Collection: Personalised Rhodesian Ridgeback Gifts

These dogs really do have a ridge down their back and are the pride and joy of the inhabitants of Zimbabwe, their place of origin. They are great if somewhat fearsome watchdogs – who would want to argue with them – but despite their size and strength, the Ridgeback is a loyal and loving family pet and are quite popular in the UK.

The Ridgeback was even used to hunt lions from which it derives its alternative name of African Lion Dog. Not every example of the breed has a ridge down the back.

The Rhodesian Ridgeback was developed as a hunting breed by Boer Farmers, tough enough to stand extreme temperatures and challenging terrain. It is thought that the Boers used breeds like Great Danes and Mastiffs which had come from Europe and physically, it is easy to see the influence of these dogs. They also used wild dogs in the mix.

Used for hunting all kinds of prey including lions from which it gains another name, the African Lion Dog, the first formalised recording of the breed began in 1922 instigated by Cornelius von Rooyen. After the Second World War, the breed began to spread out across the globe and became popular in the UK.

The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a large, working breed of dog so they require plenty of space and lots of exercise. They are excellent tracking and agility dogs but also enjoy the rough and tumble of family life and are good with children. The Ridgeback can be standoffish with strangers but is loyal, gentle and devoted to his humans.

The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a confident breed and people do hesitate over their suitability as a family dog but in the right environment, they can be an affectionate and sweet companion.