The Rhodesian Ridgeback Rottweiler Mix is a designer dog developed by crossing a purebred Rottweiler with a purebred Rhodesian Ridgeback. The resulting dogs inherit the best attributes of both parent breeds, making them intelligent, loyal, and protective hybrid dogs.
With their strong guard and protective instinct inherited from both parent breeds, Rhodesian Ridgeback Rottweiler Mixes require early training and socialization to make them excellent family dogs.
While the Rhodesian Rottie can be a great family pet, it’s essential to do your homework before adding one to your family.
In this article, we’ll take a look at the personality traits and health issues of this crossbreed. We’ll also talk about the grooming, training, and exercise needs, as well as their likely appearance, size, and lifespan. Finally, we’ll help you determine whether a Rhodesian Ridgeback and Rottweiler mix puppy is a good match for your family!
So let’s dive right in!
Table of Contents
Some Quick Facts About The Rhodesian Ridgeback Rottweiler Mix
| Breed Type: | Mixed Breed/Crossbreed/Designer Dog/Hybrid (Rottweiler and Rhodesian Ridgeback) |
| Size: | Medium to Large-Sized |
| Other Names: | Rhodesian Rottie, Rottie Ridgeback mix |
| Good Guard Dog: | Yes |
| Good Watch Dog: | Yes |
| Average Weight: | 70 to 135 pounds |
| Average Height: | 22 to 27 inches tall |
| Lifespan: | 9 to 12 years |
| Apartment Living: | Yes, providing they are sufficiently exercised |
| Ideal for: | Active singles and families looking for a loyal and protective companion dog. People in need of a guard dog or watchdog, and experienced dog owners |
| Coat: | Short, Dense Coat, Sleek and Glossy |
| Coat colors: | Black color with red or brown markings |
| Suitable for first time owners: | Not Recommended |
| Trainability: | Moderate Difficulty (they can be stubborn) |
| Hypoallergenic: | No, Not suitable for families with allergies |
| Shedding: | Moderate |
| Grooming Needs: | Brushing them at least once a week should be enough (During the shedding season, more frequent brushing is required) |
| Energy Levels: | High |
| Exercise Needs: | Two or more hours of exercise every day is ideal for them to prevent antisocial and destructive behaviors |
| Tolerance to being left alone: | Well trained adult Rhodesian Rottie can stay alone for 4 to 6 hours. Just make sure they are well-exercised |
| Feeding and Diet: | 3.5 to 4.5 cups of high quality dog food divided into 2 or 3 meals. Of course, this amount varies depending on the dog’s age, size, and activity level |
| Maintenance: | Low-maintenance in terms of grooming. However, they are energetic and require a lot of exercise |
| Possible Health Issues: | Eye Problems, Cancer, Epilepsy, Allergies, Hip Dysplasia, Elbow Dysplasia, Bloat, Hypothyroidism |
| Temperament: | Loyal, Protective Intelligent, Energetic, Strong-willed, Brave, High prey drive |
| 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 Socialization and training Only (Due to their strong prey drive, they might see smaller canines as prey + The Rottie parent sometimes exhibit same-sex agression toward other dogs) |
| Kid Friendly: | Yes, (Early Socialization Is Required) (They do need to be watched around smaller kids) |
| Barking Tendencies: | Low (They bark if there’s a reason to bark) |
| Prey Drive: | High |
| Drooling Level: | High |
| Price: | Average $600 – $1800 USD |
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What is a Rhodesian Ridgeback Rottweiler Mix?
Also known as a Rhodesian Rottie, a Rhodesian Ridgeback Rottweiler Mix is a hybrid dog with one Rottweiler parent and one Rhodesian Ridgeback parent.
They inherit a lot of their features from the Ridgetback as well as the Rottweiler. However, you might not know until your Rhodesian Rottweiler puppy is born and the characteristics are noticeable.
Therefore, it’s important to research both parents before choosing a Rhodesian Rottie.
