Rhodesian Ridgeback
Height
25-27 inches (male), 24-26 inches (female)
Weight
85 pounds (male), 70 pounds (female)
Life Expectancy
10-12 years
Size
Large
About the Rhodesian Ridgeback
Rhodesian Ridgebacks are athletic large hounds with an independent streak, a calm dignified presence at home, and a strong instinct to notice movement around them. They tend to fit households that want an active companion, have space for a powerful dog, and are ready for consistent training, secure fencing, and realistic expectations around prey drive and stranger reserve.
The Good
- Short coat is relatively easy to keep clean compared with many large breeds
- Athletic but not nonstop, making them a fit for owners who enjoy regular daily exercise
- Often forms a loyal close bond with its household without needing constant noise or fuss
The Bad
- Independent decision-making can make training feel less automatic than with eager-to-please breeds
- Size, speed, and prey drive demand secure handling and careful off-leash judgment
- Not the easiest match for first-time owners or homes expecting a highly social dog with strangers
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