If you’re searching for an energetic but affectionate dog, look no further! The Rhodesian Ridgeback Boxer Mix is an active, loving, and loyal mix between the Rhodesian Ridgeback and the Boxer.
Simply Known as the Rhodesian Boxer, this dog will also be intelligent, friendly, and protective of his owner and family.
If you’re considering adopting the Ridgeback Boxer Mix as a family pet and companion, then you need to learn as much as you can about the characteristics and traits of this dog.
So let’s take a look at the Rhodesian Boxer appearance, size, temperament, health, lifespan, and general care requirements.
At the end of this comprehensive guide to the Rhodesian Ridgeback Boxer Mix, you’ll also find answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about this particular designer dog.
So here we go!
Table of Contents
Some Quick Facts About The Rhodesian Ridgeback Boxer Mix
| Breed Type: | Mixed Breed/Crossbreed/Designer Dog/Hybrid (Boxer and Rhodesian Ridgeback) |
| Size: | Medium to Large-Sized |
| Other Names: | Rhodesian Boxer, Rhodesian Boxer Mix |
| Good Guard Dog: | Yes |
| Good Watch Dog: | Yes |
| Average Weight: | 55 to 80 pounds |
| Average Height: | 22 to 27 inches |
| Lifespan: | 10 to 12 years |
| Apartment Living: | Yes, providing they are sufficiently exercised |
| Ideal for: | Active Families and Singles in need of a loving, loyal, and protective family dog, Those Looking for a Watchdog/Guard Dog, Experienced Owners |
| Coat: | Short, Straight, Smooth, Glossy |
| Coat colors: | Black, White, Brown, Red, Fawn, Brindle |
| Suitable for first time owners: | Not Recommended |
| Trainability: | Moderate Difficulty (they can be stubborn) |
| Hypoallergenic: | No |
| Shedding: | Low to Moderate |
| Grooming Needs: | Brush them at least once per week with a bristle brush or hard rubber grooming mitt to help keep hair under control |
| Energy Levels: | High |
| Exercise Needs: | At least 120 minutes of exercise, including one long walk daily |
| Tolerance to being left alone: | Well trained adult Rhodesian Boxer can stay alone for 5 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: | Hypothyroidism, Hip Dysplasia, Cancer, Heart Disease, Bloating, Kidney Disease, Eye Issues, Skin allergies |
| Temperament: | Intelligent, Alert, Curious, Loving, Friendly, Affectionate, Energetic, Loyal, Brave, Protective, Quite Stubborn |
| Cat Friendly: | Yes, especialy if the two pets were raised together and socialized early enough (the Ridgeback parent has high prey drive) |
| Dog Friendly: | Yes, With Proper Training and Socialization (the Boxer parent doesn’t get along with large adult dogs of the same sex) |
| Kid Friendly: | Yes, (Early Socialization Is Required) (They do need to be watched around smaller kids) |
| Barking Tendencies: | Low to moderate |
| Prey Drive: | High |
| Price: | Average $500 – $1500 USD |
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Where Did the Rhodesian Boxer Come From?
Unfortunately, not much is known about the Rhodesian Boxer origin, but this mix will inherit the finest traits from the parent breeds. So it’s a good idea to study the history of both the Rhodesian Ridgeback and the Boxer.
History of the Rhodesian Ridgeback
The Rhodesian Ridgeback originated in the southern African Country called Rhodesia (now called Zimbabwe).
The dog was developed by Boer farmers who wanted a versatile and courageous hunting dog that could stand up to large wild animals!
Breeders began by mixing breeds like Mastiffs, Greyhounds, Bloodhounds, and Great Danes with a semi-wild dog called the Khoikhoi. The Khoikhoi had a distinctive ridge on its back and dogs with this ridge were distinguished hunting dogs!
As the popularity of big game hunting increased in South Africa, Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs started accompanying their masters to help them!
Soon after, they realized that these dogs were very good at teasing and distracting predators such as lions to control them so the hunters could take aim at them.
Besides being loyal hunting dogs, Ridgebacks also serve as loyal family dogs and companions.
The South African Kennel Club recognised the breed in 1924. The breed really began to skyrocket in popularity after the Second World War.
It is believed that the first Rhodesian Ridgeback arrived in America even before the 1930s when an actor named Errol Flynn began breeding them in the country.
