Rhodesian Bernard

The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a strong, muscular hound of impressive size and athletic bearing, instantly recognizable by the distinctive ridge of hair that runs along its back. Males typically stand between 25 and 27 inches at the shoulder and weigh around 85 pounds, while females measure 24 to 26 inches and weigh approximately 70 pounds. The body is slightly longer than tall, well-balanced, and symmetrical in outline, presenting a picture of power combined with remarkable agility. Originally bred to track lions in the African bush, the breed retains the endurance and speed necessary for that demanding work. The most distinctive feature of the breed is the ridge of hair growing in the opposite direction from the rest of the coat, running from just behind the shoulders to a point between the hipbones. According to breed standards, this ridge should be clearly defined, tapering, and symmetrical, with two identical crowns or whorls located opposite each other at the top of the ridge. The ridge is considered so essential to breed identity that ridgeless puppies are traditionally excluded from breeding programs. The head is of fair length with a flat, moderately broad skull and a reasonably well-defined stop. The muzzle is long, deep, and powerful, housing strong jaws. Eyes are round, bright, and sparkling with an intelligent expression, their color harmonizing with the coat. The medium-sized ears are set rather high and carried close to the head, tapering to rounded points. The coat is short, dense, sleek, and glossy, ranging in color from light wheaten to red wheaten. A small amount of white on the chest and toes is permissible. The tail is strong at the root, tapering toward the tip, and carried with a slight upward curve. Movement is free and active, demonstrating great endurance with a fair amount of speed.

The Saint Bernard is a truly giant breed that embodies power, strength, and impressive stature. Males typically stand between 28 and 30 inches at the shoulder and weigh between 140 and 180 pounds, with some individuals exceeding these measurements significantly. Females are slightly smaller, standing 26 to 28 inches and weighing between 120 and 140 pounds. The massive body is well-muscled and powerful, built for the strength and endurance necessary to perform mountain rescue work in deep Alpine snow. The overall impression is of imposing size combined with a benevolent and intelligent expression. The head is truly massive, powerful, and impressive, with a broad skull and a well-defined stop. The muzzle is short and does not taper, with a straight bridge and powerful jaws. The eyes are medium-sized, set somewhat to the front, and are dark brown with an expression of intelligence and kindness. The brow is slightly wrinkled when at attention. The ears are medium-sized, set high, and hang close to the cheeks, triangular in shape with slightly rounded tips. The neck is strong, muscular, and appears shorter than it is due to its impressive thickness, with a well-developed dewlap. Saint Bernards come in two coat varieties, the shorthaired and longhaired types. The shorthaired variety has a dense, smooth coat lying close to the body, while the longhaired variety has medium-length fur with feathering on the legs and a bushy tail. Both types have a thick undercoat. The color is white with red or red with white, with red appearing in various shades from brindle patches to continuous mantles over the body. The face typically shows a dark mask over the eyes. The tail is long, heavy, and powerful, hanging low when at rest with the tip slightly upturned. Movement is smooth and ground-covering despite the breed's immense size.