The Origin of the Rhodesian Rottweiler Mix
The history of the Rhodesian Rottweiler Mix is unclear, but most likely began in the United States in the 1990s.
Perhaps someone wanted to create a single dog with the speed of a Rhodesian Rodgeback and the protectiveness of a Rottweiler.
To better understand what you would get from a Rhodesian Rottie Mix, let’s take a brief look at the histories of both parents.
History Of The Parent Breeds
The Rottweiler
The Rottie has a sophisticated history. It’s believed that the dog descended from Roman cattle dogs.
The Roman Empire initially set up a camp in a German town known as das Rote Wil (hence this dog’s name). In the middle ages, the Rottweiler was commonly used as a herder and hunting dog just like the Aussie Shepherd.
The Rottie’s story took shape in 1899 when the first breeding standards for Leonbergers and Rotties were created.
In the 20th century, Rotties played critical roles in both the First and Second World Wars.
The Rottweiler breed was officially recognized by the AKC in 1931 and is now among the top ten most popular dog breeds in the US.
The Rhodesian Ridgeback
This breed originated from Zimbabwe in Southern Africa (formerly known as Rhodesia). The dog was essentially bred for hunting, but it also served as a guard dog.
A man named F. R. Barnes is known for creating the breed standard for the Rhodesian Ridgeback after crossing the local Khoikhoi dog with other dog breeds from Europe (Bloodhounds, Greyhounds, and Terriers).
In 1957, the Rhodesian Ridgeback Club was formed in America. This means that by then, the breed had already reached the Americas.
What Does a Rhodesian Ridgeback Rottweiler Mix Look Like?
Rotties are large, muscular dogs with a broad head and a docked tail. Ridgebacks are also big but leaner dogs with a long head and a distinctive ridge along the back.
When the two breeds are combined, the offspring can inherit any blend of characteristics.
However, Rottie Rhodesian Ridgebacks are mostly large-sized dogs that inherit the Ridgeback’s unique ridge on the back. Some will have the powerful jaws and large head of the Rottie while others will resemble the Ridgeback more.
How Big Does a Rhodesian Ridgeback Rottweiler Mix Get?
A full grown Rhodesian Ridgeback Rottweiler Mix dog will weigh around 70 to 135 pounds and stand around 22 to 27 inches tall.
Males are relatively larger and taller than females. The weight and height of a Rottweiler Rhodesian Ridgeback mix will vary depending on the parent breeds’ sizes, but you can expect these to be medium to large-sized dogs.
Coat and Coat Colors
The Rhodesian Ridgeback Rottweiler Cross has a short, dense coat that mainly comes in black color with red or brown markings.
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Rhodesian Ridgeback Rottweiler Mix Temperament & Personality Traits
Rhodesian Ridgebacks and Rottweilers are both known to be intelligent, loyal, and protective.
Therefore, you can expect the Rhodesian Rottweiler Mix to be a loyal guard dog. This mix can also be smart and easily trainable.
However, each pup is unique, and the personality traits of a Ridgeback Rottweiler Mix can vary based on the traits he inherits from each parent.
Before adding a Ridgeback Cross Rottweiler puppy to your family, make sure to meet both the breeder and the parent dogs to get a good idea of what you’re getting yourself into when it comes to temperament.
Are Rhodesian Ridgeback Rottweiler Mixes Protective?
Your Rhodesian Rottie will most likely be a good guard dog and watchdog. Both parent breeds are known to be protective and loyal to their families. They have natural guarding instincts and will definitely protect you and your property.
Are Rhodesian Ridgeback Rottweiler Mixes Good For First Time Owners?
Due to his size, power, and intelligence, the Rhodesian Ridgeback Rottweiler Mix dog isn’t recommended for timid or first-time owners.
Are Rhodesian Ridgeback Rottweiler Mixes Good with Other Dogs?
If you want to get a Rottweiler Rhodesian Ridgeback mix, you’ll be pleased to know that this dog is social and friendly. They get along well with other dogs, as long as they have been properly socialized from an early age.
