The Bodda Getta

This is my boy, Dutch... A 4-year old RR. We live in Ohio so I can't help you out with a local breeder, but can give you some insight as to what kind of dogs they are. I'm a huge dog lover and was also very intrigued by this breed. After having one, I can tell you that Ridgebacks are definitely like no other breed that I've encountered.

PROs: Beautiful, athletic/sporting dogs, very unique personality, very inteligent, active, most have a big bark but use it selectively, great gaurddogs, great with other balanced dogs (if properly socialized), great bond with their master(s)

CONs: Sometimes smarter than I'd like, can be very teritorial (ours is), if not socialized early, can be bad with children (ours makes us a little nervous), need plenty of mental and physical activity (they need brain stimulation), aloof with most people that they're not familiar with, tend to be whiners when they're under-stimulated, 10-12 year life expectency (if properly cared for)

They are NOT a breed for just anyone. If you have a very busy lifestyle and are away from home more than you're around, unless you can take him/her with you, I'd probably consider another breed. I do love this breed more than any other, but caution the typical pet owner. Like others have previously posted, early training, socialization and exposure to the outside world is crutial in developing a ridgeback. The typical daily walk on a leash may not be enough to satisfy some of the more active RRs. Open land to let them run around and BE A DOG (hard to find places like that around here) should make a for a happy dog. They're very socail and great pack dogs, so if you can get more than one or have other dogs they'll be even happier.

I could go on and on really. IF they fit your lifestyle, I highly recommend them. Let me know if you have other questions.