The Rhodesian Ridgeback dog breed originates from South Africa where it was bred to be a hunting dog, a herding dog, and a guard dog. This is the reason behind its fairly large size and strong stature.
Nowadays, however, these African Lion Hounds aren’t known for hunting lions, but for being amazing family companions.
These are active dogs with high energy levels that will enjoy going on a jog with you. These dogs are not couch-potatoes, and if you’re not prepared to give them some significant amounts of exercise, we wouldn’t advise you on choosing this breed.
Fortunately, this is where Rhodesian Ridgeback mixes come into play!
They take all the best features of a Rhodesian, but mix it with a bit of trait from another parent. This way, you can get a dog with a personality that will be more suitable for you. Whether you cannot take in a large dog or you cannot deal with its high energy, a Rhodesian Ridgeback mix might be a great idea.
Mixed breed dogs, also known as hybrid breeds, designer breeds, and crossbreeds, are a mix of two purebred dogs. In this case, one parent is a purebred Rhodesian Ridgeback, and the other can be any dog breed you’d like!
As you can guess, there can be dozens of crossbreeds as there are so many possible combinations when it comes to mixing two breeds of dogs. How can you know which one is the best?
Well, while we’ll let you decide on your favorite, we’ll list the 16 most popular Rhodesian Ridgeback mixes so you can pick the one you’ll love and adore.
Here they go:
Rhodesian Ridgeback Mixes
To get a Rhodesian Ridgeback mix, you’ll have to breed a Rhodesian Ridgeback parent with another purebred dog. This will help the puppy pick traits from both breeds.
However, predicting how a mixed breed dog will look or behave isn’t as straightforward as it might seem. Crossbreeds aren’t the perfect 50-50 mix of parent breeds.
In fact, you might even get a litter where all puppies look entirely different!
This is because a mixed breed puppy can pick up traits from both parents, and it doesn’t have to be evenly split. Some mixed breed pups might even end up looking like one of their purebred parents!
This is why we’ll add a disclaimer: Every Rhodesian Ridgeback mix we describe is simply based on observing most crossbreed dogs we’ve run across. Not every mix will look like that, and not everyone will have the same traits. We’ll simply go by the rule of thumb.
Without further ado, here are 16 Rhodesian Ridgeback mixes you might be interested in:
1. Rhodesian Ridgeback Mix With Lab.
Photo from: loveable_lynyrd
The Rhodesian Labrador is a crossbreed of a Rhodesian Ridgeback and a Labrador Retriever. This might be the perfect Rhodesian Ridgeback mix for people who love the appearance of a Rhodesian, but would prefer a calmer, family dog.
Labs are popular, loveable dogs that make some of the best family companions out there. It is no surprise that a Lab mix can mellow down a Rhodesian’s temperament.
In fact, Rhodesian Labradors have a rather unique personality as they are friendly, yet shy at the same time. They are confident, calm, and always ready to cheer everyone up!
Yet, Ridgeback/Labs have a stubborn streak that can make them somewhat challenging to train.
2. Rhodesian Ridgeback Mix With Pitbull.
Photo from: tails_and_trails_usa
The Pitbull Ridgeback is a crossbreed between a purebred Rhodesian Ridgeback and a purebred Pitbull. While not the most popular mix due to the bad reputation Pitbulls have, this mixed breed can, in fact, be an amazing nanny dog due to the nurturing nature that Pitbulls can have with children.
The Pitbull Ridgeback is a dog with strong protection instincts combined with strong family bonds. They are usually larger than Pitbulls, but have their athletic appearance.
Most of them come in the wheaten color of Ridgebacks. However, as Pitties can come in all colors, they can be colorful dogs, especially compared to their Ridgeback parents.
3. Rhodesian Ridgeback Mix With Boxer.
Photo from: thegoodestdoggies
This is a crossbreed with a simple name – the Rhodesian Boxer. It is the result of crossbreeding Rhodesians with energetic and loyal but strong Boxer dogs.
Overall, this crossbreed can be a whole doggy package as it can have everything you want in a dog. It is large, yet affectionate… quite calmer than purebred Rhodesians, but not too calm to be considered boring.
