Specialklubben Rhodesian Ridgeback Sverige (SRRS)

Specialklubben Rhodesian Ridgeback Sverige (SRRS) serves as the official breed club for the Rhodesian Ridgeback in Sweden. Operating as a specialized organization under the umbrella of the Svenska Kennelklubben (SKK), the club acts as the primary representative and consultative partner for all matters concerning the breed. With a dedicated membership base of approximately 1,400 individuals, the SRRS is committed to the welfare, development, and promotion of the Rhodesian Ridgeback.

Core Mission and Breed Focus

The Rhodesian Ridgeback, which belongs to FCI group 6 (Scenthounds and related breeds), originated in Southern Africa as a hunting and guard dog. In the Swedish context, the club emphasizes the breed's role as a valued companion for active owners, while also supporting its continued use in specialized fields such as tracking and search work. The SRRS places a high priority on the health and longevity of the breed, actively engaging in data collection through regular health surveys for dogs at specific life stages to ensure the well-being of the population.

Activities and Governance

As an official special club, the SRRS holds the authority to organize official trials and dog shows. The organization is structured into several regional departments—Södra, Västra, Östra, and Norra—which facilitate local engagement and activities. Key organizational functions include:

• Events and Competitions: The club hosts a variety of activities, including breed-specific exhibitions (such as the Ridgebackspecialen), racing events, and qualifying trials for national championships in tracking (viltspår).
• Member Engagement: The club maintains a strong connection with its members through regular surveys, digital annual meetings, and the publication of the member magazine, Ridgeback-Nytt.
• Health Monitoring: A central pillar of the club's work is the systematic collection of health data, including reports on diseases, genetic test results, and mortality, which informs their breeding and ownership guidelines.

Rules and Administration

The SRRS operates under a formal governance structure, with an elected board and a clear process for decision-making. Members are encouraged to participate in the democratic process through their regional delegates. The club also maintains strict policies regarding data protection and provides resources for prospective owners, including information on current litter registrations and ethical breeding practices. By fostering a community of informed owners and breeders, the SRRS ensures that the Rhodesian Ridgeback remains a healthy and well-supported breed within Sweden.