RHODESIAN RIDGEBACK EU MAGAZINE ISSUE 14/2023 by RHODESIAN RIDGEBACK MAGAZINE

RHODESIAN RIDGEBACK EU MAGAZINE

s we approach the end of another year, it’s important to take a moment to reflect on the decisions we made and the work we accomplished in 2023. Some of our decisions could have been better, while others have set us on the right path.

It’s essential to consider whether our actions are driven by personal gain and to ensure that we don’t harm others in the process. Our efforts should be for the greater good of our community, ensuring a positive impact for everyone. Let’s continue to strive for excellence in all that we do, keeping in mind the well-being of us all. In the coming year, our magazine remains committed to our work and will give our best to contribute to the Rhodesian Ridgeback breed. We aim to provide captivating content that interests and educates our community. We acknowledge that learning is a lifelong journey, and we pledge to never stop seeking knowledge. Every day presents an opportunity for growth, and we are dedicated to staying at the forefront of understanding and expertise in all matters concerning our beloved Rhodesian Ridgebacks. As we step into 2024, we extend our heartfelt wishes to you all. May the coming year be filled with success, guided by your vision, common sense, and a profound commitment to spreading knowledge and goodness. Together, we are here for the love and wellbeing of our incredible dogs. Here’s to a wonderful year ahead for you, your families, and, of course, our furry friends.

Snežka, Timmy and Zhanna

R H O D E S I A N R I D G E B A C K E U M A G A Z I N E ISSUE 14 / DECEMBER 2023

RHODESIAN RIDGEBACK EU MAGAZINE

DEAR READERS

CONTENTS

RHODESIAN RIDGEBACK EU MAGAZINE

R H O D E S I A N

R I D G E B A C K

E U

M A G A Z I N E

In Defense of the Light Wheaten

Milestones and Socialising: A weekly diary

Dentition A pragmatic approach to a healthy mouth

The winds are changing The Essential Role of Genetic Diversity in Dog Breeding

Basic Genetics Understanding, Selecting, Preserving

Winter Wellness Nurturing Your Dog’s Immune System Naturally

Patrice Johansen An interview with a judge

Rosemary Green An interview with a judge

Karoskloof Breeder

Dharuba Breeder

Jupi-Lis Breeder

Delle Cime Bianche Breeder

Ya Mwiba Breeder

102

Breeders Working Together Reshaping our show experience

106

Rhodesian Ridgeback Club de France

114

Guardians of the Bush

120

A Training Program for Show Training How to plan show training

126

Off to the Races!

132

Fiona Oldy

162

Cover dog

EDITOR MAGAZINE TEAM

AS S O C I AT E / T RA N S L AT I O N S AS S I S TA N T E D I TO R A N D T RA N S L ATO R TIMMY U. RALFE (SOUTH AFRICA)

RHODESIAN RIDGEBACK EU MAGAZINE

RHODESIAN RIDGEBACK EU MAGAZINE ISSUE 14 / DECEMBER 2023

JUDGE AND AUTHOR.

L AYO U T D E S I G N & G R A P H I C S S N E Ž K A K U R A LT S TA R R D E S I G N ( S L O V E N I A )

SALES & PR Z H A N N A G O DJA J E VA ( L AT V I A ) AN ACTIVE STUD RR OWNER WHO LOVES TRAVELLING AROUND THE EUROPE SHOWING RR.

OFFICIAL DESIGNERS S N E Ž K A K U R A LT - S TA R R D E S I G N ( S LOV E N I A ) FC I J U D G E S P EC I A L I S T, RR OWNER, GRAPHIC DESIGNER

LICENCE OWNER S N E Ž K A K U R A LT

Authors are responsible for ensuring the accuracy, reliability, and authenticity of the content submitted for publication. Any misinformation, factual errors, or misleading information must be corrected promptly upon discovery. Authors must properly attribute all sources of information, data, and quotations used in their articles. Plagiarism or misattribution is strictly prohibited. Authors must ensure that they have the necessary permissions and rights to use any photographs, illustrations, or visual content in their articles. The use of copyrighted material without proper authorization is not permitted. Republication of articles from this publication is only permitted with prior approval from the magazine’s editorial team. Authors must seek explicit permission before republishing their work in any other publication, digital platform, or medium. When republishing articles, authors must ensure that the original publication is properly credited, and a link to the original article is provided, where applicable. Thank you for your commitment to upholding the highest standards of accuracy, ethics, and professionalism in our publication.

BREED

BY D E NIS E FL AIM

IN DEFENSE OF THE LIGHT WHEATEN

RHODESIAN RIDGEBACK EU MAGAZINE

Judges need to stop discriminating against this perfectly correct Ridgeback color

RHODESIAN RIDGEBACK EU MAGAZINE

very Ridgeback standard in the world — with no exception — describes color with these five words: “Light wheaten to red wheaten.”

Simple enough, no? A range of shades, from lighter to darker, none preferred over the other.

WHY IS IT, THEN, THAT AROUND THE WORLD, LIGHT-WHEATEN RIDGEBACKS FACE DISCRIMINATION? The meaning of “wheaten” varies from breed to breed. In some, it is a synonym for fawn, which is a solid color. But in the Ridgeback, “wheaten” describes a variegated coat, in which each individual hair is not a solid color, but rather is banded, with a lighter color at the base and darker at the tips. This variegation is what gives the coat depth and life.

Light wheaten dogs — which can appear as a light gold or buff color — have always been more numerous in the United States, the United Kingdom and Scandinavia. But even in these countries, unfortunately, uneducated judges have made comments to exhibitors expressing their disappointment that a given dog was not “a better color.”

Photo by Martina Corrado

To understand the range of color intended by the phrase “Light wheaten to red wheaten,” think about a field of wheat: It can range from a very pale gold color to a russet-toned red. This is the same spectrum of color one finds in the Ridgeback.

So, again, for those in the back: Light wheaten is just that — a blondish, flaxen, buff color. Dogs of this color are as correct as the red wheatens that outnumber them.

Photo by Kelley Curtis

One exhibitor, frustrated by this lack of knowledge on the part of many judges, created a T-shirt that reads, “Save the Light Wheaten.”

Photo by Kelley Curtis Photo by Kelley Curtis

Photo by Kelley Curtis

And while we are on the subject of red wheaten: There is such a thing as too red. So-called “mahogany” Ridgebacks — whose red is so deep that it becomes muddy, recalling the dark tones of an Irish Setter — are not correct. Breed lore points to illicit crosses to that same Sporting breed as being the source of the atypical color. Wherever it comes from, judges are justified in penalizing it heavily.

Photo by BobisXa

RHODESIAN RIDGEBACK EU MAGAZINE

For judges who say, “But I prefer the darker red dogs”: The Ridgeback standard does not give you the option to have a preference regarding color. Instead, it requires you to judge the entire spectrum of correct Ridgeback colors without prejudice.

Photo by Kelley Curtis

RHODESIAN RIDGEBACK EU MAGAZINE

Back to the blondes: The photographs accompanying this article illustrate some of the many beautiful — and correct — shades of light wheaten. For many years, Ridgebacks with brown noses were incorrectly but routinely ignored by judges, even penalized in the show ring. Now, brown noses have become something of a “fad,” and are finally getting their fair share of wins and accolades.

Photo by Robert Russell, Parnassus.

Some hope that the same will happen with light wheatens. While I rather that judges reward light wheatens because of their correctness, not their faddishness, whatever it takes to get these often-ignored lightcolored dogs their fair due is fine with me. Maybe, then, blondes will have more fun.

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by Elisabeth Beccaro

A WEEKLY DIARY WITH RIDGEBACK PUPPIES

aving puppies is wonderful but it is also hard work. While caring for and enjoying my recent litter I decided to make notes of the milestones and weekly development. The things that I do and my thoughts, to give the puppies the best possible start in life. I have often received very positive feedback from puppy buyers - how easy and confident their puppy is. How it is just fitting in, no fuss, no issues. It is obviously music to my ears, and it prompted me to do this selfreflection on how I raise my ridgeback puppies. It is by no means a complete guide but rather some personal views and thoughts, hopefully of inspiration to others.

WEEK 1

have body contact with each other and/or with their mom at all times. I find myself constantly checking the whelping box to make sure that no puppy has “gotten lost”, i.e. lying on its own. The other thing to check, to avoid an unpleasant feeding experience for the mother, is the puppies’ nails – they could be rather sharp and long from birth. I cut the puppies’ nails on a weekly basis.

WEEK 2 The first two weeks are a quiet time when the puppies only need their mother. I try to create a calm and quiet place for the mother and the puppies. The routine of eating, sleeping, and pooping should be nicely instilled by now. At the end of the second week, the puppies’ eyes will start to open and they will then be ready to face the world. Before the eyes and ears are open, I believe in leaving them in the capable care of their mother and I will handle them as little as possible.

In the first week after the big event of giving birth, the bitch is in general totally absorbed by caring for her puppies. She will spend all her time, cleaning and feeding them. It is not uncommon that you have to gently convince the new mom to go outside and do her own business, and to eat and drink, as it is not on top of her mind in the first couple of days after birth.

At the age of 2 weeks, I deworm all the puppies as well as the adult dogs in the household.

At this stage the mother of the puppies does all the work. Me as the owner, I just need to change the bedding, make sure everything is clean, and care for the mother. Sounds like a small task but it is very important. And on that note, to be able to have full control of the mother and the puppies from day 1, I sleep next to the whelping box and also set up my laptop/workstation in the puppy room so that I can be there all the time. This enables me to pick up quickly if there is a problem. Also, in the weeks to come, the puppies adjust their day and night routines around my routines (i.e. human routines), and they are therefore very much in tune with people by the time they are going to their new homes.

WEEK 3 In this week the activity level will increase slightly in the whelping box, but the most important change is that they will start teething. Once the teeth are showing it is time to introduce solid food.

The main focus now is to keep the This is exciting as it will start to take the feeding pressure off the puppies warm at all times. Look out mother. The first couple of times eating solid food is normally for and make sure that all the puppies quite messy, but they learn quickly.

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MILESTONES AND SOCIALISING

Since the puppies can now both see me and hear me, I start handling them, picking them up, talking to them and touching them. The weekly nail cutting is a good way to get them used to touching the feet. I will bring in a few soft toys in the whelping box and although the puppies don’t actively play with them, you can see that they are intrigued by the colours and textures of something new. They will most probably “taste” the toys. I’m also very pedantic with cleanliness from day 1. I make sure the whelping box and later the outside area is cleaned constantly. The whelping box has a thick soft wetbed and next to it I put towels. It’s amazing to see how the puppies from an early age will waddle over to the towels to do their business and then make their way back to the bed and continue sleeping. Ridgebacks like to be clean and given a chance they will not soil close to their bedding.

WEEK 4

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At this point, it is time to introduce them to the outside world. The puppies are often very scared the first couple of times that they go outside but they learn to appreciate it quickly. The puppy brain is most inclined to accept new experiences between 4 and 12 weeks of age. I therefore make an effort to introduce and familiarise the puppies with new experiences – including people, places, objects, and other animals. The puppies learn how to respond to and interact with these experiences appropriately and without fear. I work on the principle that by the time the puppy is 8 weeks old it has experienced 8 of everything you can think of… see below “Puppy’s rule of twelve” for inspiration. This is also the time to give them the first parvo vaccination – the new Dp Plus that doesn’t interfere with the antibodies from the mother’s colostrum. At the same time, they will also get dewormed again.

WEEK 5 They have mastered eating solids, but they still enjoy a drink of milk – if mom allows. They play rough, they growl, their teeth are razor-sharp, and they remind me of gladiators. I introduce more toys and activities in the garden on a daily basis, such as a tunnel to run through, balls in a bath, empty toilet roll inners, puppy toys as available from retail stores, sticks and wood to chew on, empty water bottles are fun to chase, and they make a lot of noise as well, a swing or a balance board is good for the core strength. Being outside during the day also means that my other ridgebacks in the pack have free access to the puppy pen. So, from an early age, the puppies get to interact with other adult dogs, not just their mom. This is so important as they learn dog language, respect, and how to interact with other dogs. Their own mom will start growling and shouting at them as she tells them off when she doesn’t want to feed them. This may seem harsh but it’s important lessons of dog behaviour and language.

WEEK 7 By the time the puppy is 8 weeks old it will have been exposed to 8 different surfaces, played with 8 different toys, been to 8 different locations, and met 8 different people. The rule of 8 also goes on to propose that the puppy should have 8 different experiences in a variety of situations. For example, the puppy should be exposed to 8 challenges, eaten from 8 different types of containers, been fed in 8 different locations, and so forth.

WEEK 6 This is when I have the puppies microchipped, vaccinated and dewormed again, which means a car trip with all that goes with it. My vet will vaccinate and examine the puppies while still in my car, to minimise potential exposure to bacteria and viruses at the veterinary clinic. I like to start evaluating the puppies at this age, taking photos, looking at them playing, looking at them moving, and taking note of their personalities. There is a very nice description of the rule of 7 and the rule of 12 on the internet. www.smalldogplace.com/how-to-socialize-a-puppy.html

WEEK 8 The puppy is now so ready to go to their new home, it can’t wait to meet its new owners and bond with them. Saying goodbye is never easy but seeing the happiness that the puppy brings to the new family is priceless. And this is where a new chapter starts. I have a WhatsApp group for every litter and I thoroughly enjoy updates and photos of the pups for years to come.

RHODESIAN RIDGEBACK EU MAGAZINE

We are now dealing with a gang of hooligans, they eat, sleep, and play wildly.

I introduce the puppies to different surfaces and sounds. I put the radio on loudly on a Sunday afternoon and I will pick up a puppy and dance with it. I’ll take the puppies for a walk in the bigger garden, open/close an umbrella in front of them, make load noises with pots and pans etc. Visitors are becoming more frequent in the puppy pen as the day of bidding farewell approaches. Families, young people, old people, children – everyone is welcome, as long as they have sanitised and removed their shoes.

DENTITION A PRAGMATIC APPROACH TO A HEALTHY MOUTH

RHODESIAN RIDGEBACK EU MAGAZINE

Julie Lorentzen Kennel Hazinas

“

There are several

factors that we as dog owners can influence that affect our dogs’ general and dental health: food, dental care, and access to using teeth and gums for

their purpose.”

We are used to judges checking bite and teeth, but rarely do they comment on the health state of the teeth. It gave me a sense of pride and fulfillment that the work I put into keeping my dogs in the best health was noticed. I consider myself lucky that all my dogs have reached old age without any issues of paradentosis or other dental disease. I have only ever had problems when they have fractured teeth from trauma. But actually luck may play a smaller role than the fact that I keep a simple, but very consistent management routine. To my belief there are several factors that we as dog owners can influence that affects our dogs general and dental health; -food, -dental care and access to using teeth and gums for their purpose. There is one factor that we can not affect in a living dog; -genetics. I will not be addressing genetics when writing this, except to mention, that if your dog is by ill chance affected by a genetic disposition for poor dental health, it is even more important to be vigilant about keeping his teeth in the best possible state.

THE FOOD FACTOR I have absolutely no “religious” opinion about what type of food to feed. Whether you feed kibble, home cooked or raw does not to my best knowledge make any difference. What does make a difference is that what you feed is suitable in nutritional values and made of quality ingredients. As all other things in a dog’s body, the dental health is affected by what kind of nutrition it is receiving. I will, though dare to state that you should never rely on your dog’s teeth being cleaned solely by certain types of food or chewing treats. They simply will not do the job needed. Indeed, this is to my knowledge also the case for chewing raw bones. That has other beneficiary effects, but it will not keep your dog’s teeth clean. Also I never give my dogs sweets. Sugary food is known to break down tooth enamel faster than anything.

RHODESIAN RIDGEBACK EU MAGAZINE

o a while back I was at a show where a judge noticed and commented on the well kept teeth of two of the bitches shown.

RHODESIAN RIDGEBACK EU MAGAZINE

Before cleaning

Cleaning

17 RHODESIAN RIDGEBACK EU MAGAZINE

After cleaning

USING TEETH AND GUMS PURPOSEFULLY I strongly believe that our dogs need to use their teeth and gums as they were intended, which includes chewing, ripping, crushing. I use a wide range of raw bones and dried natural treats to serve this purpose. With big strong dogs my primary objective is to find bones and treats that are big and dense enough to actually serve their purpose. This ensures that my dogs have their teeth, gums and jaws stimulated, securing good bloodflow, and thereby keeping the entire mouth healthy.

THE DENTAL CARE FACTOR I am fairly convinced that the practice of regular dental care is the number one factor in keeping my dogs teeth healthy. I have seen different breed lines exhibit very different dental health even though they were taken care of in exactly the same way. Therefore you may be lucky enough to have one dog that hardly builds up any plaque even though you never go near his teeth. Still that dog will have corners in his mouth that need cleaning and regular check ups for cracks or breaks. My dental care program consists of a once a week visual check of teeth. I do this along with the nail clipping and coat care that is obligatory every week.

I often use my fingers/nails to just rub off anything that is not supposed to be there. About once a month I will more extensively clean my dog’s teeth. I use a fingerbrush and give every tooth a good rub, being particularly meticulous with the big molars in the back and the small premolars that can easily evade you as your dog’s tongue can be lying over them. The most important place to keep clean is the transition between the gum and the tooth where plaque builds up. If I notice plaque build up and I can’t remove it with the fingerbrush I use a scraper and carefully remove it. In a perfect world I should probably brush their teeth everyday, but as this routine seems to work for me, my dogs and I have settled for this more pragmatic scheme.

MY BEST ADVICE FOR DENTAL CARE Teach your dog from puppy to tolerate the cleaning. Like teaching them to have their nails clipped it is a question of lots and lots of positive reinforcement. Make it a weekly routine, along with nail clipping, brushing, house cleaning day. Use a headlamp to keep your hands free. Use a fingerbrush, instead of an actual tooth brush. It gives you better access and feel of each tooth. Happy cleaning.

THE WINDS ARE CHANGING THE ESSENTIAL ROLE OF GENETIC DIVERSITY IN DOG BREEDING

RHODESIAN RIDGEBACK EU MAGAZINE

Ve r o n i c a T h o r é n , J e s s i c a P e r s s o n & Mona Hansen

“

Men have forgotten this truth,” said

the fox. “But you must not forget it. You become responsible, forever, for what you have tamed.” The Little Prince, Antoine de Saint-Exupéry

19 RHODESIAN RIDGEBACK EU MAGAZINE

OLD TRUTHS AND NEW FACTS IN DOG BREEDING

THE EXPECTATIONS FROM SOCIETY

Historically, dog breeding has often been regarded as an art form, relying heavily on the breeder’s talent for selecting optimal breeding combinations, often based on the dog’s physical characteristics. These decisions were informed by the available knowledge, which varied significantly across countries, making breeding a subjective endeavour unique to each breeder.

The landscape has evolved considerably over the past 10-15 years, with increased media scrutiny and public questioning of purebred dog breeding. Animal rights advocates highlight the potential risks associated with closed stud books in purebred breeding, which might inadvertently reinforce harmful genetic traits. Simultaneously, the popularity of ‘doodle’ breeds has risen, attracting those who favour mixed genetic backgrounds, which may offer a healthier alternative compared to breeds with closed stud books.

Line breeding, a method aimed at strengthening specific traits, continues to be practised in some regions. This approach, however, requires a deep understanding of a dog’s lineage, extending to a ten-generation pedigree involving more than 1,032 ancestors. The complexity and potential imprecision of this method increase the risk of unintentionally doubling up on harmful genetic traits, potentially leading to health issues for the dogs and emotional distress for owners and breeders. Recent scientific advancements have prompted a re-evaluation of these traditional breeding methods. Responsible breeders now integrate DNA testing for hereditary diseases into their breeding decisions to avoid perpetuating such conditions. It’s crucial to recognise that many canine diseases, particularly those affecting specific breeds, are influenced by complex genetic factors. This complexity underscores the importance of preserving genetic diversity in breeding programmes, not only as a scientific necessity but also as an ethical imperative to prevent hereditary health issues in future generations.

Legislation influenced by the Animal Welfare movement is changing too. For instance, Germany’s Animal Welfare Dog Ordinance now bans exhibiting dogs with traits indicative of extreme breeding. A 2022 ruling by Norway’s Oslo District Court categorised the breeding of English Bulldogs and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels as a violation of animal welfare laws. These developments reflect a growing influence of external parties in dog breeding practices, moving beyond breeders and enthusiasts.

UNDERSTANDING DOG BREEDS Creating a dog breed typically begins with a small, genetically similar group of animals, leading to a limited gene pool. Over generations, selective breeding enhances desirable traits, often with the most exemplary individuals, usually male dogs, used extensively for breeding. However, the practice of maintaining closed stud books for purebred dogs significantly limits genetic diversi-

ty, as new gene variants are rarely introduced. This issue is exemplified in breeds like the Rhodesian Ridgeback, where it’s theorised that most genetic variants in the current population can be traced back to a few founding individuals from about 100 years ago.

GENETIC DIVERSITY TO ENSURE HEALTH Advancements in scientific understanding have highlighted the challenges of limited genetic diversity in purebred dogs. A breed consisting of many individuals does not guarantee a broad gene pool, especially if the gene pool is limited in diversity, leading to a narrow range of genetic traits. Proactive steps are necessary to preserve genetic diversity. While selecting “the best of the best” might be effective in creating a breed, it is counterproductive in maintaining it for future generations. Reduced genetic diversity can increase the risk of hereditary diseases, immune deficiencies, and infertility. Addressing health issues becomes particularly challenging in genetically similar populations.

ASSESSING THE RISK TO THE RHODESIAN RIDGEBACK

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The Rhodesian Ridgeback, for instance, might appear healthier compared to breeds with extreme anatomical traits. However, “torture breeding,” as termed in the German Animal Welfare Dog Ordinance, applies not only to physical conformation but also to predictable inherited diseases. Preventing diseases involves avoiding the reinforcement of disease-causing genes, a task that becomes challenging with a limited gene pool. In 2016, Dreger et al. conducted a study on 112 dog breeds, determining heterozygosity and inbreeding through various methods. The research involved calculating inbreeding coefficients based on pedigree data across different generational spans and the entirety of the database’s records. Additionally, the study included an analysis of genomic inbreeding, employing techniques such as SNP (single nucleotide polymorphism) analysis and whole genome sequencing. The study was presented on the Institute of Canine Biology website. The genetic degree of inbreeding of Rhodesian Ridgebacks was estimated at almost 30%, where 25% is comparable to a full sibling cross. This finding places the breed in a concerning category; of the 112 breeds included in this study, all exhibiting a notable degree of inbreeding. However, a more recent study by Bannasch et al. in 2021 estimated the degree of genetic inbreeding in Rhodesian Ridgeback to be approximately 20%. The discrepancy between these studies could be attributed to the number of genetic markers analysed. Regardless of whether it is 20% or 30%, the level of inbreeding is alarmingly high, underscoring the need for careful breeding strategies to enhance genetic diversity.

UNDERSTANDING GENETICS IN DOG BREEDING Dogs have around 19,000 genes, each presenting in various forms (alleles). Typically, a dog inherits one allele of each gene from its sire and one from its dam. About 50 of these genes determine the dog’s physical appearance (phenotype), often the main criterion for breeding success. However, breeding for these traits also means inheriting approximately 18,950 other genes, including both desirable and undesirable traits. Each dog carries a unique set of genes constituting its genome, which is the complete set of genetic instructions vital for the development and functioning of that particular dog. During reproduction, a dog transmits some of its genetic material to its offspring. This transfer of genes from one generation to the next is essential in maintaining genetic diversity. Siblings from the same litter are genetically distinct due to genetic recombination (genetic reshuffling), where genetic material from both parents combines and shuffles during the formation of reproductive cells (sperm and egg). During the formation of reproductive cells, chromosomes exchange genetic material, leading to new combinations of genes in the offspring. As a result, each sibling inherits a unique combination of genes from their parents, and thus, diversity arises among siblings even when they share the same parents.

HEALTH CONSIDERATIONS IN RHODESIAN RIDGEBACK Certain diseases with known genetic markers are identifiable through gene testing in our breed. These include Juvenile Myoclonic Epilepsy (JME), Early Onset Adult Deafness (EOAD), Degenerative Myelopathy (DM) and Hemophilia B (factor IX). These conditions, while serious, are not prevalent in terms of clinical cases within the breed. However, most genetically inherited diseases in our breed, similar to other breeds, have complex inheritance patterns. These conditions, often polygenic, are influenced by multiple genes and possibly environmental factors. Examples of such diseases include allergy, idiopathic epilepsy, hypothyroidism, RR IVA, SLO (symmetrical lupoid onychodystrophy), osteochondrosis, cancer, and more. All Rhodesian Ridgebacks carry certain gene variants that may predispose them to these diseases. Yet, they often also have normal versions of these genes (wildtype alleles) that protect them from manifesting the diseases. Nonetheless, these potentially harmful alleles can be passed to their offspring.

