Also known as the Rhodesian Collie, the Rhodesian Ridgeback Border Collie Mix is a cross between a Rhodesian Ridgeback and a Border Collie. This crossbreed is very energetic and requires lots of daily exercise.
The Rhodesian Collie is a loyal, smart, and playful dog. Most should be medium to large-sized dogs that inherit the guarding and watchdog instincts of the Rhodesian Ridgeback parent.
In this article, we’ll take a look at the physical characteristics and personality traits of the Rhodesian Collie mixed breed dog. We’ll also discuss their training and exercise needs, and expected size and lifespan.
By the end of the article, you should be able to determine whether a Border Collie Rhodesian Ridgeback Collie Mix puppy will be a good match for your family.
So let’s dive right in!
Table of Contents
Some Quick Facts About The Rhodesian Ridgeback Border Collie Mix
| Breed Type: | Mixed Breed/Crossbreed/Designer Dog/Hybrid (Border Collie and Rhodesian Ridgeback) |
| Size: | Medium to Large-Sized |
| Other Names: | Rhodesian Collie |
| Good Guard Dog: | Yes, especially if they take after the Rhodesian Ridgeback parent |
| Good Watch Dog: | Yes |
| Average Weight: | 30 to 85 Pounds |
| Average Height: | 18 to 27 Inches Tall |
| Lifespan: | 10 to 15 years |
| Apartment Living: | No |
| Ideal for: | Active Families with Older Kids, Active Singles, Those Looking for a Watchdog, Homes with Fenced-In Yards |
| Coat: | Medium-length coat |
| Coat colors: | Black, White, and Brown |
| Suitable for first time owners: | No |
| Trainability: | Relatively easy to train |
| Hypoallergenic: | No |
| Shedding: | Moderate |
| Grooming Needs: | Brush them at least 2 times per week. Bathing should be done once every 3 to 4 months |
| Energy Levels: | High |
| Exercise Needs: | At least 120 minutes of physical and mental exercise every day is required |
| Tolerance to being left alone: | Well trained adult Rhodesian Collie can stay alone for 4 hours. Just make sure they are well-exercised |
| Feeding and Diet: | 2.5 to 3.5 cups of high quality dog food twice a day. Of course, this amount varies depending on the dog’s age, size, and activity level. |
| Maintenance: | When it comes to grooming they are low maintenance dogs. However they have incredibly high levels of energy, requiring active training and exercise |
| Possible Health Issues: | Collie Eye Anomaly, Congenital Deafness, Elbow Dysplasia, Hip Dysplasia |
| Temperament: | loyal, loving, energetic, playful, stubborn, protective, affectionate, strong prey drive |
| Cat Friendly: | They can only live with cats if if the two pets were raised together and socialized early enough (the Ridgeback parent has high prey drive) |
| Dog Friendly: | Yes, especially with early socialization |
| Kid Friendly: | Yes, they are best suited for families with older kids (Early Socialization Is Required) (They do need to be watched around smaller kids to prevent any unwanted accidents) |
| Barking Tendencies: | Low to moderate |
| Price: | Average $700 – $2000 USD |
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What Is A Rhodesian Ridgeback and Border Collie Mix Called?
A Border Collie mixed with a Rrhodesian Rridgeback is also called a Rhodesian Collie. This designer dog is very intelligent and combines the best traits of both the brave Rridgeback and the intelligent Border Collie.
These dogs also have strong protective instincts that help make them great watchdogs. These are well-muscled and athletic dogs that will help protect your family and property from intruders.
Unfortunately, Rhodesian Collies are prone to separation anxiety, so they are not ideal for people who spend long hours at work.
The History of the Rhodesian Collie
If you want to know when and where the first Rhodesian Collie was developed, you will find it difficult to find out. That is because there’s little information available about when or how these canines emerged.
However, learning more about the histories of both the Border Collie and the Ridgeback can give us good insights into when and how the Rhodesian Collie came about.
The History of the Border Collie
The Border Collie was bred to control and herd sheep around the English-Scottish border. This breed was developed to withstand harsh conditions.
Border Collies are famous for using their strong stare to control flocks of sheep. Families still rely on these canines to herd flocks of sheep in various parts of the world.
Being smart and highly energetic, Border Collie mixes like the Rhodesian Collie are ideal for active owners who have experience dealing with intelligent and energetic canines.
The History of the Rhodesian Ridgeback Breed
Also called the African Lion Dog, the Rhodesian Ridgeback originated from Rhodesia (the present-day Zimbabwe) in Southern Africa.
Officially recognised by the AKC in 1955, the Ridgeback was commonly used as a hunting dog.
Rhodesian Ridgebacks also served as guard dogs and continue to play the same role even today. This dog makes an amazing guard dog.
