The Rhodesian Ridgeback Doberman mix is a unique hybrid that combines the physical characteristics and temperaments of both breeds.
As with any mixed breed, it’s important to understand the potential traits and needs of a Rhodesian Ridgeback Doberman mix before deciding to adopt one. Let’s dive in to find out more!
Rhodesian Ridgeback Doberman Mix – History
In the early 1970s, a Rhodesian Ridgeback Doberman mix was first bred in the United States. This new breed was created by crossing a Rhodesian Ridgeback with a Doberman Pinscher.
The resulting puppies were said to be healthier and have fewer health problems than either of their parent breeds.
This mixed breed is not recognized by any major kennel club, but there are a few breed-specific clubs that do recognize this mixed breed. The most popular of these is the American Canine Hybrid Club (ACHC).
These dogs can be high-energy and require a lot of exercise. They also need an owner who is willing to put in the time to train them properly.
They can range in size from 24-28 inches tall and weigh anywhere from 60-100 pounds when fully grown.
What is the Temperament of the Rhodesian Ridgeback Doberman Mix?
Rhodesian Ridgeback Doberman mixes combine two popular breeds: the Rhodesian ridgeback and the Doberman pinscher.
Each breed has its own unique temperament, and when these two breeds are mixed together, the result is a dog with an even more distinct personality.
Rhodesian ridgebacks are known for being independent and strong-willed, while Doberman pinschers are known for being loyal and protective.
When these two breeds are mixed together, the result is a dog that is both independent and loyal, as well as protective.
The temperament of the Rhodesian ridgeback Doberman mix can vary depending on which traits each individual dog inherits from its parents.
However, all dogs of this mix will likely be intelligent, alert, and eager to please their owners.
Training Needs
This mixed breed is a relatively new crossbreed that is becoming increasingly popular among dog owners.
“While these dogs are typically intelligent and easy to train, they can also be headstrong and stubborn. As such, it is important for owners of this breed to understand the training needs of their dog in order to ensure a well-behaved pet”.
As Rhodesian Ridgeback Doberman mixes are highly intelligent dogs, they learn commands relatively quickly.
However, they can also be strong-willed and stubborn, so owners need to be firm yet consistent when training them. This breed responds well to positive reinforcement, such as treats or verbal praise.
Potty Training
Potty training this mixed breed can be a challenging but rewarding experience. Here are a few tips to help you get started:
1. Start early: The earlier you start potty training, the better. Puppies are easier to train than adult dogs, so it’s important to start as soon as possible.
2. Be consistent: Consistency is key when potty training any dog. Dogs learn best when they know what to expect, so establish a regular routine and stick to it.
3. Be patient: Patience is important when potty training any dog, but it’s especially important with this breed. They can be stubborn and resistant to change, so it’s important to be patient and persist through the challenges.
4. Don’t punish mistakes: When your dog is potty training, you may notice some accidents. It’s important not to let your dog know that accidents are bad or that they will be punished. Punishing them for mistakes will only make them more anxious and afraid to try to go outside.
Obedience Training
Obedience training is a necessary part of dog ownership, and it is especially important for owners of large breeds. The Rhodesian Ridgeback Doberman mix is a popular breed, and these dogs can be very obedient with the right training.
Here are some tips for obedience training your Rhodesian Ridgeback Doberman mix:
1. Start training early. The earlier you start obedience training, the better. Puppies are easier to train than adult dogs, so it’s best to start as soon as possible.
2. Be consistent. It’s important to be consistent with your commands and rewards when you’re training your dog. If you’re not consistent, your dog will get confused and won’t learn as quickly.
3. Use positive reinforcement. Positive reinforcement is one of the most effective ways to train a dog.
Keeping in mind, that teaching your dog new things can happen quickly and easily by utilizing some clever online training options.
The training listed below is what we highly recommend for quick results!
Socialization
When you first get your Rhodesian Ridgeback Doberman mix, it’s important to socialize them properly so they grow up to be well-rounded dogs. The best way to do this is to expose them to as many different people, places, and things as possible.
