Tuesday, August 25, 2009

Rhodesian Ridgeback


The Rhodesian Ridgeback is the athlete of the dog world. They are athletic, hardy, and brave. Being brave is very important if you're a Rhodesian. If your a lion, then seeing the breed itself is bad enough. The Rhodesian Ridgeback, or the African Lion Hound, was bred to hunt down LIONS. A dog killing a lion? Yep, it's true. You see, in South Africa, Hottentots mixed many breeds like greyhounds, mastiffs, Great Danes, and maybe even Bloodhounds! The Hottentots created a dog with a ridged back, with fur growing backwards on the back.
If the ridge isn't there, than the breed doesn't follow his standard. The lack of a ridge is a disqualification in this hound's standard. This breed's ridged back helps him with his athleticism. It keeps his gait powerful, making for great speed. The Rhodesian Ridgeback has compact paws with very thick pads that helped keep the hound's feet protected from rough terrain on rough African plains. This is only one of 2 breeds with a ridged back. Thai Ridgebacks also have ridged backs. But anyways, to conclude the traits, large lungs hep the dog stay ore energetic when running.
You see, that athletic nature is why these dogs are best in the country. They need daily exercise, and city living sucks for the Rhodesian. So no cities for Rhodesians! This dog is prone to dermoid sinus, so he has some issues. Older children are best or the breed, but overall, this dog will be the best dog ever for you to have when you adopt one! (Please do so. Not required, but we want you to!)

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