The complete article about Rhodesian Ridgeback Pitbull Mix
Mixed breed dogs are very popular among dog fans. For those trying to find an experienced, powerful, and devoted canine companion, it’s hard to imagine that a better choice than the Rhodesian Ridgeback Pitbull mix.
Does this handsome mix create a fantastic family pet? Do you have to be a skilled dog owner to handle one?
In the following article, we’ll look at the Rhodesian Ridgeback, the Pitbull, and the mix. We are going to answer frequently asked questions about the appearance, temperament and training, health, and where to get a puppy.
Let’s focus on the real history of both parent breeds.
What Is the Origin of the Rhodesian Ridgeback Pitbull Mix?
The Rhodesian Ridgeback has an intriguing history as brave hunting and shield dogs from southern Africa.
Dogs brought to South Africa and Rhodesia, now Zimbabwe, by European settlers were crossed with an indigenous dog known as the Khoikhoi to build the breed that we know today.
- The breed has its name from the distinctive form of backward ing hair which runs down the dog’s trunk, a trait of this Khoikhoi
- The Pitbull is derived from strong muscular dogs used from the old blood sports of bull and bear-baiting. Most dog breed pros say that the word Pitbull more accurately refers to a breed type, rather than an actual breed
The American Staffordshire Terrier is the AKC-recognized breed that most closely resembles the Pitbull breed form. Also, look like a bull terrier.
- The Pitbull Ridgeback mix is what’s called a designer mixed breed dog. Designer mixes have become popular pets within the past couple of decades
Many owners believe that mutts and mixes are healthier than purebred dogs.
We’ll start looking at health later, however, it’s important to remember that the health of one’s individual mix is based on the health of your own parents. This is the reason choosing a good breeder is so vital.
What is the Appearance of the Rhodesian Ridgeback Pitbull Mix?
The Rhodesian Ridgeback is just a medium to some large-sized athletic dog that is a member of the hound group.
- Men stand 25 to 27 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh around 85 pounds. Females endure 24 to 26 inches tall and weigh around 70 pounds
The coat is short and glossy, with a wheaten color that can range from buff to reddish gold. Most Ridgebacks are solid, but a few might have a few white markings.
The breed standard to the American Staffordshire Terrier demands a strong muscular dog that stands 17 to 19 inches tall at the shoulder.
The breed standard doesn’t list a weight range. But a 60 to 80-pound range is typical for the breed.
The coat is short and glossy and will come in a wide array of colors and markings.
Expect your Rhodesian Ridgeback Pitbull mix for a medium to large-sized dog with a well-muscled and athletic look.
- As with almost any mixed-breed dog, height and weight could fall anywhere on the scope between both parent breeds
Your dog’s coat is going to undoubtedly soon be more short and glossy. Most Ridgeback Pitbull mixes will inherit the powerful wheaten Ridgeback coloring, however, other coat colors and patterns are undoubtedly possible also.
What is the Temperament and Habits of the Rhodesian Ridgeback Pitbull?
These dogs look strong as well as intimidating, but they aren’t. There is only this damaging stigma around Pitbulls.
Many people train dogs to be aggressive that has contributed to the bad press. Rhodesian Ridgeback Pitbull mixes are quite the opposite to be aggressive.
- The only problem is they have been big and strong therefore they have to be trained from a young age otherwise accidents could take place
- As an example, they might knock small children and injuries could take place. It’d not be their aim to cause pain, but it could still take place
Rhodesian Ridgeback Pitbull mixes need owners with a hand, but they’re also ready to be gentle and loving once the time is right.
If you’re a first-time dog owner, these dogs might not be for you personally. You want to feel confident to train them because they’re too strong to be allowed to run riot.
- However, with decent training, they will end up loving dogs that are committed to their families. They can be a little wary of strangers, therefore, it’s really a good idea to socialize them with other people from an early age
The American Temperament Test Society has been doing tests on both breeds of dogs. The Rhodesian Ridgeback had a pass rate of 84.2% and also the Pitbull, 85.5%. There’s absolutely no biological reason which either breed is aggressive and that therefore goes for Rhodesian Ridgeback Pitbull mixes as well.
What about Training Your Rhodesian Ridgeback Pitbull Mix?
Which will be the most useful ways of training a large, powerfully built dog such as the Rhodesian Ridgeback Pitbull mix?
All breeds benefit from good training with positive reinforcement techniques, never punishment, and socialization with other dogs and people, from early puppyhood and continuing to adulthood.
Exercises
Both parent breeds are active and athletic dogs that need tons of exercise. Ridgebacks are especially fond of running and may create great companions for owners that enjoy hiking, jogging, and biking.