Take them on walks around the neighborhood and introduce them to as many people as you can. Let them meet other dogs and explore new environments. The more they’re exposed to, the more comfortable they’ll be with everything and everyone.
It’s also important to start training early on. This will help them learn how to behave properly around people and other animals. Socialization is an important part of owning a Rhodesian Ridgeback Doberman mix, but it’s just one part of raising a happy and healthy dog.
“Like all dogs, Rhodesian Ridgeback Doberman mixes need socialization from an early age in order to prevent them from becoming anxious or aggressive around other people and animals”.
Exercise Needs
The Rhodesian Ridgeback Doberman mix is a large, athletic dog that requires a significant amount of exercise.
This mix is not for the lazy owner, as they need at least one hour of vigorous exercise every day. A lack of exercise will lead to this mix becoming destructive and unhappy.
This mix does best with an owner who is active and enjoys spending time outdoors. They enjoy a range of exercises including:
Hiking: They will enjoy hiking with their owners and exploring new places. This can be a great way to bond with your dog, as well as burn some extra energy.
Walking: This mix will enjoy walking alongside its owner. They are very social dogs and love to be around other people.
Swimming: They enjoy swimming, especially in cold water. This can be a great way to cool off during the hot summer months. They will enjoy swimming with their owners and exploring new places.
Running: This mix enjoys running alongside its owner. They are very active dogs and enjoy the extra exercise. This can be a great way to burn some extra energy.
Agility: They enjoy agility, especially when they are placed on an obstacle course with their owner.
Mental Stimulation
Rhodesian Ridgeback Doberman mixes are high-energy dogs that need a lot of exercise and mental stimulation.
Without these things, they can become bored and destructive. Here are some ideas for ways to keep this mixed breed mentally stimulated:
1. Interactive Toys: food puzzles and Kongs are great for keeping your dog’s mind challenged and engaged.
2. Obedience Training: teaching your dog basic commands or even more complex tricks will help to keep their minds active and sharp.
3. Scent Work: this can be as simple as hiding treats around the house or yard for your dog to find, or you can sign up for an organized nosework class.
4. Dog Sports: there are many activities you can do with your dog once they have the basic obedience skills. Agility, flyball, herding and tracking are just a few examples of dog sports that will be both mentally and physically stimulating for your Rhodesian Ridgeback Doberman mix.
5. Food Puzzles: these can be as simple as a plastic bottle with holes or the Kong Wobbler, which you stuff with your dog’s kibble and then let them work it loose. This is both mentally and physically stimulating for your Rottie / Dobie mix and is a great brain exercise.
6. Play With Other Dogs: this can be as simple as a quick game of fetch with the neighbor’s dog, or it can be joining a dog park. The more time your Rottie Dobe spends with other dogs, the better trained and socialized he will become.
How to Groom a Rhodesian Ridgeback Doberman Mix?
When it comes to grooming, the Rhodesian Ridgeback Doberman mix does not require a lot of maintenance. However, they do shed a lot so brushing them regularly is recommended.
Bathing
Rhodesian Ridgebacks are a unique breed of dog that requires special care when it comes to bathing. Their coat is thick and dense, making it difficult to get wet all the way through.
This can lead to skin problems if not properly cared for.
Here are some tips on how to give this mixed breed the perfect bath.
- Fill the tub with lukewarm water and add a small amount of dog shampoo.
- Gently wet your dog’s fur, starting at the head and working your way down the body. Be sure to avoid getting water in their ears and eyes.
- Use your hands to work the shampoo into a lather, then rinse thoroughly.
- Once your dog is clean, wrap them in a towel and rub them dry.
Brushing
When it comes to grooming a Rhodesian Ridgeback Doberman mix, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. First, this breed of dog has a coat that is made up of two types of hair: a dense outer layer of coarse hair and a softer, downy undercoat.
This means that brushing your dog’s coat requires a bit more effort than other breeds. In addition, this mixed breed is prone to shedding, so you’ll need to brush them more frequently during the shedding season.
