Five Years Living With Rhodesian Ridgeback Mayhem

Was Penny the dog of my dreams? Absolutely not, and I couldn't be more grateful for that. Ever since her ship crash landed on our planet five years ago, Penny's infused our lives with her cosmic energy.
Sure, we may have lost pieces of our sanity along the way, but I've never had more than a tenuous grip on those to begin with.
For more Rhodesian Ridgeback adventures, check us out on instagram (@markingourterritory) and at our blog: MarkingOurTerritory.com

[@danelobe2524]

I had a penny, she was a blue heeler. She knew 26 verbal commands befor her 1st birthay. She was insane with spontaneous energy. She was my rock. She broke my heart when she died.

[@bonnieowens890]

I had a Blue Heeler, named Katie. Natural herder. As puppy would nip our heels, lol. We had two horses she loved to "herd". So smart, tough as nails and a sweetheart. Miss her so.

[@7Watty7]

Best dogs in the Universe!

[@dylanmonnelly9539]

My buddy has a red healer it’s insane how smart it is

[@treylyde999]

Dont let it define it. Reinvent

[@Inwaveforyou]

There very smart dogs

[@IckoMildness]

I don't know why this was in my recommendations, but this is a beautiful story 😍

[@sebastianlaw22]

same.... was not disappointed tho

[@davidhernandez9985]

It is a rare & beautiful specimen of the 4-legged kind!

[@RyanMayer]

I couldn't agree more.

[@simsdarrylee]

I never, ever comment on videos but when I saw this I had to check it out. My RB was Sally, well I say she was mine but I think really I was her human cause she ruled the roost!. I had her for 14 years and that was the best 14 years of my life, as I watched your video I cried like a baby and I'm a 60 year old man :). Thanks for that video I really needed that, God bless and I hope many, many years of happiness with yours.

[@MarkingOurTerritory]

Hey Darryl, means a lot to connect with others like you who know the peaks and valleys of this journey we take with our dogs. Thanks for taking the time to share a few kind words and encourage me on.

[@iam8041]

Thank you for sharing!

[@RHP-pw8xt]

My boy lived to be 13.1/2... such a beautiful dog, friend, guardian for my boys. He passed away 12 months ago, we'll get another one in 6-12 months when things are settled again, We miss our companion too much, I need another.

[@floydyoung7329]

I'm sorry for your lost. I'm watching this because I miss my r.r. so much

[@TheLunita333]

I laughed soooo hard when Penny ran circles around that poor woman laying down ahahahahah great video!!

[@mr.g1of6]

Nope..... I hate it when humans do not have control over their pets.

[@Jop278]

Poor woman? She was blessed to get to see Penny lol

[@Jop278]

Mr. G 1 of 6 maybe you should tame a bald eagle you fucking pussy.

[@bruhnah5183]

I hollered 😂😂😂😂

[@IWillAndMeHole]

It's not funny...the owner is an asshole

[@jenawagner6475]

OMG....I have a Ridgeback who is just like this 😆 She is CRAZY and ALWAYS just messing with us. She is such a spaz! Her favorite thing to do is steal whatever she thinks will get us to chase her....cell phones, remotes, hair brush, our mail, a book, while your reading it, our shoes, while we're walking in them. She has got the silliest sence of humor! At first it was a bit much but not anymore. I wouldn't change a thing about her. She keeps us on our toes and makes us laugh.As crazy as she can be sometimes she is also so sweet and loving. We love her with all our heart and she loves us!! ❤❤

[@WhiteStone21475]

What a joyful dog. You are truly blessed with her. Happy Birthday dear Penny.

[@Bummer1980]

