Page 260 - ShowSight - February 2020

THE
RHODESIAN RIDGEBACK
1. Where do you live? What do you do “outside” of dogs?
2. In popularity, the Rhodesian Ridgeback is currently ranked #41 out of 192 AKC recognized breeds. Do you hope this will change or are you comfortable with his placement? Do these numbers help or hurt the breed?
3. Does the average person on the street recognize him for what he is?
4. Although he’s a tremendously hard-working dog with great power and stamina, he’s highly valued as a companion. What qualities in the field also come in handy around the house?
5. An energetic dog—of any size—requires a special household to be a perfect fit. What about the breed makes him an ideal companion? Drawbacks?
6. Are there any misconceptions about the breed you’d like to dispel?
7. What special challenges do RR breeders face in our current economic and social climate?
8. At what age do you start to see definite signs of show-worthi- ness or lack thereof?
9. What is the most important thing about the breed for a new judge to keep in mind?
10. What is the best way to attract newcomers to your breed and to the sport?
11. What is your ultimate goal for the breed?
12. What is your favorite dog show memory?
13. Is there anything else you’ d like to share about the breed?
JULIE BUSS
I come from a live- stock background and was raised with hunting Beagles as a child. Scott and I had Weimara- ners for 15 years before Ridgebacks. Coming from a breed of cattle with a very small gene pool (Belgian Blues) we are very aware of blood- lines and structure. I also used to work for
a veterinarian and find all things medical fascinating. We love to meet new people and enjoy talking and learning new things on our journey.
I live in Denver, Iowa and I run a mobile scrub van that trav- els the state and sells fashion scrubs to nurses and staff at nursing homes, assisted livings, hospitals and clinics. We also have a small family farm. We do a little gardening and enjoy cooking for friends and family.
Do I hope my breed will change in popularity? I prefer to not be popular. Popularity has not helped many breeds so I would say I am fine with where we are at.
Does the average person recognize my breed? Some people rec- ognize Ridgebacks they don’t always know the correct name I get a lot of razorback.
What qualities in the field also come in handy around the house? They are very intuitive and love to be a part of their family. This makes them great with kids, a natural service dog and a great work out partner! They are eager to please and equally intelligent. They also have an “off” switch happy to watch a movie and eat popcorn.
What about my breed makes them an ideal companion? I prefer a fenced yard but do know many who exercise by biking, hiking or running with their dog. They are relatively healthy for a dog their size and easy maintenance. Their connection with their “people” is what sets them apart. These smart eager dogs are happiest when their mind is stimulated as well as their muscles. Nosework, dog puzzles or hide and seek are great fun. Biggest drawback is prey drive sometimes it takes over and rules the mind and all else is out the window!
Are there any misconceptions about my breed? Some people think Ridgeback have a bad attitude, rough and aggressive and they are not. There are always some bad apples but aloof with strangers is different than scared or insecure.
Special challenges do RR breeders face? I think in the purebred world we all battle the why spend so much for a pup? You need to educate about health testing, time invested and years of dedication it takes to do it right. Socially the big debate adopt don’t shop—well you’re still shopping when adopting—you are still paying for a pup, just not from a reputable breeder.
What age do I start to see definite signs of show-worthiness? There are some things that are immediate—like ridge, some show signs of attitude earlier than others. Each litter and each pup is dif- ferent you need to evaluate with an open mind and patience.
Most important thing about my breed for a new judge to keep in mind? Read the standard! Do not go by the flavor of the month or who advertises the most. It’s about a standard know it, educateyourself.
The best way to attract newcomers to my breed and to the sport? We need to be welcoming to new people. Mentor them and offer guidance.
“Some people think Ridgeback have a bad attitude, rough and aggressive and they are not.”
258 • ShowSight Magazine, February 2020