Here are some tips for brushing this mixed breed:
1. Start by using a wide-toothed comb to get rid of any tangles or mats in their coat.
2. Then, use a pin brush to get down to their undercoat.
3. Finally, finish with a slicker brush for the top layer of hair.
Ears
Cleaning the ears of your Rhodesian Ridgeback Doberman mix may seem like a daunting task, but it’s actually quite simple! All you need is a gentle cleanser and a cotton ball.
Start by wetting the cotton ball with the cleanser, then gently wipe the inside of your dog’s ear. Be sure to avoid the ear canal, as this can cause irritation. Repeat this process until the cotton ball comes away clean.
Teeth
The Rhodesian Ridgeback Doberman mix needs regular dental care to maintain their health and prevent gum disease. Brushing their teeth at least once a week is essential to keeping their teeth clean and healthy.
This breed is also susceptible to plaque buildup, so it’s important to brush their teeth regularly. In addition to brushing their teeth, regular dental checkups and cleaning are recommended.
Health Conditions
Some health conditions that are common in this breed include:
Hip Dysplasia
Rhodesian Ridgebacks are a popular breed of dog, known for their loyalty and protective nature. However, they are also prone to hip dysplasia, a condition that can cause pain and mobility problems.
Doberman Pinschers are another popular breed of dog, known for their intelligence and obedience. However, they too are prone to hip dysplasia.
When these two breeds are mixed, the result is a dog that is at an increased risk for developing hip dysplasia. There are several things that owners of Rhodesian Ridgeback Doberman mixes can do to help prevent or treat this condition.
Elbow Dysplasia
Elbow dysplasia is a common condition in dogs, especially large breeds. This mixed breed is no exception. Elbow dysplasia occurs when the bones of the elbow joint don’t grow properly. This can cause pain and lameness in the affected limb.
There are several ways to treat elbow dysplasia. Surgery is often necessary to correct the problem. In some cases, weight management and physical therapy can help to ease the symptoms of elbow dysplasia.
If you have a Rhodesian Ridgeback Doberman mix, be sure to have your dog’s elbows checked regularly by your veterinarian. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for managing this condition.
Von Willebrand’s Disease
Von Willebrand s disease is a common inherited bleeding disorder in dogs that can affect any breed, but is most commonly seen in this mixed breed.
The disease is caused by a deficiency of von Willebrand factor, a protein that helps blood clot. Affected dogs may have prolonged bleeding from minor injuries, and may also experience nosebleeds, blood in the stool, or bloody urine.
There is no cure for Von Willebrand s disease, but treatment can help to control the symptoms. Treatment typically involves giving the dog blood transfusions or injections of von Willebrand factor concentrate.
In some cases, surgery may be necessary to control bleeding. With proper treatment, most dogs with von Willebrand s disease can lead normal lives.
What Can a Rhodesian Ridgeback Doberman Mix Eat?
These mixes are known for being good hunters, and their Doberman ancestry makes them strong and athletic.
They need a diet that is high in protein to help them maintain their muscle mass. This can be accomplished by feeding them a diet of high-quality dry dog food that is designed for large breeds.
In addition to dry dog food, Ridgebacks also enjoy meaty bones and chews. This helps keep their teeth clean and their gums healthy.
“As a dog ages, its teeth can become worn down from chewing and eating dry food.”
A good-quality senior dry dog food can help keep their teeth strong for longer.
For breakfast, one could give their dog scrambled eggs with some vegetables mixed in. For lunch or dinner, a lean protein such as chicken or fish could be served with either boiled or steamed vegetables.
Lastly, for a special treat, homemade dog biscuits or frozen dog treats are always appreciated by this breed mix.
Table Scraps
Most dog owners have been guilty of sneaking their pup a little something from their plate. But is it really okay to feed your dog table scraps? In general, it’s not a good idea to make a habit of feeding your dog from the table.
“First of all, it’s important to know that table scraps are usually high in fat and calories. This can lead to weight gain and other health problems for your dog. In addition, many table scraps are also high in salt, which can be dangerous for dogs”.