She reminds me of our boy Oden! I had many many dogs in my life. I was a pro at training. Not my ridgeback Oden! He was out of this world destructive! He at my entire air conditioner unit! He ate my spare tire off the underside of my vehicle! He ate He corner off the bed lid to my truck! He ate my cast iron damn flower pot! How the hell he cracked my iron pot is beyond me! He dug up and ate EVERY SPRINKLER in my yard! He ate the 4x4 posts that held up the patio! He ate a crap ton of the fence boards! He ate the tubing to my pool vac! Omg he was a nightmare his first year! He cost us a freaking fortune! When we would let him in he would knock our kids over. So we made the choice to send him away to be trained. I loved him and we couldn’t just give up on him. We got him from the pound and they told us he would be a small dog. Maybe 40 pounds. He was like Clifford the big effing red dog!!! He grew and grew and grew and grew! We had no clue what breed he was. He didn’t have a Ridge that was visible all the time. It only came out when he was amped up. We think that the combo of him being such a small puppy (they probably thought he was the runt) and him being ridgeless made him less desirable and a breeder dropped him off at the pound. He was so big 130 pounds and he stood at my waist when on all 4’s! So we take him to the boarding kennel trainer. We researched for months to find the perfect trainer. We were fully expecting them to call us in a few days and be like, nope can’t do it, he’s untrainable! But no, we went two to three times a week to train with him and learn what he had learned. He was there for 3 months. We had him trained for a lot more than just regular obedience. I was in my early 20’s and had 3 babies at the time. One 3 year old and two 1 year olds and I was home alone with the kids a lot! My husband traveled a lot for work back then and we had just moved to a new state and we didn’t know anyone! So I wanted him to be able to give me security. When Oden came home he was the most AMAZING dog ever!!! He knew how to behave and he was so gentle with the kids. He just wanted to be with us 24/7 and he was! He was an inside dog. He would go out to potty and when we would run off his energy playing and then he was back in with us. He was a 130lb lap dog! When we got our 4th baby he was so protective. He slept in front of the crib. He was just the most amazing dog, he was so much more than a dog, he was family, Oden was our furry 5th child. My protector and my kids best friend. My husbands lap dog. He was 13 when he passed away. He had minor health issues. He had some arthritis in his knees and hips and he was on a prescription medication for that. But otherwise he was healthy. We took him in every 6 months for senior check ups at the vet. He went to sleep that night on his bed like normal and he had left us in his sleep. That was 3 years ago. I still have his dog bed in my room (washed of course). My other 2 dogs that grew up with him still won’t lay on it. We had him privately cremated and returned to us. He’s in a beautiful wooden box urn and I have a picture frame that says I love my dog and his picture in it, on top of his box. I have his favorite toy sitting next to it. One day I know I’ll be ready for another ridgeback. But no one will ever take the place of Oden. Oden was a one of a kind dog! Words can’t even begin to explain how much he meant to our family.

[@scottcarl3086]

Your story made me cry. Dogs are so amazing. Losing a family member who looked over the rest of the family hurts! Sorry for your loss.

[@nobodyknowss7078]

this is beautiful. thank you for sharing

[@artjinks2935]

Sometimes you are blessed to have that special dog hopefully more than once in your life. But having a special dog once gives you special memories & a feeling that I was blessed to experience what having that special dog is like .GOD BLESS THE DOGS IN OUR LIVES.

[@-the-great-awakening]

Made me cry 😪

[@leonievw2466]

You don't get the dog you want, but the dog you need. ❤️

[@beckywatt5048]

I do believe the Divine sees to that, just my opinion.

[@michaeld954]

Science needs to figure out how to make dogs live longer minimum 40 years

[@canecorsomolosser3294]

I 👍

[@MoonBeamLaser]

100 years

[@carlostorres8771]

1,000 years

[@techevar]

I agree! I recently lost my female Rottweiler and I miss her dearly!

[@american_cinncinnatus]

Michael D yes

[@iyamwhatiyam547]

Love this👍. Go Penny go, living life with fearless circular joy!

[@geraldhimmelspach1154]

This is one of the best philosophical, funny and heartwarming videos i have ever seen. Thank you for uploading it.

[@MarkingOurTerritory]

Thanks so much - glad you enjoyed it!

[@janettavculek9308]

The doggy never stops. She is so bursting with happiness and energy, I just smiled all over to see something enjoy life this much. She is a gift from God.

[@norfolkflyer]

Thank you for sharing this. I have tears in my eyes remembering our two bundles of mayhem. Sadly now both passed away. They are brilliant dogs, so loyal and loving.

[@StyleMySweets]

What a beautiful video and story!

[@michelehaase5197]

Another gorgeous and inspiring video! I lost my beloved RR March 25, 2013 - can’t believe six years have passed. Current circumstances don’t allow the opportunity for another RR, but I’ve been watching Penny videos from the beginning and she brings me great joy. Happy happy birthday Penny! Thank you Link & Co.