Ridgebacks were first registered by the American Kennel Club in 1955 and since then, their popularity as family companions and pets has continued to soar.
The History of the Boxer Breed
The Boxer originated in Germany and was bred in the late 19th century.
They descended from Bulldogs and certain German Rhodesian Ridgebacks. Like most breeds, Boxers are a mix of several breeds.
They were developed to be working dogs, and have fighting and hunting backgrounds. They were cherished workers during WWI and WWII.
What Does a Rhodesian Ridgeback Boxer Mix Look Like?
When it comes to appearance, the Rhodesian Boxer Mix is a strong dog with a deep chest, athletic body, and strong, elegant legs. They have a black nose, and round eyes that are brown or amber in color.
They also have triangular ears and a dark face mask. Their muzzle may be pointed like the Ridgeback parent’s or short like the Boxer parent’s muzzle. Their tails are usually straight and long.
How Big Does a Rhodesian Ridgeback Boxer Mix Get?
Your Rhodesian Boxer puppy will grow to be a large dog, so if you’re searching for a lapdog, this mix is not the right pup for you.
Remember both the Boxer and the Ridgeback are large dogs. While the Rhodesian Boxer loves to cuddle, he is not lap-friendly.
One major difference between the male and female Boxer Rhodesian Ridgeback Mix is their size.
Full grown males stand between 24 and 27 inches tall while females are around 22 to 25 inches tall. For weight, male Boxer Rhodesian Ridgeback Mixes weigh around 65 to 80 pounds while females weigh around 55 to 68 pounds.
Coat and Coat Colors
The Rhodesian Boxer has a short and straight coat that comes in a wide range of colors, including black, white, brown, red, fawn, and brindle.
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Rhodesian Ridgeback Boxer Mix Temperament & Personality
Combining the best traits of its parents, the Rhodesian Boxer Mix is alert, curious, and ready for any challenge you throw at them.
They are loyal, loving, and protective of their owners and family, alerting them to strangers and ready to be on your side at any time.
They like human company and don’t tolerate being left alone for extended durations. Leaving them alone might make them destructive.
Attractive, charming, and confident, the Rhodesian Ridgeback and Boxer Mix makes a loyal and lifelong friend and companion.
Are Rhodesian Ridgeback Boxer Mixes Protective?
The Rhodesian Boxer Mix dogs are brave, loyal, and protective dogs that also make great watchdogs and guard dogs.
Are Boxer Rhodesian Ridgebacks Good With Kids?
Rhodesian Boxers are also good with kids and are reliable when left with them.
Are Rhodesian Ridgeback Boxer Mixes Good For First Time Owners?
Due to their size, power, and intelligence, Rhodesian Boxer Mixes aren’t recommended for timid or first time dog owners. While friendly and loyal, this dog is best suited to active families and experienced owners who have experience handling energetic dogs.
Are Rhodesian Ridgeback Boxer Mixes Good with Other Dogs?
These dogs can also get along well with other dogs if socialized properly as puppies.
Are Rhodesian Boxer Mixes Good With Cats and Other Pets?
While Rhodesian Boxers can get along fine with other animals in the family, they have strong hunting instincts and are vulnerable to chasing small animals like cats.
However, they should get along well with small animals if they are brought up together with them.
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Exercise Needs
The Boxer Rhodesian Ridgeback Mix is active and energetic. At least 120 minutes of daily exercises and walks around the neighborhood will help keep your designer dog healthy.
Just be sure to keep your Ridgeback Boxer on a leash and to minimize exertions during those hot days.
Also, make sure to supply your pup with fresh water when exercising and at all other times.
This is especially true if your pup has inherited his Boxer parent’s short snout, which makes them vulnerable to hot temperatures.
Thanks to their working background and intelligence, you should also keep them busy and entertained playing with the best interactive dog toys available out there.
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Training
One great thing to do while training your Rhodesian Ridgebqack Boxer mix is houstraining. Early housetraining will help minimize accidents in the house.
Vets and previous owners also say crate training can help prevent these dogs from developing separation anxiety.
The Rhodesian Ridgeback Mixed with Boxer can also be stubborn, so be sure to use plenty of positive reinforcements such as praise and treats.
Because of their strong prey drive, we also recommend early socialization to ensure your pooch gets along great with other animals and people in the family.
