5 myths debunked about Rhodesian Ridgebacks and lions
Can a Rhodesian Ridgeback Kill a Lion? Not Quite — But Here's the Real Story
Let’s clear this up right away: No, a Rhodesian Ridgeback cannot kill a lion. Despite the myths floating around, they were never bred or trained to take down lions. What they were used for is a lot more interesting—and honestly, more believable.
Why They’re Called “Lion Dogs”
Rhodesian Ridgebacks earned the nickname “lion dogs” not because they fought lions, but because they were part of lion hunting teams back in colonial Southern Africa. Their job? To track, chase, and distract the lion—keeping it in place long enough for the human hunter to take the shot. That takes guts, speed, and a good dose of smarts, but not the ability to kill a lion single-handedly.
The myth probably stuck thanks to the nickname and a bit of telephone-game storytelling over the years. But once you live with a Ridgeback, you realize they’re more about loyalty and companionship than lion-slaying heroics.
A Tough Dog with a Rich History
The Rhodesian Ridgeback came about when European settlers in Africa crossed their own dogs—like Mastiffs, Greyhounds, and Bloodhounds—with native African dogs like the Hottentot hunting dog. The goal was to create a tough, loyal hound that could handle extreme heat, protect property, and help on hunts.
By the 1870s, Ridgebacks were in Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe), working alongside hunters. They weren’t just brave—they were versatile, good at tracking game, guarding livestock, and being reliable companions in tough environments.
Are They Still Hunters?
Even though most Ridgebacks today are family pets, their prey drive hasn’t disappeared. If you’ve got squirrels or rabbits in the yard, don’t be surprised if your Ridgeback makes a beeline for them. It’s part of their DNA.
That said, their instincts can be managed with early socialization and consistent training. I’ve found that introducing them to all kinds of animals, people, and noises while they’re still puppies goes a long way in curbing any unwanted chasing.
Ridgebacks as Guard Dogs
Now this is where they shine. Ridgebacks are one of the best natural guard dogs I’ve known. They don’t bark unnecessarily, but when they do, it means something. They’re not aggressive by default, but they’ll stand between you and anything they think is a threat—tall, calm, and confident.
What makes them great guardians is their judgment. They don’t fly off the handle, and they don’t need to be trained to be aggressive. In fact, specialized guard dog training can backfire and make them overly suspicious or even dangerous. Basic obedience and socialization are more than enough.
Training Tips from Experience
Living with a Ridgeback means understanding they’re independent thinkers. Training them isn’t about dominance—it’s about consistency, patience, and building trust. Here are a few things that worked for us:
- Start early: Socialize your Ridgeback from puppyhood. Expose them to different people, sounds, and environments.
- Keep it fun: Use positive reinforcement. They’re smart, but they’ll get bored if training is repetitive or harsh.
- Focus on recall and impulse control: Their prey drive can kick in fast. Teaching a solid “come” command is essential.
- Set boundaries: Decide early on what’s allowed (like getting on the couch) and stick to it. Ridgebacks need clear rules.
Final Thoughts
Rhodesian Ridgebacks may not be lion slayers, but they are loyal, brave, and incredibly capable dogs. Whether you’re looking for a jogging buddy, a family protector, or a couch companion who’ll still chase a squirrel or two, they’ve got a lot to offer. Just remember: raising a Ridgeback means respecting their instincts and putting in the work to guide them right. It’s worth it—I promise.