Exemplified illustration of loss of genetic diversity through selective breeding for specific traits.

RHODESIAN RIDGEBACK EU MAGAZINE

Therefore, excluding a healthy and mentally sound dog from breeding can result in the loss of valuable genetic variants potentially beneficial to the breed. To preserve the breed’s health and diversity, it’s crucial to maintain as much genetic variation as possible.

As gene testing for these complex diseases is not currently possible, breeding strategies should aim to maximise genetic diversity within the breed to prevent homozygosity (having two identical alleles for a gene). This cannot be achieved by excluding healthy dogs from breeding, as they also carry beneficial gene variants. Instead, breeding decisions should be informed by the available data on potential parents and their relatives, avoiding combinations that increase the risk of passing on alleles associated with the same diseases. Effectively, it’s comparable to assembling a complex genetic jigsaw puzzle!

ACTING ON FACTS Approaches to health and breed statistics collection vary globally. In Sweden, for example, breed-specific statistics are compiled from annual health surveys and insurance records. These data are accessible to anyone and can serve as arguments if Animal rights movements or media are looking for a reason to question the legitimacy of continued breeding, from an animal health perspective. However, lack of transparency is not a solution - the key lies in breeding healthy dogs. Ensuring breed health and avoiding the duplication of disease-causing genes require a detailed plan for maximising genetic diversity, especially with genetic inbreeding percentages between 20-30%.

RHODESIAN RIDGEBACK EU MAGAZINE

TAKING THE LEAD Ensuring the health and well-being of individual dogs and the breed as a whole is a shared interest. Given scientific evidence of significant genetic inbreeding, it is crucial to demonstrate proactive measures to external parties. It’s about doing the right thing and having structured strategies to show critics that responsible breeding practices are being followed and are effective. Should current strategies not yield the expected results, exploring new approaches is imperative. The breed community should develop and implement strategies based on informed knowledge rather than having them imposed by external authorities.

SWEDISH STRATEGIES FOR MAINTAINING GENETIC DIVERSITY To initiate a conversation within the European Ridgeback community and beyond, we would like to outline the breeding recommendations of the Swedish Ridgeback Club (SRRS). These recommendations aim to preserve genetic diversity by including as many healthy dogs as possible in breeding. The specific guidelines are tailored to the Swedish population, but similar discussions are needed at the European level. Considering the ease of transporting or shipping breeding stock across Europe, a unified framework for the entire European population would be beneficial.

MINIMISING ANCESTRAL REPETITION Limiting the number of litters per breeding animal is crucial. Rather than repeatedly using a single individual for breeding, it’s important to diversify by including siblings, offspring, and other relatives in breeding programs. It is vital to avoid the overuse of popular stud dogs (“matador studs”) and to responsibly manage the use of their descendants. An example is the case of frozen semen imported from a dog who sired only a few litters in Europe. Despite the limited initial use, this dog’s descendants have produced an extraordinarily high number of offspring throughout the continent. Similar patterns are seen repeatedly. While introducing new genetic material is essential, careful management of its integration is equally important. The Swedish club advocates for importing new breeding stock but emphasises the importance of selecting animals as genetically distinct from the existing domestic gene pool as possible.

EVALUATING PROGENY AND BREEDING ANIMALS A breeding animal should have a limited number of offspring before those offspring are thoroughly evaluated for health and temperament. Evaluations, such as HD/ED-scoring and mentality assessment (where available), should be completed before the animal is used further in breeding. Breeding animals should be at least 30 months old at the time of mating. It is recommended that

Using dogs for breeding at a later age also extends the generation interval, which helps slow the rate of genetic diversity loss.

BREEDING COMBINATIONS Breeding combinations should not be repeated, and closely related combinations should be avoided. Repeating specific bloodlines and gene combinations contributes to a loss of genetic diversity. The pedigree Coefficient of Inbreeding (COI) for a litter should not exceed 1% based on a five-generation pedigree. Exceptions allowing a higher COI should be rare and not exceed 3,1%. Maintaining a low pedigree COI, can be challenging when the same males frequently appear in desirable pedigrees. It’s important to note that pedigree COI is a theoretical estimate, and the actual genetic COI of a planned litter is likely to be higher. Breeding combinations should be avoided if both breeding animals, based on available data about themselves and their relatives, are suspected of carrying gene variants linked to the same or related diseases or defects.

INCLUDE AS MANY INDIVIDUALS AS POSSIBLE To prevent homozygosity of disease-predisposing genes, including a diverse range of healthy dogs in breeding programmes is crucial. This approach also helps preserve beneficial gene variants present in all dogs. In Sweden, for example, ridgeless dogs (with genotype r/r) are permitted in breeding when bred to a ridged dog (genotype R/R), statistically resulting in all ridged pups. Additionally, a dog with grade C hips may be allowed to breed, provided it shows no clinical signs of hip dysplasia and is bred to a dog with grade A hips, with the requirement that 75 % of the first litter be hip scored before allowing a second litter. These measures are steps towards including more dogs in breeding and combating genetic diversity loss. Another approach is eliminating the requirement for breeding animals to obtain a quality award from an official dog show (in Sweden, previously, the minimum was “Very Good”). SRRS found that such awards are poor indicators of breeding suitability. In Sweden, of 102 dogs born between 2015 and 2022 who received the quality award “Good” or “Sufficient”, all dogs except three received a “Very Good” or “Excellent” on another occasion if they were shown more than once. Responsible breeders are usually more than capable of determining if a dog meets the general appearance standards of a Rhodesian Ridgeback. If anyone should fail, it will hardly destroy the breed but still contribute to genetic diversity.

USE DNA TESTS AS A TOOL FOR INCLUSION, NOT EXCLUSION Most diseases and defects have polygenic or multifunctional inheritance involving multiple genes and sometimes environmental factors. Examples include allergy, idiopathic epilepsy, hypothyroidism, RR IVA, SLO (symmetrical lupoid onychodystrophy), osteochondrosis and certain cancers. However, some diseases and traits have simple dominant or recessive inheritance, allowing for predictive DNA testing. For instance, the ridge trait is inherited dominantly, which means that if one parent carries the dominant gene for the ridge, all puppies are expected to inherit the ridged trait. However, occasionally, a modifier gene can inhibit or ‘silence’ the expression of the ridge gene, leading to the birth of a ridgeless dog. Testing for recessively inherited diseases like JME, DM, and EOAD is crucial, as breeding two carriers can be avoided, preventing the disease. Carriers of these genes are generally as healthy as non-carriers, so they should not be excluded from breeding. Instead, carriers should be mated with non-carriers, ensuring no affected offspring. Properly used, DNA testing can enable safer breeding combinations. However, using DNA tests to exclude dogs from breeding can narrow the gene pool detrimentally.

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animals should not be used in breeding before 36 months (3 years) and preferably even later. Delaying breeding allows time to identify potential health issues in the animals and their relatives, enabling breeders to make informed, fact-based decisions and reduce the likelihood of passing on latent disease predispositions to progeny.

MENTAL HEALTH AS AN INTEGRAL ASPECT OF OVERALL HEALTH A healthy dog is physically and mentally sound. Where tools for evaluating mentality are available, such as mentality assessments, they should be utilised in making breeding decisions. The focus should be on breeding dogs that are socially and environmentally secure. The breed standard, which states that a Ridgeback should show no aggression or shyness, should be given equal importance as other criteria.

EXTENSIVE USE OF INDIVIDUAL STUD DOGS IN EUROPE After conducting a rather comprehensive analysis of various data sources of breeding trends within Europe, we have gained valuable insights into the current trends and practices within the European breeding community. This includes data from the Rhodesian Ridgeback pedigree database, advertisements on social media, breeders’ websites, and official records from European kennel clubs. Our analysis focused on identifying patterns in the use of certain dogs and bloodlines across different regions.

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The dogs that feature prominently in our data are those that recur frequently in pedigrees or have been identified as key domestic matadors. Notably, our data also includes Russian dogs due to their significant presence in European breeding lines. However, obtaining complete breeding data from Russia and certain Eastern European countries presents a challenge, suggesting that our findings might be conservative estimates of the actual breeding activities. Our findings reveal that specific stud dogs have been widely used throughout Europe, with their influence evident through their numerous offspring, including grandchildren and great-grandchildren. In some cases, the genetic impact of a single dog spans multiple generations, markedly influencing the breed’s genetic makeup in various areas. For instance, in the UK, historical factors and import/export restrictions have shaped unique breeding practices, leading to the predominant use of a few males within the country. Similarly, in other European countries, certain dogs with a high number of litters nationally are less represented in pedigrees beyond their home countries.

ANALYSIS AND LESSONS LEARNED Based on our analysis, which is not entirely scientific, it appears that many European breeders do not fully consider the stud dog’s history of prog-

eny, including grand progeny, or the number of siblings involved in breeding. Additionally, efforts to introduce new genetic material often unexpectedly lead to those offspring being heavily utilised in breeding. As a result, what initially seems like a diversification of the gene pool quickly becomes another overrepresented bloodline. This situation poses a significant concern, considering the specific challenges in maintaining genetic diversity within pedigree breeds and the increasing scrutiny of breeding practices. The variability in discussions and understanding of genetic diversity across Europe may contribute to this issue. This article aims to raise awareness and encourage breeders to adopt more current and informed breeding practices. A collective effort within the Ridgeback community is essential to tackle this challenge effectively. It’s important to spread knowledge and prioritise the breed’s best interests. Breed clubs throughout Europe should ensure that their breeding guidelines are directed towards minimising the overuse of certain dogs and bloodlines and encouraging the inclusion of a broader range of individuals in breeding programmes. We also call on owners of male dogs to manage their dogs’ breeding engagements responsibly. Despite the potential benefits, such as financial gain and recognition from producing successful offspring, stud dog owners must make decisions that support genetic diversity. This can be challenging, especially when faced with requests from reputable and respected breeders. Therefore, stud dog owners must exercise discretion and integrity in their breeding choices. Ultimately, the responsibility is on breeders to uphold a commitment to preserving as much genetic diversity as possible. This involves being careful about not replicating potentially harmful genes in breeding combinations, thereby protecting the health and genetic diversity of the breed. Breeders should wisely limit the use of popular stud dogs and carefully track the number of their direct and indirect offspring in breeding decisions. In the current breeding landscape, the ideal stud dog is not necessarily one with numerous championships but rather one with limited progeny and a pedigree that avoids overrepresented bloodlines.

WHERE DO WE GO FROM HERE? A crucial issue for European breeders is establishing a consensus on breeding recommendations and ethical guidelines to actively preserve the maximum genetic diversity within the breed. We hope the insights presented in this article have stimulated and will motivate the European Ridgeback community to address these vital concerns proactively.

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Accurate information is essential for making informed decisions at the population level and for individual breeding combinations. Therefore, we encourage breed clubs and breeders to assess the current breeding landscape in their respective countries. Based on these assessments, they should collaborate to develop local strategies that promote long-term sustainable breeding.

•

Discussing the criteria for excluding dogs from breeding and understanding the implications of such decisions. For instance, if a requirement for breeding animals is to achieve a specific quality award or passing a subjective breeding examination that only 10% of the population meets, this effectively excludes 90% of potential breeding animals.

Such an analysis could include:

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Assessing whether current breeding requirements are effective in achieving the desired outcomes.

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Formulating and agreeing on breeding strategies that aim to preserve genetic diversity and address the most pressing health issues.

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Assessing the country’s breeding population and structure, focusing on registered litters, the ratio of new breeding animals in relation to total litters, the proportion of individuals used in subsequent breeding, and the number of progeny and grand progeny per breeding animal.

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Evaluating the number of unregistered dogs in the country and discussing strategies to engage more breeders and increase registration rates. Integrating breeders into breed clubs and offering ongoing education can significantly impact breeding practices, compared to having no influence over them.

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Review the health status of dogs bred in the country and determine which health issues should be prioritised at the population level.

To further explore these topics and collaborate on finding effective ways to preserve the genetic diversity of the breed, we invite you to join the new Facebook group, “Rhodesian Ridgeback Health and Long-term Sustainable Breeding”.

BASIC GENETICS UNDERSTANDING, SELECTING, PRESERVING

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Jessica Persson, Ve r o n i c a T h o r é n & M o n a H a n s e n

“

History has repeatedly demonstrated

that breeding high-quality dogs is possible without a comprehensive understanding of genetics. However, breeders equipped with fundamental genetic knowledge are better positioned to make informed breeding decisions aimed at producing dogs that are not only physically but also mentally

healthy.”

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iving organisms, including humans and dogs, are comprised of cells - the smallest biological units that constitute all life on Earth. These cells serve as the fundamental building blocks of the body or organism, and they are specialized to perform specific tasks, with several hundred different cell types existing. Collectively, these cells form tissues, organs, and other essential components. Each cell contains, among other components, a cell nucleus housing our DNA - the genetic material, or, in other words, our genome. DNA is densely packed within chromosomes. A dog possesses 78 chromosomes, occurring in two versions, one inherited from each parent, resulting in 39 pairs. There are 38 pairs of regular chromosomes, known as autosomes, and two sex chromosomes, namely X and Y. Females have two X chromosomes, while males have one X and one Y chromosome. Each chromosome comprises a DNA molecule, equating to two molecules for each pair. The DNA molecule houses genes, which, in turn, regulate protein production. Proteins play a pivotal role in determining the various characteristics of the body, encompassing both physical appearance and behavioural traits. A gene represents a delimited region on the chromosome with a specific function. Dogs possess around 19,000 genes, and each gene can manifest in numerous variants. A locus, or loci in the plural, designates a gene’s precise position (address) on a specific chromosome. Since individuals typically possess two copies of each chromosome, this implies having two variants of each gene - one inherited from the mother and the other from the father. These gene variants are referred to as alleles. Two alleles at the same locus collectively form a genotype.

DOMINANT AND RECESSIVE GENE VARIANTS Certain gene variants exert more significant influence than others, taking precedence and being the ones expressed. By “expressed,” we refer to what can be seen or observed, precisely termed as phenotype. Gene variants that exhibit dominance are termed dominant and are represented by uppercase letters (e.g., N). In contrast, gene variants that defer to the dominant ones are termed recessive and are represented by lowercase letters (e.g., n).

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For a recessive allele to be expressed, i.e., become noticeable, the genotype must consist of two

identical alleles. Even if a recessive allele is not expressed, overshadowed by a dominant one, the individual still carries the allele, which its offspring can inherit. Whether a gene variant is dominant or recessive provides no information about whether the characteristic (phenotype) the gene variant encodes for is positive or negative. It only indicates whether a single set of gene variants is sufficient for the characteristic to be expressed - a dominant trait - or if the gene variant requires a double set - a recessive trait. When two identical gene variants form the genotype, it is called homozygous, and when two different gene variants form the genotype, it is termed heterozygous.

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The millions of cells that constitute both humans and dogs continually undergo division, replacing old cells with new ones. Two identical copies of the dividing cell are created during each cell division. Prior to cell division, the genetic material is replicated to ensure a complete set of genetic information in each cell. However, the replication process sometimes does not function as intended, resulting in mutations. If a mutation occurs, for example, in a germ cell - such as a sperm or egg cell - the alteration can be passed on to the dog’s offspring. Some mutations that occur are entirely benign; in exceptional cases, they may even be advantageous. However, other mutations can have a negative impact on the individual’s health and, in the worst case, be fatal. Since each gene variant exists in (at least) two copies - one from the mother and one from the father - there is often a non-mutated “backup copy.” In many cases, the non-mutated copy can compensate for the function of the gene variant that is not functioning as intended. The vast diversity in the appearance of today’s dog breeds arises from our initial selective breeding of individuals with different mutations, often linked to the dogs’ physical characteristics. These mutations have since been stabilized in the various breed populations, meaning the individuals within a breed population have become genetically homozygous (similar) for these mutations.

INHERITANCE OF TRAITS FROM PARENT TO OFFSPRING How a trait is inherited from parent to offspring depends on several factors, including: Number of Involved Genes and External Factors: • Simple inheritance: The trait is controlled by a single gene or a few genes. • Polygenic inheritance: The trait is controlled by multiple interacting genes. • Multifactorial inheritance: The trait is influenced by multiple genes interacting with external environmental factors (e.g., lifestyle). Location of Controlling Genes: • Autosomal inheritance: Genes on autosomal chromosomes, excluding the sex chromosomes. • Sex-linked inheritance: Genes on sex chromosomes, i.e., X or Y. • Mitochondrial inheritance: The trait is encoded in DNA situated outside the cell nucleus in structures called mitochondria, known as mtDNA. This type of DNA is passed on to the next generation through egg cells; therefore, only the mother contributes mtDNA to her offspring.

Strength of Gene Variants: • Recessive inheritance: The trait is determined by a recessive gene variant (allele) and is expressed only if the individual inherits the same gene variant from both parents. • Dominant inheritance: The trait is regulated by a dominant gene variant (allele) and is expressed if the individual inherits the gene variant from either parent. Therefore, the inheritance of an individual trait (health, behaviour, appearance) from parent to offspring is determined by a combination of the above-mentioned factors. To further complicate matters, there are also nearby genes whose gene variants are “linked,” known as haplotypes, which are always inherited together.

DISEASES IN RHODESIAN RIDGEBACKS In dogs, diseases with simple dominant inheritance are rare, simply because a dog carrying the “faulty” gene variant becomes ill and consequently is excluded from breeding. On the other hand, recessive traits can be inherited unnoticed over several generations, as dogs often possess a “healthy” gene variant alongside the “faulty” gene variant, keeping them in good health. The expression of the trait and the onset of illness occur only when a dog acquires two faulty gene variants, posing an increased risk in cases of inbreeding.

For the Rhodesian Ridgeback, there are currently a few diseases that can be genetically tested, and they are inherited in one of the following ways: • Autosomal (non-sex-linked) Simple Recessive Inheritance: The trait is inherited on autosomal chromosomes and requires the gene variant in a double set, i.e., one from each parent, to be expressed. Examples of traits with autosomal recessive inheritance include JME, EOAD, DM, Dilute (D-locus), and liver colour (B-locus).

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• Autosomal (non-sex-linked) Simple Dominant Inheritance The trait is inherited on the autosomal chromosomes but requires the gene variant in a single set, i.e., from one parent, to be expressed. Examples of traits with autosomal dominant inheritance include the ridge.

When correctly applied, genetic tests open a world of possibilities for breeding combinations that breeders might otherwise steer clear of due to familial clinical concerns. However, the misuse of genetic tests can cast a shadow over the essence of breed preservation. Most diseases and defects impacting our dogs exhibit a polygenic or multifactorial inheritance, indicating their development relies on the interaction of multiple genes and occasional influences from different environmental factors. Examples of these conditions include allergies, idiopathic epilepsy, hypothyroidism, RR IVA, SLO (Symmetrical Lupoid Onychodystrophy), osteochondrosis, specific types of cancer, and more. What unites these conditions is the mystery surrounding their mode of inheritance, requiring management in breeding practices through methods separate from genetic testing. Each Rhodesian Ridgeback carries several gene variants linked to potential health issues. Yet, these genetic footprints often remain concealed

in the vigour of a healthy dog. Therefore, excluding healthy heterozygous carriers of diseases we can test for from breeding may prove to be a flawed strategy. Beneath the surface of carriers lie beneficial gene variants. For example, the same Rhodesian Ridgeback that carries the JME gene variant might also carry beneficial regulatory genes for other conditions, protecting its offspring from being affected by that condition. Hence, genetic tests must be embraced as the breeding tool they are designed to be - ensuring the careful orchestration of breeding pairs. The focus should be on avoiding the combination of carriers and producing offspring vulnerable to specific diseases. Conditions with unknown inheritance patterns must be managed by ensuring great genetic diversity in the breed and maintaining an open dialogue between breeders and stud dog owners, steering clear of the inadvertent doubling of latent disease traits in our breeding combinations.

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• Sex-Linked (X-Linked) Simple Recessive Inheritance The trait is inherited on the sex chromosomes, usually the X-chromosome, and requires the gene variant in a double set to be expressed. A male dog with a mutated copy of the gene variant (X’) becomes ill because males have only one X chromosome (and one Y chromosome), inheriting the trait from their mother. A female dog, having two X chromosomes, can be a healthy carrier of the trait but may pass it on to her offspring. Male puppies inheriting the mutated trait will then become ill. Examples of traits with X-linked recessive inheritance include Hemophilia B.

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Wri tte n by L i s a

Reece,

WINTER WELLNESS N u r t u r i n g Yo u r D o g ’ s Immune System Naturally

As winter’s chill settles in, our canine companions face increased susceptibility to illnesses. Just like humans, dogs can benefit from a robust immune system to ward off seasonal threats. In this article, we explore natural ways to boost your dog’s immune system and shed some light on the importance of doing so.

THE WINTER CHALLENGE FOR CANINE IMMUNITY Winter often brings a myriad of challenges to a dog’s wellbeing. Cold weather, reduced out door activity and exposure to various pathogens can weaken their immune defences. A compromised immune system may lead to increased vulnerability to illnesses such as respiratory infections, flu and gastrointestinal issues.

NUTRITION AS A FOUNDATION A wholesome diet lays the groundwork for a strong immune system. A diet poor in nutrients can quickly weaken the immune system rendering it unable to do its job. Ensure your dog’s meals include high quality proteins, a variety of vegetables and essential fatty acids. Supplementing with immune boosting nutrients like vitamin C and E can provide an extra level of defence. Apples, berries, carrots, pumpkin, sweet potato and garlic are all great options to add to your dog’s diet for immune boosting!

A HEALTHY GUT IS A HEALTHY IMMUNE SYSTEM Over 80% of the immune system resides in the gut, so it is vital to keep the gut microflora balanced and healthy. This can be achieved by feeding a species appropriate diet, as well as adding probiotics, digestive enzymes and omega 3 oil to your dog’s food daily. A healthy gut makes all the difference.

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Cer tif ied Animal Aromath erapy Specialist , Canin e Aromath erapy.

REGULAR EXERCISE FOR RESILIENCE Physical activity is a key player in maintaining a healthy immune system. Even during the winter months, engage your dog in regular exercise. This not only helps them stay fit but also stimulates their immune response, keeping them in top form to combat potential threats. So rug up and get walking, it’ll do you both good.

ADEQUATE REST AND STRESS MANAGEMENT Just like humans, dogs need sufficient rest to recharge their bodies. Chronic stress can weaken the immune system, so create a calm environment for your dog. Establish a consistent sleep routine and offer warm, cosy spots for relaxation.

ESSENTIAL OILS: A FRAGRANT BOOST FOR IMMUNITY Essential oils can be beneficial as they work to reinforce the body’s own healing system helping to bring the body back into balance. There are some essential oils that have been shown to have immune boosting properties. These oils include, but are not limited to, Clove, Lemon, Rosemary, Cardamom, Arborvitae, Lavender, Copaiba and Frankincense. These can be diffused in a water-based diffuser or diluted in a carrier oil and applied topically. In some cases, there are some essential oils that can be used internally too.

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Here is a diffuser blend I recommend for immune boosting. Just diffusing for 30 minutes per day can make a huge difference. Just be sure the essential oils you are using are 100% pure for safety. • • • • •

2 drops Copaiba 1 drop Cardamom 1 drop Arborvitae 1 drop Juniper Berry Reduce Toxins for Maximum Effect

Cleaning chemicals, pesticides, air fresheners and perfumes are just some of the things that can be harmful to your dog, adding to their toxic load. When the body is overloaded with toxins the immune system works overtime to rid them which weakens it for when they need it most. By limiting their exposure, you ensure their immune system can keep doing its job and ward off threats that can’t be avoided. Switch to low tox and get rid of the toxic chemicals from your home once and for all! In conclusion, prioritising your dog’s immune health is a proactive approach to ensuring their overall health and wellbeing during the winter months. A combination of proper nutrition, exercise, rest, limiting toxic exposure and, of course, essential oils, can fortify their defences against seasonal challenges. Remember, a healthy dog is a happy dog, and by incorporating these natural practices, you’re fostering a lifetime of wellness for your beloved companion. Happy oiling!

Homepage www.caninearomatherapy.com Instagram canine.aromatherapy Facebook caninearomatherapy

If you are looking for more recipes for natural alternatives to the products mentioned above, you can find most of them on my Instagram or Facebook page @ caninearomatherapy Please Note: I only recommend doTERRA essential oils as I can vouch for their purity, safety and efficiency. All recipes are made with doTERRA oils in mind. Please be mindful that synthetic or adulterated oils may not be safe for your dog.

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AN INTERVIEW WITH A JUDGE Greetings from Australia

PLEASE INTRODUCE YOURSELF TO OUR READERS.

tralia at the time I purchased my foundation bitch Aust Ch Tirche Al Talika from Col Ireland.