- Pitbulls enjoy participating in play and exercise sessions together with their owners. They don’t do well left alone in the yard without human interaction. Expect your mix for an energetic dog that loves everyday play and exercise sessions. Active, involved owners are an excellent game for the Ridgeback Pitbull mix
You can also enroll your dog in coordinated puppy sports activities such as agility and obedience trials.
Video Example
What is the health of the Rhodesian Ridgeback Pitbull?
Will your Ridgeback Pitbull mix remain healthy?
- Both parent breeds can suffer from some inherited health conditions
Like other moderate to large-sized dogs, both may be prone to joint conditions called shoulder and hip dysplasia.
Dogs with Ridgeback ancestry can inherit a condition identified as dermoid sinus, which induces tunnels to make in the skin and also relate with deeper tissues, such as the spine in serious cases.
The AmStaff could be prone to a severe degenerative neurological disorder known as cerebellar ataxia.
- Because Your mix can acquire some potentially severe health problems from both sides, it is essential to work with just responsible breeders that health test their dogs for genetic health disorders
We are going to talk more about the way to do this a bit after.
How to take care of Rhodesian Ridgeback Pitbull Mix?
Care
Rhodesian Ridgebacks can accommodate various homes, including apartments, provided that they get routine exercise. They ought to dwell in your house with their people every day, maybe not outside in a run or kennel.
Usage of a securely fenced yard is best. They’ll try to escape if bored, therefore also ensuring your fence can not be jumped or increased over or dug under, maintain your Ridgeback busy with training, play with, or even dog sports.
Distributing him to the yard by himself for long periods of time is invitation destruction. Even if he’s not particularly bored, a Ridgeback is often inclined to dig huge holes he could rest in the cool and comfortable dirt. Prepare yourself to give him part of the yard or step to having a cratered yard that looks like the top of the moon.
- Provide your Rhodesian Ridgeback a few 15- to 20-minute walks or playtimes each day, also opportunities to operate in a safely fenced area a few times every week. Your Ridgeback will lose after a cat, rabbit, or bicyclist, no matter how well you think he is trained
Ridgebacks are generally discriminating barkers, meaning that they simply bark at items that are very important, but any dog could be a nuisance barker when he does not have anything else to do.
Begin training early, first with puppy kindergarten, followed closely by a basic obedience class. To train him you must be firm and consistent but not harsh. Use positive reinforcement techniques like play, compliments, and food rewards.
Grooming
- We have to keep cutting off mats from under his ears. Rhodesian Ridgeback Pitbull mixes shed all year round, but they don’t shed that much so you may not have to be cleaning up two or three times a day
All you need to do is brush your dogs once per week, more when they prefer it. They only need to be bathed if you think they need it.
You need to start bathing them when they have been little pups, otherwise, they might run a mile out of the tub.
It is also best to buy them used to get their teeth brushed, although there are also chew toys which you’re able to supply that dispenses toothpaste. You can find dog toothpaste from the veterinarian.
Clean their eyes as well to avoid infections occurring and trim their claws.
If you’re not satisfied to trim their nails yourself, take them into your groomer.
Physical maintenance is just another element that needs to be considered when choosing your dogs.
Perhaps you have time to groom your dogs? If not, then you need to choose dogs such as the Rhodesian Ridgeback Pitbull mix. They will have very short hair that doesn’t need much grooming.
If you have dogs with hair loss that keeps growing, then advanced grooming is needed. Be ready to learn how to groom dogs.
A whole lot of short-haired dogs really are major shedders, which sounds a bit strange and does not refer to the Rhodesian Ridgeback Pitbull mix. They don’t really shed a good deal, but other short-haired breeds do. So, you will have to do a lot of sweeping up and grooming.
What nutrition Should the Rhodesian Ridgeback Pitbull Mix have?
- Recommended daily number, 2 х 3/4 to 4 х 3/8 cups of high-quality food daily, divided into two meals
How much your adult dog eats depends on its size, age, build, metabolism, and activity level. Dogs are humans, as people, and so they don’t all need the exact same number of food. It goes without saying that an exceptionally active dog will probably want over an inactive dog.
The standard of dog food that you buy also makes a difference, the better the dog food, the farther it will go toward nourishing your dog, and also the less of it you ought to shake into the dog’s bowl.
Ridgebacks love their food and also are understood, counter surfers. Keep food well out of reach and consider dog-proofing your cabinets to keep your dog away from getting their snacks.
