Are you looking for information on the Rhodesian Ridgeback Shepherd Mix? You have come to the right place.
In this guide, we will discuss everything you need to know about this breed, including their temperament, size, and care requirements.
We will also provide tips on how to find a Rhodesian Ridgeback Shepherd mix puppy and what to expect when raising one of these beautiful dogs.
Rhodesian Ridgeback Shepherd Mix – What’s their History?
The Rhodesian Ridgeback Shepherd mix is a hybrid of the Rhodesian Ridgeback and German Shepherd breeds. The Rhodesian Ridgeback was developed in southern Africa to hunt lions.
German Shepherds are also large, athletic dogs that were originally bred for herding and protection work. Together, these two breeds make excellent working dogs with strong hunting instincts and loyalty to their family.
While the exact origins of this mix are unknown, it is thought that this cross was first developed in the United States in the 1970s. Since then, the popularity of this hybrid has continued to grow, as people appreciate the combination of the two breeds’ strengths.
Today, this mixed breed is still primarily a working dog, but they can also make exceptional family pets. If you are looking for a smart, protective, and active companion, this may be the perfect breed for you.
You may also like – Rhodesian Ridgeback Lab Mix (Rhodesian Labrador)
Rhodesian Shepherd Appearance
The Rhodesian Ridgeback Shepherd Mix is a large and muscular dog with a striking appearance. The most distinctive feature of this breed is the ridge of hair running along its back in the opposite direction to the rest of its fur.
This ridge is caused by a genetic mutation that causes the hair follicles to grow in different directions. Ridgebacks Shepherd mixes are also known for their short, shiny coats, which are either light wheaten or red wheaten in color.
They have long, floppy ears and a tail that is usually docked. While males typically weigh more than females, the average weight of this mixed breed is between 65 and 110 pounds. The average height is around 24 – 27 inches.
The shape of their head is similar to the German Shepherd, which is typically wedged-shaped. Their nose is either black or brown and their eyes are either dark or amber in color.
Rhodesian Shepherd -Temperament
The Rhodesian Ridgeback Shepherd mix is a cross between the Rhodesian Ridgeback and the German Shepherd.
These two breeds are both known for their intelligence, loyalty, and gentle nature, so it’s no surprise that this mix inherits these same qualities.
This hybrid is an excellent companion dog who is loving and affectionate with family members but still reserved around strangers. This breed is also highly trainable, making them an ideal candidate for obedience training and even agility courses.
With proper socialization, this breed gets along well with other dogs and pets.
Rhodesian Shepherd – Training Needs
The Rhodesian Ridgeback Shepherd mix is a highly intelligent and trainable breed. These dogs excel in obedience training and respond well to positive reinforcement methods such as treats and praise.
They need consistent training from a firm, experienced owner. These dogs are not suitable for first-time owners or those who are not willing to put in the time and effort required to train them properly.
This mix is an active breed that needs plenty of exercise. A daily walk is a minimum, and they will also enjoy hiking, running, and playing fetch.
This breed is not suited for life in an apartment or small home; they need a yard where they can run and explore.
Socialization is also important for this breed, as they can be suspicious of strangers if not properly introduced to them from an early age.
With proper training and socialization, the Rhodesian Ridgeback Shepherd mix can be a loving, loyal companion.
Rhodesian Shepherd – Are they Aggressive?
The Rhodesian Ridgeback Shepherd Mix is a large, powerful dog that was originally bred for hunting. However, this aggressive streak can also make them difficult to handle, and they are not recommended for first-time dog owners.
As a loyal and protective dog, they can be very suspicious of strangers. If not properly socialized, they may become aggressive toward people and other animals.
In addition, this mix is a high-energy dog that needs plenty of exercise. Without an outlet for their energy, they may become destructive or even aggressive.
For these reasons, it is important to consider whether or not this mixed breed is the right breed for you before making a commitment.
Exercise Needs
If you’re thinking of adding a Rhodesian Ridgeback Shepherd Mix to your family, you’ll need to be prepared for an active dog. This high-energy breed needs at least an hour of exercise every day.
A Rhodesian Ridgeback Shepherd Mix is the perfect companion for runs, hikes, and any other outdoor activity you can think of. Remember, this breed was originally bred to hunt lions, so they have plenty of stamina.
In addition to their daily walk or run, this mixed breed will also appreciate some playtime in the yard. They are intelligent dogs who will quickly get bored if they don’t have enough to do.
If you’re looking for a low-maintenance pet, this breed is not the right breed for you. But if you’re up for an active lifestyle and love spending time outdoors, this breed will be a perfect match.
Mental Stimulation
The Rhodesian Ridgeback Shepherd mix is an intelligent breed that requires regular mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy.
A bored Ridgeback Shepherd mix is likely to become destructive, so it’s important to provide them with plenty of opportunities to exercise their minds.
One way to do this is to give them puzzle toys filled with treats, which will keep them occupied and mentally challenged.
You can also vary their walking route and introduce new playthings regularly to keep them from becoming restless. With a little effort, you can ensure that your Rhodesian Ridgeback Shepherd mix stays happy and mentally stimulated.
Grooming Needs
The Rhodesian Ridgeback Shepherd mix is a large, muscular dog with a short coat. They need to be groomed on a regular basis.
