Bred in Africa as a companion, guard dog and hunter, a specialist in hunting the African lion, the Rhodesian Ridgeback -- as our standard describes -- is a handsome, upstanding and athletic dog, capable of great endurace with a fair (good) amount of speed. Mature males are 25 to 27 inches and weigh approximately 85 to 95 lbs. Females are 24 to 26 inches and weigh 65 to 80 lbs. Their short, dense coat is a definite plus to the breed, lending itself to easy keeping, cleaning and a minimum of grooming. THe colors are in shades described as wheaten, from light buff to yellow, browns, reds and mahogany. Some dogs carry a masking about the eyes and muzzle, black on a black-nosed dog and brown on a liver-nosed dog. Eye rims to match nose color.

"The hallmark of this breed is the ridge on the back which is formed by the hair growing in the opposite direction of the rest of the coat. The ridge must be regarded as the characteristic feature of the breed. The ridge should be clearly defined, tapering and symmetrical. It should start immediately behind the shoulders and continue to a point between the prominence of the hips and should contain two identcal crowns (whorls) directly opposite each other. The lower edge of the crowns (whorls) should not extend further down the ridge than one third of the ridge."

The Rhodesian Ridgeback as a breed lends itself remarkably well to almost any lifestyle, whether city life in a small backyard, ranch life with acres to run or anywhere in between. A natural guard dog, a stranger is announced, but should be accepted at the mater's command. As a family dog, they will attach themselves to one member of the family to call their own, but claim the whole family as theirs to watch over.

Calico Ridge Kennels was established in 1962 by Diane Jacobsen. At first the dogs were bred under the name "Baulenes", but became "Calico Ridge" in 1968. Since then there have been well over 150 champions and many obedience titled dogs to our credit. Consistently among the winners on a nationwide basis, Calico Ridge has been a name to watch for with many Rhodesian Ridge Club of the US National Specialty Winners carrying our banner.

Calico Ridge dogs are a careful combination of the top bloodlines, wathcing not only soundness of body, but keeping an emphasis on type and temperament, all with a style of our very own. Calico Ridge features the get of top winning and producing stud dogs and outstanding bitches. Sones and daughters of Ch. Calico Ridge Honky Tonk Hero, California Blue, The Warlord and Solid Gold Hero. We have earned more Register of Merit awards in both sires and dams than any other breeder in the US.

Puppies are usually available, stop show prospects, obedience hopefuls and outstanding pet stock. Top producing stud dogs are standing to approved bitches. All breeding stock is x-rayed clear of hip dysplasia.