This dog is named after the distinct characteristics on its back – a ridge running through its spine.
Since it also hunted lions, the Rhodesian Ridgeback had many admirers. People continue to fall in love with this breed due to its courage and wariness of intruders or strangers – qualities that make them great guard dogs.
With proper training and socialization, the Rhodesian Ridgeback is not aggressive. However, he is stubborn and requires an experienced dog owner.
What Does a Rhodesian Ridgeback Border Collie Mix Look Like?
The Rhodesian Collie has no standard appearance like his purebred parents. Even Rhodesian Collie puppies from the same litter can look very different from each other.
The wish of many dog lovers is to own a hybrid dog that combines the best physical characteristics of the Rhodesian Ridgeback and the Border Collie.
However, that is not always the case. Some Rhodesian Collies look more like the Rhodesian Ridgeback while others lean more towards the Border Collie parent.
We can get good insights into what a Border Collie Rhodesian Ridgeback Mix dog will look like by studying the general appearance of both parent breeds.
The Rhodesian Collie may inherit the muscles of the Rridgeback and will most likely be a medium to large-sized dog. He may also inherit the short legs of the Ridgeback parent. However, as with other crossbreeds, looks can vary.
Many Rhodesian Collies also inherit the Collie’s ears, which may be down, up, or a combination of both – something that makes this an even more adorable hybrid dog.
How Big Does a Rhodesian Ridgeback Border Collie Mix Get?
One key difference between the Rhodesian Ridgeback and the Border Collie is their size difference. The Rhodesian Rridgeback is a large dog while the Border Collie is medium-sized.
Rhodesian Ridgebacks stand between 24 and 27 inches tall and weigh between 70 and 85 pounds at maturity.
On the other hand, Border Collies stand between 18 and 22 inches tall and weigh around 30 and 45 pounds.
Therefore, the Rhodesian Collie crossbreed will stand between 18 and 27 inches tall and weigh anywhere between 30 and 85 pounds at maturity. Males are relatively larger and taller than females.
Coat and Coat Colors
The Rhodesian Ridgeback Border Collie Mix dog has a medium-length coat that comes in colors such as black, white, and brown.
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Rhodesian Ridgeback Border Collie Mix Temperament & Personality
The Rrhodesian Rridgeback falls under the hound group of dogs. Hound dogs were developed to hunt animals using their sense of smell or sight. These dogs have high prey drives and usually do everything in their power to catch the animal they are chasing.
On the other hand, Border Collies fall under the herding group of dogs. Herding dogs were developed to herd sheep and cattle. These dogs work in collaboration with their owners, and their intelligence and obedience make them easily trainable. They also have high energy levels, which should be channeled appropriately to avoid destructive behavior.
As you can see, the Rhodesian Ridgeback Border Collie Mix will have high energy levels and a natural desire to hunt, herd, and guard.
You can also expect this dog to be courageous and confident. Moreover, they are loyal, loving, and affectionate companions.
They also exhibit a high prey drive due to their background chasing lions. The Ridgeback parent also tracks and bays like other hounds. Due to the unique history and background, the Ridgeback Collie is ideal for experienced dog owners and trainers.
Introducing your Rhodesian Ridgeback Collie to children and other animals from an early age can help negate their strong prey drive. It’s also important to keep your pooch on a leash during walks due to their prey drive.
Rridgeback crosses like the Rhodesian Collie can also be stubborn and thrive with firm and confident owners.
Are Border Collie Rhodesian Ridgeback Mixed Protective?
Yes. Rhodesian Collies are very protective. Thanks to the herding instincts of the Border Collie and the guardian role of the Rridgeback, the Rhodesian Collie has natural protective instincts.
He protects his family from intruders, but he is not overly suspicious of strangers. This makes socialization easier without interfering with their guardian role.
Do Border Collie Rhodesian Ridgeback Mixes Bark A Lot?
Ridgebacks do not bark a lot, whereas Border Collies can bark often. That means your Rhodesian Collie will most likely have a low to moderate barking level.
Are Border Collie Rhodesian ridgebacks Good With Kids?
Yes. The Rhodesian Collie loves children and is playful with them. This makes this mix an excellent family dog, especially with timely socialization training.
Does This Breed Get Along with Other Pets?
The Rhodesian Collie gets along well with other canines, but it requires socialization to flourish in a multi-dog home.
He may not be compatible with cats and other small pets because this hybrid dog has a strong prey drive. Socialize him with other household pets as a puppy but be vigilant.
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Are Border Collie Rhodesian Ridgeback Mixes Good For First Time Owners?
No. Both parents are not the best choices for first time dog owners. This energetic dog requires a lot of exercise each day to prevent destructive behavior.