[@MarkingOurTerritory]

Thanks! Glad my wild wonder can provide your Ridgeback fix from afar while keeping your furniture intact.

[@BarbB56]

We just lost our ridgeback. He was just like Penny when he was a pup. Chewed half the kitchen cabinets when we were at work.Took hours and hours of training but eventually was superbly well behaved although still " tried it on " at times.He had the most wonderful temperament,we miss him every day. Thank you for sharing your experience. X

[@atomiccracker]

Dogs, Coffee, and Music....The 3 Things that have made my life worth living!

[@Scarlett9254]

I would add grandchildren to that list.

[@Five.catsno.dogs2]

JONN GUNN, DOGS, COFFEE, MUSIC, YESSSSS, thats me all the way

[@poughkeepsie8516]

Dogs, football, cars

[@wrenlittle8826]

This was beautiful. You had me in tears. I recently adopted a being so odd and different from any thing I knew before. You give me hope. Penny gives me hope.

[@sissywizard1764]

I really enjoyed your script writing, it truly reached a special moment at the end of the video on the beach talking about life's rotations. One other thing i noticed is that you didn't use any dramatic/sad music moments, i thought it made your video a lot more relatable and overall a really nice film. May Lincoln also grow up to be a wonderful Dog Daddy :)

[@clarefarrell3579]

I had my ridgeback Kruger for 14 years and he was slightly odd but it was an honour and a privilege. He was my beautiful boy and I miss him everyday but it was worth it. Thank you Kruger xxxx

[@AlexandraAndStuff]

Jesus, I got exhausted just from watching her :D And I have a pretty energetic dog myself. Thanks for your videos, I love your narration style!

[@allensaunders449]

Alot of marathon runners own this breed they can jog with you over 20 miles great energy

[@troyaturner1979]

Rhodies are high energy dogs & can be VERY dominant.

[@ThreenaddiesRexMegistus]

The old boy Echo was a lovely, gentle creature !

[@PaganPunk]

Echo Was Pure Class in These Videos.....He is So Missed, But Ridgebacks All Have That Crazy Gene In Them, They Are Awesome For It, I've Literally had Them In My life Since our First 'Emma' in 1974, I was 6 ..... I am now 51 and Curled up on the Sofa With My 16 month old Handsome Ridgeback Boy Django, For Me They Are The Absolute Best Breed In The Whole World ..... ❤

[@ericfleetwood6744]

I was impressed that Echo never gave puppy Penny "the Paw of Death" between the shoulder blades. (At least not on camera). He must have been very patient.

[@1LORENAMONGE]

This is so sweet, it made me cry! We had an awesome RR/Lab mix and he was the best doggo ever. Chico was a challenge his first two years but so sweet and smart we just loved him even more. He left us a couple of years ago, when he was 14 years old, leaving a huge hole in our hearts but also many, many wonderful memories. I have never known a dog so intelligent, stubborn, sweet, fierce, and dignified as my Chico. 💕

[@Three_Dog_Gaming]

Our ridgeback mix recently met our new baby boy! It's amazing how much he seems to care about our baby already after a week! Every cry or squeak makes Rebel run to his side and let us know our baby is there! I don't know if that's every breed, but that ridgeback part of him is really standing out!

[@janebrown7231]

What a wonderful photographer and story-teller you are! It was a real Ode to Joy.

[@MarkingOurTerritory]

Thanks! Figured my maestro of mayhem set nicely against another well known composer.

[@janebrown7231]

@@MarkingOurTerritory Maestro of mayhem! :-D It suited her crazy circular adventures very well - pure Freude!

[@sahmad9910]

Dog stories are always great.

[@thomashermann2785]

I have three Ridgebacks and love them all. Strong willed but great dogs! Go Penny!

[@josephbellofatto924]

Thomas Hermann my family wants to get a ridgeback but we are afraid it will run away to catch prey because it’s such a hunting dog have you had any situations like this.

[@thomashermann2785]

Joseph Bellofatto I live on 7 acres and they do a fair amount of coyote chasing. But only as pups did they run off the property. Even then they always came back. They’re very protective of family and property. I don’t think you’d ever regret owning a ridgeback.

[@lisahamilton3483]

I can't even remember how many times I have watched and shared this video. Seriously, if I need a good laugh, I turn this on. Thanks for sharing your story, it has truly bought joy to others!