When it comes to temperament, Rhodesian Boxers will be a lot more like Boxers than Rhodesians. They are intelligent dogs that need lots of mental stimulation to keep themselves from getting bored.
However, they might require some socialization as both Boxers and Rhodesians are protective, territorial dogs that might not be too fond of company unless they’re used to being around other animals and people from an early age.
Rhodesian Boxers are easy to train, despite their stubborn streak, as they are very obedient. These are gentle and loving dogs that will want nothing more than to please their owner.
4. Rhodesian Ridgeback Mix With German Shepherd
Photo from: graceprotze
The German Shepherd is one of the most well-known breeds out there, especially due to movies such as Rin-Tin-Tin. These dogs are known as amazing guardians, and they are often used in the military and police.
A crossbreed of a German Shepherd and a Rhodesian Ridgeback is known as the German Ridgeback. This is a highly intelligent dog with strong guarding instincts that make him an amazing watchdog.
These are athletic, muscled dogs that will do wonders while keeping your home safe from intruders. However, they might be prone to separation anxiety, so don’t get them if you’re someone who spends lots of time at work.
Still, the German Ridgeback makes a great hunting companion or a dog that you can take jogging with you.
Just be prepared for that shedding amount! This isn’t a dog for people who don’t want hair everywhere or for people with dog allergies.
5. Rhodesian Ridgeback Beagle Mix.
Photo from: pacco_meets_sarah
Beagles are small dogs known for their short legs, high energy levels, and adorable personality. They have been the heroes of many movies, and everyone who has met a Beagle will know why this is so.
A Rhodesian Beagle will likely be a medium-sized dog that will look like a Rhodesian Ridgeback on short legs – although, just like with any other crossbreed, his appearance might vary. In fact, many Rhodesian Beagles will also inherit the Beagle’s floppy ears, making this an adorable mix!
When it comes to temperament, it can be challenging to predict as both parent breeds have rather different personalities. You might get a gentle and friendly dog, but you might also get a pooch with great guardian skills and protective instincts.
6. Rhodesian Ridgeback Mastiff Mix.
Photo from: hugo_dior_rhodesianmastiff
Mastiffs are some of the largest dogs out there. They are strong and mighty, yet docile. However, they make amazing protectors, especially when they consider you their family member.
When you combine them with Rhodesian Ridgebacks, you get a Mastiff Ridgeback, likely the largest Rhodesian Ridgeback mix on our list. This dog inherits courage from both parent breeds, making it an amazing guardian dog.
Other than its strength that makes these dogs somewhat challenging to control, you need to count on lots of drool. Sadly, this also makes them unsuitable for people with dog allergies.
7. Poodle Rhodesian Ridgeback Mix.
Photo from: elliegkikas
Poodles are cute dogs known for their curly coat that doesn’t shed. While there isn’t a truly hypoallergenic dog, Poodles come the closest to this. In fact, most people who struggle with dog allergies can keep Poodles without any problem.
The Rhodesian Poodle will likely be a dog suitable for people with mild allergies. This depends on its coat type. The curlier it gets, the less loose hair you’ll have.
Also, as Poodles are extremely friendly, you’ll likely end up with a dog with an adorable personality. He’ll be friendly and kind, yet protective, making him a great guard dog. In fact, if you’d like a watchdog, but are having issues with Rhodesian hairs, this might be the right mix for you.
8. Rhodesian Ridgeback Hound Mix.
Photo from: milkandbiscuit_houston
When talking about a Rhodesian Ridgeback Hound mix, chances are you’re thinking about a Greyhound Ridgeback; a crossbreed of a Greyhound and a Rhodesian.
Greyhounds are an ancient breed that has been around since ancient Egypt. These are sweet-tempered, independent, and noble dogs that are incredibly gentle despite their unique alien-like appearance.
They are slim and sleek, but combined with Rhodesian Ridgeback genes, this will give them a dose of muscles that will make them look more like Great Danes due to their tall stature and bulkier bodies.
