Our kennel AVE CAESAR was officially registered in 2011, although our journey with Rhodesian Ridgebacks began much earlier — with travels across Europe and the show successes of our first Ridgeback, Kandy. In 2009 Kandy won the largest international dog show in Russia, Rossia-2009, among 98 Ridgebacks, and at the same time we met the legendary Podarok iz Afriki Bliss Bounty (Kjara). From her, in 2011, our very first litter — Alfa — was born.
Over the years we have been fortunate to share this passion with wonderful co-owners and partners. For some time, Pia Keppel was co-owner of the kennel and raised our P litter. Today, my partner is Dalia Bercenie, with whom we created the Q litter. I am deeply grateful to all co-owners for their contributions and support.
Above all, the true driving force and heart of the kennel was my husband, Willy Johansson. His love for our dogs and dedication to the breed shaped AVE CAESAR into what it is today. In 2023 Willy passed away, and now four of our seven personal Ridgebacks are with him beyond the Rainbow Bridge, while three remain with me — a living memory of our shared journey and what we built together.
Our guiding principles have always been the same: health, correct type, and a balanced temperament that makes a Ridgeback not only a hunter and a guardian, but above all a loyal and devoted companion. The name AVE CAESAR, a phrase once spoken on the eve of great trials, reflects our vision of Ridgebacks as strong, versatile, and faithful friends for life.

Ave Caesar i MEDIA