Facts & Origin
Rhodesian Ridgeback and Malinois Mix - A Hybrid Breed
The Rhodesian Ridgeback and the Malinois are an exciting mixed breed! The Rhodesian Ridgeback is known for his extremely loving nature and loyalty to his owners. He is also an excellent guard dog and hunter. The Malinois is known to be very intelligent and energetic. Both dogs are adaptive four-legged friends that can be integrated into almost any family routine thanks to their adaptability. This attractive combination provides a beautiful dog with incredible intelligence and a friendly and loyal character. With some attention and love, these two smart and lovable breeds can be a great companion.
What are breed characteristics of this mix dog?
A Rhodesian Ridgeback Malinois mix breed is usually medium to large in size and has an athletic, muscular appearance. An adult dog of this breed can grow to be about 60-70 cm tall and weigh 25-35 kg. The head is narrower than the body with a blunt end, and the muzzle is usually slightly longer than wide. The ears are medium sized and sit wide apart on the side of the head. The eyes are dark brown, round and intelligent. The neck is strong, the coat is short and smooth, and the color varies between different shades of light to dark brown. The back is long and parallel, the legs are strong and muscular and the paws are round, strong and compact. The tail is slightly curved and is usually carried close to the body.
| Alternate Name | - |
| Origin | Belgium - South Africa |
| Life expectancy | 10 - 14 years |
| Care requirements | low-maintenance |
| Activity level | high - average to high |
| FCI group | not recognised |
| AKC group | not recognised |
| KC group | not recognised |
More Rhodesian Ridgeback mixes
Attitude, character and temperament of the breed
Possible character traits of Rhodesian Ridgeback and Malinois mix - Such is probably his nature.
The Rhodesian Ridgeback-Malinois mix is a rare but lovable dog. This breed was created by purposefully crossing a Rhodesian Ridgeback and a Malinois, a Belgian shepherd dog breed. Both parent breeds share many traits that will pass on to their offspring.
The Rhodesian Ridgeback-Malinois mix is usually described as a medium to large dog. He has a light or brown coat, sometimes with white patches and a short undercoat. His build is balanced, muscular and toned. His prominent dorsal arch and lively nature make him an attractive dog with an individual appearance.
This dog has an independent spirit with a strong personality and will. He is very loyal and is a faithful companion to his owner. However, he is still a hunter and has a strong hunting instinct. Therefore, he needs to be well nurtured and trained to control this trait. He is a smart dog who learns quickly and is playful.
This dog needs a lot of strength, endurance and mental stimulation. He is very affectionate and likes to spend time with his family. He is also friendly with other people and other dogs, although it is recommended to lay him socially.
The Rhodesian Ridgeback-Malinois mix is a lively and charming companion dog. He is playful, but also intelligent and thanks to his good character, very suitable as a family dog. He needs a lot of training and mental stimulation to be content and happy.
Character
Usage
Health and breeding information
What diseases can occur in Rhodesian Ridgeback and Malinois mix.
Rhodesian Ridgeback Malinois mixes are a popular dog breed that were created by crossing the Rhodesian Ridgeback with the Belgian Shepherd Malinois. Although they are very pretty and intelligent, unfortunately they also have some genetic diseases that you, as the owner of your beloved four-legged friend, need to pay attention to.
The Rhodesian Ridgeback Malinois mix can be prone to a number of conditions, including:
- Allergies: Allergies related to structures such as pollen, grasses, fighting dogs and dust mites are more common in Rhodesian Ridgeback Malinois mixes than in other breeds.
- Eye problems: many Rhodesian Ridgeback Malinois mixes are prone to eye diseases, especially of the retina, such as retinal detachment, cataracts, and retinopathy.
- Hypothyroidism: Rothbrust Ridgebacks can suffer from hypothyroidism, a condition in which the thyroid gland stops functioning properly.
- Dilated cardiomyopathy: A heart condition that affects the function of the heart.
- Hip dysplasia: This is a common condition that can cause limb damage or instability of the hips.
- Tumors: Skin and soft tissue tumors can occur in Rhodesian Ridgeback Malinois mixes.
- Patellar luxation: the patellar gliding mechanism is disrupted, causing the patella to lose its position and become painful.
To help your Rhodesian Ridgeback Malinois mix live a long and healthy life, regular health exams should be performed and allergic reactions treated and preventative measures taken if necessary. Stay in touch with your veterinarian for early detection and treatment of possible illnesses. This way, your beloved four-legged friend can receive the best possible care and live a happy and healthy life.
What does this mixed breed look like?
A Rhodesian Ridgeback and Malinois mixed breed has a short, dense coat. It is smooth and shimmers a very light, almost golden brown color. Sometimes it also has slight overlapping markings consisting of darker colors such as black, brown or dark red. The coat is very durable and extremely resistant to stains from the elements.
When brushed regularly, the coat remains smooth and glossy. Due to its unique combination of smooth coat and irregular markings, this breed looks very attractive.
| Fur length | short |
| Fur | flat coated - |
| Ear shape | Standing Ears - Triangle |
| Tail | lang |
| Anatomy | sporty, muscular, strong |
| Size ♀ | 56 - 66 cm |
| Weight ♀ | 25 - 34 kg |
| Size ♂ | 61 - 69 cm |
| Weight ♂ | 29 - 41 kg |
| Suitable For | - |
Known Diseases
Hip dysplasia (HD)
Hip dysplasia (HD) is a genetic condition in dogs where the hip joint is not shaped properly. This leads to pain, stiffness and restricted movement.
Elbow dysplasia (ED)
Elbow joint dysplasia is a chronic disease complex of the elbow joint of fast growing dog breeds.
Ataxia
Ataxia (from Greek ἀταξία ataxia 'disorder' 'irregularity') is a generic term in medicine for various disorders of movement coordination. Ataxia can occur even when there is no paralysis (paresis), that is, when there is normal muscle strength.