However, the Rottie parent sometimes exhibit same-sex agression toward other dogs. Fortunately, Ridgebacks are very social creatures as they were bred to hunt in packs.
Are Rhodesian Ridgeback Rottweiler Mixes Good with Cats and Other Pets?
If social and friendly, your Rhodesian Rottie can live harmoniously with the cats and other pets he has been raised together with.
However, these dogs can still chase unfamiliar cats and other pets, and they could also pose a problem to toy dog breeds.
Do Rhodesian Ridgeback Rottweiler Mix Dogs Do Well In Apartments?
While these dogs can fare well in apartments, they need plenty of exercise and activity. Provide your dog with physical activity and mental stimulation, and he will do well in almost any living situation. However, if you end up with a barking dog, he may be a nuisance to your neighbors.
Are Rottweiler Rhodesian Ridgebacks Good With Kids?
Yes! While each dog is unique, Ridgeback Rotties are social and friendly dogs.
They are good with kids, provided they have been socialized and introduced from an early age.
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Exercise Needs
The Rhodesian Ridgeback Rottweiler Mix will most likely inherit the strong prey drive and high energy levels of both the Ridgeback and the Rottie. Therefore, they need plenty of exercise and activity as well as space to play and run around.
Generally, your Rhodesian Rottie will require around two hours of daily exercise. Both the Rottie and the Ridgeback can show antisocial and destructive behaviors if they don’t get enough exercise.
Daily walks are also recommended for this mix, as they will allow them to burn off their excess energy.
If you want a high-energy dog for your active family, then the Rhodesian Rottie might be a great choice for you.
These pups are usually very active and intelligent, so they also need mental stimulation to remain happy and healthy.
Recommended activities include obedience, agility, tracking, and flyball. Another great way to keep this dog’s mind busy and active is to provide him with interactive dog toys like puzzle toys and kongs with any kind of treats your pooch loves.
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Training
The Rhodesian Rottie may be a smart and easily trainable dog. As with all canines, however, firm and consistent training is recommended to ensure your mix develops into a well-mannered pet.
Make sure to start housetraining early to prevent accidents and unwanted messes in your house. You should also enroll your new Rhodesian Rottie puppy in an obedience class, and use positive reinforcements as you train him.
Remember, many Rottweiler Ridgeback Mixes have natural protective instincts, so they need early introduction to social people to ensure they can recognize the behaviors of friendly people.
Without proper socialization, your pup can become either shy or aggressive.
Does the Rhodesian Ridgeback Rottweiler Mix Shed a Lot?
With this mix, you can expect mild to moderate shedding, which may increase in the fall and spring.
Grooming
The Rhodesian Ridgeback Mix has a short coat that requires brushing at least once a week to avoid tangles and mats from forming.
Bathing should only be done once every month to keep the coat clean, fresh, and healthy. As with all dogs, you can maintain the natural shine of your dog’s coat by wiping them regularly with deodorizing wipes for dogs.
Last but not least, you should trim your dog’s nails from time to time to prevent them from getting too long.
Regular grooming is key to your dog’s happiness, health, and wellbeing.
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Feeding and Diet
Due to this dog’s mixed heritage, he has special feeding and dietary needs.
You should feed your Rhodesian Ridgeback Rottweiler Mix at least 3 cups of high quality dog food spread over two meals each day.
Since Rottweilers are vulnerable to joint dysplasia and Rodgebacks are prone to hip dysplasia, you need to buy a food brand containing joint-supporting nutrients like chondroitin and glucosamine.
You also need to supplement their diet with probiotics and wild Alaskan salmon oil to help promote coat and skin health.
Regular brushing can help with shedding, but giving them food rich in omega-3 fatty acids is recommended to help support a shiny, healthy coat.
Proper nutrition will help ensure your dog lives a longer and healthier life.
Do Rottweiler Rhodesian Ridgeback Mixes Drool?