Greyhound Rhodesians are highly energetic dogs. Both parent breeds have high energy levels, and you’ll have to let them spend lots of time outdoors. These aren’t dogs for people who prefer to sit on a couch and watch TV shows throughout the weekend.
9. Rhodesian Ridgeback Chihuahua Mix.
Photo from: chiplusridge
Chihuahuas are likely the smallest dog breed out there. As such, combining them with large Rhodesians sounds like an incredible task – but it’s possible.
Rhodesian Chis are small to medium dogs depending on the individual dog’s genetics. They’ll usually look like smaller Rhodesians, although some might inherit the Chihuahua’s pointy ears.
However, the issue comes with combining these two dogs’ personalities. If a dog ends up inheriting the Rhodesian’s size and the Chi’s personality, you’ll likely end up with a dog that’ll love to go in the opposite direction of what you tell him!
Yes, this can be a rather stubborn, almost aggressive dog, as Chihuahuas are known to be much more temperamental than these much larger, South African canines. Despite their fairly small size, Rhodesian Chis are not for everyone.
10. Rhodesian Ridgeback Dachshund Mix.
Photo from: animals.in.their.elements
Dachshunds, or wiener dogs, are easily recognized by their cute appearance and somewhat dominant personality. Most Dachshund mixes are known for looking like the other parent, but with short legs. Rhodesian Dachshunds are no different.
This pup will have a rather fun appearance as it will give a Rhodesian Ridgeback that dose of cuteness and goofiness they might lack. They’ll also be much friendlier, almost clingy. Expect them to follow your every step!
Unfortunately, they are also prone to separation anxiety, and they will hate being left alone for longer than a few hours.
Also, they will have an independent streak that might make them want to do things their way all the time. You need to know how to properly train a dog with such a temperament before you get a Rhodesian Dachshund.
11. Rhodesian Ridgeback Redbone Coonhound Mix.
Photo from: marvel.the.mutt
Redbone Coonhounds can be the complete opposite of Rhodesian Ridgebacks when it comes to temperament! These are mellow, kind dogs that can snooze their life away on your porch. Some might even try to get up on your couch!
As such, they are the perfect Rhodesian Ridgeback mix for dog owners who’d like a dog that will be calmer than Rhodesians, but still keep most of their glorious appearance.
In fact, you might even say that the Redbone Rhodesian is a beautified version of a purebred Rhodesian due to its gorgeous, vibrant red coat!
Overall, if you opt for a Redbone Rhodesian, you’ll get a fairly calm dog that will still do a great job if he accompanies you on your hunting trip.
12. Rhodesian Ridgeback Boerboel Mix.
Photo from: bearskingdom
The Boerboel isn’t the most famous breed on our list, but it is still a magnificent one. These dogs are amazing protectors, and this is only enforced by their intimidating looks and confident and dominant personality. Still, they are eager to learn, and they’ll do whatever they can to please their owner.
While its temperament is fairly similar to the one Rhodesian Ridgebacks have, its appearance is quite different. This is a large, Mastiff-type dog, which also means that the Rhodesian Boerboel will be a large dog.
This crossbreed will demand strict socialization and dog training, so be sure to provide him with that. Also, expect them to require lots of high-quality dog food and a moderate amount of brushing.
Read Also: Rhodesian Ridgeback Feeding Chart: Tips And Tricks
13. Rhodesian Ridgeback Cane Corso Mix.
Photo from: @canetheridgeback
Cane Corsos are strong, Mastiff-type dogs that are known for their protective personality. Some might consider them the best guard dogs out there despite not being as large as many other Mastiffs.
As a result, you can expect a Cane Corso mixed with any canine to be an excellent watchdog – but when you get a Cane Ridgeback, you can get a dog that will do this job flawlessly.
These dogs will likely look like larger and stronger Rhodesians, with a flatter face, like their Cane Corso parents. Also, they might come in black color as this is the most popular Cane Corso color.
It’s important to note that these dogs are for experienced owners only. They will have a high prey drive, and will be strong and independent, making them unsuitable for beginners.
