History of The Rhodesian Ridgeback
The Rhodesian Ridgeback is essentially a hunter and guardian. Throughout the breed's history it has retained the character required to make it a keen hunter, reliable companion and defender and adaptable to the rigors of a harsh environment.
The Rhodesian Ridgeback's roots are in South Africa. The European dogs taken to South Africa by the Boer farmers (including Great Danes, Mastiffs, Greyhounds, Pointers, Bloodhounds and terriers) were interbred with the ridged dogs of the native Hottentot people and the Bushmen and the Rhodesian Ridgeback evolved.
It was valued by big game hunters for it's ability to silently stalk lions and hold them at bay until the hunter could get a clear shot. It was equally valued by farmers for its ability to guard stock and property.
Today the Rhodesian Ridgeback is mainly valued as a unique family companion. It is distinguished from other dogs by the ridge of hair growing in the opposite direction along the length of its back. The coat colour is any shade of 'wheaten', from light fawn to deep red mahogany. White marks are allowed on the chest and toes.
Here are the animals currently in the Wheatenridge breeding program
Champion Vikela Mwujizi of Wheatenridge.
"Josie" is a beautiful black faced girl. She had a lovely litter of ten pups in 2006 and was a great mom. She is now training with her handler/co-owner John Rumble aiming towards an obedience title in 2007. Josie was handled in the conformation ring by John Rumble.
Champion Vrymeer Emmy of Wheatenridge
"Emmy" is a clown, she leads a wonderful life at Vrymeer Kennel on Manitoulin Island living with her co-owners Laurie and Rick Rusticus. She is pictured here with her handler and friend John Rumble.
Champion Wheatenridge Drifting Treasure
Sweet "Kenzi" lives near Windsor with her owner Chantelle Menard and Chantelle's three daughters. Kenzi had 8 lovely puppies in 2005.
Wheatenridge Bobdori
Busy "Dori" lives in New Hampshire with Greg and Jane Nurnburg. She stayed with Grandma for six weeks in the winter of 2007 and with the help of her handler John Rumble got half the required points for her championship. She will return the summer of 2007 to finish.
Champion Wheatenridge Legacy of Kobe
Rob and Marianne Wiltshire find life is never boring living with "Monty". John found him quite a challenge in the show ring but he acquired his championship with very limited showing. He is at stud to approved bitches.
Champion Wheatenridge Baccarat Balak
Here is "Bob the Dog". He is a sweet, playful dog, a son of Ch. Wheatenridge Abitu of Kopera and Am.Ch. Gamelyn Starlight Navigator. He is owned by Terry Taft and Diane Waters. Bob is at stud to approved bitches.
Champion Wheatenridge's Red Kobe
Handsome and Affectionate, "Kobe" is owned by Chantelle Price and is the playmate of her three young daughters. Kobe is at stud to approved bitches.
Champion Red Rourkes Drift
"Drifter" is a sweet natured clown owned by Diane Waters and Jim and Laura Ziegler, handled at shows by John Rumble. He is at stud to approved bitches.
Champion Wheatenridge Katanga's Kobi.
"Kobi" is a puppy in this picture. As an adult he demonstrates a wonderful gentle temperament and loves the children of his co-owners. He is at stud to approved bitches. Kobi is owned by Diane Waters and Doug & Heather LeGrow.
