Dog: Red
Nicknames: Reddy Red Dog, Fred, Boofer
Breed: Ridgeback x Kelpie x Dingo
Age: 3 years
Human: Mel
His Motto in Life: Just keep swimming
Describe Red’s breed paw-sonality? What makes him so special?
Red is a delight. He’s just a goofy, silly, funny ball of hairy goodness. He’s a sweet, sensitive, funny boy who just loves to hang with his people and hassle his much older sister. He has so much character. He also has the fabulous ridge of the ridgeback breed.
Is this the first time you’ve had a Ridgeback x Kelpie x Dingo or do you have a longer history with the breed?
I have had Kelpies and rescues before Red.
What’s your first memory of Red?
I brought him to Melbourne from Cairns purely based on what I’d read his rescue profile (sight unseen) and after with interviews from his foster carer. After traveling in a big, cold, noisy plane, it was so nice to go into a comfy car with a blanket and some friendly faces! Then I met my new sister, and that was the best (even if my energetic greeting stressed her out a bit). His rescue name was Reginald / Reggie, and I didn’t love it so Red it became. He’s gone from an unwanted stray to an adventure dog who goes everywhere and does everything. From 4×4-ing to beach holidays, dinner dates, you name it he does it.
What’s life like with a Ridgeback x Kelpie x Dingo?
Full of adventures! We go everywhere together. Camping last weekend he took a liking to eat the ants – not the bull ants thankfully – but he made a game of waiting for the ants to climb up his legs, then would eat them off. Strange beast! He makes me laugh 1000 times a day.
What was different from your expectations of a Ridgeback x Kelpie x Dingo, once you had Red?
He’s a lot more sensitive than his breeds would suggest.
Is Red like most other Ridgeback x Kelpie x Dingo, or does he have some unique traits?
He’s got less endurance than a proper kelpie, after a few days camping he’s exhausted and needs two days of bed (favourites chair) rest. He LOVES his swimming though. He used to be a scaredy-cat of the water but one day decided he was a fish. Throw a stick or ball and he’ll be there all day.
What do you love most about being a pet parent to a Ridgeback x Kelpie x Dingo?
He’s a clown. I love everything about him. Including the fact that he always toilets in the same place – just so reliable.
What’s not so paw-fect about a Ridgeback x Kelpie x Dingo?
Little bit barky, but other than that he’s fab!
What things should others be aware of before getting a rescue?
Good foundations and trust-building are critical for rescues, and also for any dog – understanding what motivates them and how best to tailor training to their personality.