14. Rhodesian Ridgeback Chow Mix.
Photo from: rosie_the_rhodesianridgeback
Chow Chows are cute, wrinkly dogs that seem to be loved by everyone. Their blue tongue makes them stand out from the rest, even more than their adorable faces!
If you’d love to get an active dog like a Rhodesian, but would like your pet to be a bit more fluffy, then a Rhodesian Chow might be the perfect dog for you. They’ll usually look like a long-haired Rhodesian – although you might see a wrinkle or two on them.
These pups will be rather shy and wary of strangers, so proper socialization is essential.
15. Rhodesian Ridgeback Corgi Mix.
Photo from: love.mrtruffle
There is nothing cuter than a Corgi! These adorable dogs have gained huge popularity in the last decade, even though they’ve been here for hundreds of years.
All Corgi mixes are adorable and friendly, and a Rhodesian Corgi is no different. While not as social as purebred Corgis, they’ll still attempt to be friends with everyone in your household, which is great for owners who fear a Ridgeback’s somewhat aloof personality.
Despite their friendliness, these are alert dogs and huge barkers, so they’ll do a great job of warning you whenever an intruder walks onto your property – especially when you consider the Rhodesian’s protective nature.
However, they have quite an independent streak, so they might be challenging to train.
Appearance-wise, they’ll likely look like fluffy Rhodesians with shorter legs. Some might be born without a tail or with pointy ears.
16. Rhodesian Ridgeback Doberman Mix.
Photo from: bwalkingd
The Doberman Ridgeback is a crossbreed between a Rhodesian and a breed that is known to be a tax collector dog – the Doberman Pinscher.
This is the ultimate working dog. Both parent breeds are hard-working dogs commonly used for property and personal protection, so you can be certain they’ll keep your home with ease.
Overall, these are sleek dogs ripped with muscles. They can come in wheaten and black color, and some might even have the distinguishable Doberman markings.
Keep in mind that these pups require lots of socialization and training as both breeds can be wary of strangers due to their history of being used as watchdogs. Also, even though they have a short coat, they are shedders.
Rhodesian Ridgeback Mix Puppies For Sale
When looking for Rhodesian Ridgeback mix puppies for sale, you need to know that breeding hybrid dogs isn’t as easy as it sounds. In fact, the only way you can be certain that you’ll get the best dog possible is to buy from a reputable breeder who specializes in breeding mixed breeds.
While you can find mixed breed dogs in many places, you’re at a higher risk of running into backyard breeders. These people do not necessarily mean bad, but they aren’t experienced with breeding dogs.
Backyard breeders are usually dog owners who have ended up with a litter of unwanted puppies after their Rhodesian Ridgeback had an adventure. Their goal is to sell the puppies they’re left with, and to earn some money while doing this.
However, they usually don’t know how to properly breed dogs or how to care for puppies. Many of them don’t even know who the father of the dog is, which means you cannot precisely know what Rhodesian Ridgeback mix you’re getting.
On the other hand, reputable breeders will take great care of the dogs they’re breeding. Whether they’re combining these lion dogs from Rhodesia, Zimbabwe with a Border Collie, a Husky, a Golden Retriever, or a Rottweiler, they’ll take great care of the bloodline of the dogs they’re buying.
Not just that, but they’ll also conduct various health tests to make sure all of their dogs are free of any genetic health problem. By doing this, they can be certain that their puppies will end up as healthy as possible.
This is rather important as many Rhodesian Ridgeback mixes you can find at the shelter or buy from a backyard breeder have an unknown background. In other words, you can never know whether they might be prone to some health issues.
More importantly, when buying from reputable breeders, you’ll know the dog’s temperament. Many crossbreeds are there to fix some flaws in the dog’s behavior, and when you buy from a good breeder, you’ll know you can count on getting the best dog possible.
Overall, breeding Rhodesian Ridgeback mixes is a bit different from breeding purebred Rhodesians, which is why you need to be very careful who you’re buying from.
Rhodesian Ridgeback Lifespan
Rhodesian Ridgeback mixes have the benefit of something that is called hybrid vigor. This trait helps mixed breed dogs be much healthier compared to their purebred parents due to a higher variety of genes in their genetic pool.