The Ridgeback Shepherd is not a hypoallergenic breed, so they do shed relatively frequently. As a result, they will require daily brushing in order to keep their coat healthy and free of tangles. They should also be bathed on a monthly basis, using a mild shampoo to avoid drying out their skin.
In addition, this mix’s nails should be trimmed regularly to prevent them from becoming overgrown. With proper grooming, this mix will be a handsome and healthy dog.
Health Conditions
The Rhodesian Ridgeback Shepherd is a mixed breed that combines the best of two popular dog breeds: the Rhodesian Ridgeback and the German Shepherd. As a result, they inherit many of the same health conditions as their parent breeds.
These include hip and elbow dysplasia, von Willebrand’s disease, and degenerative myelopathy. However, there are steps that owners can take to help their dogs stay healthy.
For example, regular exercise and a healthy diet can help to prevent obesity, which is a major risk factor for many health problems.
Additionally, keeping up with routine vaccinations and vet check-ups can help to catch any potential health problems early on. With proper care, Rhodesian Ridgeback Shepherds can enjoy long, happy lives.
Rhodesian Shepherd – What should they eat?
As any pet owner knows, what you feed your animal companion can have a big impact on their health and well-being.
If you’re the proud owner of a Rhodesian Ridgeback Shepherd mix, you may be wondering what type of food is best for your pup.
While there is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, there are a few general guidelines that can help you make the best choice for your dog. First, it’s important to choose a food that is high in protein and low in fillers.
This will help to ensure that your dog is getting the nutrients they need without ingesting too much filler material.
Second, it’s a good idea to select a food that is specifically designed for large breeds.
Focusing on their nutrition will help to avoid problems such as obesity and joint problems.
Finally, it’s important to consult with your veterinarian to get specific recommendations for your dog’s individual needs.
By following these guidelines, you can help your Rhodesian Ridgeback Shepherd mix stay healthy and happy for years to come.
Rhodesian Shepherd – Dog Friendly?
The Rhodesian Ridgeback Shepherd mix is a large, powerful dog with a strong prey drive. As a result, they are not typically considered to be “dog friendly.”
 In other words, they are more likely to view other dogs as potential threats or prey, rather than as companions.
This can make them difficult to socialize with other dogs and can also make them a danger to smaller pets.
If you’re considering adopting this mix, it’s important to be prepared for the challenges that come with owning a dog of this breed.
However, with patience and training, many Rhodesian Ridgeback Shepherds can learn to live peacefully with other dogs and animals.
Rhodesian Shepherd – Child Friendly?
While the Rhodesian Ridgeback Shepherd mix is not typically considered to be “dog friendly,” they can actually make great companions for children.
This is because they are loyal, protective, and patient. However, it’s important to keep in mind that this breed is still large and powerful. As a result, young children should always be supervised when around a Rhodesian Ridgeback Shepherd.
Rhodesian Shepherd – Do they Drool?
One of the less desirable traits of this breed is their tendency to drool. While all dogs produce saliva, some breeds are more prone to slobbering and drooling than others.
The reason for these drooling tendencies is the shape of their skull and muzzle. This structure allows more saliva to pool in their mouth, which leads to drooling.
In addition, this breed is also known for being very food-motivated, which can further contribute to drooling behavior.
If you are considering adding a Rhodesian Ridgeback Shepherd to your family, be prepared to deal with some drool. However, regular grooming and cleaning can help to minimize the mess.
Rhodesian Shepherd – Weather
They can be sensitive to weather changes. While all dogs can be affected by extreme weather conditions, some breeds are more prone to problems than others. The Rhodesian Ridgeback Shepherd is one of those breeds.
The reason for this sensitivity to weather changes is the breed’s short coat. This type of coat does not provide much insulation, making the dog more susceptible to cold weather.
In addition, this breed is also known for being very active. As a result, they may have difficulty regulating their body temperature in hot weather. If you are considering adding this mixed breed to your family, be prepared to deal with some weather-related issues.
Life Expectancy
The Rhodesian Ridgeback Shepherd is a mixed breed of dog with an average life expectancy of 14 years. This lifespan is about average for most dogs, but it is on the shorter end for large breeds.
The reason for this shorter lifespan is the breed’s size. Large breeds are more likely to experience health problems and joint issues than smaller breeds. As a result, they often do not live as long as smaller dogs.
AKC Recognition
The Rhodesian Ridgeback Shepherd is not currently recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC). This breed is however recognized by the United Kennel Club (UKC) and the International Canine Association (ICA).
The reason for this lack of AKC recognition is the mixed nature of the breed. The AKC only recognizes purebred dogs, while the UKC and ICA recognize both purebred and mixed-breed dogs.
Puppy Prices
Prices for Rhodesian Ridgeback Shepherd puppies can vary depending on the breeder and the individual puppy.
However, you can expect to pay anywhere from $500-$1000 for a Rhodesian Ridgeback Shepherd puppy. This price range is about average for most mixed-breed puppies.
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it, the Rhodesian Ridgeback Shepherd mix! This unique and amazing dog is sure to make a great addition to your family.
 If you’re interested in bringing one of these furry friends home, be sure to do your research to find a reputable breeder. And as always, thanks for reading!