Do Rhodesian Ridgeback Boxer Mix Shed a Lot?
The Rhodesian Ridgeback Boxer Mix dog is known for shedding a moderate amount, which means this isn’t a hypoallergenic dog.
Grooming
The Boxer cross Rhodesian Ridgeback Mix has a short, straight, and smooth coat, so he doesn’t need extensive maintenance and grooming.
In general, brushing them once a week is enough to remove any loose or dead hair and to maintain their coat in good condition.
Only bathe them when necessary using a mild shampoo because this designer dog is vulnerable to skin allergies.
It’s important to clean their ears to prevent infections because of wax buildup. Also, brush their teeth to maintain oral hygiene and to keep their gums and teeth healthy. Trim their nails occasionally as well, to prevent breakage.
Some of the other tools and supplies that will come in handy when grooming your Rhodesian Boxer include:
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Feeding and Diet
The Rhodesian Boxer Mix is energetic and should eat high quality kibble that is ideal for large dog breeds.
Your hybrid dog should do fine eating around 2.5 to 3.5 cups of high-quality dog food every day.
To ensure a shiny and healthy coat, provide your dog with supplements like wild alaskan salmon oil and probiotics.
When feeding your dog, make sure to monitor their weight. Consult your vet if you are worried about your dog’s weight or have any other dietary concerns.
Lifespan
The Boxer Rhodesian Ridgeback Mix has a lifespan of 10 to 12 years.
Rhodesian Boxer Health Issues
The Rhodesian Boxer needs both physical exercises and mental stimulation to stay healthy.
The major health problems to watch out for when caring for this designer dog include:
- Bloat
- Hip and elbow dysplasia
- Dermoid sinus
- Corneal ulcer
- Gastric dilation volvulus (GDV)
- Heart disease
- Spinal cord disease
The Rhodesian Boxer Mix can also suffer from other minor health issues such as:
- Skin allergies
- Ear Infections
- Hypothyroidism
- Eye disorder like Entropion and corneal erosion
You should keep up with the health of your dog to ensure he lives a longer, healthier life. Occasional vet visits will help you do this.
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Finding a Healthy Rhodesian Ridgeback Boxer Mix for Sale
To ensure you’re getting a quality pup, search for a reputable breeder that can produce the medical history records of the parent breeds.
Health issues can crop up in the future, which makes it very important for you to consider only Rhodesian Ridgeback Boxer Mix puppies for sale from trustworthy sellers.
How Much Does A Rhodesian Ridgeback Boxer Mix Cost?
The Rhodesian Ridgeback Boxer Mix price varies based on several factors like location and the breeder.
The price of a high-quality Rhodesian Ridgeback Boxer Mix puppy falls between $500 and $1500.
Breeders charge different prices, so it’s essential to find trustworthy ones that sell healthy Rhodesian Ridgeback Boxer Mix puppies and are not afraid to answer any of your questions.
That way, you can be sure you’re taking home a good pup. Remember, good breeders always have their puppies’ interests at heart and want to sell them to the right families.
Rhodesian Ridgeback Boxer Mix Adoption
The Rhodesian Boxer is quite common, so you may adopt one from a shelter or rescue center.
These dogs have incredible abilities since they have already been trained or don’t require a lot of time training them.
However, make sure to confirm the dog’s ancestry. The dog’s physical characteristics are a very important consideration.
But before adopting or buying a Rhodesign Boxer, make sure your pooch will have the products he needs to adjust to his new home.
First, you should provide them with a good quality crate such as the MidWest Folding Crate for large dogs to keep them comfortable at home.
Your dog will also love the Furhaven Orthopedic Dog Bed because it will give him a safe and comfy place to sleep and relax at the end of the day.
Because the Boxer Ridgeback Cross is a large dog, he needs a means of restraining him in the form of a harness and leash.
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FAQs
Is A Rhodesian Ridgeback Boxer Mix A Good Family Dog?
Yes. The Rhodesian Boxer enjoys playing and should get along amazingly well with children. Nonetheless, supervision with smaller kids is essential as they might be knocked over by these large and boisterous dogs.
Rhodesina Boxers are also known to be loyal and protective of their families, so they make great family dogs and companions.
Are Rhodesian Ridgeback Boxer Mix Dogs High Maintenance?
No. You can expect your hybrid dog to be a low to moderate maintenance dog judging by the parent breeds’ maintenance requirements.
