The Ridgebacks' ancient heritage and basic genetic base were small, swift but fierce dogs, distinctive for a peculiar ridge of darker shaded hair growing in the reverse direction, in the shape of a sword blade along its spine. Hence the term "ridgeback". The dogs were kept by South African normadic tribes, among the Khoisan tribes the Hottentots and Bushmen. The Bantu tribes, included the magnificent Zulus warrior kings and the Matabele. The Ridgeback's purpose was a dangerous one, embedded in their culture it supported the warriors in the turbulent fields of tribal battle and in the hunt for food. The tribesmen valued the Ridgeback for its silence and courage, speed, agility, and stamina.

Click the above thumbnails to enlarge the photos.