Unfortunately, Yes! Both parent breeds are known for drooling a lot, so you can expect their offspring to drool, as well.
The good news is that there are some steps you can take to manage your dog’s drooling tendencies:
Firstly, be sure to provide your dog with enough fresh water. A properly hydrated dog is unlikely to drool a lot.
Secondly, remember to wipe your pup’s face regularly with deodorizing wipes for dogs to prevent the drool from sticking on your dog’s fur.
Thirdly, try to feed your pup smaller meals. Larger meals can trigger drooling.
Last but not least, keep up with your dog’s health. Some conditions like mouth problems, heatstroke, allergies and infections, and disorders of the nervous system can cause dog drooling.
But with some care and attention, you can control dog drooling. If the problem persists, please consult your vet.
Rottweiler Rhodesian Ridgeback Mix Health Issues
The Rhodesian Rottie is a cross between two large-sized dog breeds. The parents have different histories, but share some health issues. These include:
- Elbow dysplasia
- Hip dysplasia
- Bloat
Other possible health issues among Rottweiler Rhodesian Ridgeback Mixes include hypothyroidism and cruciate ligament rupture.
Although these are serious health concerns, a Rhodesian Rottie can still lead a healthy life, especially with proper care and attention.
How Long Do Rhodesian Ridgeback Rottweiler Mixes Live?
The Rhodesian Ridgeback Rottweiler Mix dogs are generally healthy. However, like other large breeds, they have a lifespan of around 9 to 12 years.
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Rhodesian Ridgeback Rottweiler Puppies for Sale
Generally, It is recommended to buy from reputable Rhodesian Ridgeback Rottweiler Mix breeders that know a great deal about this mix.
This is to ensure that the Rhodesian Ridgeback Rottweiler Mix puppies you’re considering come from a healthy family lineage.
What to Look for in a Rhodesian Rottweiler Mix Breeder
There are a few things that you need to watch out for in a dog breeder. These include:
- Check the premises for cleanliness and behavior of the puppies for sale.
- Find out whether the breeders are certified.
- Find out whether the breeders are experienced in producing Rottweiler Rhodesian Ridgeback Mix puppies.
- Find out whether they are ready and able to answer your questions.
- Find out their real intentions i.e whether they love breeding puppies or they are just after your hard-earned money.
- Check the Rhodesian Ridgeback Rottweiler Mix puppy to see if they are happy and playful.
- Check whether the breeder is regularly interacting with the puppies.
How Much Does A Rhodesian Ridgeback Rottweiler Mix Cost?
The Rhodesian Ridgeback Rottweiler Mix price can vary based on factors such as the location, the puppy’s parents’ pedigrees, and the breeder’s reputation.
However, a Rottweiler Rhodesian Ridgeback Mix puppy can cost anywhere between $600 and $1800.
Rhodesian Ridgeback Rottweiler Mix For Adoption
You can avoid certain negative traits by getting an adult dog from a rescue group or animal shelter.
With a full grown dog, you can check exactly what you are getting and many adult Rhodesian Ridgeback Rottweiler Mixes have proven themselves to have positive traits.
Before getting a puppy or rescuing a dog in need, however, you need to consider the costs of dog ownership. This includes getting them high-quality dog products and supplies like the MidWest Folding Crate for large dogs and the Furhaven Orthopedic Dog Bed, which have both proven to be popular with vets and previous dog owners.
FAQs
Is A Rhodesian Ridgeback Rottweiler Mix A Good Family Dog?
While each dog is unique, the Rhodesian Ridgeback Rottweiler Mix makes a great family dog. They are social and friendly dogs who get along fine with children, as long as they are well socialized from puppyhood.
Are Rhodesian Ridgeback Rottweiler Mix Dogs High Maintenance?
Rhodesian Ridgeback Rottweiler Mix dogs are generally low maintenance as far as grooming goes. Their short coats need weekly brushing to prevent mats or tangles.
Can Rhodesian Ridgeback Rottweiler Mix Dogs Be Left Alone?