The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a low maintenance dog as far as grooming goes. They have short coats that require weekly brushing to eradicate loose hair and maintain the coat’s shine.
On the other hand, the Boxer parent is easier to groom and maintain than many other breeds. They also have a short coat and do not shed much.
Can Rhodesian Ridgeback Boxer Mix Dogs Be Left Alone?
No. The Rhodesign Boxer is an energetic dog who doesn’t tolerate being alone for prolonged periods. They prefer staying with you. Otherwise, they can turn into destructive creatures by digging holes and destroying your beautiful lawn.
How Long Can a Rhodesian Ridgeback Boxer Mix Be Left Alone?
We don’t recommend leaving a Boxer Rhodesian Ridgeback Mix alone for longer than 5 hours. Since they establish strong bonds with their owners and families, you should regularly check on them to ensure they are doing well.
Are Rhodesian Ridgeback Boxer Mixes Hypoallergenic?
Unfortunately, no. The Ridgeback Boxer is not a hypoallergenic pooch. If you or someone else in your family is allergic to dogs, then you should check out some of the recommended hypoallergenic breeds to determine if one of those pups could be a good match for you.
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How Long Do Rhodesian Ridgeback Boxer Mixes Live?
The Rhodesian Boxer has a life expectancy of about 10 to 12 years.
Are Boxer Rhodesian Ridgebacks Lazy?
No. In lazy or inexperienced hands, the Rhodesian Boxer could be a dangerous dog due to their energetic nature. In good hands, however, they make charming companions who will always be fun to be around with.
Do Rhodesian Ridgeback Boxer Mixes Bark A Lot?
The Ridgeback Boxer has a gentle temperament and does not bark a lot.
Are Rhodesian Ridgeback Boxer Mixes Hard to Train?
No. Their energy and intelligence makes them quite easy to train, but they could also be stubborn. So early socialization and training is essential.
Do Rhodesian Ridgeback Boxer Mixes Like To Cuddle?
Yes. These pups are excellent companions, and although they are not lap-friendly, they are affectionate and can be cuddle bugs.
Are Boxer Rhodesian Ridgebacks Aggressive?
No. While protective of the family, Rhodesian Boxers are not aggressive. If a Rhodesian Boxer is brought up with other animals, he will be fine with them.
Nonetheless, he can still show aggression toward strangers and strange animals, so make sure to train and socialize them well early on in their life.
Are Rhodesian Ridgeback Boxer dogs Smart?
Yes! The Rhodesian Boxer is very intelligent, but can be strong-willed just like the Ridgeback parent. This mix breeds consistent and patient training and positive reinforcements to prevent them from becoming a controlling nuisance.
Can Boxer Rhodesian Ridgebacks Be off Leash?
The Boxer belongs to the Working group whereas the Rhodesian Ridgeback falls under the Hound family. The mix between these two wonderful breeds will have a natural desire to chase smaller animals, and should, therefore, be kept on a leash during walks or while not in a properly fenced yard.
What Are Some Negatives About Rhodesian Ridgeback Boxers?
- Ridgeback Boxer Mixes require enough opportunities for physical and mental exercises.
- If bored, this hybrid dog can become destructive.
- This mix does shed, but their grooming requirements are minimal.
- The mix can also be stubborn or independent-minded.
- They can also inherit various diseases from their parents.
- They require extensive socialization and training.
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Is A Rhodesian Ridgeback Boxer Mix Right For You?
If you are searching for an active, intelligent, loving, and affectionate companion dog, you can’t go wrong with the Rhodesian Ridgeback Boxer Mix.
Their friendly and outgoing nature makes them an excellent choice for active families. Being highly affectionate and protective, they will fit into your family in no time.
If you have children, there’s nothing to worry about either as this hybrid dog breed gets along wonderfully well with kids.
If you can handle the challenges like having an energetic dog that needs exercise and can train your dog properly, then the Rhodesian Boxer might be an ideal dog for you.
Other Boxer Mixes
Love Boxers but not sure this particular pup is for you? Check out America’s most popular Boxer mix breed dogs.
8. Boxer Australian Shepherd Mix
10. Boxer Beagle Mix
13. Boxer Golden Retriever Mix
14. Boxer Belgian Malinois Mix
15. Boxer Husky Mix
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