- Keep your Ridgeback in good shape by measuring his food and feeding him twice a day rather than leaving food out all the time. If you’re unsure if he’s overweight, provide him the attention test and also the hands-free test
First, look down at him. You need to have the ability to observe a waist. Then place your hands on his back, thumbs along the spine, with all the palms spread down. You need to be able to feel but not see his ribs without having to push hard. If you can’t, he needs less food and more exercise.
Recommendations. How to Pick the Right Dog Breed for You?
Family Requirements. Young, Old or Allergic
- The first point to consider would be the needs of one’s family. If you have children, by way of instance, you’ll need to see that the two dogs that you embrace are family-friendly
The same is true for older relatives, ensure the dogs are not too exuberant. When you have additional pets, be certain that the newest dogs will probably get on with them.
You do not want to get dogs having a strong prey drive in case you have cats unless you have sufficient time and energy to train them precisely.
- Another aspect to think about is if anyone in the family has allergies and could perhaps be allergic to the dogs
There is no such thing as a completely hypoallergenic dog, but a few dogs shed less than others, so it might be worth going for many dogs, rather than those that shed continually or shed heavily twice per year in the spring and the autumn.
Big Dog, Small Dog
- The upcoming things you need to consider will be the perfect size of the dogs, their energy level, and the age of your brand new dogs
If you want to obtain puppies to remember that you must train them, including house training. Be prepared to find messes on the floor.
You will also need to just simply accept what they think, and also you may possibly lose one of your favorite shoes!
If you can not pick on how big is one’s dogs, why do not go for a medium-sized dog?
Some small dogs are delicate and susceptible so they might not be perfect for a family with young children who might be a bit rough with them.
If they truly have been stepped, injuries could materialize. Also, small dogs can develop tough dog approaches to pay for their smaller size and because of this, you need to prepare for this.
If you wish to go for bigger dogs, keep in mind that they are going to desire more space to move around in. It’s not a fantastic idea to get huge dogs if you are living within an apartment.
Still another consideration with a huge dog would be the expense. To begin with they’ll need more food than smaller dogs and health care treatments can be more expensive.
You need to bear in mind that the lifespan of bigger dogs is much shorter compared to that of smaller dogs and they are more likely to more ailments sooner in their lifetimes.
With larger dogs, training can be crucial otherwise they could haul you along whenever you are walking and can run riot at home.
Video Experience
Additional Questions
1. Are Rhodesians Ridgeback Pitbull Good with Families?
Rhodesian Ridgeback Pitbull mixes are large dogs, but with good training, they can make great family pets.
However, they are more worthy of a family with older children. Some of the explanations for this is that they want plenty of exercise and playtime that older children will enjoy.
The other reason is the Rhodesian Ridgeback Pitbull mixes prefer to chase tiny animals and so they may possibly consider little children as prey. Of course, you can train your dogs not to do this, but injuries can happen, and so they are big dogs.
2. How Much do Rhodesian Ridgeback Pitbull Mixes Cost?
To get a Rhodesian Ridgeback Pitbull Mix you may end up considering paying around $1500. The purchase price will depend on the bloodline of the parents, so you need to have a look at their health records.
It’s a great idea if you can observe the parents in the order you are able to see that they have a good temperament and they don’t have some significant health difficulties.
But if your puppy comes out of world-class breeds like you may possibly end up paying more than $3,000.
If you are interested in finding a classic Rhodesian Ridgeback Pitbull mix why don’t you see the local shelter? It isn’t unusual to get them as they are often adopted by those who don’t realize how strong those dogs really are.
Final Review
They truly are great family dogs although they have to get trained since they have been big and strong dogs. They’d suit a family with older children who has the time to exercise the dogs.
Rhodesian Ridgeback Pitbull mixes have lots of energy so are great if you want to go hiking or running.
A walk will do even though it should be a lengthy walk. They enjoy playtime therefore if you get a huge yard all the higher.
The Rhodesian Ridgeback area of the mix features a strong prey drive so it’s probably better not to get one if you own cats, rabbits, as well as tiny children.
There are numerous health issues these dogs can have, some of which can be discovered at birth.
Make certain you go into a reputable breeder who’ll tell you if you can find any health problems. Training is very important with these dogs as they’re so strong.
You need to prove yourself as the leader of the pack. Dogs do like to know who’s accountable.
Rhodesian Ridgeback Pitbull mixes are simple to take care of as they don’t lose a lot. They simply need basic grooming, but this must not be disregarded because in the event you don’t, you’ll have hairs all over the place.
We hope this article has helped you to choose which kind of dog to get. There are so many distinct breeds like out there as well as mixed breeds and mutts which makes the option more difficult.