Registered Kennel

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 pictures of some of our Rhodesian Ridgebacks

Wheatenridge Baccarat Balak

Here is 9 month old "Bob the Dog" at his first show. He is a sweet, playful puppy, a son of Ch. Wheatenridge Abitu of Kopera and Am.Ch. Gamelyn Navigator. He is owned by Terry Taft and Diane Waters.

Champion Wheatenridge's Red Kobe

Handsome and Affectionate, "Kobe" is owned by Chantelle Price and is the playmate of her two young daughters. Kobe is at stud to approved bitches.

Ch. Wheatenridge Starlight Rain

"Reina's" quality was soon recognized by the judges and she achieved her championship at the age of 9 months and 1 week. She is now concentrating on training for obedience with her owners Monika Dennis and Blaine Hussey.

Ch. 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's Abitu Of Kopera.

Sweet natured and calm, 'TuTu' was owned by Diane Waters, Terry Taft and John & Nancy Rumble. She was usually handled by Terry. She is sadly missed by her canine companions and human family. She suddenly crossed the Rainbow Bridge in June 2003. Her good looks and endearing wasy can be seen reflected in the puppies from her 2 litters.

Champion Wheatenridge Rollings Home.

Rich-red coloured 'Honey' is owned by Diane Waters and Terry Taft.

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.

AM.CAN.CH. Bardonridge's Katangais

Pictured taking a Group First under judge John Lusk, handled by Terry. This eye catcher was owned by Diane Waters, John and Nancy Rumble and Terry Taft.  He has sired multiple US and Canadian Champions. He was #2 Rhodesian Ridgeback in Canada in 1997! Katanga left us in the fall of 2002, but his spirit shines through in many of his Wheatenridge descendents.

I am frequently asked , "How long have you been in Ridgebacks?" To answer this question, here is a picture taken in 1970 of my late husband and our now adult daughter with our first Ridgeback, Lady.

Breed Related Links:

Rhodesian Ridgeback Club of Canada

Association of Rhodesian Ridgeback Fanciers of Western Ontario

Rhodesian Ridgeback Club of United States

Rhodesian Ridgeback Club of Eastern Canada

Terry Taft at (519) 642-4117           Diane Waters (519) 762-3664
or email us