[@charlesdog9795]

My doggy says woof. He's a Ridgeback boxer mix, if you want a dog with unlimited energy find one of these. Although your pups look like they could give anyone a good run.

[@FernandoHernandez-hy7li]

I also use to have a rhodesian mix with boxer, you are right endless energy

[@lizhorvet1543]

Beautiful. Our Carolina Dog is equally as headstrong. I thought I could handle any dog after raising a rottweiler... but a wild little yellow dog (who literally was thrust into our arms by a stranger one rainy afternoon) decided it was HIS world and we were allowed to live in it. Embrace the chaos, there's a lesson in it. And its a privilege to be part of the ride. Penny Mayhem is a beautiful girl!!

[@michaellaventure7499]

The dog - human connection should never be underestimated! Thank you for the video!

[@dankpetclips3160]

I have a Rhodesian Ridgeback, we got him when I was six and he has been my best friend ever since. My Ridgeback is called rango and he is HUGE, he's significantly bigger that any other Ridgebacks we have met. Though because he's so big he is extremely clumsy but I wouldn't change him for the world♥️

[@makinenkristiina]

I am dreaming of taking a Ridgeback when I retire but watching your lovely videos I wonder if the breed is too challenging. Although, when I watch your videos I fall more and more in love with Ridgebacks!!!! Thank you for your videos, I laugh and cry when watching them!

[@Preetirose1]

Kristiina Makinen yes they are challenging both physically and mentally, intelligent plus loving

[@oHhSnApPyx5]

I know this is an old video, but I really had to comment when this came up in my recommended. We adopted our dog Maverick 1 year ago and he was mislabelled as pitbull terrier. After much research he is definitely a ridgeback, a breed I'd never seen or owned my whole life. We weren't familiar with their mannerisms and energy levels and so I thought that this was just how he is....but Maverick is EXACTLY like Penny. He zooms in circles around everything, tires out all the other dogs before he even needs a water break, and will walk right up and play with any dog of any size. Even the way Penny digs is exactly the way he does it! I'm so happy I found this video. Like you, I never expected this wrinkly little pup to change our world the way he did, but Im so glad it happened. I hope you and your dog are well ❤

[@arturus]

What a sweet sweet video. Bless you and your family, including the unstoppable Penny!

[@RobinsTinyHomestead]

Penny adorable reckless abandon ball of energy not many videos get me from start to finish but I watched every second. You made me smile today . Thank you.

[@thespaniard47]

Damn dude this video got me choked up, dogs are a real blessing in our lives

[@gretashapiro4118]

Choked up why? He narrated the story like it was for toddlers

[@cristinapalermo3569]

Of course they are.

[@gretashapiro4118]

@@dcytol that's a good one, how long did you need to type that horseshit?

[@daniangela9990]

That's such a beautiful tribute to your pup, Penny!

[@lynnmontgomery1229]

That was an awesome story & tribute. Thank you for sharing.

[@MarkingOurTerritory]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@gailsimburger9715]

Happy 6th birthday Miss Penny Mayhem! Life wouldn’t be the same without you. 🎉🎈🎁🎊🤗💕

[@tumbleweed57]

What a precious girl. Happy Birthday Penny!

[@Danwheeler.]

Old video but I still feel the need to let you know that this video is definitely an all time great on my list for youtube. Brought me to tears how inspiring this is through the thick and thin. I wish you, penny, and zero all the best.

[@hildea.e3319]

What a great, big love letter, for dog, and for life. Thank you, so much! 😋🇳🇴

[@mirthepeeters65]

I have 2 goldens, one 10 y old, one 1y old. My old one was from the beginning a calm easy going dog. My pup was completly different. Wild and always getting into trouble. At first i was a bit frustrated and even a bit dissapointed. But now im totally in love with her. She is so funny, smart and kind. And every day she makes me smile. She has stolen my heart. Ty for this video, it was a joy to watch !

