Frequently Asked Questions
Below are some of the most common questions we're asked by people interested in Rhodesian Ridgebacks.
FAQs
Q: How long have you been breeding dogs?
A: I (Barbara Turpin) am a third generation breeder. My father and grandfather both bred Whippets under the suffix Of Course. I was raised with an eye for the multipurpose dog: one that was structurally sound enough to race, conformationally sound enough to earn its championship and, most of all, mentally sound enough to be a long-time companion. Our family has had Whippets since 1963 and Rhodesian Ridgebacks since 1995. Since 1995 I have only bred four litters (as of autumn 2007).
Q: Is the RR (Rhodesian Ridgeback) good with kids?
A: Most breeders will respond: How are your kids with RRs? When considering the RR, it's important to remember that this is not a breed for everyone. Original function of any breed should be taken into account when adding a dog to the family. An RR is loyal and protective with a strong spirit. Many will not tolerate abuse. Even more will not tolerate "their" children being bullied or hurt by others. Visit RR breeders. Get to know what they are like in their homes. Be honest with yourself.
Q: I think I have an RR at home because his hair stands up when he is upset.
A: The ridge on an RR actually lies completely flat at all times. The hair grows in the opposite direction and is always visible. Hair stands up on any breed of dog that is upset. In a ridged breed, this occurs at the hips and shoulders, never on the ridge.
Q: I'd like to start breeding. Can I buy one of your dogs?
A: Dog breeding is a long process requiring considerable research. As dog over-population is a continuing problem and the need for breed rescue groups continue, ethical breeding becomes increasingly important. Show potential puppies are only available to novice owners on a co-own basis or on a non-breeding contract. However, we at Of Course kennels are always available to mentor--whether or not you have one of our dogs.
Q: What does show potential mean?
A: Show potential means that at eight weeks old the puppy was assessed as having no structural flaws that would prevent it from earning a conformation title?
Q: Are all show potential dogs also breeding potential?
A: No. Even a champion of record may never be of good enough quality to breed. Temperament and health play a key role in determining whether or not a dog should be bred. More importantly, a waiting list of committed puppy people is crucial in assuring there are homes waiting for your puppies.
Q: Do I have to fill out a questionnaire?
A: Absolutely. To assure that Of Course RRs are placed in the best forever homes, we ask pointed questions. This is not to be invasive, rather its meant to assure that you've really thought through the decision. We pride ourselves in having secured some of the very best homes on the continent and we'd like to continue this pattern.
Q: How long with my puppy live?
A: Of Course kennels are built on the Wyndrunhr lines from Texas. In addition to having beautiful structure and a high desire to please during performance events, the Wyndrunhr lines are long lived. My African Kuuipo, Bonnie Norris's foundation bitch, lived to be 16 years old. While it's less common to see a 16 year old RR, your puppy should live for about 12 years.
Q: I live in an apartment, but am very active. Would you be willing to consider me as a family to one of your RRs?
A: Finding a good match for a particular RR is paramount to Of Course. If you are the right home, you will be accepted.
Q: Do you reject some applicants?
A: Yes, we do. But it's important to look at the reasons why. Sometimes there just isn't a match. I've declined some families for a particular dog because it wasn't an ideal fit, but then went on to place a different dog in their home. Remember, our goal is to find forever homes, not make a sale. We believe that matching puppies with people should be done without bias for the good of all involved.
