The Rhodesian Ridgeback has a strong and purposeful history. In the mid 17th century, African Khoi dogs were the common dogs for hunting and used for herding and protecting cattle from animals such as lions and leopards. Through selective breeding and years of refining a dog who could endure the African bush, thrive in spite of extreme temperatures and limited water, and yet would be a brave and cunning hunter and loyal family dog. 

Today, the Rhodesian Ridgeback is South Africa's national dog and is known as an intelligent and focused hound. With the vigor to ward off lions, this dog can tend to be domineering and may not be the best fit for a family looking for their first household pet. 

They must be guided from a young age with a firm sense of clarity and rules, and are therefore require a great deal of patience and understanding to raise into happy and healthy dogs with a job and purpose. I highly recommend consulting a breeder to discover whether or not this breed would be a good fit for you. Rhodesian Ridgebacks are incredibly affectionate, but also determined hunters and leaders and are therefore not the best fit for everyone.