You talking to me? Are you talking to me?

History:
The Rhodesian Ridgeback resulted from crosses between ridgebacked dogs originally kept by native tribes in South Africa and other breeds, such as the Great Dane and various scent hounds, imported by Boer settlers in the 16th and 17th centuries. The Rhodesian Ridgeback was used for many purposes. This impressive, protective hound could hunt game, retrieve, take care of children, and guard property. South African hunters discovered that the Ridgeback, used in packs, was very effective against lions, hence the breed's other name, the African Lion Hound. The Rhodesian Ridgeback is well adapted to the harsh African environment; he can withstand very high temperatures and can go without food and water for over 24 hours. The breed was recognized by the AKC in 1959.

Description:
A large, handsome, muscular hound with a distinctive raised ridge of hair running in a symmetrical strip down the center of his back. The hair in the strip actually grows in the opposite direction to the rest of the coat. The short, sleek coat comes in light to dark wheaten, sometimes with small white markings on the chest and feet. The head is long, the skull is flat and broad with powerful jaws. The bright, sparkling eyes are round with an intelligent expression. Nose color should be either black or brown, depending on the color of the coat. The ears are pendant. Dogs with black noses should have dark eyes; those with brown noses should have amber colored eyes. The front legs should be very straight and strong, with heavy bone. The strong tapered tail is fairly long and curves slightly upward.