Do Border Collie Rhodesian Ridgeback Mixes Do Well In Apartment Settings?
No. Rhodesian Collies are not a good choice for apartment living because they need enough exercise to expel any pent-up energy.
Exercise Requirements
Border Collie Rhodesian Ridgeback Mixes have high energy levels, which should be channeled appropriately to avoid destructive behavior.
Rrhodesian Rridgebacks and Border Collies are both energetic and active dogs that need lots of exercise daily. Your Rhodesian Collie mixed breed dog will be no different.
The Rhodesian Collie can be a great companion for owners who enjoy walking, running, and hiking. Active and committed owners are ideal for this hybrid dog since they enjoy getting involved in family activities with their owners.
Also, get your designer dog a lot of interactive dog toys because these will help keep them busy and mentally stimulated.
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Training
Just like the intelligent Border collie , the Rhodesian Collie is smart and highly trainable.
However, these energetic dogs will need firm and consistent training from an early age.
Firstly, you need to implement obedience training. Train your puppy simple commands such as down, sit, and roll.
Also, reward him handsomely with treats once he obeys.
Housetraining is also important because this mix enjoys staying indoors with his human friends.
You also need to socialize this mix because of his hunting instincts and tendency to be protective. If not properly socialized, this mix can become aggressive.
Harsh or punishment-based treatment methods will make this mix distrustful, so avoid using them at all costs.
The ideal Rhodesian Collie owner should be patient and kind, but firm during training.
Do Rhodesian Ridgeback Border Collie Mixes Shed a Lot?
The Rhodesian Collie sheds seasonally, but he can also shed all year round.
Grooming Requirements
Fortunately, the Rhodesian Collie has low maintenance and grooming needs. They need brushing only one or twice per week.
You should not bathe this dog as often as you brush it. Unlike us humans, bathing your dog too frequently can be detrimental to their coat and skin. So, bathe your dog only when they get dirty.
Proper grooming routine should also include the following:
- Wiping their skin with deodorizing wipes for dogs.
- Brushing their teeth at least a week (you can also give them chewable toys to help with their oral hygiene).
- Ear and eye clean with a soft, damp cotton piece of cloth as necessary.
- Nail clipping, particularly if your puppy loves the outdoors the most.
Adding these things to their grooming routine will help prevent health issues like skin infections.
Some essential tools to help with your dog’s grooming routine include a vacuum cleaner, a bristle brush, a high-quality dog shampoo, dental sprays, and ear cleansers.
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Feeding & Diet Requirements
The Rhodesian Collie’s nutritional needs are the same as those of similar-sized dog breeds.
The Rrhodesian Rridgeback mixed with Border Collie should eat at least two and half cups of high quality dog food every day. If your dog takes part in tiring activities every day, you can increase the amount to three cups.
As a high-energy medium-to-large-sized dog, the Rhodesian Collie’s diet should be geared towards its size, energy, and activity level.
As with other breeds, its main nutrient should be protein. Protein helps supply your dog with energy and prevents some health problems.
His diet should contain probiotics, wild alaskan salmon oil, and glucosamine because this mix is prone to elbow and hip dysplasia. Fresh water is essential as well, to help keep him hydrated.
Lifespan
The Rhodesian Collie has a lifespan of about 10 to 15 years. If you adopt a healthy Border Collie Rhodesian Ridgeback Mix and take proper care of him, odds are that he will live a happy and healthy life for many years to come.
Border Collie Rhodesian ridgeback Mix Health Issues
Even with good care and nutrition, your crossbreed can still experience the following health issues:
- Hip dysplasia
- Elbow dysplasia
- Collie eye anomaly
- Congenital deafness
If you want your Rrhodesian Ridgeback Border Collie Mmix to be healthy and happy, make sure your pup or your pup’s parents have been tested for the above health issues.
Some of the tests that should be conducted include imagery tests, eye tests, urinalysis, and x-rays.
Also, make sure to keep up with your vet visits from time to time.
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How Much Does A Rhodesian Ridgeback Border Collie Mix Cost?
The Rhodesian Ridgeback Border Collie Mmx is gaining popularity because of the popularity of both parent breeds. Therefore, you can expect the Rhodesian Ridgeback Border Collie Mix price to be quite high.
According to multiple sources, the average price of a Rhodesian Collie puppy for sale is around $600 to $1900.
To avoid unnecessary vet bills, be careful enough to find a trusted and reputable Rhodesian Ridgeback Border Collie Mix breeder.
Your breeder must answer all your questions and provide valid medical records on your puppy. If they hesitate to do this, look elsewhere.
Rhodesian RIdgeback Border Collie MIx for Adoption
Want to adopt? Most animal activists recommend rescuing a dog in need instead of buying.
