Based on the standard for a Dalmation it was decided that the Rhodesian Ridgeback should be a strong and muscular well-balanced dog that was agile and active. They should be large, but not massive, and of course have the famed ridge down their back. This ridge should be clear, defined, and taper down to the haunches from behind the shoulders. Height and weight wise bitches should be 24 to 26 inches and around 70lbs. Males should be 25 to 27 inches and weigh around 80lbs.
Temperament wise, the breed standard describes the Rhodesian Ridgeback as intelligent, dignified, and aloof with strangers but never shy or aggressive. Short, but sweet, and certainly not, as Rhodesian Ridgeback owners will already know, all there is to this breeds amazing but sometimes frustrating personality.
It should be noted that what the breed standard lacks in personality description of the Rhodesian Ridgeback it makes up for in physical description. Every inch of this breeds body is discussed such as head, facial region, body, limbs, coat, height, and weight. Owners with Rhodesian Ridgebacks should, however, take the breed standards with a pinch of salt and as unimportant unless they are planning to show their dogs when the breed standards then become all important.
For an in-depth review of Rhodesian Ridgeback breed standards, please review the Australian National Kennel Council’s “Extended Breed Standard of the Rhodesian Ridgeback“.
Lovat Pride Rhodesian Ridgeback 