The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a versatile hunting dog whose origins are found in and around Bulawayo, Zimbabwe (formerly Rhodesia). They were bred to hunt and bring to bay big game, most notably lions, and to guard the family farms. The dogs were valued not only for their friendly and loyal temperament, but for their intelligence, speed and bravery. Some recommended resources for more information on the breed are:
 
"The Rhodesian Ridgeback Today" by Stig Carlson
"The Rhodesian Ridgeback" by Anne Woodrow
"The Complete Rhodesian Ridgeback" by Peter Nicholson and Janet Parker
"Rhodesian Ridgeback Pioneers" by Linda Costa