It is a budget-friendly choice, and you’d be giving a dog in need a new, loving home.
You should also get detailed information from rescues or shelters, including potential illnesses, history of trauma, abuse, or behavioral issues.
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Other Costs of Raising Your Rhodesian Collie
Other costs of keeping your Border Collie Rhodesian Ridgeback Mix happy and healthy cover vet bills, microchip tagging, and various pet products.
When it comes to pet products, here are the best supplies currently available in the market:
The MidWest Folding Crate for intermediate dogs: this crate is perfect for your Rhodesian Collie and other intermediate dog breeds. This intermediate dog crate is about 36″ in depth, and has an appropriate size for your pooch. Most reviewers love this dog crate and we are confident that you will find it well-buldt, good-looking, and sturdy enough to keep your dog comfortable for a long time.
The furhaven orthopedic dog bed: this orthopedic dog suits the Rhodesian Collie and other dog breeds that are vulnerable to joint problems because it has a foam base to support your pet’s joints.
You definitely also want to factor in the cost of dog food and dog grooming to help keep your new furry friend healthy and happy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a Rhodesian Ridgeback Border Collie Mix a Good Family Dog?
Yes. Rhodesian Ccolles are a great addition to active families. They get along with children and your children will love them.
Are Rhodesian Ridgeback Border Collie Mix Dogs High Maintenance?
No. The Rhodesian colie is a low-maintenance dog. even during the shedding season, you’ll find it easy to maintain him and clean up after him.
Can Rhodesian Ridgeback Border Collie Mix Dogs Be Left Alone?
Nno. Rhodesian Collies are prone to separation anxiety and should not be left alone. Otherwise, they could become anxious and destructive.
How long Can a Rhodesian Ridgeback Border Collie Mix be left alone?
It’s not advisable to leave your Border Collie Ridgeback Mix alone for longer than 4 to 5 hours. Otherwise, they can develop separation anxiety and destructive behavior.
Are Rhodesian ridgeback border collie Mixes Hypoallergenic?
Nno. Rhodesian Ridgeback Border Collie mixes are not hypoallergenic. These pups shed a moderate amount, so they are not the best choice for families with allergy sufferers.
How Long Do Rhodesian ridgeback border collie Mixes Live?
The Rhodesian Border Collie has an average life expectancy of 10 to 14 years. An active lifestyle and proper care can help extend their lifespan.
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Are Border Collie Rhodesian Ridgebacks Lazy?
No, not at all. The Rhodesian Collie is a very active and energetic breed. They are best suited to active families that can meet their daily exercise needs.
Are Rhodesian ridgeback border collie Mixes Hard to Train?
No. These smart canines are also obedient and responsive to training. So you’ll find it easy to train your mixed breed dog if you follow the simple dog training tips discussed in this article.
Do Rhodesian ridgeback border collie Mixes Like To Cuddle?
Yes. Despite being highly energetic, Rhodesian collies are very affectionate with their owners and families.
Are Border Collie Rhodesian Ridgebacks aggressive?
No. A properly trained and socialized Rhodesian Collie should not be aggressive at all. Proper training and socialization will allow this mix to develop into a well-behaved canine companion.
Are Rhodesian Ridgeback border collie dogs smart?
Yes. Rhodesian Ridgebacks and Border Collies are smart and easy to train. This means your Rhodesian Collie will also inherit high intelligence levels from both parents. Proper exercise and mental stimulation will help prevent boredom and keep them happy.
Can Border Collie Rhodesian Ridgebacks be off leash?
No. When taking your Rhodesian Collie on walks, make sure to keep him on a leash. This is because Rhodesian Collies have a strong prey drive, which could manifest at any time. A leash will help restrain your dog from chasing after small animals and keep you and your dog safe.
What Are Some Negatives About Rhodesian Ridgeback Border Collies?
- They need a lot of exercise daily.
- They are not hypoallergenic, so they are not suitable for allergy sufferers.
- They can be strong-willed.
- They are unsuitable for apartments and small homes.
- They don’t tolerate being left alone.
Is A Rhodesian Ridgeback Border Collie Mix Right For You?
The Rhodesian Ridgeback Border Collie Mix is a mix between two popular breeds with some exceptional qualities.
Together, the parent breeds produce a dog that is great with children, affectionate to the family, and easy to train.
Their size, high energy, and stubborn streak are some of the downsides of owning a Rhodesian Collie, making him ideal for only experienced and active owners.
If you can train and exercise this mix, you’ll have a loving and affectionate companion dog to play with and a friendly guard dog to protect you if need be.
Other Border Collie Mixes
Love Border Collies but not sure this particular pup is for you? Check out America’s most popular Border Collie mix breed dogs.
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