found it expedient to cross their European breeds with the indigenous Hottentot dogs as this also gave their dogs the ability to cope with disease and environment and so majority of the dogs had this unique blood coursing through their veins.

Therefore our breed evolved as a utility hound that would hunt using sight and scent and would also protect the pioneer's famity and possessions ie oxon, horses from attack by wild animals.  Their instinct is to hold at bay, not bite and hold and they never evolved as a fighting breed.  

They are a lively, independent and sometimes boisterous dog and like every dog of their size and strength require socialisation and training.  Their lively nature and instinct to hold at bay must be checked when it is inappropriate.  They are a dog that requires lots of exercise and it is essential that owners have access to an area where they be run off the leash.  If anyone who is contemplating owning a ridgeback cannot provide the time or facilities it is best they don't have one.

Lindsey Barnes©

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