[@gazzadazza8341]

Beautiful video, no your DOG is not beautiful, “SHE IS MORE THAN BEAUTIFUL, NO WORD CAN DESCRIBE HER BEAUTY AND HER ENERGY” Bless you mate.🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼

[@barbaraveversauthor]

I've not been able to keep up with you and the Ridgebacks as well over the last few years. Today, I clicked on last month's blog video, but soon wandered to the videos in the side bar, honing in on this video of Penny. I've always loved Penny and agree with you that she definitely came into your life for a reason. She was Mayhem before a certain insurance company decided to bank on that idea! I guess she's six by now. Such an awesome put. I love her and am thankful you share your pets and family with the world this way. I needed Penny's boundless joy for life this evening! Thank you!

[@Iron_Hypa]

Great video! Thanks for sharing your journey and my condolences for Echo.

[@maxcannon283]

Fantastic animal. You sound like a real proud owner.. Congratulations shes really beautiful and we can tell she has brought you plenty of joy.

[@grantbratrud4949]

Dog is our copilot. "Animals make us human." -Temple Grandin

[@annecox6057]

That was the sweetest declaration of love I have ever seen. Also, it pretty much sums up my own feelings about my Rottweiler pup, Arya, who was the runt of the litter and nearly died three times. She survived because, although small in stature, her character and willpower is bigger than a house. Co-incidentally, her nickname is Minister of Mayhem.

[@johansmallberries9874]

"I'm not stuck in this soccer ball.. it's armor!" *attacks

[@Thetruthbetold60]

Thanks for the great video! As an owner of a high energy dog I can relate. My dober girl has one mode, we call it Bugatti mode! As a puppy we thought the same, puppy energy that she will eventually grow out of and settle down. Almost 4 years later, she is still going strong. She isn't one to wait for a party invite. She is the host and everyone close to her is invited to join in on her fun! She is an influencer!

[@Felix-dh9tl]

We have also a rhodesianridgeback, he is just the opposite of this. He is so relaxed and loves to sleep, although he is a great guard too and has a powerful bark!

[@cassiedavis1812]

Felix H same

[@lilolino9587]

Mine doesnt even bark at all he is already super old

[@sunithasudhakar1052]

My dog having skin cancer & heart attack

[@mieliepip4611]

Awww, one of my very favourite breeds.We had many as pets growing up...they're the best.

[@HailRider]

I REALLY enjoyed that. Very well written, filmed and told. Makes me wish I had documented the 6 years so far with my great dog, Thor. An accidental meeting of the largest shepherd I have ever seen and a rather medium sized boxer mommy. Born in the heat of Arizona and given away to me by the mother's owner. Thor grew to massive 137lb herculean mutt. A beautiful mix I call a shoxer. He is a friend to all, human or animal. Rubs muzzle with horses, cows and even goats. All animals seem to love him. He just has that spirit. Although I don't think I would want to be the guy that would break into his house. He is a gentle giant yet his appearance and size frightens those that don't know inside this brute is the heart and soul of an angel. Maybe I should start there. Thanks for the inspiration.

[@sherylstevenson2509]

Penny is wonderful! She has energy that my new pup has but my dog is Boston Terrier/Jack Russell mix. It is amazing the personalities our dogs have and their special uniquiness that makes us love them even more! Thanks for sharing a piece of your world with us! Blessings to you!

[@bighammer6573]

I grew up in Rhodesia great dog's and did I appreciate you playing the Rhodesian anthem in the background!

[@aaalabequipment8906]

Very nice vid, of the best breed in the dogs world. We started with our first ridge in 1990, nowadays we have our third. Penny does have a lot of energy, enjoy your time with her.

[@nirvanasanctuary7691]

we rescued a crazy street dog whose character is so much like Penny's it's spooky. They're the same age too. They don't look alike but I'm looking at our Minnie right now with much the same feelings you express. There's something special about these sweet & joyous girls, I hope we learn all the lessons they have to teach us with patience & grace.

[@ridgebackdk]

most amazing creatures to ever grace my life... i have been owned by two ridgebacks ,both now have crossed the bridge ,part of me has gone with each of them...until we meet again....

[@ralphvandereb66]

same here buddy truly remarkable dogs, best teacher i ever had

[@ytty5183]

They take a piece with them. We will be together again 😍

[@nicolaotero7497]

Thank you for this wonderful Video. And your Comments are so heartwarming

[@1969limaro]

Ohhhh Penny Penny Penny...what an absolute Angel, obviously sent from heaven. What a lovely journey and thanks for sharing. X

[@atrumsileo8402]

Thank you! A thoughtful tribute for you beloved.

