Rhodesian ridgeback

Rhodesian ridge·back

noun, often capitalized 2d R \-ˈrij-ˌbak\

Definition of RHODESIAN RIDGEBACK

: any of an African breed of powerful long-bodied hunting dogs having a dense harsh short tan coat with a characteristic crest of reversed hair along the spine

First Known Use of RHODESIAN RIDGEBACK

1925

Rhodesian ridgeback

noun    (Concise Encyclopedia)

Rhodesian ridgeback.—Walter Chandoha

South African hound breed characterized by a narrow band of hair growing forward along its back, against the direction of the rest of the coat. The ridge is inherited from a half-wild local hunting dog that was crossbred with European dogs. Strong, active, and of great endurance, it is trim and short-haired, with hanging ears and a glossy brown coat. It stands 24–27 in. (61–69 cm) and weighs 65–75 lbs (30–34 kg). It is an able guard and hunter (especially of lions) and a good companion.

Variants of RHODESIAN RIDGEBACK

Rhodesian ridgeback or African lion dog