The Rhodesian Ridgeback Vizsla Mix is a mixed breed dog resulting from breeding the Rhodesian Ridgeback and the Vizsla. Is it more like the Rhodesian Ridgeback or the Vizsla? Those are the questions we will try and answer below. This could obviously be a very large breed. Continue reading below to see pictures, videos, and learn more about the beautiful Rhodesian Ridgeback Vizsla Mix. Note that this hybrid can consist of the brindle or other iterations.
While we really recommend that you acquire all animals through a rescue, we understand that some people might go through a breeder to get their Rhodesian Ridgeback Vizsla Mix puppy. That is, if they have any Rhodesian Ridgeback Vizsla Mix puppies for sale.
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All hybrid or designer dogs are tough to get a good read on as there isn’t much history to them. Breeding specific dogs like this has become common in the last twenty years or so even though I am sure that this mixed breed found it’s share of dogs to the shelter due to accidental breeding. We will take a closer look at the history of both parent breeds below. If you are looking at breeders for new, designer dogs please beware of Puppy Mills. These are places that mass produce puppies, specifically for profit and don’t care at all about the dogs. Please sign our petition to stop puppy mills.
Vizsla History:
The Vizsla is much older than most breeds, it dates back as far as the 10th century and originated in modern day Hungary and is considered part of the “pointing” breeds. It is a medium sized pointing breed. They have a very strong protective instinct and work well in a variety of terrains. The ancestors of the present Vizsla were the hunting dogs of the Magyar tribes. These tribes lived in the Carpathian Basin in the 10th century, so this is obviously a very old breed. There are primitive stone etchings in this region that are over a thousand years old showing the Magyar hunter with his falcon and his Vizsla. The golden Vizsla was the preferred companion and hunting dog of the early barons and war lords of that region. The breed has been preserved over the centuries and started showing up in the States after World War 2.
Rhodesian Ridgeback
The Rhodesian Ridgeback has a ridge of hair running along its back in the opposite direction from the rest of its coat. This is a very noticeable distinguishing feature that makes it immediately obvious what type of dog it is. This ridge of hair is usually about 2 inches in width at its widest point and runs right along the spine, you can’t miss it.. It is believed to originate from the dog used by the original African dog population which had a similar ridge. It is sometimes referred to as the African Lion Hound, is a native of South Africa bred by the Boer farmers to fill their specific need for a serviceable hunting dog in the wilds. They needed a tough, hardy dog that could go a long time without water and have a coat that could withstand the tough terrain. Immigrants to South Africa in the 16th and 17th centuries brought with them Danes, Mastiffs, Greyhounds, Bloodhounds, Terriers and other breeds that they interbred with the local dog to make the Rhodesian Ridgeback.
Vizsla
Height: 21-24 inches at the shoulder
Weight: 45 - 65 lb.
Lifespan: 10 - 14 years
Rhodesian Ridgeback
Height: 24 - 27 inches at the shoulder
Weight: 64 - 90 lb.
Lifespan: 10 - 12 years
Like all hybrids, you have to look to the parents to get a good read on how they will likely behave. This could obviously make for a very sleek dog with a strong hunting instinct that is very large and powerful. Don’t be surprised if it “points” at every bird in sight. They should get along well with other animals if exposed and socialized properly as well. They are somewhat capable of independence, or alone time when the house is noisy or full. She responds well to positive reinforcement, like all dogs. She should be rather affectionate and enjoy spending lots of time with you. Don’t plan on leaving her alone for long periods as he won’t do well alone. She wants to be with the “pack.”
All dogs have the potential to develop genetic health problems as all breeds are susceptible to some things more than others. However, the one positive thing about getting a puppy is that you can avoid this as much as possible. A breeder should absolutely offer a health guarantee on puppies. If they won’t do this, then look no more and don’t consider that breeder at all. A reputable breeder will be honest and open about health problems in the breed and the incidence with which they occur. Health clearances prove that a dog has been tested for and cleared of a particular condition.
The Dalmatian mixed with the Rhodesian Ridgeback Vizsla might be prone to: epilepsy; blood clotting disorders (von Willebrand's disease, hemophilia); eye disorders (entropion, cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy); hip dysplasia; hypothyroidism; and cancers
Note that these are just common problems in both breeds.
What are the grooming requirements?
This mix really probably won’t shed all that much as both of the parent breeds have shorter hair. Be prepared to brush them a few times a week. Either way, get ready to invest in a good vacuum if you want to keep your floors clean! Give them baths as needed, but not so much that you dry out their skin. Never tie your dog up outside - that is inhumane and not fair to him.
What are the exercise requirements?
This could be a very high energy dog. Plan on exercising them daily to keep their energy level down. He might be bouncing off the walls so get ready. A tired dog is a good dog. Never tie your dog up outside - that is inhumane and not fair to him.
What are the training requirements?
Though intelligent, it might be stubborn and demanding. It will need a strong, firm handler that is consistent and won’t let this dog take advantage of them. All dogs respond best to positive reinforcement. So make sure to praise her when she does well. She is an intelligent dog who loves to please, and loves a physical challenge. The more exercise she gets the easier she will be to train. Proper socialization is imperative to all dogs and puppies. Make sure to take her to the park and doggy day care to get her around as many people and dogs as possible.
A lot of times diet is done on a per-dog basis. Each one is unique and has different dietary requirements. Most dogs in the U.S. are overweight. A mix like this one that is prone to hip and elbow dysplasia should really be on fish oil and glucosamine and chondroitin supplements as soon as possible.
Overfeeding any dog is not a good idea as that can really exacerbate health problems such as elbow and hip dysplasia.
A good diet to look into is Raw Food Diet. A raw food diet will be especially good for the Wolf background.