Patrice Johansen, All Breeds Judge, Jomeja Rhodesian Ridgebacks. Judge, mentor, breeder, and owned by Rhodesian Ridgebacks since 1976. I am currently the President of Yuggera Canine Club (Multi discipline all breeds club), and have previously been a Director for Dogs QLD, Chairperson for the CJC (conformation judges committee), President of the Rhodesian Ridgeback Council Australia, Rhodesian Ridgeback Club of QLD, and Secretary for Ipswich Kennel Club. I am a lecturer and assessor for trainee judges and have written articles on the RR for national and international publications.

WHEN DID YOU START WITH YOUR JUDGING CAREER AND WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO BECOME A JUDGE? PLEASE TELL US ABOUT YOUR JUDGE’S CAREER AND YOUR HIGHLIGHTS.

WHEN DID YOUR LOVE OF DOGS BEGIN? PLEASE TELL US ABOUT YOUR PAST AND PRESENT DOGS. I had an Aussie Terrier as a child, however, was much more passionate about horses and continued down the competitive path with my horses for many years. In 1972 my cousin introduced me to his RR pup, in 1976 I owned my first RR (not pedigree) and after retiring from riding and racing thoroughbreds I decided to show dogs. I acquired my beautiful foundation bitch in 1979 Aust Ch Tirche Al Talika. Talika went on to produce several specialty and BIS winners. I bred my first litter in 1981 and in that litter had a Best in Show Specialty winner. Jomeja Ridgebacks went on over the years to garner major awards, obtain championship titles, do obedience, security work, hunting and Specialty show honors such as best ridge, best head, best gait, and most successful breeder. So many lovely dogs have contributed to the continued success of Jomeja. The years have seen hiatus from showing and breeding with family and work commitments, but I am proud to say that I am still breeding the quality Rhodesian Ridgebacks that I was so proud of many years ago.

HOW DID YOU GET INTRODUCED TO THIS BREED? My first RR encounter was from my cousin who had purchased a RR pup in 1972, I had my first RR in 1976. After speaking to the few breeders in Aus-

The grounds for my decision to become a judge was to provide accountability for decisions which were made in the show ring that impact on the future of the breed. To a degree a judge holds the future of breeds in their hands by the decisions they make in the ring. Often as a breeder I heard that someone used a particular stud dog because he was a champion or had gone Best in Show. No other reason. This is fine if the dog is a worthy recipient and can in fact assist in producing a promising litter. Kudos to the breeder or was it just luck? However, many times this is just not the case. For my breed it was this realisation and in fact the responsibility of a judge was the commitment to the breed and the future of our breed. I could as a judge assist to positively influence the future of our breed. I gained my Rhodesian Ridgeback licence in 1991 and went on after a long break to commence my all breeds judging training in 2004 and became an all-breeds judge in 2013. I have judged all over the world for specialties, nationals, and all breeds shows. There are highlights every time I judge it would be hard to pick one. Judging the RR specialty in Johannesburg South Africa would be one of my favourite appointments. Most recently I also judged at an exceptional all breeds show in Serbia. Judging different breeds, we do not have in Australia is a great experience and of course the different judging processes around the world always makes for an interesting time. Meeting new people and creating friendships is something that I have been blessed with in my travels. The continued learning every time you walk into the ring, the opportunity to hone your judging skills and talking to some of the experts and greatest mentors of breeds around the world cannot be surpassed.

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PATRICE JOHANSEN

DID YOU EVER HAVE A MENTOR? ARE YOU MENTORING NEWCOMERS?

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As I progressed through the judges’ scheme, I had many mentors and supporters always willing to engage with me and discuss various breeds which were their field of expertise. When I first a started in the breed there were very few breeders in Australia. I would sit with a friend late into the night and pour over handwritten pedigrees, talk to people about dogs behind those pedigrees, wait for letters and photos by mail (long before the internet or WWW), look at the few books available to us in Australia and any magazine we could get from overseas. We learnt so much from each other and everyone was willing to share their knowledge of this very young breed in Australia. I enjoy mentoring newcomers giving them encouragement and guidance, sharing my knowledge and experience, building connections with opportunity for long-term development. A true mentor listens to the goals of newcomers, they help others succeed.

HOW DO YOU DEFINE THE TYPE? The breed standard (the blueprint) gives us the basic form of the breed. However, taking into consideration the entire dog and the individual characteristics that make up that breed. Breed hallmarks – the essential components that set one breed apart from another. Breed type should be the first consideration judge’s final selection, if not the breed loses its identity. Soundness – is the exhibit fit for functional purpose. The initial assessment should include overall balance, profile, temperament, conditioning, and movement.

DOES THE EXHIBIT LOOK LIKE A RIDGEBACK, AND COULD IT DO WHAT THE BREED WAS BRED FOR? Throughout this initial assessment, the greater understanding a judge has of the breed standard, the better will be their assessment of breed type. Does the dog exhibit the overall breed characteristics and appearance? How does it conform to the breed standard? Does it enter the ring with the presence and attitude of a Ridgeback? Does its profile have the balance, proportions, topline, and angulation? Is the head balanced with level planes, correct ear size and placement? Is it a sound exhibit with correct movement as needed for the purpose of the breed? Is the colour in the breed standard variances? Does this exhibit portray correct breed type? Is the dog sound? As we further examine the exhibit, we have the time to assess how it relates to the breed standard by carefully weighing up the various points as per the standard. Our interpretation of the standard and personal preference will ultimately have influence on the final decision we make. Most importantly we must judge each individual exhibit to the standard before judging each exhibit against the other.

IS THERE SOMETHING WHICH YOU WOULD LIKE TO CHANGE IN THE BREED? For me a greater emphasis by breeders on overall form and function; we have such variation within the breed. As judges we must ensure that we address our breed issues and not award inferior exhibits those which don’t align with the breed standard and exhibit true breed type. As judges our decision can influence breeders in the direction, they take their breeding program.

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EVERY BREED HAS SOME COMMON PROBLEMS. WHICH IS THE MOST COMMON PROBLEM IN RR? Problems vary from country to country and when an emphasis is put on a particular part of conformation and the focus shifts from the well-balanced dog to that of an average dog with a great head for example. When breeders start to focus on one facet of the dog, we start to lose virtue in other areas. For some time, fronts have slipped, and we have lost the correct angulation, recently it has been croups, more and more steep croups. Over angulation behind can be another issue and of course ridges – the escutcheon of the breed – some breeders focus on the quality of the ridge, others its not so important. On the whole, temperaments are most important and not to be forgotten and in general temperament is sound in our breed.

WHAT IS THE MOST IMPORTANT POINT OF WHICH YOU WOULD LIKE A JUDGE OF THE BREED TO BE AWARE? A Ridgeback is a moderate dog but must be well constructed – form and function - he should look like he is capable of doing a day’s work in the field, but he should not look like he could pull down a lion!! Some judges still tend to think the bigger the better. Movement: we must have dogs that move well to be able to do their job, regardless of the fact most dogs do not do what they were bred for. If we follow our predecessors who developed the breed standard, they must be able to move. Just as we should not penalise a very good quality dog which is a little taller than standard nor should we be pe-

nalising the moderate dog who it seems in the ring in some countries is he odd dog out. Balance and type, if a judge does not know what breed type is or does not know what the hallmarks of a breed are, they will not find the best dog in the ring. They will go with the majority and that will show exhibitors what a truly average judge they are.

WHAT QUALITIES DO YOU ADMIRE MOST IN A JUDGE? Honesty, knowledge, ring craft and treating all exhibits equally. Having the conviction of their decisions and being able to back those decisions up. Going against the norm finding the dog which is the best exhibit regardless of whether the Best in Show winner from last week is in the ring. Finding the best dog there, even if he is the odd dog out in the class. A judge who can and does do this shows integrity, knowledge, and strength in the ability to make decisions regardless of what the majority is in the ring.

WHAT CHARACTERISTICS MAKE A GOOD JUDGE IN YOUR OPINION? Judges that understand the breed and judges to the standard. Judges that know and use correct examination techniques for different breeds (for our breed examine the ridge!), be courteous to the exhibitors. Appreciating their ring steward and thanking them. Judges that judge without fear or favor.

WHAT DIFFERENCES DO YOU SEE IN THE JUDGES TODAY AS OPPOSED TO THOSE IN THE BEGINNING OF YOUR CAREER?

A recent quote on social media:

Breeding is an Art. Showing is a Game. Let’s not lose the Art to the Game

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HAVE BREED STANDARDS CHANGED VERY MUCH SINCE YOU BEGAN YOUR JUDGING CAREER? DO YOU SEE ANY DIFFERENCE IN RR OF TODAY COMPARED TO RR OF 10 YEARS AGO? IF SO, WHAT ARE THE BIGGEST DIFFERENCES YOU SEE?

The saddest thing I see in judges today is that they want to get to All breeds status as quickly as possible with minimal effort. The elusive overseas appointment they all have an expectation as soon as they pass their first elevation. Many of the judges from previous generations were already judges in horse, cattle, poultry etc. They had developed an ‘eye’ for judging, they understood what standards were about and how to interpret them, they knew how to ‘evaluate’ an exhibit. However, today we see people who have been in a dog breed for only several years before feeling educated enough to move into judging but not wanting to do the groundwork and the hard work that goes with it. Far too much emphasis (in Australia) is put on theory evaluation and too little is put on practical examination techniques and the handling of exhibits. Greater development and education (and this is a self-education program) promoting ring craft, mentoring, breeder/kennel visits, specialty shows are a must for up and coming judges.

WHAT IS YOUR MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE AS A JUDGE? One memorable occasion would be as one of the judges at the RRCUS invitational Top 20. A fantastic venue with a great atmosphere and so many lovely dogs. It was a privilege to be invited to judge this event.

HOW HAS THE DOG SCENE CHANGED OVER THE LAST DECADES? Yes, most definitely, years ago we were all the same at shows, we handled our own dogs. The show ring was a level playing field everyone was happy for the winners and stayed to watch Best in Show. Now it seems (particularly with social media) everyone knows someone who is judging somewhere, there is little camaraderie, people clap when the dog they don’t want to see win does not. The wonderful social get together is no longer, well certainly not as it was. The hobby has become a business. The ribbon is not enough we surely play for ‘sheep stations’ now and it’s all very serious.

Breed standards are mostly the same as years ago, but I do see differences in the breed and from years prior to that. The breed today is not as uniform as it was, different ‘styles’ of dogs in the ring. Influences from certain bloodlines and imported dogs/ semen has seen a variation in what we had years ago with a much smaller gene pool. The ability to import semen particularly to Australia has opened the breeders here to many more bloodlines and certainly this is not always a ‘bad’ thing, as it brings with it many positives for our breed and has allowed the breeders to develop a more diversified Ridgeback. Health testing which is mandatory in some countries and states in Australia has been a great step forward in the breed.

WHAT IS THE GREATEST THREAT TO RR TODAY? Breeders! To work in ’silos’ with no collaboration experienced breeders. Most breeders breed to improve their bloodlines/the breed, however how many take the time to do the work needed to ensure that the next step they take will do exactly that. Breeding to win that glorious Best in Show do we sacrifice breed type and the essence of our breed for a shiny trophy? Politics – politics in the show ring, amongst exhibitors, judges, and bodies who wish to eradicate the domesti-

WOULD YOU LIKE TO ADD SOMETHING? Fault Judging It is easy to fault judge however it is important that judges don’t. All dogs are going to have faults but if a judge focuses on faults and judges by faults it will soon become apparent their lack of knowledge and understanding of the breed. This will become evident when that judge continually places a generically average dog above an outstanding dog, which may have a singular obvious fault. Lack of confidence in breed knowledge by judges leads them to disregard a different dog from the ‘norm of majority’ that may very well be the best dog there on the day. Judges can become comfortable and confident in putting up dogs from the majority.

We have generally started our examination when we see that dog standing at the gate. Even though we are occupied assessing the exhibit with the knowledge we have from the standard, we should not ignore the other skills needed to fulfil that obligation. Dress appropriately, be courteous, be systematic – giving each exhibit and exhibitor the same amount of assessment and attention. It is important to be in control of your judging ring and be confident in your decisions. A judge should know how to approach and ‘go over’ an exhibit correctly, for example approaching from the front and not the rear. One should not over handle the exhibits, but have gentle hands, incorporating the knowledge of how to put a nervous newcomer or young puppy at ease. It is important that we show we enjoy our judging assignments. Enter the ring knowing that you have the knowledge and ability to carry out your judging in a professional courteous manner.

Continual fault judging, generic over excellent, will lead in a decline in the quality of a breed when dogs are continually put up from the majority. In essence when judging we should not fault judge. Firstly, we must assess what each exhibit can offer the breed. What are their qualities and virtues, and work from there. We then need to decide how much emphasis will be placed on any faults, and how those faults can impact on the breed overall. Judges must look for a balance between both type and soundness. A sound dog with breed type. We judge by assessment - we judge and assess by employing the knowledge we have of our breed gained from the breed standard, observation, breed mentors, lectures, and training. Ensuring that our knowledge is current and factual, allows a judge to distinguish between what is an excellent example of the breed and a generic specimen. Conformation showing is one of the benchmarks in assessing the quality of an exhibit. It is wise to remember that as a judge our decisions to some degree dictate the future choices of breeders in stud dogs and blood lines. This can have a positive or negative effect depending on which traits become fashionable to follow, for example if soundness is disregarded for cosmetic values such as coat colour. Judging Etiquette As a judge we have an obligation to the exhibitors to give them a positive experience when showing their dog to us, particularly first timers. An exhibitor pays for a judge’s opinion, nothing more nothing less. We owe it to them to give them an honest opinion of their exhibit. On average a judge has approximately two minutes to examine and move an exhibit, and an exhibitor has about seven seconds to have that exhibit ready for us to examine.

INFO Name Patrice Johansen Country Australia Affix Jomeja Email pjjomeja@gmail.com www www.jomeja.com

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cated dog or companion animal. Those bodies that believe the Rhodesian Ridgeback is a dog that carries health issues with the ridge, dermoid sinus and is an aggressive breed.

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AN INTERVIEW WITH A JUDGE Greetings from Australia

PLEASE INTRODUCE YOURSELF TO OUR READERS. My name is Rosemary Green, my kennel prefix is Chilolo which was established in 1976, 2 years after I purchased my first Rhodesian. Chilolo is now in partnership with my daughter Emma Marshall

WHEN DID YOUR LOVE OF DOGS BEGIN? PLEASE TELL US ABOUT YOUR PAST AND PRESENT DOGS. For as long as I can remember, we have always had horses and dogs although, in my childhood, the dogs were farm dogs and not purebred or registered. I currently have 9 Rhodesians, all but

one is an Australian Champion and several are Supreme Champions (10 best in hound group + 1000 points). As my daughter, Emma, became interested in showing, she became an exceptional handler. One of our biggest thrills was at the 2004 RR National in Melbourne when Chilolo dogs took out 3 of the 4 top placings: Challenge Bitch, Reserve Challenge Bitch and Reserve Challenge Dog. A record still held today. Emma and Trio (Supreme Aust Ch/Am Ch Chilolo EB Show No Mercy) are still remembered in the show rings in Australia for winning 27 Best In Show awards including RR Specialty, Hound Clubs and All Breeds Show. This equalled the world record for a RR held in USA by Am Ch Filmakers Never Surrender ROM.

Best In Show 2008 New South Wales Specialty – Aust Ch Chilolo SX Ice On Fire and Best Opposite in Show Aust Ch Chilolo eternity Ring

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ROSEMARY GREEN

SOME OF MEMORIES “Pictures speak louder than a thousand words.”

HOW DID YOU GET INTRODUCED TO THIS BREED? I had a border collie/kelpie cross dog who I loved and he was killed in a tragic accident. I wanted another dog who was able to come out with the horses when I was riding and my mother, who spent her childhood in Rhodesia (Zimbabwe) suggested a Ridgeback. After much searching, I purchased my first RR in 1974 and bred my first litter in 1976. I kept a female puppy from this litter, Fritz, who became Aust Ch Chilolo Karoo and she was awarded Best Puppy, Reserve Challenge Bitch and Runner Up Best In Show at my first RR Specialty in 1977 held in Sydney. I was hooked!!

WHEN DID YOU START WITH YOUR JUDGING CAREER AND WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO BECOME A JUDGE? PLEASE TELL US ABOUT YOUR JUDGES CAREER AND YOUR HIGHLIGHTS.

Trio and Emma BIS. Unquestionaby the most successful Australian bred RR with 27 BIS awards

I gained my RR judging licence in 1999 and then went on to become an All Breeds judge in 2016. I have since judged throughout Australia and internationally. I have judged RR specialty shows in France, Holland, Scotland, Czech Republic, Switzerland, Norway, Denmark, USA and Belgium. In addition I have judged at all breeds shows in Russia, New Zealand, South Africa, Thailand, Japan and China. I am privileged to have been contracted to judge the RR National in USA in 2024.

DID YOU EVER HAVE A MENTOR? ARE YOU MENTORING NEWCOMERS?

Best In Show Sydney RR specialty 2015 – Aust Gr Ch Chilolo MCR Tao On Fire owned/handled by Karen Spark

I had a wonderful mentor in Jenny Arthur who bred some lovely RRs under the LWillows prefix. I am always available to newcomers to the breed and always happy to pass on my knowledge if people are genuinely interested in learning.

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HOW DO YOU DEFINE BREED TYPE? Type was explained to me that if you saw a dog in the distance, you would be able to say it is a RR because of its shape and movement. Within the breed there are many types or styles which fit the breed standard and are functionally sound and I think it is up to a breeder to decide which type he/she will breed but it must be functional.

IS THERE SOMETHING WHICH YOU WOULD LIKE TO CHANGE IN THE BREED? No. The bred is fascinating and it is up to us to adapt to their quirky ways and get the best from them.

Best In Show New South Wales Specialty 2017 – Aust Gr Ch Chilolo MB Coopers On Sunday owned/hanled by Andrew Ferguson

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Trio and Emma BIS.

Sire and Progeny 2008 South Australia Specialty – Aust Ch Chilolo SX Ice On Fire and progeny

RR National March 2004 Res Ch Dog: Aust Ch Chilolo SX Ice On Fire, owner/handler Darrel Mills

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EVERY BREED HAS SOME COMMON PROBLEMS. WHICH IS THE MOST COMMON PROBLEM IN RR? I think, worldwide, front construction is one of the biggest problems in the breed. An upright shoulder, short upper arm, lack of return of upper arm are critical issues which are becoming more common. Another problem is movement. Judges who are not knowledgeable in the breed are rewarding exaggerated movement. It looks flashy and eye catching, but RRs are an endurance breed so they should not use too much energy in excessive movement. I also believe that RRs suffer from various heart conditions and I would love to see a DNA test for these but there is nothing yet

WHAT IS THE MOST IMPORTANT POINT OF WHICH YOU WOULD LIKE A JUDGE OF THE BREED TO BE AWARE? It is very important to be within the height/weight requirements of the standard and to have overall balance. An oversized RR is not agile and therefore not functional. It is also very important that a Rhodesian Ridgeback has a ridge which meets the requirements of the breed standard. Movement is also very important. They are endurance dogs and should cover the maximum amount of ground with the minimum amount of effort. Many dogs have a big side gait with far too much front lift which uses too much energy and is not at all functional.

WHAT QUALITIES DO YOU ADMIRE MOST IN A JUDGE? The ability to look at the dog as an overall picture and to examine each exhibit with empathy

WHAT CHARACTERISTICS MAKE A GOOD JUDGE IN YOUR OPINION? Giving the exhibitor time to set the dog up and to be gentle and quiet when examining the dog. It goes without saying that a good judge should have an excellent understanding of the function of the breed and be consistent in their placings.

WHAT DIFFERENCES DO YOU SEE IN THE JUDGES TODAY AS OPPOSED TO THOSE IN THE BEGINNING OF YOUR CAREER? Generally judges today are more familiar with the breed than when I started showing in 1976.

WHAT IS YOUR MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE AS A JUDGE? I love judging RR specialty shows and I have been lucky to judge in several countries around the world. It would be difficult to state one most memorable experience. I am, however, very excited about my appointment to judge the RRCUS National in 2024.

HOW HAS THE DOG SCENE CHANGED OVER THE LAST DECADES? I think with the introduction of social media and the associated free advertising of wins, that the

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Challenge Dog and RUBIS at the 2023 National in Brisbane – Aust Ch Chilolo BM Gold On The Moon

dog scene has become more political. Also I don’t think newcomers to the breed want to learn about the breed and different pedigrees to the same extent that people did 30 or 40 years ago.

HAVE BREED STANDARDS CHANGED VERY MUCH SINCE YOU BEGAN YOUR JUDGING CAREER? DO YOU SEE ANY DIFFERENCE IN RR OF TODAY COMPARED TO RR OF 10 YEARS AGO? IF SO, WHAT ARE THE BIGGEST DIFFERENCES YOU SEE? In my opinion, two of the biggest differences are too much length from stifle to hock and excessive movement. RRs must be moderate in their structure and some have become more extreme in angulation. However I think the best RRs 40 years ago could definitely hold their own in the ring today.

WHAT IS THE GREATEST THREAT TO RR TODAY? Popularity

IT’S INEVITABLE THAT BREEDS WILL EVOLVE AND CHANGE SOMEWHAT AS NEW GENERATIONS OF BREEDERS TAKE CHARGE. HOW CAN THE ESSENCE - OR TRUE BREED TYPE - BE MAINTAINED? With great difficulty. Everyone who breeds should be truly familiar with the breed standard

and original function. The standard was compiled by a group of people who wanted a particular type/style of dog to perform a particular function ie hunter (endurance/agility), guard and companion. We, as breeders, should adhere to the standard and not change it to suit ourselves.

WHAT WOULD BE THE MOST IMPORTANT SINGLE PIECE OF ADVICE YOU WOULD GIVE TO ALL SERIOUS YOUNG BREEDERS? Read the breed standard and be true to the requirements of the standard. Talk to older breeders and learn about the breed and become familiar with pedigrees.

INFO Name Rosemary Green Country Australia Affix Chilolo Email ridgebacks@chilolo.net.au

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KAROSKLOOF BREEDER

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DID YOU GROW UP WITH RHODESIAN RIDGEBACKS? IF NOT, HOW DID YOU GET INVOLVED WITH THE BREED? I grew up on a sheep farm in the Calvinia/Ceres Karoo in South Africa. The nature of the farming dictated that Border Collies would be the logical dog breed on the farm. I first became aware of the Rhodesian Ridgeback through stories told by the old farmers in the farming community. I was fascinated by the stories regarding the characteristics and descriptions of this breed. Of course it was decades before social media allowed me to search for “images of a Rhodesian Ridgeback.” I had to rely on my own sketches of a Rhodesian Ridgeback in my head!

Many years later I took our family pet, a Maltese, to the veterinary clinic for her inoculations. While there one of the local breeders visited the vet with a litter of Rhodesian Ridgeback puppies being a week or two old. At that moment the past and the presence came together! I saw my first Rhodesian Ridgeback for real AND I was hooked forever! This experience was followed up by a lot of research, reading, visiting dog shows, contacting and visiting breeders who had litters in and around Port Elizabeth.

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HOW LONG DID IT TAKE BEFORE YOU GOT YOUR FIRST RHODESIAN RIDGEBACK AND FROM WHICH KENNEL DID YOU GET YOUR FIRST RIDGEBACK? I think it was a year and a half after my experience with the litter of puppies at the veterinary clinic that I bought my first Rhodesian Ridgeback from Mrs. Obre van Heerden (Kulima Rhodesian Ridgebacks) in 1993. At that time Obre had a litter sired by the internationally well-known sire CH & CH (Zim) Globe’s Roving Red Regent. So, my first Ridgeback was a liver nose male by the registered name of Kulima Love That Red (aka Themba)

My second Ridgeback, a female, came from Bloemfontein. The well-known and well-respected Rhodesian Ridgeback breeder, Dr Steph Potgieter helped me to choose this puppy. Her name was Nomsa and she was sired by Dr Potgieter’s influential dog, CH Pronkberg Matange. Nomsa became the foundation bitch for my KUSA registered kennel, Karoskloof.

WHAT IS THE MEANING OF YOUR KENNEL NAME? Karoskloof is the name of the farm I grew up on. Roughly translated from Afrikaans (my home language) to English this would mean: “karos” a rug or blanket of sewn animal skins, “kloof” gorge.

CH Karos Nomsa of Karoskloof (aka Nomsa)at her first show

CH Kulima Love that Red of Karoskloof (aka Themba). My first Ridgeback

CH Karos Nomsa of Karoskloof

Karoskloof Mack’s Zandili She is the dam of CH Karoskloof Gizan Buka

Karoskloof Bayezana Zinzan at his 15th birthday with his young friend Karoskloof Grinzi Bugatti in 2012

CH Karoskloof TT Thandeka in the river of the Baakens Valley. She is the dam of CH Karoskloof Kordaat Kaptein

INT/NL/LUX CH Karoskloof TT Simply Red who won the Veteran Dog Class at Crufts in 2009

CH Karoskloof Mack’s Khaya Foundation bitch of Caladesi Rhodesian Ridgebacks in Germany.