[@houndlifevlogs1055]

Love your videos. Always enjoy watching them. Can’t believe she’s already 5 years old! Happy Birthday Penny 🥳

[@tkaymuzo3501]

Wise message.. You might not know but these words can change someone's life out there.. Thank you Penny and the owner!

[@CW-oh2lp]

Man, we’re learning the same way! Our male is 4 and the most laid back ridgeback we’ve had. We have a 5 month old female who is wild! It’s exhausting but awesome at the same time. Thanks for another great video!

[@LuisGGomezPhoto]

Beautiful! I had three of them until they die. The last of the three lived for 15 years. They where my loves, and still remember them very much. At this moment I only have seven rescued dogs. Thanks for sharing.

[@ayoo1539]

Great video watching this after a hard day put a smile on my face. 💙

[@robr9905]

I have been watching your vids for 2 years and will be picking up my first RR next week. I am retired now and looking forward to time with my new best friend. We will the addition of #2 later next year. Life is good. Thank you for your inspiring videos.

[@MarkingOurTerritory]

Congrats! Such an exciting time. Though you may be retired I can assure you that you will have your hands full. Enjoy the adventure!

[@sfonupe]

The Dogs we add to the family often are NOT the dog we dream about... But, they are always the dog/family we need! Major love to the doggie family member you lost.. Even more love to the newer additions to the family ....

[@petsnplaces5578]

sfonupe yes..love dogs

[@SandraSmith-kz5ri]

My Sally is now 10, almost 11. She is ill now, with tumors and pain. Controlled with meds. She has been a challenge and a joy. She is so smart and such dignity! When she was a puppy, she rounded me up like a lion. Not attacking but circling and keeping me at bay. What a hoot!!! God love her and I do too. Going to just die, when she does. She will know when it is time.

[@gocrazyfamily3787]

Oh my! I loved this video so much. Thank you for sharing all this :)

[@13multipurpose]

What a beautiful story thank you so much for sharing Penny with the world!

[@isabelledetaillefer2726]

We had a Ridgeback when I grew up, and she was an amazingly wonderful creature. The best dog I ever knew.

[@bettablue2660]

Well, these pups were bred to hunt lions, and she shows completely that in her energy, and in play. She’s a fun, beautiful girl. Great video! Thanks!

[@thelairdmc]

I rarely leave a comment but this video is worth a comment. Penny is fantastic! Echo and zero are cool too! Sorry you lost Echo. I used to have a Ridgeback in 1995. Thinking about getting another. All the best!

[@poldoll5683]

When I was younger we had a Rhodesian Ridgeback/boxer cross, but she looked so much like your Penny and Echo. We called her Jackie. She was the best dog we ever had, I still miss her. She died about 9 years ago at the ripe old age of 21. My best years were with her. Your dogs are beautiful 😍

[@lorrieruff4402]

Of all the dogs to have in a city setting, I would of never suggested a hound. Much less a Rhodesian Ridgeback. They need so much exercise, and activates. For they have very active minds. I could see you where doing all that. I watched one for a friend for 10 days, and he was just like your girl. Always on the run. Walked him with my Dobermann, seemed the only time he listened. Amber would give him a hip check or a poke with her nose if he got a bit out of controlled. He was loving, and enjoyed my son. BUT OH SO MUCH ENERGY. Have a great time with her.

[@nirvanamilton4356]

What a beautiful story. Thank you.

[@DB-nj9rg]

Good lord. I absolutely love this story. What an incredible family member Penny must be. Thank you for sharing.

[@MinnesoTenn]

Such a beautiful tribute! Love this.

[@lovelyskull3483]

This is loving and beautiful, thanks for sharing sweet Penny with us.

[@ralphvandereb66]

ridgebacks rock, i had one for 15 years a big male, he also showed me the never say no and forever forward way of living life, nothing was impossible for him, they truly are special and great teachers. rip Rajah

[@scottgibson6735]

Wha beautiful dog.I had one,loved dearly.I cried like a baby whenI had to put him down.I hope you,and Penny have a long and happy life together. Thank you for the video

[@yrham8689]

She is truly wonderful - and blessed to have you for a 'dad'! Happy fifth, Penny!

