South Africa boasts a rich canine history and several unique dog breeds, including the iconic Rhodesian Ridgeback, known for its distinctive ridge of hair, and the Boerboel, a strong and loyal farm dog.

Here’s a more detailed look at some cool facts about dogs in South Africa:

Unique South African Dog Breeds:

• Rhodesian Ridgeback:
This breed, recognized as South Africa’s national dog, is known for its unique ridge of hair growing in the opposite direction on its back.
• Boerboel:
Originally bred to guard farms, Boerboels are known for their strength, loyalty, and protective nature, and are affectionate with their families but wary of strangers.
• African Wild Dog (Lycaon pictus):
While not a domesticated breed, these wild dogs are a fascinating part of South Africa’s canine heritage, known for their striking appearance and cooperative hunting behavior.

Other Interesting Facts:

• Just Nuisance:
This Great Dane was a beloved figure in South Africa, becoming the only dog ever to be officially enlisted in the Royal Navy, serving at HMS Afrikander in Simon’s Town.

Common breeds:
German Shepherd, Boerboel, Ridgeback, and Pit Bull are among the most common breeds in South Africa.

Dogs are popular pets:

Dogs are the most popular pets in South Africa, with large breeds making up 50% of the dog population.

Rhodesian Ridgeback’s origins:
The Rhodesian Ridgeback’s name comes from a unique genetic mutation that led to a strip of hair on the dog’s back to grow in the opposite direction, giving it a distinguished appearance.

African Wild Dog Facts:
• Status: Endangered.
• Population: Estimated 6,600.
• Habitat: Deserts, forests, and grasslands – all parts of the savannah biome.
• Max speed: Up to 44mph

From hunting companions to protectors – the relationship between dogs and humans goes back thousands of years.

Today, one of the most domesticated animals, in many parts of the world the Canis lupus familiaris is a beloved family member and friend we share our lives with.

Here are 10 fascinating facts about our furry companions.

• Dogs can smell diseases such as diabetes and cancer.
• Dogs conduct their “business” in a north south-direction.
• Dogs can smell about 10,000 times better than humans.
• Dogs know when they do not have enough information to solve a problem and actively search for more input.
• Dogs have three eyelids.
• To drink water, dogs plunge their tongue straight into the water, pull it to the rear and shovel the water into their throat.
• The smell in a dog’s urine lets other dogs know if the one who left the message is young or old, male or female, healthy or sick and happy or angry.
• Dogs can see colours, however, their perception of colour resembles that of a person who is colour blind.
• Dogs can estimate the size of another dog by the sound of their growling.
• Sweat ducts in dogs’ paws are activated when it is too hot and helps to keep their body temperature cool. Because of dogs’ “sweaty feet”, they leave wet footprints.