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WHY KUSA (KENNEL UNION OF SOUTHERN AFRICA) REGISTERED DOGS? There are so many valid reasons for buying a puppy from an internationally accredited kennel union that we can write books about it. For the purpose of this article I want to focus on one of my main reasons namely the joy of owning a dog(s) for recreational and showing reasons. Up and until 1993 I was a fanatic squash player, I loved the outdoors and hiking in the mountains. An old neck injury from my youth put an end to my squash playing in 1992. Instead of playing squash for hours on a daily basis I was now walking my dog for hours in the picturesque Baakens Valley, minutes of walk from my home. One can take any dog for a walk but to experience a purebred Rhodesian Ridgeback in action in nature is therapy for one’s soul. Purebred dogs open the fascinating, challenging but also intriguing world of dog shows too.

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The highlight of my school career was the annual agricultural fair in September. My most precious memories of this time are embedded in the beautiful animals that were on display, the fierce competition among the exhibitors and also the camaraderie among all farmers. Showing my purebred dogs at championship level gave me something back of this wonderful time in my life. On top of that showing my dogs became a family affair with lots of bonding and relaxation.

Karoskloof Gizan Buka

C.I.B., Junior Champion of Russia, Junior National Club Champion, National Club Champion Champion of the Union of National Clubs, Russia, Lithuania, Slovenia, Belarus, Denmark, Finland, Poland, Estonia, Latvia, Romania, Baltic countries, Rkf, Grand Champion of Russia, Romania

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Karoskloof Kordaat Kaptein

JEW07, IntCH, Grand Ch.RUS , Ch.INT , Ch.BALT , Ch.LVA , Ch.LT Ch.CLUB, Ch.RKF, Ch.RUS , Ch.UKR, Ch.EST , JCh.RUS

CRUFTS-2010 = 5pls from 14 dogs (Open Class) Candidate for France, Hungary, Italy, San Marino, Slovakia, Switzerland, Austria Prize-winner of the European Championships 2007 and 2008, Vice European Champion 2010 BOBj “Eurasia – 2007” = Young Champion of Eurasia, BOBj IX National Exhibition, BOB X National Exhibition, “Golden Collar - 2007” – BOS, “Golden Collar - 2008” - BOB = Dog of the Year 2008, RFSS Champion

WHAT ARE YOUR MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT(S) IN THE SHOW RING? My two foundation dogs, CH Kulima Love That Red of Karoskloof and CH Karos Nomsa of Karoskloof championship titles were so dear to me. In 2000 a son of them, CH & CH (USA) Karoskloof Bayezana Naka was entered in the Orange Coast Rhodesian Ridgeback Specialty in Long Beach, California. A total of 132 Rhodesian Ridgebacks were entered on that day and I had the privilege to attend. I was enormously impressed by the massive scale on which the show was presented, but the most important was that “Naka” was awarded “Winners Dog”. The Best of Breed went to AM CA INT CH BIS; BISS Wetu of Kalahari ROM – one of my all times favorites!!

IN YOUR OPINION WHAT MAKES A GOOD BREEDER? As a preservation breeder it is the passion to strive for excellence, the humility to admit that you are still learning every day, honesty about one’s breeding program and the love for the breed as members of your family! I take great pride in the fact that I contribute to the protection and preservation of the purebred Rhodesian Ridgeback as South Africa’s National Dog!

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ARE YOU IN TOUCH WITH OTHER RHODESIAN RIDGEBACK BREEDERS?

Yes. In South Africa our pool of breeders is not as big as in Europe or the United States but I try to keep in touch with as many as possible. At the moment I find great satisfaction in mentoring young, upand-coming breeders.

DO YOU STUDY THE RHODESIAN RIDGEBACK COMMUNITY AND BREEDING ABROAD? Thanks to the internet it’s so much easier to keep up to date with what’s going on in the Rhodesian Ridgeback community on the international front. I especially follow the kennels that have based their breeding programs on some of my dogs with great interest. I am very impressed with what successful breeders achieve with their breeding programs and also the success they achieve in the show ring.

IS IT POSSIBLE TO MAKE A LIST OF 5 MALES AND 5 FEMALES THAT YOU HAVE BRED, WHICH

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Karoskloof Edel Zinzi Great granddaughter to CH Kulima Love that Red of Karoskloof and CH Karos Nomsa of Karoskloof

10. Karoskloof Edel Zinzi

11. INT/AUS/CRO/SLO/ CH Karoskloof Edel Bongili She also won BEST JUNIOR at World Specialty Show 2009 and multiple BOB’s 12. CH & CH (USA) Karoskloof Bayezana Naka (ROM) on the day he won “Winners Dog” at the Orange Coast Rhodesian Ridgeback Specialty in Long Beach, California on 29th July 2000. 13. Karoskloof WBR Allendi my current bitch 14. Karoskloof WBR Allendi 15. CH & GH (USA) Karoskloof Bayezana Naka (ROM) at his first show in South Africa

YOU THINK HAVE BEEN INFLUENTIAL IN THE BREED? The first male on the list will be CH (SA) & CH (USA) Karoskloof Bayezana Naka followed by CH Karoskloof TT Simply Red, CH Karoskloof B to Harjasalan, CH Karoskloof Gizan Buka, CH Karoskloof Kordaat Kaptein. My list of 5 females: CH Karoskloof Mack’s Khaya of Caladesi, CH Karoskloof TT Thandeka, Karoskloof Mack’s Zandili, Karoskloof Edel Zinzi, Karoskloof Duke’s Orange

HOW MANY DOGS DO YOU CURRENTLY HAVE? I have a bitch by the name of Karoskloof WBR Allendi and her son, a very promising young male, Karoskloof Roady’s Emerald

DO YOU THINK THAT THE RHODESIAN RIDGEBACKS ARE GOOD FAMILY DOGS? Yes, I truly believe that, because that is what I experience every day. They are very loyal with a great sense of humor.

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YOU ARE CELEBRATING THIRTY YEARS IN THE WORLD OF THE RHODESIAN RIDGEBACKS THIS YEAR. WHAT CONTRIBUTED TO YOUR SUCCESS AS A BREEDER?

Karoskloof Roady’s Emerald

(aka Duke) my young male and son of Karoskloof WBR Allendi

INFO Name Arno van Wyk Country South Africa

Affix Karoskloof www www.karoskloof.com email avwyk55@gmail.com

I was blessed to learn from the experienced breeders from the beginning. They were the ones who mentored, encouraged and guided me. I am forever thankful to Obre van Heerden (Kulima Rhodesian Ridgebacks), Jan en Joekie Visser (Johanesna Rhodesian Ridgebacks), Rob and Marlene Shephard (Foldsworth Rhodesian Ridgebacks), Dr Steph Potgieter (Pronkberg Rhodesian Ridgebacks) and Yvonne du Preez (Roodedraai Rhodesian Ridgebacks) and Janet Wang (Nomvuyo Rhodesian Ridgebacks). Without the support and motivation of my wife, Anke (Heshimayakimba Rhodesian Ridgebacks), nothing would have been possible.

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DHARUBA BREEDER

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“

In our kennel, every puppy born is

surrounded by a symphony of love, routine, and cleanliness, ensuring they lack nothing in their early days.”

My name is Iva Dekker-Jelavić. Together with my husband Marcel Dekker, our four Ridgebacks and our children Storm (12) and Pippa (11) we live in a small village called Standdaarbuiten in the south of the Netherlands. Our kennel is truly a family affair. The pups that are born in our home will lack nothing. Rest, cleanliness, routine, and love are what it’s all about. Our kids have already experienced a number of litters consciously and help out wherever they can. We pay a lot of attention to socialization and strive to provide an excellent foundation for the puppies before they move to their new homes.

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Our kennel name ‘Dharuba’ was established in 2012. Dharuba means ‘storm’ in Swahili and which is the name of our son. From 2013 until now, we have bred seven litters. We hope to expect the eighth litter in the spring of next year. I’ll spare you the story of how Marcel and i met in 2007. What is interesting is that we both already had a Ridgeback at that time. I had Ferro and he had Yara, both born in 2004. Ferro was a sweetheart of a dog, my first Ridgeback. I acquired him in a way that I would definitely not recommend now, but luckily it turned out well for him. Yara came from Hiba Jorianga kennel, bred by Herman Nijhuis with some beautiful dogs in her pedigree including Bongani (Karoskloof TT Simply Red). Because of Yara, I caught the show bug which later really manifested itself, also the ambition to breed a litter arose. Yara became Dutch and International champion.

and a half due to severe epilepsy. At that time, the JME test did not exist yet, so I cannot find out if that was the cause. It was terrible to see your dog suffer despite medication and to see how it affected the rest of the pack negatively. We had no choice but to let her go... So, in 2010, we acquired Kiya (Shayela Kinuka Ngwai Ravira) from Shayela kennel. With Kiya, we decided to give breeding another chance. I became more and more excited about the idea that I might be able to give others what Kiya and our other dogs had given us. I loved studying the dogs so I could get a clear picture of what I wanted to improve. I started planning how we, as a family, would approach it all if the mating succeeded. For the first mating, we used Kani (Malozi Jamboni) from Ilse Hulsebos. Eleven puppies were born – our 2013 PINK-litter. Despite all the chaos and craziness, we absolutely loved having puppies and watching them grow up. Breeding dogs is an experience that makes you grow as a person, whether you intend it or not. When I look back and think about how we started and

When it comes to breeding with Yara, luck was not on our side. She remained empty after mating with the Finnish male Maru (Tarujen Mabaru) and then when bred to Misha (Aresvuma Vividjo Makini) from Elly Veldman, we decided to let it be. In 2009, we went to Sweden to visit kennel Ghali and imported Xola (Ghali Grand C’Xola). A beautiful female with a lot of potential for the future. Unfortunately, she passed away at the age of one

DHARUBA COSMIC DUST - COLT

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“

I believe in the beauty

of simplicity. Despite challenges and setbacks, the pregnancies and deliveries have been smooth, and each pup, whether correct or incorrect, finds a loving family to lead a good life.” Colt winning Juniorclass at RRCN Specialty

where we are now... It is a huge difference and yet there is still so much to learn. For the second litter, our 2014 ROCK-litter, we used Chanzi (Madzinza Chanzi Chaniya), also from Elly Veldman, son of Aresvuma Vividjo Makini, from which 11 beautiful puppies were born.

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In 2013, we imported Cuba (Faira Gomba Kanzu) from Faira kennel (Olga Syalmova). Cuba is now 10,5 years old and unfortunately, I have never used him for breeding. When I had his DNA tested at Van Haeringen, it was discovered that he suffers from hip laxity on both sides. I had not consciously tested for this, but it was included in the package. Cuba was evaluated by the Dutch Kennelclub as HD-A and free of elbow dysplasia and was not in any pain or what so ever. I had never heard of hip laxity before. I contacted various breeders and Van Haeringen, and received confirmation in writing that hip laxity does not necessarily indicate any concrete problems or cause any issues. It was and still is quite vague. However, I couldn’t stop thinking about it. I couldn’t pretend it didn’t exist, so when people inquired about breeding with him, I would inform them about his condition, causing potential female owners to back out. In addition to this, Cuba also has a challenging temperament – let’s just say he’s very spirited. This led us to the decision of not using him for breeding. It was a tough lesson learned. I feel a great responsibility towards any combination made as both a female and male owner, and this is something I could not support.

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Currently, our pack consists of Cuba (Faira Gomba Kanzu), 10,5 years old; Sansa (Dafina Wa Afrika Mwali Tatu), 7 years old bred by Elly Veldman; Naru (Mafinga Inaru Ijaba), 6 years old bred by Martine Harm; and Colt (Dharuba Cosmic Dust), almost 3 years old. With Sansa, we have bred three litters; our 2019 States litter sired by Moos (Villagedogs Mystic Joe Black) from Carlo Barendregt,

Faira Gomba Kanzu - CUBA

One of Sansa’s daughters, Luca (Dharuba That Arizona Sky, out of our States-litter) owned and loved by our friends Fam. Janssen had a litter in 2022 sired by Meneer de Bruin (Saimon’s Pride Fabulous Hero) from Nevra Sonmez. I was closely involved in this. It is so valuable to see them grow up and to see what this combination has brought.

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our 2020 Time litter sired by Benson (N’Gai Zamu Camarro Vengeance) from Katja Mateboer, and our 2022 Viva La Vida litter sired by Mawi (Hiru Masawi G’Musana Manwe) from by Tereza Dušková.

“

Puppy buyers are not

just clients; they are part of our extended family. The goal is to breed dogs Dafina Wa Afrika Mwali Tatu - SANSA

that enhance the quality of life for both the owner and the furry companion, fostering strong bonds.”

MAFINGA INARU IJABA - NARU

“

Gratitude is the

cornerstone of our journey. From close friends among

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puppy owners to the invaluable guidance of experienced breeders like Elly Veldman, we cherish the connections that enrich our love for this beautiful breed.”

With Naru, we had the following litters; 2020 Universe litter sired by Chanzi (Madzinza Chanzi Chaniya) from Elly Veldman, and 2022 Whiskey litter sired by (Benji) Maanhaar Primo-Creatus Fateful Benjamin from Alena Gebrová. Colt was born in our hands in 2020 from the combination of Chanzi (Madzinza Chanzi Chaniya) X Naru (Mafinga Inaru Ijaba). I instantly fell in love with his dark face and open attitude. He reminds me of his father Chanzi in terms of looks. He enjoys being in the showring and I enjoy showing him. He is now a Belgian Junior Champion, Champion of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Champion of Federation Bosnia and Herzegovina, Summer Winner 2023 and we are on our way to achieving the International championship as well as the French and Belgian championships. In early 2024, I hope to have a repeat of our 2022 Whiskey-litter (Benji - Ch. Maanhaar Primo Creatus Faithful Benjamin X Naru - Mafinga Inaru Ijaba). It will be the first time I am repeating a combination. I am very satisfied with how the puppies are growing both in terms of their structure and character. Two puppies (Wengé - Dharuba Imperial Blue and Scott - Dharuba Fireball Cinnamon) can often be found at shows and are achieving really nice results. I am very proud of them, as well as of all other Dharuba puppies. If everything works out well, I’m very curious to see how this 2.0 version will work out. If you’d ask me how my ideal Ridgeback would look like I find it hard to describe. Over the years

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my thoughts about that have changed. I am a sucker for good movement. A good strong topline. Strong, but elegantly built. Well angulated (in balance) and therefore athletic. A nice characteristic head. But I think this is very general… Don’t we all strive for this? The dog just needs to have a WOW factor to get my attention. Then I will look further. I feel fortunate that all the pregnancies and deliveries of my bitches have been smooth. We have bred both correct and incorrect pups, but we have found loving families for all these pups where they lead really good lives.

they have because otherwise they might not be able to provide the quality of life to the puppy that I have in mind. For each litter, I have a WhatsApp group and I am available 24/7. Our goal is to breed a dog that improves the owner’s quality of life and vise versa. There must be a good match between us and the puppy buyer, as well as between the puppy and the buyer. In addition to doing our best to contribute to the preservation of the breed for the future, both internally and externally.

In my opinion, we are going too far with testing dogs and unnecessarily excluding them. Our gene pool is already so small. Why make it even smaller with tests that are not 100% accurate, such as RR IVA and ridge genes? And even then... do we need to know everything? I don’t think so. Of course, health is paramount, but let’s use our common sense above all.

I am very grateful for the contact I have with our puppy owners, some of them have become really close friends, and to the stud owners. I am also grateful for Elly Veldman who has been listening to my questions, problems, complaints, and moments of happiness for years. She is always willing to share her knowledge with anyone, even though her health has been failing lately. It is invaluable to have an experienced breeder close to you when you start this adventure.

My puppy buyers are very important to me. I know that I need to prioritize them and the questions

Hopefully, we can enjoy our beautiful breed for many more years!

“

Breeding dogs is not just a passion; it’s an experience that makes

you grow as a person. From the chaos of litters to the joy of seeing them grow, it’s a journey of continuous learning.”

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INFO Name Iva Dekker-Jelavić Country The Netherlands Affix DHARUBA www dharuba.com

email info@dharuba.com

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JUPI-LIS BREEDER

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Me and my four current dogs Hekla, Pago, Saba and Hedda

My name is Rica Jakovlew and my family and I live just outside Stockholm in Sweden. My household today consists of me, my partner, our two (almost grown up) children, two cats, a horse and four Rhodesian ridgebacks. This is my history from a RR-perspective. Hope you enjoy it!

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My family has always been fond of animals so naturally I grew up with both dogs and cats (and horses) in our household. When I was six, our dog at that time – a Great Dane named Linda – died of old age. My parents thought we should wait a while before purchasing a new dog and when we were ready we should acquire a dog of a smaller breed than a Great Dane. When I was nine I started nagging on my parents for a new dog. They finally agreed it was time. At that time there was no internet so we relied on reading a magazine called “the yellow paper”. Its only purpose was to hold advertisements on all kinds of stuff. The procedure was that we read a puppy ad, looked up the breed in a book of different breeds and if it seemed to fit us we contacted the advertiser and went to look at the pups. All of our attempts failed though as there was always something wrong with the different breeds. One breed was too small, another was too energetic and so on. One day we found an ad of a Rhodesian ridgeback puppy for sale. This was a breed we’d never heard of as we looked it up in our dog-book we fell in love instantly. I still remember one particular sentence in the book. It said “If you have a large diamond this is the breed you need to guard it”. So we contacted the breeder and went to look at the puppy. Back in that time Ridgebacks were not very common in Sweden. There were approximately 400 registered individuals. We drove what seemed for hours on narrow roads and through thick forests before we came to a farm with all kinds of animals. When we parked our car and got out of it a big, reddish brown

Ridgetime Elin, our first Ridgeback

dog and two smaller ones came jumping over a fence and the big one was growling menacingly at us. The owner came out, told the dog to stop and it did so immediately. One of the smaller ones was the puppy that was for sale. At four months of age she was already quite large but so adorable. That same day Ridgetime Elin came home with us and a new era of our life started. Elin was not the prettiest of Ridgebacks as she – according to the few judges that saw her – had too much white on her chest but had an outstanding mentality and quite an interesting pedigree with old english and further back - south african lineage. She was a very typical Ridgeback temperament wise. Elin came with us everywhere and was the best family dog anyone could have asked for.

The history of Jupi-Lis kennels Before we purchased Elin both my mother and I used to help my maternal aunt Pirjo with her dogs as she was very active in the doggie community with showing and breeding American cocker spaniels. As we didn’t have any own dogs at the time we used to borrow dogs from my aunt but the breed wasn’t right for us and that is why we never purchased our own “Amris” as they are called here in Sweden. Pirjo bred American cockers under the prefix Jupi-Lis. The

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Our foundation bitches – Ch Jupi-Lis Zorayah and Ridgetime Elin. Photo by Veronica Thorén

Ch Jupi-Lis Zorayah and me in 1998 after she gained her championship. Photo by Veronica Thoren

Ch Jupi-Lis Insomnia. Photo by Miia Lemmetyinen

name was established at FCI in 1986 and was made up from the first two letters from her husband’s name (Juhani), her own (Pirjo) and lastly her foundation bitch (Linda). Pirjo unfortunately passed away from cancer in 1991. When the idea of breeding Elin occurred we were told by several people that to appear as a reputable breeder one should have a kennel prefix. So we researched how to apply for a kennel prefix. It seemed like time consuming work though and what should we call our upcoming kennel? We had no idea. Then I got the brilliant idea to check if it was possible to “take over” a kennel name from someone else. This was possible if we got a “go ahead” from my aunt’s widower so we asked him if we could “take over” the kennel name of Jupi-Lis and he gladly agreed, happy that someone was able to continue the legacy. That is how we ended up with the kennel name Jupi-Lis.

Fuji, Etna and Misti

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Now we could start planning our first litter. We contacted the breeding advisor at SRRS (Swedish Rhodesian Ridgeback Society) who told us what we had to do and also gave us a couple of names to owners of potential sires that she thought would suit our bitch well. That is how I first came in contact with Veronica Gomes-Hansson (now Thorén) of Rex Ventors kennels. At the time she wasn’t a breeder and had no kennel prefix. She was simply a very nice woman and owner of a stunning male ridgeback called Isak (Ch Djungelkattens Imbue Ridged Isak). Veronica agreed to lend out Isak to us and it resulted not only in a lovely litter of puppies but later on also in a lifelong friendship between myself and Veronica. The 16th of May in 1996 Elin gave birth to the first Jupi-Lis Ridgeback litter which consisted of 5 puppies. From that litter we kept a bitch puppy called Zoya (Ch Jupi-Lis Zorayah). Zoya was a pretty girl with excellent mentality. Veron-

Afrodite a.k.a Misti and me. Photo: Sunna Kivisalo

ica, together with her good friend Carina Pergren (owner of the most successful show Ridgeback in the 1990’s MultiCh Parih’s Ghali M’Zungu) helped me pick out the best puppy in the litter and later on also encouraged me to show her. Zoya was a very showy girl and loved to strut her stuff in the ring. Me and Veronica travelled together around Sweden, Norway and Finland. I showed Zoya and she showed Zoya’s dad Isak. Zoya gained her Finnish and Norwegian championship at the earliest possible day - the same day she turned two years of age and that is also when I started researching a male for Zoya’s first litter. At the same time I got in contact with a breeder in Canada, Steven Woodham of Rindurr kennels who due to this time sadly has passed away. How I came in contact with him in the first place I don’t remember. I was just a 17 year old girl at that time so that is probably why I got so excited about an overseas breeder showing interest in

I am very grateful to Steven, his wife Corinne and their two, at the time, young sons who took such good care of me, let me tag along and also stay almost for free with them for most of the summer. I will cherish those memories forever.

Karoskloof Edel Impi a.k.a Fuji at his first puppy show

Before I went to Canada, I had contacted a male-owner in Norway who’s male I wanted to use for my Zoya. We agreed that it would be a good match but in the middle of my stay in Canada I got an email from the owner of the male that she had made up her mind and didn’t agree on the mating anymore. I got a bit panicked as I was so far away and Zoya was due to come in heat very soon after my arrival back in Sweden. So what to do? I reached out to my good friend Veronica who helped me find a new suitable male and that is how she and I found the lovely dutch male MultiCh Maxim Dagmar who thus became the sire of Zoyas first litter. That litter was born in November 1998 and resulted in 9 puppies (3/6). One of the bitch puppies (Jupi-Lis Zareba at Rindurr) was exported to Rindurr kennels in Canada.

my measly dogs. Steven was looking for new bloodlines overseas and it resulted in first Veronica (who at that time had her first litter) exporting a male puppy to Steven and after that me going to Canada in the summer of 1998 as a live-in guest/kennel help. I stayed In Canada for the whole summer and got heaps of experience as we (me and the Woodham family) travelled around in their motorhome both in Canada and USA to different dog-shows. I got lots of handling experience and met lots of new friends in the American/ Canadian Ridgeback-community. The most exciting thing we did was going to the RRCUS 67th national specialty in Batavia, NY.

A while after that, in April 2009, I met a man, Mikael, who subsequently ended up as my partner in life. From the beginning he put up with all my crazy doggie-ideas and when I announced that I was to breed Zoya again he offered me his help, blissfully unaware of how much work a litter of puppies can be. Zoya had her second litter in February 2000 and her third litter in February 2003. From the second litter we kept two puppies (Jupi-Lis Zerafia “Teide” and Zilverado “Silver”) and from the third litter we kept one of the bitch puppies (Jupi-Lis Insomnia).

I got to show some dogs at the national specialty – for example the young Rindurr’s Tannenbaum who I liked very much. I don’t remember if we got any placements but the classes were very big, so probably not.

From her last litter I sold one of the three bitch puppies to the owner of the sire and the other bitch puppy was sold as a pet

Fuji as a youngster

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I will always remember my time in Canada and USA fondly and hopefully I can go back one day and meet even more friends and maybe even bring a puppy back with me.

although she was correct in every way, but the buyer was not interested in showing.

MultiCh Jupi-Lis Isolde. Photo by Susanna Martell.

A couple of years later the owner of the “pet” thought it would be fun to show a bit and entered the bitch – now an adult – at a show and not any show – she was entered at the international dog show “Swedish winner 2006” and made a grand slam. She won BOB under breed judge Zola Lawson and later on BIG-1 gaining her first CAC, CACIB and also the title of Swedish winner 2006. After that the owner really got interested in showing and in only 6 more shows “Smilla” aka Jupi-Lis Isolde gained her first title. She later on gained the titles of C.I.B, Nordic champion, Nordic winner 2007 and Swedish and Norwegian game tracking champion. She also became the foundation bitch of Kennel Lejonessa in Sweden. The sister “Etna” (Jupi-Lis Insomnia) that stayed on at us was unfortunately not at all interested in showing. Instead we focused on working and she gained her Swedish game tracking championship easily enough. Unfortunately when it came for her to take over the legacy from her dam, we didn’t succeed. We tried to breed her twice but she never got in whelp and was supposedly infertile.