However, mixed breed puppies can still get any health condition their parents are prone to. In the case of Rhodesian Ridgeback mixes, this means that any health condition Rhodesians can get, their descendants can get as well – although the chances are rather slim.
Fortunately, Rhodesian Ridgebacks are a fairly healthy breed, with a long lifespan of up to 12 years, which is more than decent for big dogs. Still, they, too, are prone to some health conditions. This includes:
• Elbow dysplasia and hip dysplasia, characterized by an improperly developed hip socket. While not life-threatening, it can lead to arthritis if left untreated.
• Hypothyroidism, in which a dog’s thyroid gland doesn’t produce the proper amount of thyroid hormone.
• Deafness.
• Dermoid sinus; a defect of a neural tube common for Ridgeback breeds.
How Much Does A Rhodesian Ridgeback Cost?
The price of purebred parents can greatly influence the cost of mixed breed puppies. The same goes for Rhodesian Ridgeback mixes.
Overall, the cost of a purebred Rhodesian Ridgeback is between $1,700 and $2,500. However, if they come from great bloodlines, these prices can be much higher.
As a result, you’ll rarely find a crossbreed that costs less than $1,700; however, some exceptions are possible as you need to count in the price of the other parent as well.
For example, Bloodhounds are fairly affordable dogs. They cost between $450 and $1,200. As such, a Rhodesian Bloodhound mix can easily cost as low as $1,000. Although, it’s worth noting that if you’re looking for a good hunting dog due to the high prey drive that both of these breeds have, you can count on higher prices.
On the other hand, Great Dane Rhodesian Ridgeback mixes can cost much higher as Danes can cost $3,000 and more.
You also need to consider the breeder’s reputation, the parents’ bloodlines, as well as your area. All of these things can influence the price of a mixed breed puppy.
Are Rhodesian Ridgeback Mixes Better Than Purebred Dogs?
Many dog owners wonder if they should get a mixed breed, or is it better to stick to purebred dogs. The truth is, it all depends on your expectations and desires.
Purebred dogs are certainly a better option if you want a show dog. This is because large kennel clubs, such as the American Kennel Club (AKC) don’t recognize crossbreeds due to the lack of breed standards. As such, no mixed breed dog can participate in conformation shows.
Also, with purebred dogs, you’ll always know precisely what you’re getting. There will be no surprises when it comes to their size or temperament, and you’ll always get the dog you’ve paid for.
On the other hand, when it comes to mixes, while they are unpredictable in terms of appearance and behavior, you can be certain you’ll get a healthier dog with fewer health conditions than their parent breeds.
In fact, most mixed breed dogs are bred with the intent to eliminate certain diseases from a dog’s genetics. This way, you’ll know that you’ll get a puppy that is more likely to be healthy.
Similarly, hybrid dogs are bred to remove certain traits from a breed. For example, some dog owners don’t like the high prey drive that Rhodesian Ridgebacks have. By breeding them with a friendly Golden Retriever, they’ll get a friendlier dog that is more likely to love other pets.
Similarly, Poodle mixes are there to reduce shedding, and they are more suitable for owners with allergies and breathing problems.
As you can see, it all comes down to the individual’s desires and needs.
Should You Buy A Rhodesian Ridgeback Mix?
The decision on whether or not you’ll buy a specific dog is entirely up to you. Only you can know whether a certain dog breed (or rather, a crossbreed) has what you need in a dog.
Overall, Rhodesian Ridgeback mixes make loyal family pets. While rather active and somewhat wary of strangers, they’ll love their owners with all their heart, and they’ll protect them with their life if necessary.
However, chances are they’ll require experienced owners as Ridgebacks are known for their high prey drive. Also, they are large dogs, so you’ll need to know how to properly train and socialize them in order to make sure you can control them.
At the same time, if you pick the right crossbreed for you, you’ll likely have no problem dealing with these amazing dogs.
Every hybrid dog is unique in its own way, and each has loveable traits. We are certain that every owner can find the right Rhodesian Ridgeback mix for themselves.
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