About High Desert Ridgebacks
Tucked away on a quiet ranch in New Plymouth, Idaho, is High Desert Ridgebacks—a small-scale, quality breeding program run by Pat and Donna Smith.
With a Bachelor’s degree in Animal Science from Washington State University and 45 years of experience as a professional farrier, Pat brings a lifetime of expertise to their program. Donna complements this with her background as a Licensed Practical Nurse, applying her medical precision to the delicate care of whelping and raising litters.
Since falling in love with the "Lion Dog" over a decade ago, the Smiths have remained dedicated to preserving the breed’s iconic ridge and its unique temperament—dignified, yet deeply loyal and affectionate. By keeping only a few mature sires and dams, they ensure every puppy receives individualized attention and thorough socialization within their home.
As active members of the Northwest Rhodesian Ridgeback Club and the AKC, Pat and Donna prioritize rigorous health testing and breed education. Their commitment to their dogs doesn't end at the gate; they take pride in providing lifelong mentorship and support to every family that joins the High Desert Ridgebacks community.
Sires and Dams
When selecting sires and dams for our breeding program, thoughtful consideration is given to pedigree, health clearances, conformation, and temperament. Ideal sires and dams come from lines free of genetic diseases and have excellent hip and elbow scores confirming their joint health. Both dogs should possess the breed standard's desired characteristics such as athletic musculature, a gentle temperament, and the distinctive ridge of fur along the back. We match complementary dogs not just for their looks but also for their personalities. By choosing the right sires and dams for our programs, we better the future of this intelligent and affectionate hunter.
Puppies
Fantastic news! We are delighted to share that two litters of Ridgeback puppies will be arriving in the summer of 2026 (Mhambi/Kia and Mhambi/Maddie). Stay tuned for updates and prepare to welcome a new furry companion into your family!
Bloodlines
When choosing breeding pairs, we carefully evaluate pedigrees and select for both sound conformation as well as the steady temperament the breed is known for. We concentrate our bloodlines around proven sires and dams possessing ideal Ridgeback structure - straight front legs, muscular hindquarters, arched toes, and of course, the namesake ridge along the back. These conformational traits aren't just for looks, but allow the Rhodesian Ridgeback to be the athletic, able hiking and hunting partner they have historically been. However, stellar companion qualities are equally important to us. Our sires and dams undergo thorough temperament testing to ensure biddability, intelligence, and stability. We look back through many generations in our dogs' lines for ancestors known for their loyal and gentle demeanors. By prioritizing both conformation and temperament in our breeding selection, we strive to better the health and longevity of our beloved breed while preserving the Rhodesian Ridgeback's versatility, nobility, and unique essence.
Health Testing
Rigorous health testing is a central pillar of our breeding program. Both sire and dam undergo thorough examinations prior to any mating to screen for issues prevalent in Ridgebacks. Hips and elbows are evaluated and certified free of dysplasia by either OFA or PennHIP at two years old. Wellness evaluations and labs are performed routinely. Any dog showing indications of disease or carrier status is never bred from. OFA DNA evaluations help inform genetic diversity as well. Only upon passing all health checks without exception or impairment do our breeding dogs earn the privilege of parentage. We strive to leverage responsible testing to better the breed.
Socialization
All of our ridgeback puppies are raised underfoot in our home alongside our grandchildren. They benefit from constant interaction, stimulation, and wide-ranging socialization opportunities right from the start, whether exploring outdoors on our family farm or cuddling up with kids watching TV. Once eyes and ears open, each puppy undergoes a developmental program tailored to their developmental stage. This lays vital foundations for future training and temperament. We also expose young puppies to novel sights, sounds, terrain, and people to encourage confidence. On the veterinary side, our vet administers a full regimen of core vaccines on a schedule up to 8-16 weeks old including parvovirus, distemper, and rabies inoculations. They are also regularly dewormed. Comprehensive health checks at 8 weeks and 12 weeks ensure appropriate growth and development during this precious time. We handle registration paperwork as well. With diligent early socialization and proper veterinary care, our ridgeback puppies have the best start to become well-rounded companions.
Mhambi/Maddie Litter
April 2025
Recent Litter
All puppies have found great homes.
Gallery
Sierra Jones
These dogs are absolutely amazing! Donna and Pat truly care about their puppies and the homes that they go to. Don't even get me started on how beautiful and well-mannered their puppies are before they even come home. Nala is already almost potty trained, and she is 11 to 12 weeks old.
Monica Gray
I personally know the owners and the care and thought that goes into each litter of pups. Quality dogs all the way around.
Shannon Slavens
Beautiful dogs, wonderful loving home, and really friendly people! What else could you ask for? Their dogs and puppies are socialized well and raised with kids and livestock. Highly recommended!