[@Maquilishuat67]

You have a way with words. I've never had a ridgeback, but my lagotto romagnolo has Penny's personality. We're constantly hiking, swiming, going on adventures. Every now and then, I see people walking dogs that are really mellow and I begin to think "if only..." but then I tell myself that life would not be as fun as it is now.

[@Laitalafraise]

What a beautiful tribute! Thank you!

[@anniepibbles443]

I have one of these little firecrackers a Ridgeback pitbull mix who was bred by dog fighters to be used as bait i got her at about 18 months old and thought like the video maker that I knew plenty about dogs only to have my Annie educate me on just how ignorant I really was . Annie is just like this one even today at a few weeks before turning 13 . She is the most life loving exuberant high energy force to be reckoned with I've ever had the joy of loving and being loved by. My mischievous wrecking ball on 4 legs has been used as bait before being rehomed 3 times before i got her as a companion for my boxer mix when he was 3 and she has never stopped amazing me with her total love for life and her resilience having been run over by a car mauled by a mountain lion shot and has just finally in the last year been calm enough to be a therapy dog who's only job is to love and be loved. . I never expected to love any fog as deeply as I love my firecracker Annie aka ANNABLE LECTER ( affectionately. Of course) these dogs are not for couch potatoes or for those who think they know anything about dogs because they will educate all of us willing to learn that we have never met any breed who can teach us how wrong we are about dogs. The journey and discovering of all these dogs can teach us is worth every minute we can have with these dogs.

[@elizabethholden9351]

Love these hounds, don't think I went a week that I didn't have bruises on my shins from the tail wagging. 🐕

[@Scarlett9254]

Cooper is a mix. He is the. Most active of all my life of dogs. I can't remember not being with dogs. I'm no spring chicken. Have had all sizes.

[@bighaasfly]

Dogs are wonderful because we bring them in with expectations, they build a relationship that isn’t like anything like what we imagined and then bring more to us than we ever knew. And each one does it differently. Love that.

[@dheyes803]

We all have been down this road. My tormentors come in the form of “pudding” Jack Russell Terriers, 3 to be exact. I’m glad you found Penny even though she makes everybody crazy. She is such a character. Loved this video. 🤣🤣

[@markshaz8691]

Dogs give us what need, not what we think we need. Beautiful story.

[@kirkdavis3692]

What a wonderful tribute to the life of puppies and how great they are to our lives. Thank you also, for bringing attention to the Russian ridgebacks as I believe I've only ever seen one in an encyclopedia...yes, I'm that old! God bless you and "penny!"

[@kirkdavis3692]

Rodesian, sorry!

[@Chancey464]

Beautiful. Laughed & tears. Thank you.

[@jojo-zt7eo]

I have always loved dogs. God's unconditional love. Your video reminds me how I miss them, but more importantly, how much I loved/learned. Thank you.

[@JamesW81]

No, Dog's unconditional love.

[@KookaburraLove]

You kindly replied to my comment when I lost my Ridgie a month ago. I have been so devastated but received the great news today that the breeder had a new litter today, 9 girls and 2 boys! I will get the new love of my life in 8 weeks, a little girl. This video reminds me what I’m in for. Can’t wait. Love from Australia

[@MarkingOurTerritory]

I'm glad to know you were able to find a way to open your heart again - I've no doubt you'll have an incredible journey. Good luck!

[@michelleschweizer9000]

Lovely sweet video. She will calm down when she is about 9. That's when my RR miss mayhem did🙃

[@zdravkaandrijasevic4663]

God damn tears runing down my face🥲 such a beautifull story🥰

[@nickoleary1760]

Something about watching this dog in circles puts a smile on my face

[@bfarm44]

We received Tucker into our family this year as he is a mix of ridge back and dachshund he lacks some of Penny’s size but none of do it my way attitude. I have never met a dog with so much self determination s as me drive as Tucker. The ridgeback rules the mix in him and I cant imagine life any other way without his constant antics and pushing the edge of everything.

[@ATumblelinaTruth7777]

Ridgebacks Are Amazing Dogs To Say the least ✨😘✨ I miss my Emma Thank You for sharing yours with Us 👍☺️

[@JESSE5SHSU]

Dont know why this was in my feed, but I lost my 11 yr old ridgeback today, and needed this. On second thought, I know exactly why this was in my feed. Love these dogs so much, and so did all three of my kiddos.