I know nothing about pigeons however I own a Ridgeback and have worked with the breed for 10+ years.
I have read some of the posted comments and many appear to be that of an opinionated minority!
Rhodesian Ridgebacks are not considered as barking dogs. They will bark to ward of strangers etc. Health issues, diet or lack of exercise would explain as to why a RR would bark more than what is typical within the breed.
I wouldn’t say the breed is over-bred in compassion to many other breeds. Much depends on the breeder and bloodlines. The problem is when you get ‘scum/chavs’ that know little about the breed wanting to make some money and not being responsible.
Rottweiler, German Shepherds, Staffordshire Bull terrier etc have all be heavily exploited in this way with ill control of breeding.
There are some RR that have a larger chest cavity, more pointed nose etc. This is all dependent on the bloodlines of the breeder.
I would say out of the RR I have come across in public a good 40% I would consider to be overweight, Do not get this breed of dog if you are a coach potato. Adult dogs need plenty of exercise at least twice daily. Without generalising too much this breed is far more suited to a rural than urban living.
Whilst not exercising they are very relaxed , lazy dogs that are aloof.
As a first dog I would not advice this breed nor if you have only owned small/toy breed dogs.
Expect to pay between £800-£1000 for a RR puppy. You should expect to have champion dogs with a five generation span for that price.
If you paying under £500 this may in some cases suggest a poor bloodline and someone just trying to cash in.! Always buy from a reputable breeder. Reputable breeders may refuse to sell their puppies as there is usually tight control on who they go too and who you can breed with.
People complain about the price of dogs but if you are too cheap to pay that amount then god knows what you expect to feed the dog. Cheap nutrition leads to ill dogs. Would recommend Orijen, Arden Grange or BARF diet to feed your RR..
Please go to several breeders and get an idea if this is the right breed for you.
Rottweiler is also a great dog with a wonderful temperament as a family dog that will protect your family. But again this breed has been exploited from a small bloodline stock.
I would recommend this site : http://www.ridgebacks.org.uk/ and this book:
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Rhodesian-Ridgebac...9197&sr=8-1
