In the earlier parts of its history, the Rhodesian ridgeback has also been known as
Van Rooyen's lion dog, the
African lion hound or
African lion dog—
simba inja in
Ndebele,
shumba imbwa in
Shona—because of its ability to keep a
lion at bay while awaiting its master to make the kill.
This dignified, muscular dog, a combination of scenthound and sighthound, needs brisk walking every day and the chance to run as often as possible.
This is not a breed to sit quietly in your yard all day. Young Rhodesian Ridgebacks are especially rambunctious, bore easily, and can excavate vast holes.
The most territorial of the hounds, the Rhodesian Ridgeback is aloof with strangers and should be accustomed to people at an early age so that his guarding instinct remains controlled rather than indiscriminate.
Rhodesian Ridgebacks can be dominant with other animals, especially with other dogs of the same sex. Some individuals are fine with the family cat, while others are predatory chasers of anything that runs.
Rhodesian Ridgebacks: What's Good About 'Em? What's Bad About 'Em?