No. You should also not leave your Rottweiler Rhodesian Ridgeback Mix alone for prolonged periods as they can become destructive if bored.
How Long Can A Rhodesian Ridgeback Rottweiler Mix Be Left Alone?
A dog shows his personality depending on how he is trained and treated. This mix combines two large breeds, so he needs lots of walks and exercise. With these, you can safely leave him alone for up to 5 hours. Otherwise, he will get bored and destructive.
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Are Rhodesian Ridgeback Rottweiler Mixes Hypoallergenic?
No. These dogs tend to be moderate shedding dogs, but they aren’t hypoallergenic.
Are Rottweiler Rhodesian Ridgebacks Lazy?
These strong-minded dogs are also strong-bodied, highly energetic, and very active. They need regular exercises and walks to thrive.
Do Rhodesian Ridgeback Rottweiler Mixes Bark A Lot?
Rhodesian Ridgebacks are relatively quiet, while Rottweilers are known for their deep bark. So when you mix the two, you end up with a pup with unpredictable barking tendencies.
Some of these mixes will bark often while others may not bark at all.
Are Rhodesian Ridgeback Rottweiler Mixes Hard to Train?
In the right hands, the highly intelligent Rhodesian Ridgeback Rottweiler Mix is easy to train. However, he can also be dominant or willful, so you must act as the pack leader from the get-go.
Do Rhodesian Ridgeback Rottweiler Mixes Like To Cuddle?
Yes. Rhodesian Ridgeback Rottweiler mixes are cuddly and snuggly and love affection.
Are Rottweiler Rhodesian Ridgebacks Aggressive?
This mix combines two strong and aggressive breeds. Although each dog is unique, this mix will most likely inherit aggression from both parents.
Therefore, it’s important to train and socialize your Rhodesian Ridgeback Rottweiler mix early. Without training and guidance, your pup can be aggressive toward other pets and even humans.
With the right dog owner, however, they are loyal, loving, and friendly companions.
Are Rhodesian Ridgeback Rottweiler Dogs Smart?
Yes. These dogs are smart but can sometimes be stubborn, so early training is strongly recommended.
Can Rottweiler Rhodesian Ridgebacks Be off Leash?
Rottweiler Rhodesian Ridgebacks that are properly trained on a leash can act differently off leash if they meet unfamiliar cats and other animals. This is because the Ridgeback parent has a strong prey drive.
What Are Some Negatives About Rhodesian Ridgeback Rottweilers?
- They have vigorous exercise needs.
- Destructiveness if bored or when they lack enough exercises.
- They need enough socialization to prevent suspiciousness or aggression.
- Chasing instincts or potential aggression towards cats and other animals.
- They can be strong-willed, so they require a confident or experienced dog owner who will take charge.
Is A Rhodesian Ridgeback Rottweiler Mix Right For You?
Consider the following few things before getting a Rhodesian Ridgeback Rottweiler Mix puppy:
- This mix needs training and socialization as puppies.
- They are big dogs, so they need plenty of space.
- They require plenty of exercise to keep them happy and healthy.
- They can also get aggressive if they are not properly trained and handled.
- These big dogs also need plenty of food. This is something you need to consider if you’re operating on a tight budget. To keep them healthy, they need around 3 to 4 cups of high quality dog food each day.
- These dogs also require medical attention. They also need food, toys, love, and attention.
If you’ve read our guide above, it’s clear that you’re putting a lot of consideration into getting your puppy. By applying the information we’ve given here, then there’s no doubt that getting a Rhodesian Ridgeback Rottweiler Mix may be one of the best decisions you’ve ever made.
Good luck in getting the puppy of your dreams!
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Other Rottweiler Mixes
Love Rottweilers but not sure this particular pup is for you? Check out America’s most popular Rottweiler mix breed dogs.
8. Rottweiler Australian Shepherd Mix
9. Rottweiler Border Collie Mix
16. Rottweiler Golden Retriever Mix
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