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Puppy Hekla and uncle Fuji

At this time Teide had moved to my parents to keep her grandmother Elin company and Silver adopted himself to my older brother. I started researching for a new puppy and as I have always been not just crazy and interested in doing outrageous things and like to be a pioneer but also kind of a “pedigree nerd” and know exactly what I want in terms of lines and which dogs I want to avoid in a pedigree, I thought that it would be a great idea to import a puppy from the country of origin - South Africa.

Saba and me at SRRS clubshow in 2023

It seemed quite complicated and also immensely expensive but hey – why not? When I get an idea I try to go through with it if possible. I somehow got in

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Uwanja’s Jifunza Kiswidi a.k.a Hekla

Hekla and my daughter Ellen at SRRS clubshow in 2023. Photo by Elin Kim

Me and one of the puppies in our 2022 litter

Pago and my daughter Ellen at SRRS raceday. Photo by: Elin Nylander

contact with Mr. Arno van Wyk of Karoskloof kennels in SA and expressed my interest in a puppy from him. At that time I had fallen in love with his bitch “Zandili” (Karoskloof Mack’s Zandili).

Instead I found a litter that was to be born in Finland soon. The dam Parkanäs Manyara was related to my Zoya as her maternal grandfather was a half-brother to her. Misti (Afrodite) came to live with us in the summer of 2007.

In between all this life happened. My partner and I became parents. First to a son, David, in 2003 and then to a daughter, Ellen, in 2006. Life became very busy. Half a year before my daughter was born my mother, who was a part-owner of the kennel and also a large help with both the dogs and my son, passed away due to cancer. Life became even busier.

A year later, in the spring of 2008 I was contacted by Arno van Wyk again. He was to repeat the litter from 2007 and wondered if I was still interested? Of course I was! But how? The regulations in Sweden were the same and I was still not ready to put a puppy in quarantine. Arno joked and said “A shame you don’t live in Russia. It seems easier to export to that country”. So I researched it and he was right. To import to Russia you didn’t need to quarantine. So my dad, who was of Russian descent, came up with an idea. Why not send the puppy to Russia to live with a family friend there for the time it took to vaccinate and do a titretesting on the puppy and then send it to Sweden?

In 2012 I finished my law degree and pursued a career in real-estate law. With small children and a busy career time was of essence and the doggy business naturally had to take a step back. I still had my dogs and activated them accordingly but did not breed and did not participate much in shows or competitions.

So that is what happened. In August 2008 the litter was born and thereafter –Fuji aka Karoskloof Edel Impi – started his journey for his new home in Sweden. He flew from Port Elizabeth SA to St. Petersburg in Russia. After a couple of months there he was free to travel to his final destination here in Sweden. The journey was long and very expensive but I got what I wanted – a Ridgeback from the country of origin. Fuji was worth it all even if I thought that I would never do something as crazy as that again. I’m so thankful to Arno who let me have one of his precious puppies and sent me heaps of pictures when I was waiting for my puppy to be able to travel.

Life went on and in May 2018 Misti died very suddenly. She was old but I thought I could have her a little while longer. We were all a bit shocked and Fuji most of all as he had never been a lone dog. At the same time as I announced Mistis death on Facebook I was contacted by Minna & Jari Fält of kennel Uwanja’s in Finland. Their foundation bitch Athena was a litter sister to our Misti and we had had some contact over the years.

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Arno told me that Zandili had been mated and if I wanted I could get a male from that litter. Unfortunately it fell through as I found out that the puppy would have to be quarantined for over 4 months in order to be able to come to Sweden. This was something I wasn’t prepared to let a puppy go through, so I told Arno that I was very sorry but that it wasn’t possible.

how to someday import a new South African.

Fuji was a lovely, happy go lucky dog and very handsome. I had big plans for him. I started showing him as a puppy and he was BOB in all of his puppy outings. Unfortunately he got anaplasmosis (a tick disease) when he was about 1,5 years old and it went undetected for a while. One day he got very sick with high fever and went to the ER where we found out about the illness. He had to have antibiotics for a long time and even if he recovered at last the illness unfortunately left some cognitive problems which made him a bit irrational at times. After a while I tried to introduce him to the show ring and game tracking scene again. Unfortunately he wasn’t at all comfortable with that, so I decided that he didn’t have to endure those things anymore. He lived happily and comfortably as our beloved pet until he had to be euthanized due to severe lung cancer in june 2020 at the age of almost 12 years. I got a few inquiries about him for breeding over the years but as he didn’t have a lot of fancy titles most people backed away and the rest backed when I told them about his cognitive problems – even if they weren’t hereditary people didn’t want to take the risk. Hindsight is of course 20:20 and as I actually bought Fuji to be able to breed to my Misti and she too ended up being unsuitable for breeding I didn’t think much of it but I should of course have saved frozen semen from him as he was otherwise healthy and had a very rare pedigree. That way I could have used him myself at a later date if I wanted to. When I bought Hekla it was already too late as Fuji unfortunately got a testicular tumor prior to that and had to be neutered. This is of course something I really regret today and being the crazy woman that I am I once again started plotting for

Their bitch Kila (Uwanja’s Kilasi ya kwanza) had just had a litter of puppies a few days earlier. Kila is a granddaughter to Athena. There were two correct females in the litter and they offered me one of them. The other one they were to keep for themselves. I wasn’t really looking for a new dog at the time as I’d kind of decided to not have any more dogs. My plan was to keep Fuji till he passed away and then buy myself a horse instead. My daughter Ellen already had a pony, Teddy, but my plan was to buy myself a stunning Trakehner or budyonny gelding and then we could ride together. I told the rest of my family about the offer from Jari & Minna and they all thought we should go for it. In the end I couldn’t resist

Like I said. I had no plans on ever breeding Hekla. My life had been hard enough for a couple of years and my priorities were elsewhere. My daughter, 15 years at the time, showed a lot of interest though so in the end I decided that if I found a male that I felt was “all that” then I would make an attempt to breed her. I started my research for a suitable male for Hekla. It is so much easier today with the internet and Facebook. I have always been very interested in pedigrees and I know which lines I like and which I don’t. I try to avoid the “matadors” as much as I can and even if I of course like the sire to have titles, the temperament and overall soundness is much more important for me. Pago a.k.a Jupi-Lis Forget me not

and that is how Hekla (Uwanja’s Jifunza Kiswidi) came to live with us. So now I had bought myself a new puppy who was beyond gorgeous so I had to show her and then, if she was happy and healthy, breed her, right? Fate somehow didn’t want that as next spring catastrophe struck my family. In January 2019 we got a nasty virus called EHV-1 in our stables and many of the horses there fell ill and some even died. I didn’t have time to recover from all this before the second blow hit me when my dad suddenly died from a heart attack in May 2019. He was a healthy 67-year old man who hadn’t even retired yet. In the summer of 2019 I got the third blow when I got some issues with my own health and over the span of one year had to spend a lot of time in doctors’ offices and have multiple surgeries. To say that showing, breeding and other dog stuff was the last thing on my mind is certainly no exaggeration. Hekla was comfortable with being just a loyal companion though. She is a very sweet tempered girl who gets along with everyone – both people and other animals. She loves to cuddle up on the couch and is always with us at the stables and makes friends with both the horses, other dogs and people there. I did do a BPH with her and also X-rayed her hips and elbows. I was supposed to show her too but the pandemic stopped that as almost all shows here in Sweden were cancelled under 2020-2021. In 2021 I got an inquiry from Heklas breeders. Did I have any plans on ever breeding Hekla? At this point I did not.

I found the perfect match in Germany in the male “Sambo” (Wakati Mzuri Jazua Aike). I contacted his owner and she agreed that the match seemed pretty nice. Hekla was mated and she had her puppies in July 2022. She got 13 puppies (two bitches unfortunately stillborn. We kept two puppies at home and placed one on breeders terms. Our plan was from the beginning to only keep a bitch puppy. I had four correct bitches. One was to go to Finland to Hekla’s breeders and when Sambos owner saw the first stacked pictures of the puppies she decided that she also wanted one of the bitch puppies. I had many favorites over the weeks but one of them – Miss Magenta was always at the top. Miss Magenta was the one who ended up with us and she is now called Saba (Jupi-Lis Lily of the Valley). We also kept a male. He wasn’t supposed to stay with us but I just couldn’t part with him.

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They told me that the bitch they kept from Heklas litter wasn’t suitable for breeding and for the bloodline of Hekla’s grandmother Kiara (Ch Uwanja’s Ruby) to not die they wished for me to breed Hekla and that they hopefully could have a bitch puppy from that litter?

Pago – as he is called – (Jupi-Lis Forget me not) was born as the runt of the litter weighing in at only 270 g. When he was only 4 days old he crashed and almost died. The ER-veterinarian told me that the only thing they could help us with was to put him down. This was of course not an option so me and my daughter Ellen, who has been an immense help with the puppies, worked the whole night to keep him alive. As he was so small we kept him under scope for a long time, prioritized his feeding, weighed him every day and I even carried him in my bra to ensure he was warm enough. This of course gave us a special bond and made it impossible for us to sell him when time came to find new owners. Pago is a very happy dog. He is the family’s clown. Very goofy and loves everyone and all the attention he gets. He is very special to us. Pago was actually my gift to my daughter Ellen who turned sixteen just 10 days before the puppies were to be delivered.

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Like I said before. One of the puppies went to Finland to kennel Uwanja’s and one to Germany to daddy Sambos owner. I also exported a male to Finland to kennel Parkanäs who is the breeder of Mistis mum Parkanäs Manyara and thus the great-grandmother of Hekla. I kept a male on breeder’s terms and hopefully we can see these youngsters make their mark in the Ridgeback world in the future. The puppies turned 1 year this summer and they are all developing very nicely and are so far healthy both in body and in mind.

Our latest South African-import Hedda a.k.a Amberhall High on emotion by Everest

Do you remember that I said I was plotting for a new South African? Well, it started off with me contacting Elisabeth Nordh Beccaro at Amberhall Rhodesian Ridgebacks in South Africa in 2022. I had been following her for a while and fell in love with her male Ch, GR Ch Amberhall Cintsangu. I asked her if it was possible for me to import some semen from him? Elisabeth agreed and beyond

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our business we also formed a friendship. Somehow it also ended up with me purchasing a puppy from her and after long preparations Hedda finally arrived in Sweden at the end of August 2023. Hedda, formally known as Amberhall High on emotion by Everest is out of Karoskloof SP Everest who is actually a grandchild to my Fuji’s littermate Zinzi and the dam is the stunning Amberhall Ariella. With her exquisite pedigree and loving character I hope she will make her mark in the Ridgeback scene in Europe. I must say that I have really found my way back now and am already planning for Heklas next litter – which will hopefully be in the spring of 2024 (sire to be announced) - and all the shows and competitions we will attend with our youngsters. My daughter is very excited too and it is so cool to see her enthusiasm. I was the same age as her when I started my Ridgeback journey and I’m planning to make her a co-owner of the kennel the day she turns 18. Hopefully we can breed together and then maybe one day she will take over the legacy when I am too old to do so anymore. Best friends Hedda a.k.a Amberhall High on emotion by Everest and Saba a.k.a Jupi-Lis Lily of the valley.

INFO Name Rica Jakovlew Country Sweden Affix Jupi-Lis kennel www www.lejonhund.com email kennel@lejonhund.com

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DELLE CIME BIANCHE BREEDER

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Giovanna With K2 Delle Cime Bianche

I was born and raised in the big city of Milan, Italy: in the family, I was the one who was very much “dog orientated”. As hunting was one of the family’s sports, working dogs and specifically German Shorthaired Pointers, were the heroes in the house, even though not living in our city home with us. I managed to get my own dog at the age of 10: a red English Cocker Spaniel, the most un-Cocker like specimen, unfriendly and a real fighter, but he was a fantastic hunter and I loved him dearly. Milan is a big city, but not for me: as soon as possible I started running off to different shores and in 1969 on a trip through Africa I met my husband to be, a real British gentleman born and raised in Zambia and South Africa and deeply involved in wildlife: this was the start of my life split between the two continents.

Rhea with pups

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When based on the shores of Lake Tanganyika, we started different activities, a crocodile farm, a tropical fish export business, and a fishing company: being a tze tze fly area only local dogs could be around us, beside our cats. From the lake we often went visiting our family in the Luangwa valley and this is where I first came across with a ridged dog: not a Rhodesian Ridgeback, but a small basenji type scruffy little thing, one of a pack of the very popular village dogs of the Luangwa Valley. The Valley is the last part of the Great Rift that runs through the central-eastern part of the African continent. This area is so well isolated from the higher lands around it and so well looked after, most of it being part of a National park, that animals of all kinds are full residents of the area and have very little outside contact. This is why it is not uncommon to see within the population of village dogs some specimen holding a ridge of their back, probably inherited from ridged dogs hunting in the area with some sportsmen. This fascinated me so much that I started to enquire about

“

I find really fascinating to identify first hand

the temperament of each puppy, beside this being a key instrument to match every pup to the right owner.”

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this fancy ridge, also not uncommon in many of the African game. During a trip to South Africa we visited a breeder who had bred the bitch, Ch. Mpani’s Russet, bred by Mylda Arsenis of the Mpani kennel, to the then top winning dog Ch. Shangara’s Checheni, aka Paco, bred by Brian and Liz Megginson of the Shangara kennels. Among the 12 pups of Paco and Russet, Rhea came towards us carrying a dish bowl........she ended up in our vehicle and at last I had a purebred Rhodesian Ridgeback on my side. Her call name was Crystal which turned out to be very appropriate: a natural hunter and charismatic show dog, she was a super devoted friend and guardian, enjoyable companion during the long trips through Africa and back and forth to Europe. She was successful in the show ring, acquiring many championship titles, Italian, Austrian, International Champion and World Winner 1986. I bred her three times to Mushana Gororo, Mushana Sabhuku and Stamland Alder and as a super brood bitch she produced a total of 48 pups. The market for this exotic breed was very poor at the time: difficult to find suitable owners. It is very different nowadays, when the danger of mass production for money, sometimes poorly mislabelled as professionalism, is not a threat, but an unfortunate reality and as a result the grading of the potential owners is no longer the must: many unfortunate dogs end up requiring rescue.

Dinka delle Cime Bianche with Giovanna

In the meantime, in 1978, I was granted my kennel name, delle Cime Bianche, the name of an area in the Italian Alps, in front of the Matterhorn, where my Italian family owned a fantastic home, our favorite site for summer hiking and winter skiing. In 1981, while on vacation in Italy, shopping in a small town on lake Maggiore I met by chance a German lady, Mrs. Rosy Brook-Risse, of the Johokwe kennel, and, as Ridgeback people were used to, we started chatting and the

Xenia delle Cime Bianche aged 11 years

result was that we became best friends ever after. We shared the love for Africa and the Ridgebacks and many memorable moments go through my mind: at the first Rhodesian Ridgeback World Congress in Johannesburg in 1984 we met most of the old leading African and European RRs breeders, from Major Hawley of De Holi RRs to Mylda Arsenis of Mpanis, Steph Potgieter of Pronkberg, Phyllis McCarthy and Laurie Venter of Glenaholm, Lionhill and Maxwood, Liz and Brian Megginson of Shangara, Janet Murray of Ulundi, Brenda Yates of Isimanga, Annemarie Jones Schleicher Ridgeway, Jack and Eileen Selby Eilack, Nalle and Bea Carlson and many others.

To be a good breeder you need: to be

very patient, never to lose your heart when failing, to be very humble and seek advice from those with more experience, and know that there is always something to learn, to aim to produce physically and psychically healthy subjects, leaving money and personal feelings on a side when selling your pups, to be honest also and above all with oneself, to be ready for sleepless nights and to forget about holidays because some emergency can always happen, to be aware that it is not enough to mate two ‘champions’ to produce a lot of small ‘champions’, and last but not least, to be very lucky!”

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Sadly, our business on the lake was suddenly nationalized, we had to move out quickly and started a different life on a farm, where we finally could enjoy the dogs leading the lives they were bred for: going off hunting at dusk and dawn. The dog Sa delle Cime Bianche, (Rhea x Mushana Gororo), not unlike many RR hated the show ring , but was a great hunter. Among his hunting activities the most

“

Ruby delle Ciime Bianche on the ring in Zimbabwe

Malkia and Muthi delle Cime Bianche coursing

Puck delle Cime Bianche

K2 delle Cime Bianche Club show Zagreb 2014

Zahama and Fathi delle Cime Bianche

Daruma delle Cime Bianche handled by Lorella Conti

Zahama delle Cime Bianche

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Ercole delle Cime Bianche IDS Florence 2001 BIS 2nd

Weatherly and Kalema delle Cime Bianche

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remarkable one was the kill of a 5 foot black necked spitting cobra (naja nigricollis): such an agility is a must in a breed that has to face all sorts of encounters in the bush. This can surprise us when we see how, on the other hand, they laze around on our sofas. Sometimes, when work and time allowed us, we used to attend dog shows mainly in Zimbabwe: at the time competition was really tough in the rings, nevertheless one of Crystal’s daughters, Ruby delle Cime Bianche managed to strike the interest of Mr Harold Spira, wellknown Australian veterinary surgeon, author of that lovely book “Canine Terminology”, and was awarded the CC. When in Harare, we used to stay with Margaret and Sammy Wallace, of the Mushana knls. I was lucky enough to be introduced and share friendship and knowledge with many of the old Rhodesian breeders, learning a lot about the breed, its history and the standard. In the mid 90’s I moved back to Italy and settled on a hill overlooking lake Maggiore and with the background of what I was taught in Africa and the friendship with some of the old Italian breeders I started breeding and

Rhea in front of the Cime Bianche mountain pass

showing regularly, wanting to disprove the old saying about the fortunes of the newcomers. Many show champions over the years carry the name delle Cime Bianche: Ruby (Stamland Alder x Rhea), Mahra (KwaMlimo Rafiki x Ruby) , Kaya (Sa x Mahra) just her appearance would fill the ring, her more refined daughter Xenia (Mushana Jamba x Kaya), Weatherly aka Elsie (Johokwe Mungu Chaka x Xenia) she would have been more successful in the ring only had she been a little less of a wild soul, Zahama (Danest Tjabo Letsasti x Muranga Gingi) a faultless queen in the ring, her daughter Fathi (Xibridge x Zahama), Kalema (Xibridge x Weatherly) my favourite star, Zena (Makamo x Zahama) another brilliant star and the boys Xibridge (Mushana Jamba x Kaya ), very seldom seen in the ring but my best stud, Makamo (Mehanna’s Meningo x Chamilla) a master in the ring, Ercole (Saturno x Xhama) not many like him!, Daruma ( Elluccky x Kalema) a superstar , and my most recent jewel Dinka ( Umlani Bhekabantu Badrani Baha x Kalema) and the recent sparkling star Puck (Umlani Fani Kipanga x Aria ).

Because the show scene has changed a lot recently I don’t find myself at ease in the ring anymore, so I have been concentrating more on the working aptitudes of the RR and specifically blood tracking: this is where one can definitely see the purpose of the breed and

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Over the years I think that through a wise blending of linebreedings and outcrosses, the dogs I breed have reached a consistent uniformity in type and temperament: that should be, in my opinion, the main aim of any breeder with special emphasis to good health, temperament and fitness for the original function of the breed.

Dinka delle Cime Bianche

also understand the reason for many details of the physical and mental characteristics required by the standard that make this dog fit for his main original function. Nevertheless, considering the variety of the stock involved in the origin of the breed, it is easy to notice individual differences in natural tendency and temperament within puppies of the same litter. I find really fascinating to identify first hand the temperament of each puppy , beside this being a key instrument to match every pup to the right owner. I like to remember what my Italian mentor, a well known Italian breeder of English Cocker Spaniels and Maremma Sheepdog, Franca Simondetti of the “Grandes Murailles” kennel, used to underline To be a good breeder you need: • To be very patient • Never to lose your heart when failing • To be very humble and seek advice from those with more experience, and know that there is always something to learn • To aim to produce physically and psychically healthy subjects, leaving money and personal feelings o knowing how n a side when selling your pups • to be honest also and above all with oneself • To be ready for sleepless nights and to forget about holidays because some emergency can always happen • To be aware that it is not enough to mate two “champions” to produce a lot of small “champions”, Kakuli and Mahra delle Cime Bianche

• and last but not least ….to be very lucky!

Zena delle Cime Bianche

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Kaya delle Cime Bianche

Mahra delle Cime Bianche with pup

INFO Name Giovanna Bacchini Carr Country Italy Affix Delle Cime Bianche www www.cimebianche.it

email info@cimebianche.it

Xenia delle Cime Bianche

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YA MWIBA BREEDER

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Paerdecroon I Am Hennor’s Idol (Jua), Paerdecroon Legenadry Looxs (Ruva) Picture by Leonie Huitema

Bart, Ruva and Evelien

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Picture by Marlies Trap

I am Evelien van Doorn and together with my husband Bart and our four children (Digna 12, Silvijn 11, Alinde 9 and Abel 7), five Ridgebacks and two ponies we live in Soest in the Netherlands. When we were asked to write a piece for in Rhodesian Ridgeback EU magazine we had to think twice. Most breeders featured in this magazine are experienced breeders who have already earned their credits in the breeding and show ring. We, however, are still novice breeders and we can only dream of much of what the breeders featured in this magazine have achieved. Bart and I both grew up with dogs at home and when we moved in together we very quickly got a dog. Our first dog was a standard wirehaired Dachshund, this is the breed I grew up with. A year after the first Dachshund, a wirehaired miniature Dachshund followed and when we bought a house with a large garden and close to the forest, the much desired Rhodesian Ridgeback could finally be added to our family. Our first Ridgeback Imani (Makeba’s Olympia Fan Under de Mune) is now over ten and truly turned

Alinde with Paerdecroon I Am Hennor’s Idol (Jua), junior handling competition, Picture by Mike Dols

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Ya Mwiba Sense and Sensibility (Dashwood) Picture by Leonie Huitema

out to be the most wonderful Ridgeback for our family. In 2018 our second Ridgeback came to live with us, Shanu, unfortunately we were only able to enjoy her for a very short time and had to put her to sleep at the age of ten months due to severe epilepsy. During the period when Shanu was ill, I took the course “Basic Breeding and Keeping of Dogs”. During that course, Edith Salm of kennel Paerdecroon told me that their bitch Henorr was expecting a litter. Father of the litter was Davidoff. Immediately my interest in a puppy from that combination was piqued. And after consulting with Bart, a week later, a little nervous, I asked Edith if they still had room on their waiting list. A few weeks later Bart and I were allowed to visit Henk and Edith for coffee to have a look at the, then still very young, puppies and to talk more extensively about breeding. Because selling a puppy with which we also had plans for breeding was, quite rightly, preceded by careful consideration. Fortunately Bart and I passed the careful selection and we are still very grateful for that every day. We now have three Paerdecroon dogs running around here. We are happy to start our breeding with these Ridgebacks. With our first Dachshund we bred a litter once, but because we ourselves had very young children and a growing business at the time, we stopped at that one litter. Under the same kennel name we used to breed with the Dachshund we also bred five puppies in two litters with Imani. That kennel name was really picked for the Dachshunds and we didn’t think it fitted the Rhodesian Ridgeback and that feeling didn’t disappear either. So we ap-

Paerdecroon Olympic On Top (Olly) Picture by Leonie Huitema

plied for our new kennel name Ya Mwiba (Swahili for ‘van Doorn’) in 2021. It felt like a good time for us because Imani would not have another litter and we could make a new start with our younger Ridgebacks without two litters of the same bitch having a different kennel name. We have only bred one litter under the kennel name Ya Mwiba and these dogs are now just one year old. That also means that we found writing a piece for this magazine not so easy, because what do we as a breeder who have not bred so much yet have to tell what interests other breeders and fanciers? As a novice breeder, I would like to learn as much as possible about the breed and dog breeding in general. Therefore, I have done several training courses and may start my training in 2024 on exterior and movement. In this training, I hope to learn even more about conformation and how it affects the dog’s movement and function. Ultimately, I hope this education is going to help in making good choices in breeding. As a true horse girl, I think proper movement is one of the most important things in a Ridgeback. Both Bart and I can really enjoy a Ridgeback that shows good movement. When standing, a good handler can still mask things, but when a dog is moving, someone with a good eye can see where the weaknesses are. That is also something I would like to learn, because it is something I find very important in breeding, besides of course good health and character, it is a good construction and therefore good movement. I was fortunate that because of my position on the board of the Rhodesian Ridgeback Club Netherlands, I was allowed to organize the training for the breed examinations for judges and to be pres-

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ent at the training. That training was very interesting, the breed standard was explained extensively in the morning and in the afternoon the aspiring judges were allowed to write a judging report on some Rhodesian Ridgebacks. These reports were discussed at the end of the day. Even though I was not an aspirant, I learned a lot during those days and enjoyed all the information I received. I consider myself fortunate to be able to attend in order to increase my knowledge of the breed and breed standard. Because I found these days so valuable, we as a Rhodesian Ridgeback club also organized a similar day for our breeders/members this year. This was a very successful day and definitely worth repeating. I think a good knowledge of the breed standard is the basis for choices a breeder makes in breeding. And precisely because the breed standard is so concise, there is much that is not explicitly described but is valuable to know. Ultimately, by learning a lot and going to shows a lot, I hope to develop my eye for a dog better and better.

