Breed facts
| FCI group | Group 6: Scent hounds and related breeds |
| Origin | South Africa |
| Weight | 29–41 kg |
| Height | 61–69 cm |
| Life expectancy | 10–12 years |
Temperament
Dignified, loyal and independent, protective of the family. It needs exercise and a firm owner.
History
A breed from South Africa, bred to hunt in packs, including lions.
Fun facts
The ridge of hair growing the opposite way gives it its English name, “ridgeback”.
The Rhodesian Ridgeback coat
A short, close coat that is simple to maintain but sheds throughout the year.
A short, smooth coat that is simple to maintain; the ridge of hair along the back is its trademark.
What we do in the salon
A full bath with dead-hair removal, nail trimming, ear cleaning and conditioning.
Recommended services
- Bathabout 1 h
How often?
| Bath | every 6 to 8 weeks |
| Cut / upkeep | Usually no cut needed. |
Care at home between visits
- Brush once a week with a rubber glove or soft-bristle brush.
- Dry the skin and folds well after a bath or rain.
- Check the skin: a short coat shows any irritation early.
- Look after the nails and ears.
Frequently asked questions about the Rhodesian Ridgeback
Does the Rhodesian Ridgeback shed a lot?
It sheds moderately. Brushing once or twice a week and a bath with dead-hair removal keeps the home and the coat tidy.
How often should I bring my Rhodesian Ridgeback to the salon?
In general, a bath every 6 to 8 weeks. Usually no cut needed. It depends on the coat, the cut you like and the condition of the coat: we will advise you at the first visit.
How long do a bath and a clip take?
When you book online, 1 hour is reserved for a bath and 2 hours for a clip, scissor cut or hand stripping. Very dense coats or large breeds may need more time: talk to us.
Does it need clipping?
Usually not: a regular bath with dead-hair removal and weekly brushing is enough.
Weight and height values are approximate and vary from dog to dog. Based on FCI standards and public breed profiles; care text: DogsClub. Last updated: October 2026.