Meet Kovu
Rhodesian Ridgeback, 2 years old
My favourite thing about Kovu is...
The way he loves a blanket to snuggle in to. He scratches, nuzzles and places it until it's just right and collapses on top like it's a fluffed up pillow. He likes to come right up to your face and look you straight in the eyes but then not budge, just stares with big eyes. He doesn't lick much so a face full of slobber is not a worry.
The biggest challenge with Kovu is...
Sweet boy we call him. He is also sweet on every dog he meets (or sees from afar). Girls and boys, big or small, fat or skinny he likes them all and sometimes a little too much... We're working on it, his overfriendly whims aren't always welcomed by all.
The most surprising thing about owning a Rhodesian Ridgeback is...
They're nosey. They want to know who and want everyone is up to. Standing by the window watching the neighbours go about their business, checking on you if you go to the bathroom... We previously had an Alaskan malamute which true to their breed was aloof and cared little of our activities unless it was in the kitchen. Very affectionate breed and loves a cuddle.
What I wish I’d known about Rhodesian Ridgebacks is...
They are big, very energetic and smart. With the brains comes also stubbornness. Some training has been easy but others not so much. He doesn't blindly follow, he assesses whether what you've asked him is really in his best interest. It's both admirable and frustrating in equal measure.
Did you know?
The anatomical feature that gives the breed its name is the ridge of hair that grows down its back - and makes it instantly recognisable. This ridge is formed by the hair growing in a totally different direction to the rest of the coat and is capped at the top with two ‘crowns’ (whorls) that are directly opposite each other.
