Also known as the Ridgeback, Lion Dog, or African Lion Hound, the Rhodesian Ridgeback is a loyal and athletic breed originally developed in Africa. Bred to endure harsh climates and hunt big game—including lions—this courageous dog is now equally valued as a loving and even-tempered family companion. Intelligent, strong, and protective, Ridgebacks form deep bonds with their families and thrive when given both physical activity and affection.
The breed’s history began in southern Africa when Dutch immigrants bred their European dogs, such as Greyhounds and Terriers, with the native Khoikhoi dogs to create a resilient hunting companion. These early dogs were later refined into the Rhodesian Ridgeback, named for the distinctive ridge of hair growing along their spine. In the 1870s, the breed spread north into Rhodesia (modern-day Zimbabwe), where they gained fame as lion hunters due to their bravery and endurance. The Rhodesian Ridgeback was introduced to the United States after World War II and officially recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1995. Elegant and muscular, Ridgebacks have short, sleek coats in fawn or red shades, sometimes with white markings on the chest, and deep, expressive brown or amber eyes.
Confident yet affectionate, Rhodesian Ridgebacks are known for their loyalty and protective instincts. They are excellent with children but need consistent socialization and training from an early age to manage their independence and natural wariness toward strangers. While they prefer companionship, they can also be comfortable spending time alone. Healthwise, Ridgebacks are generally hardy but can be prone to joint and thyroid issues as well as dermoid sinus at birth. Their grooming needs are minimal—weekly brushing and occasional baths are sufficient to keep their coats healthy. Regular nail trimming and ear checks are also important. These active dogs require daily exercise, such as long walks, runs, or agility games, to stay happy and balanced. Ridgebacks shed lightly year-round, with heavier shedding during spring and fall, which can be managed through consistent brushing.

Rhodesian Ridgeback
Come meet this sweet but shy little guy! He is very friendly, has been around children, and loves to play! He is up to date on dewormer, and he's been vet checked and he's in perfect health! He is ready to go to his new home today! He is the perfect gift to start the new year!

Rhodesian Ridgeback
Come meet this really cute little guy! He has a very friendly personality and has been around children and loves to play! He is up to date on dewormer, and he's been vet checked and he is in perfect health! He is ready to go to his new home today! He would make the perfect gift to start the new year!

Rhodesian Ridgeback
Come meet this sweet and bouncy little guy! He has a super friendly personality, he has been around children, and loves to play! He is up to date on dewormer, and he has been vet checked and he's in perfect health! He is ready to go to his new home today! He is the perfect gift to start out the new year!

Rhodesian Ridgeback
Come meet this sweet and fun little guy! He has a friendly personality, has been around children, and loves to play! He is up to date on dewormer and he's been vet checked and he is in perfect health! He is ready to go to his new home today! He would be the perfect gift to start out the new year!

Rhodesian Ridgeback
Come meet this cute bouncy little guy! He is very friendly, and loves to play! He has been around children and loves the attention! He is up to date on dewormer, and he's been vet checked and he is in perfect health! He is ready to go to his new home today! He would be the perfect gift to start out the new year!

Rhodesian Ridgeback
Come meet this sweet little girl! She has a very calm personality but still very friendly! She has been around children and loves to play! She is up to date on dewormer, and she has been vet checked and she's in perfect health! She is ready to go to her new home today! She's the perfect gift to start the new year with!

Rhodesian Ridgeback
Arlo is a sweet little boy that usually keeps to himself and loves attention one on one, he is more laid back and not rowdy! He is ready for his forever home on Dec. 29.

Rhodesian Ridgeback
Addi is a solid, pretty little girl. She is ready for her forever home on Dec. 29.

Rhodesian Ridgeback
Aspen is a petite little girl, she loves children, and has an abundance of energy, she has to check everything out! She is ready for her forever home on Dec. 29.

Rhodesian Ridgeback
Alice is a cute little girl with a pretty ridge. She is ready for her forever home on Dec. 29.

Rhodesian Ridgeback
Aster is a stunning little girl with a black mask. She will be ready for her forever home on Dec. 29.

Rhodesian Ridgeback
Asher is a stocky little guy who loves children. He will be ready for his forever home on Dec. 29.

Rhodesian Ridgeback
Meet this stunning little guy!!

Rhodesian Ridgeback
This energetic bundle of fun is ready to bring joy and laughter to your life!

Rhodesian Ridgeback
Meet this adorable little guy!!

Rhodesian Ridgeback
Gunnar is waiting to brighten your life!

Rhodesian Ridgeback
Axel is a chill little guy and loves children! He is ready for his forever home on Dec.29.

Rhodesian Ridgeback
This little guy, Anders, is adorable and cuddly, he will be ready for his forever home on Dec. 29.
The average cost of a purebred Rhodesian Ridgeback puppy in the United States is approximately $1630, though prices can vary based on factors such as pedigree, breeder reputation, and location.