Doggie Treats
When it comes to treats, our canine friends have a wide variety of options to choose from. But what about the Rhodesian Ridgeback Doberman mix? This unique breed has some specific dietary needs that must be taken into account when selecting its treats.
Here are a few great doggie treat options for this dog:
1. Turkey or chicken jerky: This type of treat is high in protein and low in fat, making it a perfect option for this breed.
2. Sweet potato chews: Sweet potatoes are packed with vitamins and minerals, making them a healthy and delicious treat for your dog.
3. Grain-free biscuits: If your dog is on a grain-free diet, there are plenty of grain-free biscuit options available that will make them happy.
Is the Rhodesian Ridgeback Doberman Mix Dog Friendly?
The Rhodesian Ridgeback Doberman mix is a unique breed of dog that combines the best traits of both parents. These dogs are highly intelligent and have a strong sense of loyalty and protection.
They make great family pets and are excellent guard dogs. However, they can be aggressive towards other animals if not properly socialized from an early age.
So whether this mix is dog friendly depends on the dog and your home environment. In general, these dogs are better with other pets if they were raised together as puppies.
Is the Rhodesian Ridgeback Doberman Mix Child Friendly?
The Rhodesian Ridgeback Doberman mix is a popular designer dog among families with children. The mix between these two breeds results in a loyal, protective, and loving family companion.
Although they are child friendly, they may not be the best choice for every family. Some things to consider before adding this mixed breed to your family are their size, energy level, and training needs.
Drooling Levels
Rhodesian Ridgebacks are known for being one of the most versatile and trainable dog breeds. They are also known for being very clean, with little to no doggy smell.
Dobermans, on the other hand, are not known for being particularly clean. In fact, they are often considered to be one of the dirtiest dog breeds. They are also known for their excessive drooling. So, what happens when you mix these two breeds together?
It turns out that the Rhodesian Ridgeback Doberman mix is somewhere in between when it comes to drooling. They tend to be less prone to drooling than their Doberman parent but more prone to drooling than their Rhodesian Ridgeback parent.
Barking Levels
This mix is known for being an energetic and friendly dog, but does the Rhodesian Ridgeback Doberman mix bark a lot?
The answer to this question depends on several factors including the individual dog. First, it is important to note that both the Rhodesian Ridgeback and the Doberman Pinscher are known for being relatively quiet dogs.
However, this does not mean that they never bark. In fact, both breeds are known to bark when they are excited or feel threatened. If the mix breed takes from either of the quiet parents, then they may not bark as much, only when excited or hungry.
Weather Tolerance
The Doberman Pinscher is a medium-sized, short-coated dog that is known for being alert, fearless, and loyal. The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a large, short-coated dog that is known for being even-tempered, obedient, and protective. So, what happens when you mix the two?
You get a dog that is weather tolerant! That’s right, the Rhodesian Ridgeback Doberman mix can tolerate both hot and cold weather conditions better than most other dogs.
“So if you live in an area with extreme temperatures, or if you like to take your dog camping or hiking in all kinds of weather, the Rhodesian Ridgeback Doberman mix is the perfect companion for you”.
What is the Lifespan of the Rhodesian Ridgeback Doberman Mix?
The lifespan of the Rhodesian Ridgeback Doberman mix is about 10 to 12 years.
However, like all mixed breeds, they are susceptible to health problems associated with both parent breeds.
Some health problems that have been reported in this mixed breed include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and von Willebrand’s disease.
Puppy Prices
The average cost of a Rhodesian Ridgeback Doberman mix puppy is $600-$900.
Full-grown adult dogs can cost anywhere from $1,200-$2,500.
Prices will vary depending on factors such as breeder experience, coat color, and whether or not the dog has been health tested.
You may also be interested in – 19 Fun Facts about the Rhodesian Ridgeback Pitbull Mix
Final Thoughts
The Rhodesian Ridgeback Doberman mix is a loyal and loving family dog that is great with kids.
They are protective of their family and make excellent watchdogs. They need plenty of exercise and do their best in a home with a yard.
If you are looking for a loyal and protective family dog, the Rhodesian Ridgeback Doberman mix is the perfect choice for you!