Paerdecroon Legendary Looxs (Ruva) Picture by Marlies Trap

Picture by Leonie Huitema

Also with other questions about breeding or the breed we can always contact them. That seems obvious, but unfortunately it is not always so. There are enough novice breeders who unfortunately do not know where to go with their questions. And I think that is a shame because novice breeders are needed for the future of the breed. Everyone has started once and it is valuable and important to share knowledge and not let it get lost.

Paerdecroon I Am Hennor’s Idol (Jua)

Paerdecroon Legendary Looxs at the Dog of the Year Show 2022 Picture by Kynoweb

With our busy family, breeding and caring for the first eight weeks is really something we do together to combine the care for the puppies and for the children well. Fortunately, breeding and caring for a litter is something we enjoy immensely as a family. The children are already very much involved during pregnancy and, like us, are counting down to the ultrasound and then the birth. And once the puppies are here, the kids love to help where they can. The kids also never grumble when things can’t be done during the litter period because of the puppies. But we do not think it is fair to the children if our whole family life is at the service of the puppies several times a year, so for now we have decided that one litter a year is the maximum for us while the children are

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Paerdecroon I Am Hennor’s Idol (Jua)

Besides the fact that we still want and have to learn a lot, I am very happy that we can always fall back on Henk and Edith Salm with questions. They are experienced breeders and Henk is one of the Dutch breed specialists. If we have a combination in mind or if we have to choose which puppy to keep, we always ask their opinion and this weighs in the choice we eventually make. When they have a litter, we are always allowed to come and take a look and we usually do that when the puppies are around six to seven weeks old. Always the puppies are then shown in a stack and the question is asked ‘which one should it be?’ even with the litters we don’t get a puppy from. But by looking so critically more often, you learn every time again.

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still so young. Actually, we also only want to breed if we find the combination so interesting that we want to keep a puppy from that litter for ourselves. Always keeping something will not work, also because we do not want our pack to become too big, so in the future we will sometimes have to make difficult choices. Bart and I both enjoy showing immensely, that too is really a shared hobby. We even combine our annual family vacation in the summer with shows abroad. Fortunately, the kids don’t mind that at all. If they can swim during the day, they think it’s fine to go to shows in the evening. Especially our 9-year-old daughter Alinde has been infected with the show virus. She started junior handling with Jua this year. And those two are doing very well together in the show ring. A few weeks ago she and Jua won the Dutch Debutants Junior Handling Championship together. Bart, I and Jua’s breeders enjoy seeing those two working together in the ring. A Ridgeback who, in a busy environment like a show, lets a little nine-year-old girl show herself and focuses completely on her. For us this says something about the very nice character of Jua and that is worth so much. We hope that she and Alinde will enjoy being in the ring together for a long time and that Alinde turns out to be as obsessed with the Ridgeback breed as we are. Achieving success in the show ring is so much fun and we enjoy it. With Olly, but especially with Ruva, we have already achieved some successes. A big dream is to achieve these successes one day with a Ridgeback we have bred ourselves. Still, I think one of the best compliments you can get as a breeder is when people who have a Ridgeback from your kennel come to you again for their next Ridgeback and also send acquaintances to you. Because that means people are happy with the dogs you have bred. And in the end, that may

Makeba’s Olympia Fan Under de Mune winning BISS Veteran at the RRCN Championship, Clubmatch 2023

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with our 9 year old daughter Alinde. Alinde and Jua compete together in junior handling competitions and it’s great to see how sweet Jua does everything Alinde asks of her.

Our Rhodesian Ridgebacks:

Paerdecroon Legendary Looxs (Ruva). Ruva is now 3 years old and she has been successful at dog shows. She is now an International Champion, Champion of the Netherlands, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Slovenia. She has also been selected as Qualifier for Crufts three years in a row. In 2022 she won the title Winner of Winners. This is the title for the Rhodesian Ridgeback in the Netherlands that has performed best at shows throughout the year. In 2023, she won the title Holland Cup Winner. At home she is the one in the pack who thinks she should take care of everything and is always in front for cuddles and food.

Makeba’s Olympia Fan Under de Mune (Imani). Over ten years old now. With her we have bred two litters under a different kennel name and have also done some shows. Imani is a golden family dog and when the children were younger, she spent many hours babysitting them. Where the children were, Imani was. Paerdecroon I Am Hennor’s Idol (Jua), she is now 4.5 years old and had her first litter in December 2022. Jua is our elegant lady and always wants to do her best for you. Before her litter we had actually decided that she would no longer enter the show ring, but now she is in the ring

Our only male is Paerdecroon Olympic On Top (Olly). Olly is now 15 months and a wonderful adolescent. Last summer we showed him in several countries and he became Youth Champion everywhere we went. He is now International Youth Champion, Croatian Youth Champion, Slovenian Youth Champion and Youth Champion of Bosnia and Herzegovina. He also has the titles of Split Youth Winner and Istra Winner. And our youngest Ridgeback is Ya Mwiba Sense and Sensibility (Dashwood). She is now 11 months old and a daughter of Jua and the male Goliat. A wonderfully enthusiastic girl who is still immature. We are anxiously waiting to see how she will develop. She is the first puppy we have bred ourselves and kept.

INFO Name Bart en Evelien van Doorn Country The Netherlands Affix Ya Mwiba www ya-mwiba.nl email info@ya-mwiba.nl

Alinde with Paerdecroon I Am Hennor’s Idol winning the Dutch Championship Debutants Juniorhandling 2023 Picture by Mike Dols

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be even more important than the greatest successes in the show ring.

BREEDERS WORKING TOGETHER RESHAPING OUR SHOW EXPERIENCE

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Barbara Turpin

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breeding exhibits, what can the average breeder do?

You become further discouraged when lesser dogs are rewarded because of who is at the other end of the leash. It is a problem we see regularly in Canada and the US that is now taking hold in other countries.

Exhibitors, especially breeder exhibitors, were becoming exceedingly discouraged by the apparent nepotism leading certain judges to put up the same professional handlers time and again. In fact, it is not unusual for as many as five of the seven group winners to be from the handler who runs most of the shows now in my Province. How discouraging!

I’ve watched good breeders show less and less as a result. The argument from judges and handlers is, “Well, the handlers bring the entries.” Is that really so? In Canada, breeders and owners contribute $7 million to the Canadian Kennel Club’s annual budget--the bulk of their incoming funds by an astronomical margin. Further, we are seeing an increase in professional handlers running the shows, hiring the judges, and acting surprised when they are awarded Best in Shows. When making money and the pursuit of personal notoriety overtakes the purpose of presenting

Two years ago I began reaching out to other exhibitors, in various other breeds, to find out how they were feeling. Was I wrong in what I was seeing? Apparently not.

SO, WHAT IS THE SOLUTION? Before I tell you, a word of caution. If you want to organize breeders working together, you will put a target on your back. I’ve been blacklisted by many judges who fall into the nepotism category. I suspected that the unsavory handlers were telling judges not to reward my dogs. To test the theory, I would wear one colour of blazer and walk around the show, making sure that I was seen wearing that particular colour. Then, when it was

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icture yourself at a dog show. A group of professional handlers whoops and hollers for their colleagues in the ring, much to the delight of some judges. You are juggling multiple entries, getting flustered, and wondering why you are putting yourself through the experience just to prove your breeding stock.

my turn to show, I would switch blazers to a very different colour. Guess what? I won more if I did this trick. It should not be that we have to resort to such measures, but how else do we compete against blacklisting? I still remain a target and will now be showing in the USA more, where things aren’t nearly as bad as they are in BC, Canada. As I began reaching out, and commiserating with other exhibitors, I found my dog show experiences were becoming more rewarding--even if my dogs didn’t win. Every dog has his day, no?

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What started as two people ringside, supporting a friend in the ring, turned into three, four, and more. I saw exhibitors staying longer at shows, visiting each other more, and being a source of encouragement. And that was the turning point. By providing mutual support we were able to--not necessarily win more--but enhance our show experience. Thus, the Breeders Working Together network was born. I started a Facebook group with this name and immediately it became the target of those with something to lose if breeders worked together. Our group was accused of creating an usagainst-them scenario when, in fact, it was that scenario that prompted the formation of the group. We quickly learned that anyone making such accusations would be counterproductive to the group and they were removed. I won’t get into the myriad attacks I came under online and in person. It’s only relevant to say that it happened and was very unprofessional.

WHAT HAS BWT DONE TO MAKE CHANGES? • We began offering help to other exhibitors with multiple entries. This has been so rewarding for me as I get to know other breeds and breeders. Since forming the group I have had the privilege of showing Bull Terriers, Miniature Bull Terriers, Great Danes, Miniature Pinschers, Rottweilers, American Stafforshire Terriers, Maltese, and more. How fun is that?! • When one of our members took best of breed, we made every effort to get to ringside to cheer them on to counteract the whoops and hollers of the pros. As a result of this practice, we have actually seen a decrease in the disproportionate cheering done by pros. • We work together to provide dogs for our junior handlers who are competing at shows. Parents know that I can find them a good dog, appropriate for their child’s age and skill level. This also gives breeders and owners a chance to help cultivate a good handler from our perspective, and not just a professional perspective. Let’s face it, not every junior is going to turn pro. Many go on to become excellent breederexhibitors. • Online support has become a vital part of our network. We discuss everything from importing semen, arranging transport for dogs, or just sharing our successes and challenges. Going forward we are looking at doing breeder conferences to further support and educate each other. The tides are slowly changing, but it means not exhibiting to judges who only reward their friends, regardless of the quality of the entries. We can enrich our show experiences beyond the ribbons. Get to know people in other breeds. Offer your help. Encourage a junior. Join our network. As most of us are tightening our financial belts, be wise stewards of your entry fees. Stop giving your money to judges whose opinions hold little to no value. At the end of the day, it is the only way to send a message to judges that they are working against, and not for, the fancy at large.

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 www.rhodesianridgeback-clubdefrance.com facebook-square Rhodesian Ridgeback Club de France

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Ph otos by Club Archive

RHODESIAN RIDGEBACKS IN FRANCE A JOURNEY THROUGH TIME: THE EVOLUTION OF THE FRENCH RHODESIAN RIDGEBACK CLUB (1989-2023) The French Rhodesian club was founded in 1989 by Mrs. Robertson. 2 others presidents have been in charge of the club: Mrs.Marcello Carbo and Mr. Ch. Jouanchicot. Since 2014, I am (Anne Marie Marenco) honoured to be the president of the Rhodesian Ridgeback Club de France. One of the 1st club magazines was edited in 1990. Back then, 6 principal breeders were in the club: kennel de Vaudebon, kennel Lion ‘s Seal, kennel de Bonaguil (Mrs. Robertson), kennel du Camp de Tende, kennel du Hourc de Clarac et kennel de Teufelort. It is interesting to note that at that time, the RR was in group 8 FCI. As part of the international dog show of Paris in 1990, 7 RRs were entered and judged by Ken Cripps (Australia): the kennels de Clarac and de Bonaguil were present. Our 1st specialty show took place at Mulhouse in the spring of 1990 and the kennel de Teufelort began to show its dogs; and our 1st clubshow was held at Nevers on 1 September 1990. Please note that in 1991, Xrays were already recommended in France, but obligatory in Switzerland and Germany. At the Specialty show Le Bourget 26/01/1991: 8 RRs were entered. Speciality show Montpellier 1 April 1991: 9 RRs registered and 6 RRs present. On 31 December 1991, the club had 101 members with 103 RRs! At the championship of France in 1992, there were 6 RRs. And the club was already noticing that RRs were getting bigger and bigger, but their colour was really wheaten.

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Written by Anne Marie Marenco

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And also Test of natural aptitudes:

The club demands as well: not more than 3 litters for a bitch, the first litter not before 24 months old. In the year 2022, 93 litters were bred, corresponding to about 800 puppies. Half of these litters were bred by members of the club. But in France it is not an obligation to join the club to have a litter: One just has to obtain the definitive pedigree of the dog: 2 levels • a RR puppy registered in the French Book of Origins obtains a birth certificate • and it will obtain its definitive pedigree after the age of 15 months if it corresponds to the breed standard.

This is called confirmation: During a confirmation session or at a dog show, a breed judge examines the dog and ensures that the dog presented is in conformity with the morphological criteria typical of the breed, as well as the absence of eliminatory defects . To do this, he bases himself on the standard and on the points of non conformation = (official document etablished by the breed club and certified by the French Kennel Club which indicates the “non conformation points” of the breed which show obvious defects).

This rule is no longer applies and we now have around 100 RRs at our club shows.

The club also establishes a quotation for breeding, approved by the French Kennel Club, and which starts from quotation 1 (confirmed dog) up to quotation 6, which concerns RRs who obtain an excellent grading in shows and health tests.

Actually, the main objective of the club is to enforce the standard, the health tests required: hips, elbows and shoulders, degenerative myelopathy, locus D and JME.

The club organises a club show every year, inviting a breeder judge and also specialists to dog shows.

Over the years, there have not been too many entries for the club show and the rules required us to have at least 50 dogs entered to obtain the title of French Champion. What a worry for the club!

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The purpose of the tests is to test the breed specific instincts, sociability and balance.

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A challenge trophy can be won « challenge Maria Robertson « offered by Mr and Mrs Wintermantel (Teufelort kennel) to the BEST DOG OF FRENCH BREEDING to be won four times, with four different dogs belonging to the same owner. The challenge trophy will remain the property of the club until it is finally won.

To become French beauty champion In addition to the show requirements, you must also meet health tests: free of dysplasia ( hips A, B elbows O, and shoulders 0, health tests DM, Locus D, JME; Test of natural aptitudes, DNA identification. So the club and the French Kennel Club try to have dogs selected for breeding.

But unfortunately health and dysplasia tests are not obligatory in France to breed puppies with a birth certificate and so confirmed dogs without any health tests done, can breed in France. The French Kennel Club requires now that, before a mating, both future parents must have their DNA tests on file. The club does its best to inform and communicate on its website and FB page and with the help of members of the committee and our regional delegates. We have 190 club members at this moment. Some RRs in France are good hunters, good at searching on blood tracks. We have guide dogs for the blind, search dogs in debris, visitor dogs, and of course agility and tracking dogs.

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W R ITTEN BY A N N E M A R I E M A R E N C O , p r e s i d e n t o f t h e R h o d e sian Ridgeback Club de France

TAN

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TEST NATURAL APTITUDES

hese regulations were etablished to select within the French breeding, the subjects who meet the minimal requirements for every Rhodesian Ridgeback. Foreign RRs can participate in order to validate their French titles. The holdback events are intended to ensure the capacities of stability, sociability and specific instincts of the breed. Organisation Organized by the Rhodesian Ridgeback Club de France, under its own responsibility, these tests are open to all subjects, 15 months or older, without any maximum age limit, holders of a definitive pedigree. The dogs will be assessed by one or two test judges chosen by the Rhodesian Ridgeback Club de France Comittee, among the club’s members endowed with a specific knowledge of this breed.

TAN tests : SOCIABILITY (out of 30 marks) • handling of the dog by the test judge (tattoo, teeth checking, etc…), dog in a natural standing position (out of 10 marks) • passing through a group of moving people, creating a diversion, various noises, using accessories or zigzagging near the dog (out of 10 marks) • calming down the dog, at the end of the whole test, the test judge walks to the dog, strokes him, speaks with his owner and rechecks the tattoo or chip once more (out of 10 marks) STABILITY (out of 40 marks) • 1 or 2 revolver shots (6 mm) fired around 10 m from the dog (out of 20 marks) • a person without accessories passing close

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to the owner (out of 20 marks)

• to show hunting instincts by tracking and searching: • - looking for his owner (out of 10 marks) • • game tracking (dead), interest in it, (out of 20 marks) RESULTS The test is noted out of 100 marks, and the test judge, in addition to the points, can lay down recommendations or remarks. Three solutions are possible: • The dog is declared qualified if the score of 60 points is reached or exceeded without 0 in a test. • The dog is disqualified if he fails to achieve the required 60 points without 0 in any test. He may then compete a second time only. • The dog is declared unfit if he obtains a 0 in one or more tests and cannot be entered again. A diploma is awarded to each owner. The results are sent to the French kennel club to be registered.

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INSTINCT OF THE BREED (blood search dog) (out of 30 marks)

PR EPARED BY P A T R I C E J O H A N S E N

GUARDIANS OF THE BUSH THE REMARKABLE JOURNEY OF RHODESIAN RIDGEBACKS IN KRUGER NATIONAL PARK

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have been incredibly fortunate to meet some of the most wonderful people in our breed. Veterans of the breed, who hold the history of the breed, and who have helped develop the breed across the world. Amongst them are Norah Omerod and Laurie Venter, Sammy and Margaret Wallace, Scotty and Anneliese Stewart, to name a few. In 2009 I was invited to judge the Rhodesian Ridgeback Club Specialty in Johannesburg South Africa. Following this event, we visited the Kruger National Park with Scotty and Anneliese. Without doubt this trip was one of a lifetime as we perused many sections of the park and spoke to the rangers who were working Ridgebacks in that environment. Scotty was instrumental from the beginning in getting our breed back out working with the rangers and doing the job they were bred to perform. In 2006 I collaborated with Scotty to write an article for an American magazine (The Virginia Sportsman) the following is an extract from that article. With the reintroduction of the Ridgeback into Kruger national Park in 1996, the opportunity presented itself for a new approach to the Ridgeback in South Africa. Several Ridgeback authorities in Zimbabwe

were interviewed, their opinions were sought on just where the breed should be going and how its success could be ensured. The Rhodesian Ridgeback International Foundation was formed, and it is worth noting that much emphasis was placed on the true character of the dog, its temperament, and its many talents that had lain dormant for decades. Reference was made to its historical capacity for bravery and broadly based accomplishment, and this was emphasized in the mission statement: We want to encourage the association of all people who have the interest of our breed at heart, and we encourage research into, and development of, the breed. Regarding the latter we refer particularly to its hunting heritage’ Right from the start the RRIF recognised that the breed had untapped capacity and that its tradition should not be forgotten. Shortly after the RRIF came into operation the Lion Dog Group was formed, originally consisting of one dog trainer, three breeders, and five hunters. LDG operated on an informal basis, there were no group meetings. At one stage the group had fourteen members, but most of the communication took place in the latter part of 1996.

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The first big break came in 1997 when Ralf Kalwa, Section Ranger Malelane, contacted Scottie’s daughter in Nelspruit seeking a Ridgeback puppy. He had grown up with them and sought their company once more while carrying out his duties in the Kruger National Park. This really got things moving, and on a steady progression. There has been a total of a dozen Ridgebacks working in the park since those early days and have learned the basics of what makes for a successful dog in the field of conservation. This the only location in the world where a Rhodesian Ridgeback can come into close contact with a lion in an environment replicating the bush where Van Rooyen trained and worked his pack a century ago. Of course, much has changed since those early days whereas Van Rooyen wanted to kill lions, the rangers are ensuring their survival. But this in no way mitigates the initial terror experienced by the pups when they come into relatively close contact with their

bête noire during early training sessions. A hundred years means nothing to these pups when they get that smell in their noses or the lion roars out his imperial challenge. I was a Convenor for the 2006 Rhodesian Ridgeback National to be hosted in Brisbane Australia. I invited Scotty and Anneliese to visit Brisbane and Scotty gave a presentation on the Rhodesian Ridgeback working in Kruger National Park. The following are some extracts from the presentation.

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My dog is a fully-fledged member of my team. She will read the situation with uncanny precision in ways that are perhaps more accurate than mine. Juba and the lioness

Ridgies on the job Dusty and rhino Ralph was responsible of the provision of water to all the animals in his sector – ‘I went out to fix a faulty crib and, as is usual when engaged on work of this type, I took along my efficient two-yearold bitch for added security. The bakkie (Ute/truck) was parked 40 metres from where the ball cock valve was housed. It controlled the flow of water from the reserve tank into the crib. In this case no water was flowing so I got down on my hunkers with a few basic tools and started disassembling the valve unit which is in its own little reservoir with a 1.5metre wall on one side. I had put my rifle on top of that wall which was the nearest/safest resting place. I felt Dusty’s body vibrating against my leg. Just as an approaching animal responds

Ranger Jaco – ‘as usual the elephants were milling around the front gate; I was going through my normal routine preparatory to instructing my reliable fouryear-old male dog to escort them off so that I could leave with ease. On this morning the normal routine was interrupted when he pre-empted my opening of the gate. I had thrown the latch and was starting to push the halves forward when he brushed past me, surging forward, throwing the gate open before me. Veering to his right he rushed at speed toward the tall grass, growling very audibly, putting up as formidable presence as he could muster, while leaping into a thickly covered patch of grass only 20 metres distant. I was caught completely off guard by his dramatic unexpected action. Too late I discerned the compelling reason for his dramatic charge when two lionesses rose up in the grass to confront him. There was never any question as to what his intentions were, and the lionesses met the challenge with the very considerable power at their disposal. As he leapt at the

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immediately to her growl, so do I. I immediately raised my head, glancing at hers in the process and looked straight into the eyes of a rhino only 10 metres away. I did not reach for my rifle; he was obviously looking for water and if I kept on he would get some shortly. My dog’s reaction to the scenario was obviously spot on, as the big fellow ambled in she could read the situation precisely and knew he meant no harm; there is no point making a fuss when fuss is not called for. I patted her gently and thanked for the information and assured her that I also thought the general situation was stable enough and carried on. The water is released and we back away carefully as the rhino comes in.

one the left she opened her jaws and seized him by the head, clamping her powerful mandibles around it, penetrating his skull on the top and his throat beneath. The other lioness grabbed him across the back legs, I decide the best course of action was to fetch my rifle and frighten both lionesses off with warning shots. I carried my broken dog and laid him down he looked at me with glazed eyes and I brought his suffering to an end immediately. From start to finish the whole incident was probably less than one shattering minute’. ‘This incident to my mind encapsulates the whole ethos of the Ridgeback as no other could. Though terrified by lion he put his life on the line because he knew that mine was at risk. He had all his life devoted himself to ensuring that I would not walk into such danger unprepared, and his careful forewarnings rendered rifle protection, while tramping through the bush to an unnecessary precaution’.

A herd used for trial purposes outside the KNP, which included cows with calves, was moved almost 1000 metres. There is no greater problem facing today’s KNP than the elephant population. Debates are routine to determine how best to solve a dilemma in which the increased numbers of elephant appear to be responsible for the permanent destruction of South Africa’s principal conservation project. As you can imagine such possibilities cause serious concerns and one can only hope that the Rhodesian Ridgeback will be able to play as useful a role in any future activity, helping to solve the problems as he so ably performed in the past. Let them run free – Scotty Stewart.

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Scotty – the Rhodesian Ridgeback has entrenched himself with the Section Rangers and he will continue to serve them as honestly in the future as he has until today. He has proved that a single dog can herd a small number of elephants.

Note: The Working Rhodesian Ridgebacks were pulled out of KNP when the new South African Government was voted in. Sections Rangers and dogs were relieved of their duties and replaced.

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A TRAINING PROGRAM FOR SHOW TRAINING Edyta Ossowska www.facebook.com/ProHandling.International

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STAGES OF WORKING WITH A DOG.

first, increasing the stack time regularly. If you are beginning this stage, it is worth following a few rules to make the training as effective as possible. 1.

Don’t start training if you’re in a bad mood. If things aren’t working out and you start to get angry with your dog, stop working and go back to exercising when you’re in a better mood. When your dog senses your negative emotions, he will start to avoid exercise.

Plan. Instead of exercising spontaneously, plan your training, or preferably several training sessions in advance.

Stage 1 – Relationship with the owner For training to be effective, the dog must be engaged in it, willing to learn and enjoy learning. The most important thing is to build a good relationship with your dog. So, the dog must enjoy your company, understand your messages and trust you. Only then will he learn actively and joyfully. Strong pressure from you, incomprehensible messages, will cause the dog to avoid your company and he will not want to work.

• Write down a list of skills you want to teach your dog. • Divide these skills/ behaviours into smaller steps, that are easier for your dog to learn. 3.

Practice one thing per training session. A session consists of 3 or 4 repetitions of exercise. If you are practicing the position of the front paws, do not focus on the hind legs at the same time or the dog will not understand what you expect from him. Make sure your dog has mastered the previous level before moving on to the next level. For example, a dog should be desensitized to human touch before you begin to manually move its legs.

