Well, howdy there! Let’s talk about them dogs, the kind that got them fancy names. You know, the Rhodesian Ridgeback and that German Shepherd. Folks mixin’ them up these days, callin’ it a…what’s that word? A crossbreed, yeah, that’s it. Dog mixology, some folks call it. Sounds fancy, but it’s just plain mixin’ dogs, if you ask me.
Now, these Ridgebacks, they got that funny stripe of hair on their back growin’ the wrong way. Like a cowlick gone wild! They’re big dogs, strong as an ox, but gentle with their own folks, ya know? But strangers? Hmph, they ain’t so sure about strangers. Gotta watch ’em, make sure they don’t get too uppity.

Rhodesian Ridgeback Temperament: Them Ridgebacks, they love their people, alright. Always lickin’ and pawin’ and wantin’ to be close. But they ain’t everybody’s friend, no sir. They look at strangers sideways, kinda suspicious like. And stubborn? Oh, they got a mind of their own, that’s for sure. You gotta be firm with ’em, show ’em who’s boss. Trainin’ is important, gotta teach ’em manners, or they’ll be runnin’ the whole dang show. And gettin’ them used to other folks and dogs when they’re young, that’s important too. Socializin’, they call it. Gotta make sure they don’t go bitin’ nobody.
- Loyal to family
- Wary of strangers
- Independent and strong-willed
- Need firm training
Now, them German Shepherds, they’re smart cookies. Always learnin’ things, wantin’ to please. Police use ’em, ya know? They’re good at followin’ orders and sniffin’ things out. They’re loyal too, always watchin’ out for their family.
So, what happens when you mix these two? Well, you get a big, strong dog, that’s for sure. Probably pretty smart, too, with that German Shepherd in ’em. But that Ridgeback stubbornness, that might stick around. You gotta be ready for a dog that thinks he knows best. Trainin’ is gonna be real important, gotta start young and be consistent.
And these dogs, they ain’t the kind you can just leave alone all day. They need company, they need somethin’ to do. Ridgebacks, they say you shouldn’t leave ’em alone for more than four hours. Imagine that! Four hours! My chickens get left alone longer than that! But these dogs, they get lonely, they get bored, and that’s when they start gettin’ into trouble. Chewin’ on things, barkin’ at the wind, diggin’ holes in the yard. You know how it is.
Health Considerations: Now, most of these mixed-up dogs, they’re pretty healthy. But you gotta watch out for certain things. Big dogs, they can have problems with their hips and joints. Gotta feed ’em good food, not that cheap stuff, and make sure they get enough exercise. And take ’em to the vet regular, get ’em checked out. Just like us old folks, they need a check-up now and then.
Caring for a Rhodesian Ridgeback German Shepherd mix, well, it ain’t for the faint of heart. You gotta be strong, gotta be patient, and gotta have plenty of time to spend with ’em. These ain’t couch potato dogs, no sir. They need exercise, they need trainin’, and they need lots of love. But if you’re up for the challenge, you’ll have a loyal companion, a dog that’ll stick by your side through thick and thin.
In short, this dog mix needs:

- Early socialization and training
- Plenty of exercise and mental stimulation
- Regular vet checkups
- A strong and patient owner
So, there you have it. A little bit about them Rhodesian Ridgeback German Shepherd mixes. They’re big, they’re strong, and they’re a whole lotta work. But if you’re lookin’ for a loyal companion, and you ain’t afraid of a little bit of stubbornness, then one of these dogs might just be the right fit for ya. Just remember, a dog ain’t a toy, it’s a responsibility. Treat ’em right, and they’ll love ya back, tenfold.
Final Thoughts: Now, I ain’t no expert, just an old woman who’s seen a thing or two. But I know a good dog when I see one. And these mixes, they got the potential to be great dogs. Just gotta give ’em the right start in life and a whole lotta love. That’s the secret to raisin’ anythin’, ain’t it? Love and a firm hand. And maybe a treat or two, now and then. Dogs love treats.
Tags: [Rhodesian Ridgeback, German Shepherd, Mix, Crossbreed, Dog, Temperament, Training, Health, Care]