Don’t do long workouts, better results are achieved with frequent but short training sessions. It can be daily training or every 2 days for 3-4 training sessions. You can incorporate whatever you can into your daily activity, e.g. you can practice trotting during walks whenever you have time for your dog.

Make sure the dog understands what you expect from it and is able to do it. Use clear communication and appropriate rewards.

Training is not an exhibition. Use different tools and rewards to keep it interesting and attractive for your dog. Just because you can’t throw a ball in the ring doesn’t mean you can’t use it in training. People learn to swim using Styrofoam® boards or inflatable sleeves, although later they no longer take them to competitions.

Stage 3 – work on ring “choreography”.

If we have successfully completed the previous 2 stages, now we can focus on presenting the dog in detail. So, teach your dog to trot, at the right tempo, with its head facing forward (not looking to the handler). Teach him also to stack and remain in this position for a few seconds at

Avoid pressure in training. When it arises, the dog will stop expecting fun and start expecting unpleasant things. If he enters the ring with such expectations, it is difficult to expect him to be lively and joyful.

Presentation elements that should be practiced separately first:

Stage 2 – Behavior and high expectations I will expand on this point a bit. Most losses in the ring are due to the dog’s behavior. He is unsure, cowers, does not let the judge touch him, does not want to run. At the other end of the scale, the dog can be so excited that it tries to gallop around the ring, pulls towards other dogs, and the handler loses communication with it. These problems require working on the dog’s emotions first, and only then can you move on to stage 3. Building expectations means working on motivation. You need to find something that the dog really cares about and use it as a “payment” for work. It may be food, maybe a tug, a ball or a run together - it depends on the specific dog. Fun/reward should be as important in training as work. Thanks to it, the dog wants to work. If there is not enough of it, his willingness to work will decrease. The more play and energy, the greater the dog’s expectations. One of the trainer’s tasks during training is to make the dog expect only nice things while working (ultimately during the exhibition).

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og shows are a sport and, like any sport, you need to practice to be successful. The handler’s goal at the exhibition is to win, and the goal of training is to prepare the dog to be able to present it in the best possible way to the judge in order to win. This means that you should highlight its advantages and hide its disadvantages.

Fitness • Stacked position • Movement • Dentition check

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Fitness – it is well worth providing your dog with fitness training, because even though there seems to be no direct correlation with exhibitions, it can make a big difference in the presentation of the dog. A dog that has good muscle mass and is stretched, especially in the loin part and hind limbs, will move completely differently. When we work with our dog on Fitpaws® equipment, we will also strengthen the deep muscles responsible for balance. By including fitness exercises in your training, there is a good chance that the dog will stand in the right position on its own and there will be little need for correction. The show position is one in which the judge assesses the dog’s build, its proportions, top and bottom line, and angulations of the joints. When you start teaching a dog to stand stacked, it is worth starting by first teaching it to stand still for some time, on command. There is no point in manually moving the legs if the dog changes their position again two seconds later. First, we teach the dog the STOP command (it can be any word), and then maintain this command until the paws are moved manually. This is where various types of fitness equipment come in handy to help him learn faster. Some dogs do not like being touched, especially on their limbs. In such a case, you should first desensitize to the touch (you can use conditioning: associate the touch with something pleasant, it could be a treat), or work by changing the position of the legs without touching them. The most important thing is the front, this is where the judge starts the assessment, so it is worth working on the position of the forelegs first. It is easier than the rear ones. Only when this element is mastered, can you move on to the hind legs. You

should first practice the front and back separately, and only then, when it goes smoothly, can you combine them together. When touching the hind legs, remember not to do it unexpectedly. Place your hand on the dog’s side and slide it down to below the knee, where you can grab and move the leg to another place. When your dog feels your hand all the time, it will be easier to move the leg. If you grab it rapidly right under the knee, the dog can sit or pull away.

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Personally, I prefer to spend some time stretching and working the muscles so that the dog stands on its own as it should, with minimal handler correction. When trotting, the most important thing is the right tempo and head position. The trot must be adjusted to the dog so that it runs at an efficient

trot (the foreleg reaches the eye line) or a very efficient trot (the foreleg reaches the nose line during the step). If the movement is too slow, the step will be too short, and the movement will not be economical. If the movement is too fast, there will be no balance and the dog may begin to gallop. The dog should look forward, not at the handler, allowing the right and left forelegs to

have the same range of stride. I often see that the dog is, incorrectly, encouraged to trot by holding a treat in front of him in the handler’s right hand. This is the wrong way to teach your dog to run. If you want to use a treat, hold it in your left hand, together with the leash, in front of the dog and withdraw the food in your hand as quickly as possible. During these exercises it is worth using a toy, which you throw far in front of the dog at the end of the trot. In this way, the dog runs for something, for some purpose, just like in nature. When you throw a treat or toy at the end of the trot and let the dog run to it, the trot in training ends with a gallop, which is how it should end. When trotting, the dog begins to expect more movement, not to stop. Thanks to this, he runs with energy, and that’s what we care about. During workshops conducted at our school, we teach dogs to raise their heads on command, which makes them stretch their necks, keep their backs straight, and make the movements look light and elegant. It is worth practicing this, because then, on command, you can give your dog energy in the ring when he is already tired.

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When practicing the movement, it is worth starting from a neutral, loose-leash position. If you have a dog that is not very confident, a tight leash will make him even more stressed. If we are training with a puppy, a tight leash will make him frustrated when we start pulling him. A loose leash and short distances to trot at the beginning,

are the best training. It is also worth playing with your dog without a leash, following a person, often changing the direction of movement. You can reward the dog with a treat when he is next to you, then he will start to pay attention to you, because it’s rewarded. Presenting the dog’s teeth can be a bit of a problem if you try to force it. It is best to desensitize the touch of the muzzle at the beginning. You can place a treat in your hand, cover it with your second hand, and encourage your dog to take it out himself. This way, the dog puts its muzzle between the human’s hands by himself. We put a command under this action and then use it to raise the lips later. Thanks to this, the dog is warned that we will touch him around the muzzle and expects that it will be nice because he will get a treat - he should get it a lot during training. Don’t do the entire dentition check at once, start with one side first, and if the dog doesn’t protest, you can add the other side. Do not exceed the dog’s comfort limits, it is better to spend more time on training, than to force him in the ring. You can also use feeding time for training. While the dog is waiting for the bowl, examine his teeth, and after the check-up, instead of a treat, the dog can be given a meal. In this manner, without additional time, he will have a dental check-up at least once a day. In the ring, remember to lift his lips with the hand that is not holding the leash, and do not cover the dog’s eyes during this checking.

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When all the elements you trained separately look good, you can connect them in one training. To maintain expression and high expectations, the following workflow works well: 1.

Reward on the move – start by playing with your dog. Show him how much you pay for his work, so that he will be motivated.

Trot - start training with this element, end the trot by throwing a treat, a toy, or running together. In this way, the dog learns the pattern that after trotting there is a gallop, so when trotting, it will expect to move more. This way, trotting will be energetic with the right expression.

Now you can stack your dog correctly, and then start trotting. Because after stacking there is movement, the dog will stand expecting movement, and therefore be alert, with expression, not with his head hanging and without energy. End the trot with a gallop for reward.

The training program presented here is orderly and regimented, whereas most people exercise rather more spontaneously. However, this program takes into account the latest thinking about how it is that dogs learn, and gives your dog a much better chance for progress in training.

OFF TO

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THE RACES! Holly Simon, Makonde Rhodesian Ridgebacks.

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canine racing events: Large Gazehound Racing Association (LGRA) and National Oval Track Racing Association - Other Breed (NOTRA-OB).

LGRA RACING Large Gazehound Racing Association (LGRA) racing involves designated sighthound (and very recently also non-sighthound breeds, see below) breeds sprinting 200 yards down a flat track, chasing a lure. LGRA racing is modeled after straight racing meets sponsored by whippet racing organizations (i.e., NAWRA, WRA, CWA). The American Whippet Club began sponsoring Whippet

RR coming around the first turn in a NOTRA-OB race, with lead dog Castiel (FC Mwenje’s Forbidden Angel MC SOR SORC SGRC FCh CGC TKN TDI), owned by the Colaluce family & bred by Jennifer Price of Mwenje Rhodesian Ridgebacks. For first place, Castiel is battling with Lilah (Mwenje’s Love Will Turn You Around SGRC SOR SORC) owned & bred by Jennifer Price.

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or many, the sound of feet thundering down the track conjures up images of powerful horses, hurtling to the win… For a certain group of canine enthusiasts, however, that iconic image has been replaced by visions of our best friends, joyfully sprinting full throttle down the track, mad to catch a bouncing, squawking lure before their competitors beat them to it. This scenario describes sighthound racing, a competitive canine sport sponsored in the United States by a number of different organizations. In this article I will mainly discuss two of the major sponsors of non-Whippet amateur

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Lead dog is Tally (BIF DC Makonde’s Tally Marks SC GRC NW1 L1C L1I ATT CGC VC), bred and owned by Holly Simon of Makonde Rhodesian Ridgebacks. For first place, Tally is battling with Rosie (FC Makonde’s Subatomic Party Girl SC GRC JOR), bred by Holly Simon and co-owned with the Slaughter-Mason/Allen family. Photo credit: Charliann & Nic Cross/crosswindsilkens.com.

racing in the United States in the mid-1900’s as an amateur canine sport and breed improvement program. LGRA was created as a sponsor of (non-whippet) sighthound breed straight-racing, and the first LGRA meet was held in 1995. In LGRA, there are four dogs competing in each race, in contrast to six for whippet races. There are three programs in each meet. Placements are determined by the order that the dogs cross the finish line, and scoring is based on a dog’s cumulative placements in the three programs. The LGRA WAVE score (the weighted average of each dog’s score in the last three meets) is used to determine running order, while starting position is determined by random draw. . Dogs competing in racing must wear well-fitting muzzles, and jackets with numbers and colors corresponding to their position at the start (1 through 4). Numbers 1, 2, 3, and 4 correspond to jacket colors red, blue, white, and green, respectively. The dogs are either hand-slipped or released from starting boxes, depending upon the equipment available to the sponsoring club. A LGRA lure is typically a combination of white plastic bags and a predator call containing lure (referred to as a “squawker”), that is dragged along

the track in front of the dogs on a line connected to a motor (designated as a “drag-lure track”). Alternatively, continuous-loop or rail-lure tracks can also be used. The squawker often includes both real and synthetic animal fur encasing the predator call, which “squawks” as it bounces along the ground in front of the dogs. Most racing hounds have very profound feelings for this squawker, and if they were not muzzled would expertly rip it to pieces with great satisfaction. Winners earn points toward the Gazehound Racing Champion title (12 GRC points) based on the number of dogs entered. Gazehound Racing Champion (GRC) points are only awarded to dogs that have not attained the GRC title. For example, if a dog with a GRC title wins a meet, the GRC points “roll down” to the next non-champion dog in the placements. Dogs also earn National Racing Champion (NRC) points, which accumulate toward the Superior Gazehound Racing Champion title (SGRC, 30 NRC points) and a dog’s national ranking. For each additional 30 National Points received, hounds will earn a further numerical designation. En route to the GRC title, hounds can also earn the “Junior Straight Racer” (JSR) and “Senior Straight

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Awards are given each year for the top ranked hound in each breed, and National meets are sponsored annually by different racing clubs. The first Rhodesian Ridgeback to earn GRC, SGRC and SGRC2 titles was “Jomie” (MBIF UCD U-GRCH DC Denali’s Jomo Wa Kirinyaga CD VC TT CGC MC LCM3 SGRC3 SORC SRM). Jomie’s daughter Shamisa (Mazoe’s Denali Pherenike JC JOR SGRC3) was the second Ridgeback to earn the SGRC and the first hound in LGRA to earn the SGRC3. Both Ridgebacks were owned by Debbie Bell (Denali Rhodesian Ridgebacks). Debbie Bell and Ann Chamberlain (Mazoe Rhodesian Ridgebacks) donated the Jomie Trophy for the high scoring Rhodesian Ridgeback at LGRA Nationals in 2009.

NOTRA-OB RACING The National Oval Track Racing Association (NOTRA) began in 1975, in California, to hold whippet races in an oval format at 300 to 400 yards (sometimes even longer). In 1983, some other sighthound breeds, such as Afghans, Borzoi and Greyhounds, began participating in oval track racing. This was given the designation “NOTRA-Other Breed” or “NOTRA-OB” racing. In a similar fashion to LGRA, four dogs compete in each race, with three programs scored for each breed in a meet. Placements are determined by the order in which dogs cross the finish line, and WAVE scores are used to determine running order. Winners earn points toward the Oval Racing Champion (ORC) title (12 ORC points) and Supreme Oval Racing Champion (SORC) title

In red is Kolé (NSBIF MBIF FC Kito’s Love & Luck at Mwenje MC SORC LCX2 FCh SGRC), owned by Jennifer Price & MaryAnne Draper. Right behind her is Castiel (his white blanket can just be glimpsed). Photo credit: Marc Stumbo/Axis Imaging.

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Racer” titles by completing all of the heats in four, or six, meets respectively, without receiving a disqualification (DQ), scratch, off course, or DNF (did not finish), To receive the SSR title, a hound must also finish in the top half of all of the dogs that completed all of the programs. When earned, the SSR replaces the JSR title, and the GRC replaces each of these. Dogs must finish all races, and defeat at least one other dog in at least one race to receive points in any given day.

Four RRs owned by Jennifer Price of Mwenje Rhodesian Ridgebacks being released from the box. Photo credit: Mark L. Baer/MLBaer Photography

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(30 National Oval Race Champion (NORC) points). The ORC points are only awarded to hounds that have not attained the ORC title, and subsequently “roll down” to the next non-champion dog in line. For each additional 30 NORC points received, hounds will earn a further numerical designation. Hounds can also earn the “Junior Oval Racer” (JOR) and “Senior Oval Racer” (SOR) titles en route to the ORC title, by completing all of the heats in four, or six, meets respectively, without receiving a disqualification (DQ), scratch, off course, or DNF (did not finish), To receive the SOR title, a hound must also finish in the top half of the dogs that completed all of the programs. Dogs must finish all races, and defeat at least one other dog in at least one race to receive points in any given day. Ridgebacks were given provisional status in NOTRA-OB in 1997 and gained full racing status in 1998. The first Rhodesian Ridgeback to earn the ORC and SORC was, again, “Jomie.” His son, “Shandi” (URO2 UCD UWPCH U-GRCH Denali’s Mazoe Mushandi Nelion CD RN TT CGC SC LCM

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Sources:

GRC SORC2 RL-1) was the first Ridgeback to earn the SORC2. Both dogs were owned by Debbie Bell of Denali Rhodesian Ridgebacks. The top 10 nationally ranked dogs in each breed are published each year on each organization’s websites, along with the winners of the annually held National meets.

AOK9 RACING A LGRA-affiliated club in northern California called Racing and Coursing Enthusiasts (R.A.C.E.) founded the All Other K9 Racing and Lure Coursing Program (AOK9 Program), in 2011, to allow non-sighthound breeds to participate competitively in lure sports. Different breeds and mixedbreed dogs are grouped competitively based on running style and speed. Individual LGRA and NOTRA clubs add AOK9 events to their meets as desired, and the top performing AOK9 dogs are awarded with racing titles.

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LGRA, http:://www.lgra.org NOTRA, http:://www.notra.org The History of the National Oval Track Racing Association, by David Rosenstock (thru '83) & William J. Lewis, http://www.notraracing.org/downloads/THE%20HISTORY%20OF%20THE%20NATIONAL%20OVAL%20TRACK%20RACING%20ASSOCIATION.pdf

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https://aok9racing.weebly.com/

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L A H

I F I

FIONA

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OUR OLDY

K A R I N

L I C H T E N A U E R

FIONA OLDY

When the Ridgeback Magazine contacted me to write about Fiona I said yes - ever since, I am asking myself – what can I write about a golden oldie, this special dog, that is not mine and never will be. I will always have the feeling that we only take care of her for her owner. If circumstances would be different Ulrike would need to write this, not me.

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Fiona came to live with us (me and my husband) after the unexpected passing of her owner Ulrike Lichtenauer in 2019. At this time, she was already 7 years old and had to adapt to a couple of new things. She moved into our flat, 4 cats and a new daily routine. Her life was completely turned upside down. It was a hard time for her. From the way she behaved – suddenly being very insecure on stairs, starting to be very forward towards other dogs and a couple of other things, I was afraid that she might have some health issues. We did our rounds at the vets, checked everything but she was and still is in very good heath for her age. All of this came from something different, from mourning and being afraid that I would suddenly disappear too. Ever since she moved with us, I now have a loyal shadow that will not leave my side. We gave her the time she needed and now, 4 years later – she is again full of joy, self-confidence, the proud leader of our small pack and the queen of her own house and garden. Zurimahali Fiona was born on 30.03.2012 in Switzerland out of the combination Amazing

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When the puppies were 6 weeks, we visited and I took pictures of the puppies and it was very clear who was still Ulrikes favorite. So a few weeks later Miss Red – Fiona – moved to Vienna. Instantly she was Ulis golden star, the apple of her eye and for Fiona Uli was her everything. Fiona wanted to please Ulrike, I never have seen a puppy and young dog being so uncomplicated and easy going. Fiona liked to work and did obedience exams with Ulrike and they started a very successful show career together. I remember a success Ulrike was especially proud of like yesterday, being just 18 months old and fresh in intermediate class, Fiona won the XXI Club Show 2013 in Orlik and the VII Specialty show 2013 under the breed specialists Janet Wang and John Sigve Berg. My thoughts back then: oh gosh where do I put all that stuff they won in the car? We need a bigger car! The two achieved not only a lot of BOB’s and other wins together but also gained multiple Champion titles. It was a natural decision for Uli to breed Fiona and she had 3 litters at “Ka Ul Li’s Ridges” Kennel.

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Little Shane of Ekongo Kaross and Makena at Walters place. Ulrike was there for 2 weeks to help with the litter and from what I know, Fiona was her favorite from the very beginning. They even called her “little Ulrike”.

When she had her second litter Asha moved in with me and Fiona became her second mother, she simply adopted her and treated her like one of hers. Asha was in “Kindergarten” at Uli’s place when I was at work. Many days when Flo and me came to pick her up the conversation went like this: “Do you have plans for today?” – “No, come in, I will open a bottle of sparkling for us.” We were sitting in the garden, Flo trying to convince Uli to let Fiona move in with us when Fiona “retires”. Uli would pet over Finis head: “No, no, this will never happen – but Karin will show her once she is in Veteran class – promise me you will gain some Veteran Champions.” Sure I did promise that. But we never thought she would move in with us.

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I did keep my promise, I showed Fiona in Veteran class and I still do from time to time. Fiona gets angry at me when she is not allowed to enter the ring when we are at a show. She still enjoys it a lot and runs her socks of, she loves

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it when people applaud and my small girl suddenly doubles her size.

Fiona is now enjoying her life with us, the 4 cats are part of her pack now, as well as her “adopted daughter” Asha and our young boy Louie. She is the big boss that shows the young ones the way and teaches them a lot. She plays a lot with Louie and it is awesome to see that she constantly outsmarts him and is still fast enough to get him. When we are at the dog school, she wants to work with me and we do – sometimes a bit of oldie agility or some obedience. She loves the heated floor and the terrace at our new house where she can sleep in the sun, while Asha takes over the duty to watch over everything. She steals pizza out of our friends’ hand, is very food driven and gets more and more cheeky every day! We hope she will be with us in good health for a very long time! Every golden oldie is special and they always have a special place in their owners’ hearts but she has a very special place in our lives and hearts!

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We gained some awesome wins together, BOV, BOS, best Veteran in show and multiple veteran champion titles. Every time I get out of the ring, I have the urge to grab my phone and I have a voice in my ear telling me: yeah you won, good, but there, you could have done this better! She always wanted me/us to become better but I know she is proud of her very special golden oldie!

RECIPE

COOKIES The BASIC Recipe 3 Eggs 100 g buckwheat flour 100 g potato starch/=potato flour 1 tbs cocos oil With water or self-made beef/chicken stock It needs to have the consistency of a pancake batter

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+ 200g free part*

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200g* of what you like to put into it for taste (cooked meat, vegetables, ...) chop with a food processor or a good hand blender Only natural and healthy stuff would be the very best

my FREE RECIPE PART of 200g* I used for the 7 cm Bones • • • • • •

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The FREE RECIPE PART according to your own taste

180g beef heart raw (cut into small cubes and pour boiling water over it, cover until it cools down) 4 TbSp liver raw 1 carrot raw fine grated, or steamed 3 TbSp oatmeal 1 TbSp linseed 1 TbSp ultra fine eggshell powder

Both parts now come together, are chopped with the hand blender, and should NOW have the consistency of a thicker pancake batter in the larger shapes. Fill it in silicone baking molds which are suitable for the heat of the oven and that they are BPAfree This is the big bones size 7 cm for 75-85 min., if used smaller ones please take less time HEAT: +160°C hot air or +170°C top/bottom heat Put the cookies out of the models while they are hot and put them on a rack to cool down. Now put them in a fruit/vegetable net and dry them over the heater for 3-4 days or use an automatic dehydrator for at least 10 hours. until they become hard This is important if they should be stocked to avoid mold.

We have asked some of our favourite photographers some question with regards to their work, read their stories.

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S EE THROU G H CAMERA LE NS.....

We are thrilled to introduce to you four brilliant photographers, they all have one thing in common....they see your dogs through their camera lens.

A “S

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OUR GOLDIES

CHOHEE COURTOIS AN INTERVIEW

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United Kingdom І  www.choheecourtois.co.uk І Chohee Courtois Photography

PLEASE TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF. HOW DID YOU COME ABOUT BEING A DOG PHOTOGRAPHER AND HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN DOING IT? I’m Chohee, a pet photographer based in London, UK. I photograph pets and their people, focusing on capturing the unique personalities of the animals and the cherished bond between pets and their owners in clean, refined and artistic photographs. My work has been recognised with a few awards, which I am hugely grateful for, including the 2023 International Pet Photographer of the Year Silver and Bronze Awards, Finalist status in the 2023 International Dog Photography Awards, Honorable Mention in the 2023 International Photography Awards and the 2023 British Photography Awards People’s Choice Award.

I started pet photography 5 years ago and have been doing it professionally for about 2 years. My childhood dream was to become an artist. I used to paint a lot as a kid and continued to pursue my artistic career by going to an art school to study theatre. As adulthood approached, I felt concerned about the viability of a career in art and entertainment. Consequently, I took a different road of studying and working in media and communications, but I always kept an artistic mind and a desire to create somewhere deep in my heart. As I got older, I started to have clearer idea about myself and my life plans. I could see more and more what makes my heart beat, and what I am good at – creating. Even during the detour I always enjoyed photographing animals, so I was naturally gravitating toward pet photography when I finally took the plunge to go back to a more creative life. Starting a new career

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HOW DID YOU FIRST ENTER THE PHOTOGRAPHY WORLD? DID YOU HAVE FORMAL TRAINING? HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN A PHOTOGRAPHER? Although I was not a photographer until 5 years ago, I was familiar with the photography world as I took photography and visual communication classes in university, and worked with photographers during my career in media. When I decided to train seriously to become a professional photographer, I took photography courses, attended seminars and conferences, assisted experienced photographers, found mentors, and consistently practiced to refine my skills.

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was definitely not easy. But after many trials and errors and sleepless nights, I can now say that it was one of the best decisions I’ve made. I feel that I have finally come to where I was meant to be all along.

WHAT OR WHO GOT YOU STARTED PHOTOGRAPHING DOGS? My interest in photographing dogs did not stem from a particular person or reason. From a young age, I have been naturally captivated by animals and felt a strong desire to capture their beauty and uniqueness whenever I encountered them.

WHAT TYPE OF CAMERAS DO YOU SHOOT WITH? WHICH IS YOUR FAVOURITE LENS AND WHY?

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My camera of choice is the Sony a9, a full-frame mirrorless camera that excels with moving subjects. My preferred lens is the Sony 70-200mm f/2.8 GM. It is fast, sharp, and versatile, ideal for both portrait and action shots. While many photographers favour prime lenses, I appreciate the flexibility of zoom lenses, especially when working with animals who don’t always cooperate with positioning, particularly outdoors. In terms of focal length, I find long lenses work better when working with nervous/anxious animals as they enable me

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It is challenging, but extremely rewarding. The key to capturing animals is to remain calm and patient but also quick and agile at the same time, to get the shots within the few seconds when they “pose”. You need to have a clear vision of the shots you want and get the settings right before they pose or within the first seconds. They won’t stay still and wait for you until you figure it out! I normally use treats, toys, sounds, and lead if needed to get their cooperation and nice expressions, and I always try to make it a positive experience for them. It’s very important to make the session calm, safe, comfortable, and as stress-free as possible, and never rush or force them. Not only is it for the animal welfare, but also because the final image will have much more value if the client can associate the image with positive feelings/memories.

WHAT IS THE BEST PART OF BEING A FINE ART PHOTOGRAPHER? AND THE MOST CHALLENGING? The best part is the appreciation and value that people find in my work, whether it’s displayed in their homes or recognized with awards. I create art so that the meaningful moments and emotions can be proudly displayed and actively cherished for many years to come. The most challenging part would be the need of constant search for inspiration and learning. I sometimes find it hard to focus on my personal life and daily activities as I’m constantly searching for and distracted by random things that inspire me even a tiny bit.

to photograph them while still giving them enough space for them to feel safe and comfortable.

WHERE DO YOU FIND INSPIRATION? Literally everything. The list is endless as I can find inspiration from anything I encounter in everyday life. From the things directly related to art and photography such as other photographers’ work, paintings and other forms of art, to anything that I have access to in my daily life such as interior design, product design, architecture, nature, fashion, films, TV series, books, conversations with friends, interactions with animals, and even some dreams I have while sleeping.

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DO YOU CONSIDER IT A CHALLENGING JOB? HOW DO YOU GET THE ANIMALS TO STAY AND “POSE” FOR YOU?

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DESCRIBE A TYPICAL SESSION FOR US. WHAT KINDS OF THINGS ARE YOU THINKING ABOUT WHEN YOU’RE BEHIND THE CAMERA? The thinking starts from before the session, from the pre-session consultation or even from the moment the client enquires. I try to gather as much information as possible about the client and the pet before the session. Each session, lasting typically 1-2 hours, is tailored to the client’s preferences and the pet’s personality. If it’s outdoors, I visit the location beforehand to choose a few potential shooting spots. Then I take the client and the pet for a nice walk around those spots while stopping for photos from time to time. If it’s in studio, I first take some time to help the animal get used to the environment. Then I proceed to photograph them, ideally in a few different set ups for variety. What I think about the most actively when I’m behind the camera is the subjects’ expressions and body language, and how I should direct them and communicate with them. Other considerations

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like composition, lighting, and camera settings are managed a little bit more subconsciously.

I would say the Northern breeds such as Siberian Husky. (Sorry, Rhodesian Ridgebacks!) They possess a wolf-like allure and intense eyes that add impact to even the simplest images, and their playful nature allows for a diverse range of shots. However, I believe every dog has its own unique charm, which is what makes photographing them so enjoyable.

ARE THERE OTHER DOG PHOTOGRAPHERS THAT INSPIRE OR INFLUENCE YOU? IF NOT, WHO OR WHAT DOES? Jessica McGovern. She’s a highly experienced and inspirational pet photographer and an excellent, caring photography teacher. She shares her knowledge through her education platform That Tog Spot. I also have a mentor who is not a pet specific photographer – Stu Williamson, who helps me with all-around photography knowledge and encourages my growth with endless inspiration, mental support as well as very practical and actionable advice. His support has been instrumental in my growth. I encourage aspiring photographers to seek mentors who align with their values and truly wish their success.

“Take care of your mental health.” It is often overlooked, but mental well-being is crucial for professional growth. It took me a long time to realise that dedicating time to mental health can actually accelerate the development as a photographer.

DO YOU HAVE ANY PETS OF YOUR OWN? AND WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE ANIMAL? Yes, I have a Pomeranian named Guillaume. He’s my muse. My favourite animals are dogs, although I love photographing cats, too.

WOULD YOU LIKE TO ADD SOMETHING? I would like to thank you for interviewing me and everyone who is reading this interview for taking the time to learn about me and my work. I understand how busy life can be these days. I am deeply grateful to those who appreciate my work. For anyone wishing to connect with me, I’m on Instagram and Facebook at @choheecourtois.photo. More information about my photography sessions can be found on my website at www.choheecourtois.co.uk

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WHICH BREED IN YOUR OPINION IS MOST PHOTOGENIC?

IS THERE ANY ONE THING YOU WISH YOU HAD KNOWN OR PIECE OF ADVICE YOU WOULD GIVE TO AN ASPIRING FINE ART PHOTOGRAPHER?

MIRTHE VANHERCK AN INTERVIEW

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Belgium І  www.mirthevanherckfotografie.be І  mirthe_vanherck@hotmail.com І Mirthe Vanherck Fotografie

PLEASE TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF. HOW DID YOU COME ABOUT BEING A DOG PHOTOGRAPHER AND HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN DOING IT? My name is Mirthe Vanherck and I live in Lommel, Belgium. This is a city very close to the Dutch border. I am a big animal lover and from there my passion for photography was born. I started with an older camera lying unused in my boyfriend’s closet and started taking pictures of my own dogs. This was really just a hobby, but I noticed that I wanted to do more with it.

I always liked to make an annual Christmas card with a picture of my animals. So I immediately started organizing Christmas photo shoots, with success. Every year pet owners come back to me to take fun photos for Christmas. But they also come up with nice ideas themselves. I also get requests for birthday photo shoots with a real birthday cake. Growing up packages can also be booked with me where 3 photo shoots take place within the time span of 8 weeks to 1-1.5 years. This way you can see your pet growing up captured in photos, because they do grow so fast.

I was eager to make other owners happy with a portrait of their pet.

As time went on, I also started photographing horses and other animals also appeared in front of my lens (cats, turtles,…).

Therefore, on October 4, 2016 (yay... on World Animal Day), I started my side job as an animal photographer.

Pets are taking an increasingly important role in family life, and owners are increasingly preferring to capture moments in their pet’s life.

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As I mentioned, it started from love for my own animals and in addition wanting to make other pet owners happy with beautiful photos. In the beginning I learned a lot by myself and searched the internet a lot. My own dogs were often used as models to test things out. So now when I take my camera they are often wagging their tails because they know they can earn treats. I tested and practiced a lot.... with a lot of trial and error. As I continued to practice, my understanding of the camera, interaction with the environment, and handling of live animals improved. I started learning more and more and then started investing in equipment and gaining knowledge through specific workshops. Most were specific to dogs (portrait and action pho-

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HOW DID YOU FIRST ENTER THE PHOTOGRAPHY WORLD? DID YOU HAVE FORMAL TRAINING? HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN A PHOTOGRAPHER?

tography). Studio photography also began to interest me more and more for which I invested in studio equipment. A beautiful studio space was created in my basement where I can now host pets for photo shoots. I also took workshops in horse photography, most recently a course for Equine Fine Art with studio lighting. I enjoy outdoor photography because of the diverse locations and opportunities it offers. However, given the unpredictable Belgian weather, which is often characterized by frequent rainfall, I also find it quite enjoyable to shoot in a photo studio or a horse stable. I have found inspiration in books by other photographers, which has not only enhanced my understanding of photography but has also significantly contributed to my skills in post-processing photos. I learned a lot from workflows of other photographers, allowing me to incorporate various techniques into my own Photoshop workflow based on the diverse lessons I’ve learned.

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Looking at where I started, I have already learned very much and

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am still learning. I think it was in mid-2014 that I first started photographing animals with a camera.

I’ve been a passionate animal lover from the start, growing up surrounded by the companionship of dogs. The love you receive from pets is truly unconditional, making it one of the most beautiful aspects of connecting with animals. I found joy in capturing animals through photos and videos, often using my cell phone. The turning point in my journey came when I got my German Shepherd, Neerah, as the first model in front of my initial more professional camera. It was an immediate challenge, given her high energy levels, but it sparked a desire to delve deeper into the art of photography and capture stunning images of my beloved pet. Through regular practice, the quality of my photos improved, and it ignited a genuine passion for photography, particularly in the realm of pet photography. The journey began with a charismatic canine companion and blossomed into a heartfelt commitment to capture the essence and beauty of pets through the lens of a camera.

WHAT TYPE OF CAMERAS DO YOU SHOOT WITH? WHICH IS YOUR FAVOURITE LENS AND WHY? My journey into photography began when I stumbled upon a forgotten Canon camera tucked away in the closet. Being familiar with the Canon brand, I decided to stick with it. Over time, I’ve owned several devices, witnessing the continuous evolution and development in their technology. Presently, the camera I shoot with is the Canon EOS R5, a fullframe mirrorless camera. Among my assortment of lenses, a particular favorite takes the spotlight, especially during outdoor shoots—the Sigma Art 105mm 1.4, also called the ‘bokeh master.’ This lens has earned its reputation for producing a captivating depth of field and exquisite bokeh, elevating the visual allure of my outdoor captures. It’s a fascinating journey observing the evolution of photography gear, and I take delight in exploring the unique features each device and lens brings to my creative pursuits.

WHERE DO YOU FIND INSPIRATION? Discovering inspiration is an ongoing journey for me, and it seems to manifest in various facets of my life. Social media plays a significant role in fueling my creative spark. One platform that particularly stands out is Facebook, where numerous dog photography groups thrive. Within these digital communities, diverse photographers showcase their unique works, providing me with a continuous stream of visual stimuli. Since I began my venture into photography, a no-

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WHAT OR WHO GOT YOU STARTED PHOTOGRAPHING DOGS?

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table shift has occurred in how I perceive the world. Photography has introduced in me a fresh way of looking at everything around me. Whether I’m casually strolling or embarking on a planned day trip to different locations, I now recognize the potential for capturing beautiful images in every corner. The experience of a walk or day out has undergone a significant transformation. I am consistently observant, often visualizing pictures in my mind that include animals in specific places I come across. Exploring has evolved into a more engaging and imaginative experience, with the lens of photography enhancing my perspective. Photography has not only become a skill but a transformative force that has imbued my daily life with a newfound appreciation for the beauty and artistry inherent in the world around us.

DO YOU CONSIDER IT A CHALLENGING JOB? HOW DO YOU GET THE ANIMALS TO STAY AND “POSE” FOR YOU? Capturing images of animals is a source of immense joy and satisfaction for me. Sometimes, it takes a bit more time to get an animal to stay still and pose nicely. The most crucial aspects are patience and attempting to understand the behavior of the animal. Each encounter feels like a little adventure, and since each animal is different, discovering what works and what doesn’t becomes part of the journey. The key is to pay attention to the animal—understand how it acts, what mood it’s in, and connect with it. I change my approach for each animal, re-

specting their individual qualities and letting their personality show in the pictures. Furthermore, providing assistance to the animal’s owner is crucial. I offer them valuable tips and collaborate to improve the overall experience, aiming to capture outstanding pictures. I communicate my ideas to them and explain how they can actively contribute to bringing those concepts to life. This includes guiding them on how to position the animal and grab its attention effectively.

WHAT IS THE BEST PART OF BEING A FINE ART PHOTOGRAPHER? AND THE MOST CHALLENGING? Photography is an amazing world with limitless possibilities, and that’s what makes it so fantastic. There’s always room for fresh ideas and inspiration. Personally, I find immense joy in this creative process, especially when working with animals to create something lasting. Yet, one of the significant challenges I face revolves around time management. In addition to my side job as an animal photographer, I also work as a photographer for a company (Flamingo Pet Products), where I do product photography of pet products. I work here 4 days in a week. Beyond that, I also manage my family responsibilities. Therefore, it is crucial to allocate my time efficiently and strike a balance between these various roles. While I have an insatiable love for capturing many photoshoots, there’s a broader aspect that demands attention – the post-processing of the photos. This part involves sifting through the captured

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moments, selecting the best shots, and enhancing them to bring out their full potential. It’s a crucial step that requires careful consideration and dedication to ensure that the final results truly reflect the essence of the captured scenes. Despite the challenges, the entire process, from capturing moments with animals to refining them in post-processing, is incredibly rewarding. It adds a layer of fulfillment to my passion for photography, allowing me to create lasting memories and share them with others. The continuous interplay between shooting and processing is a dynamic journey, where each step contributes to the overall beauty and impact of the final images.

DESCRIBE A TYPICAL SESSION FOR US. WHAT KINDS OF THINGS ARE YOU THINKING ABOUT WHEN YOU’RE BEHIND THE CAMERA? When I start a photo session, I make sure to create a comfortable setting for both the animal and its owner. I understand that the owner might feel a bit nervous, and that can affect how the animal behaves because the animal might not know what’s going on. So, when needed, I take the time to let the animal have moments of relaxation or freedom during our session. It’s important to me that both the owner and the animal feel at ease and comfortable during our time together. When picking a spot for the photo shoot, I carefully look at the location. I take the time to identify spots that fit in well with the surroundings and think about where the animal would look the best. It is important for me to choose a place that com-

plements the environment and sets the stage for the animal to be in the perfect position. Once the animal is situated in an optimal location and I’m peering through the camera lens, my undivided focus is directed towards the animal itself. I aim first and foremost to make sure the animal feels comfortable, and I strive to capture its best qualities in the photos. It is essential to me that the animal is at ease and that the pictures highlight its most positive and appealing aspects. In scenarios where I am photographing both humans and animals together, I encourage them to momentarily divert their attention from my presence and engage with each other. This intentional approach aims to authentically capture the bond and emotions shared between the two, resulting in images that genuinely reflect the warmth and connection present in their relationship. I derive immense satisfaction from documenting these sincere moments that showcase the authentic and heartfelt connections between individuals and their animal companions.

WHICH BREED IN YOUR OPINION IS MOST PHOTOGENIC? It’s challenging for me to choose a favorite breed because, to me, every animal is inherently photogenic. Each one carries its own individuality and distinctive traits, and this holds true regardless of the breed. Even among animals of the same breed, each individual showcases itself in a different light in photographs. The diversity and unique qualities that each animal possesses captivate me, making it difficult for me to favor one breed over another.

It’s often a lot of fun to consider what kind of location would suit a particular dog. For instance, a more robust dog like a German Shepherd or Rottweiler might look great in a rugged setting. On the other hand, a graceful dog like a Poodle could shine in a more elegant environment, such as around a castle. Placing an adorable Chihuahua in a soft setting with flowers or somewhere that enhances its cuteness can be delightful. However, exploring the opposite approach is also enjoyable. Placing a Chihuahua in a rugged environment and, conversely, featuring a Doberman with flowers on its head is a creative way to play with contrasts. It adds an element of surprise and uniqueness to the imagery by juxtaposing the inherent characteristics of each breed with unexpected surroundings. The juxtaposition of a small and typically adorable Chihuahua in a tough or robust setting introduces a charming and unexpected twist. On the other hand, adorning a Doberman, known for its strength and power, with delicate flowers creates a whimsical and visually striking composition. This approach not only highlights the versatility of the dogs but also adds an artistic and playful dimension to the photos, making them visually intriguing and memorable. Given the multitude of breeds with various characteristics, it never gets boring.

ARE THERE OTHER DOG PHOTOGRAPHERS THAT INSPIRE OR INFLUENCE YOU? IF NOT, WHO OR WHAT DOES?

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There are definitely many talented dog photographers out there, and any of them could potentially inspire me. However, listing specific names might

unintentionally overlook other great photographers, so I prefer not to do that. Inspiration, for me, isn’t solely limited to fellow photographers; I find it in the everyday wonders of the world. Nevertheless, the most significant inspiration comes from the animals themselves. When I’m in the presence of certain animals, ideas and inspiration often hit me in the moment. I particularly enjoy capturing their unique identity and character during a photo shoot, and those interactions often spark ideas. The color of an animal is another source of inspiration. Whether I want the animal to stand out prominently or blend seamlessly with the surroundings, the choice of color plays a crucial role in shaping my creative vision. In essence, my inspiration is a blend of the captivating world around me and the distinctive personalities of the animals I have the privilege to photograph.

IS THERE ANY ONE THING YOU WISH YOU HAD KNOWN OR PIECE OF ADVICE YOU WOULD GIVE TO AN ASPIRING FINE ART PHOTOGRAPHER? The more time and dedication you invest in capturing images aligned with your passions, the deeper your understanding of the craft becomes. In my personal photographic journey, I’ve consciously embraced a process of trial and error, and interestingly, I wouldn’t choose to deviate from this path. The continuous trial and error have proven to be indispensable elements contributing to my overall learning experience.

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As a dog person, the idea of life without the companionship of these four-legged friends is unimaginable. Their unique qualities, sizes, and temperaments contribute to a life overflowing with love, joy, and the delightful chaos that comes with being deeply connected to these loyal and affectionate creatures.

DO YOU HAVE ANY PETS OF YOUR OWN? AND WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE ANIMAL?

I would like to express my sincere gratitude for the wonderful opportunity to share a glimpse of both my personal journey and professional endeavors. Having this platform to present a portion of my identity and the work that holds profound significance for me is undeniably heartening.

Throughout my life, dogs have consistently been an integral part of my world. Presently, I feel incredibly fortunate to share my life with a delightful pack of five. Among them is a German Shepherd from working lines, radiating strength and resilience. This robust companion stands in stark contrast to the cuteness of my quartet of long-haired Chihuahuas. The diversity within my canine family is not only visually captivating but also provides a range of personalities and characteristics. From the imposing presence of the German Shepherd to the endearing small stature of the Chihuahuas, each dog contributes to a tapestry of experiences that are both heartwarming and full of contrasts. It’s delightful to work with these different contrasts in taking photographs of them and to have many possibilities. They are my personal models. I love both large and small dogs. A big dog is enjoyable to work with and engage in activities. On the other hand, small dogs are wonderful companions to have on the couch to cuddle.

WOULD YOU LIKE TO ADD SOMETHING?

A heartfelt thank you extends to everyone in my life who consistently lends their support to my pursuits. The encouragement and assistance from those around me have played an invaluable role in shaping my path and fostering my creative endeavors. As I reflect on the past and look to the future, my aspirations are to delve deeper into the captivating realm of photography, specifically capturing the beauty of animals. The prospect of documenting the essence of these creatures through my lens is a source of great inspiration. Moreover, I am eager to share this passion with others, taking them along on a visual journey through the captivating world of animal photography. Once again, thank you for providing me with the opportunity to express my gratitude and share my enthusiasm for the art of photography.

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What I want to emphasize is the pivotal role of consistent and extensive practice, often interwoven with the valuable insights gained from the iterative process of trial and error. This harmonious combination stands out as the most effective method for fostering profound learning and refining one’s skills in photography. Moreover, I advocate for the pursuit of activities that authentically resonate with your passions, encouraging you to find joy and fulfillment in engaging with what you genuinely love.

ANY

O BA R O N G O BY U

ULANYO, BARONGO, MALONYO

6th

COVER DO G S

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GLENA

MU go on r a oB ny a Fun

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CAN YOU PLEASE INTRODUCE YOUR COVER DOG FOR OUR READERS?

WHAT ARE THEIR BIGGEST ACHIEVEMENTS? Each of my boys have won many times and the more experienced I became, the better was our team. I’m not sure whether these were their biggest achievements but they mean the most to me: Ulanyo winning BOS at the Bundessieger Show in Dortmund in 2009 with a breed entry of 115 at the age of 7, Barongo winning BOB at the International Dogshow in Kassel in 2018 with a breed entry of 166 RR at almost 7 years old, too. And Malonyo winning two years in a row the precious VDH-Jahressieger as the first RR ever gaining this title and ending up as „German Dog of the Year 2018“ 4th place across all breeds. By the way, he is heading the TopTen list of our RR club for 7 years in a row with a big lead.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE ABOUT SHOWING? On the one hand side I just love to see people who share the same passion, to dive into a special world that only those who are part of it know about. It is a perfect occasion to meet friends and their dogs and to spend time together around the show. And on the other hand side I appreciate the serious point in showing, in evaluating the status of the breed and the potential for improvement. Attending dog shows for more than 20 years now I imagine that I’ve met many of the ancestors in today’s pedigrees personally and it is just thrilling to see the similarities – both good and not that good.

WHAT ARE YOUR FUTURE PLANS? Of course I will stay true to the breed and my bloodline. So I will add another fourlegged family member to our pack from of an interesting combination with one of my boys, hopefully in the near future...

WOULD YOU LIKE TO ADD SOMETHING? When I started with the breed and here especially showing dogs the atmosphere in and outside the rings – even at the big shows – was a different one, it was much more familiar and less competitive. There were exhibitors who went into the ring with everyday clothes, normal collar and leash and their dogs weren’t stacked, they just stood. So I would love to see the dog shows return to their origins, when it was much more about the dogs and their actual quality.

O O

F U L A N YO

FACTSHEET

MultiCH Glenaffric Ulanyo of Zuritamu Sire: CH Usakose the Boy from Oz at Roodedraai Dam: CH Entle Neliswa of Glenaffric Breeder: C. Hoare, South Africa

MultiBISS MultiCH Hazinas 6th Funanyo Barongo by U Sire: CH Glenaffric Ulanyo of Zuritamu Dam: CH Hazinas 4th Tafika Breeder: L. Carlsson, Denmark

MultiBISS MultiCH Zuritamu Malonyo of Ulanyo Sire: CH Hazinas 6th Funanyo Barongo by U Dam: CH Zuritamu Izuri Breeder: R. Spengler + K. Eckhoff, Germany

Owned and loved by Jana Irina Mach, Germany www.ulanyo.de Photos by Karin van Klaveren

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These are my three generations of Ridgeback males. My passion for the breed started with my first male GLENAFFRIC Ulanyo of Zuritamu. He was an import from South Africa and it was literally love at first sight when I first met him. He was all about big ears and huge feet and his character was just amazing. He developed into a strong, muscular but elegant male with good bone structure and together we’ve not only made our first steps into the world of dog shows with quite some success but also into breeding. He has passed his outstanding temperament to all his puppies around Europe. So it was clear to keep a puppy for myself out of his last litter, HAZINAS 6th Funanyo Barongo by U came to us from Denmark. Even as a puppy he was and up to now is a well balanced dog with a fantastic ground-covering movement, which made showing him very easy and successful, too. I was lucky enough to have had the possibility to add a new family member to our pack out of his one and only litter and ZURITAMU Malonyo of Ulanyo joined us. He has been an eye catcher from puppyhood and together we’ve been incredibly successful at dog shows with more than 50 Best of Breed wins and multiple Group wins and placements. Besides their outstanding show career all of my boys have been trained in bloodtracking and what’s most important, they are my loyal companions through everyday life.

Umlani

Italy

Switzerland

www.rhodesianridgebackajabu.eu

www.umlani.ch

elisabettag2

Umlani Rhodesian Ridgeback

bettagrande

umlani_rhodesian_ridgeback

Royal African Ridgebacks

Desert Marvel

Germany

Latvia

www.royal-african-ridgebacks.com

www.desertmarvel.club

Royal African Ridgebacks

nikaserzante

royal_african_ridgebacks

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Kizazi Ajabu RR

Harmakhis Wisdom

Germany

Italy

www.nomawethu.de

www.saraventurelli.it

NomawethuRidgebacks

Rhodesian Ridgeback Harmakhis Wisdom

leaprusnat

rhodesian_harmakhis_wisdom

Imara ya Furaha

Neomele

Switzerland

Croatia

imara-ya-furaha.ch

www.neomele.com

Angela Di Stefano

maja.kljaja, Lela Treščec

ridgebacks_imara_ya_furaha

rhodesian_ridgebacks_neomele

165

Ireland

Switzerland

www.hoozridgebacks.com

www.of-muna.ch

hoozridgebacks

Jasmin Hoppe

hoozridgebacks

jasmine_munayakusini

Dharuba

Malozi

Netherlands

Finland

dharuba.com

malozirr@gmail.com

Dharuba Rhodesian Ridgebacks

malozirr

Dharuba_rhodesianridgebacks

Zawadi N’Zuri

Of Course

France

Canada

zawadi-nzuri.com

teamzawadinzuri

ofcourserhodesianridgebacks

ofcourseridgebacks

Villagedogs

Mbaya-Almasi Ridgebacks

Belgium

Germany

www.villagedogs.be

www.mbaya-almasi-ridgeback.de

Villagedogs RRs

Mbaya-Almasi Ridgebacks

villagedogs

tunapendanaadia

RHODESIAN RIDGEBACK BREEDERS

Of Muna Ya Kusini

RHODESIAN RIDGEBACK EU MAGAZINE

Hooz

Khoisan

Sweden

Slovenia

www.shawdi.se

www.khoisan.si

KennelShawdi

kuralt.snezka

kennelshawdi

designbystarr

Ikimba

Colkeririn

Finland

United Kingdom

marianne.gellin@gmail.com

www.colkeririnrhodesianridgebacks.com

Marianne Gellin (Ikimba)

Kim Hodge (Colkeririn Ridgebacks)

colkeririn.ridgebacks

Dear Breeders, In the upcoming issue of our magazine, we have 5 open spots for breeder (logo) cover exposure, along with a corresponding data card featuring your information. Alternatively, you may opt for a data card only.

RHODESIAN RIDGEBACK EU MAGAZINE

RHODESIAN RIDGEBACK BREEDERS 166

Shawdi

Should you wish to seize this opportunity and feature your breeding in magazine, please do not hesitate to reach out to us through our social media handles or via email at rr.eu.magazine@gmail.com. We would be delighted to provide you with all the necessary information. Thank you for considering our magazine as a potential avenue for showcasing your kennel. We look forward to hearing from you soon. Best regards, Magazine Team