Rhodesian Labrador

72-76 lbs
23-24"
United States
Rhodesian Ridgeback
Labrador Retriever

Good-looking, gentle, loving yet determined and headstrong at times is the best way to describe the Rhodesian Labrador. These large energetic dogs are loyal and devoted to their pet parents, sharing a strong bond and unshakeable companionship. They love to play and love children, they can play for hours and will outplay even the most energetic child.
While the Rhodesian Labrador is a tall leggy dog, they are not an outside dog as such. No kennel for them, they want to be with you - tucked up inside, sharing your treats, and goofing out. These dogs love to eat, so beware of his begging tricks and pleading with those gorgeous eyes. They can put weight on very quickly and are prone to bloat which is a dangerous condition for a dog. So space out his meals, and give small treats only. Training brings out the best in this dog, although they do have a stubborn streak and if disciplined too harshly they will withdraw and sulk. Praise and encouragement achieves so much more with these handsome pooches. They are not aggressive but can be wary of strangers and posture to look threatening. 
Lively, playful, affectionate and a bit of a clown, the Rhodesian Labrador is an exciting new hybrid breed that is showing great promise as a devoted companion.

purpose Purpose
Companion, Competitive Obedience and Agility, Watchdog
history Date of Origin
Unknown
ancestry Ancestry
Rhodesian Ridgeback, Labrador Retriever

Rhodesian Labrador Health

Average Size
Male Rhodesian Labrador size stats
Height: 24-27 inches Weight: 75-80 lbs
Female Rhodesian Labrador size stats
Height: 23-24 inches Weight: 72-76 lbs
Major Concerns
  • Canine Hip Dysplasia (Chd)
  • Hyperthyroidism
  • Gastric Dilation Volvulus (GDV) or Bloat
  • Joint Dysplasia
Minor Concerns
  • Ear Infections
  • Glaucoma
Occasional Diagnoses
  • Von Willebrand's Disease
  • Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
Occasional Tests
  • X-ray imaging
  • Buccal Mucosal Screening
  • Full Chemistry Panel Tests and Blood Count
  • Complete Ophthalmologic Examination
  • Full Body Physical Examination
  • Blood Tests and Analysis
  • Urinalysis and Urine Culture
  • Blood Glucose Level Testing

Rhodesian Labrador Breed History

The Rhodesian Labrador is a new hybrid dog without much-written history to document its development. Therefore we must look to the parent dogs for clues about its nature. The Rhodesian Ridgeback originated in Zimbabwe, formerly known as Rhodesia. It was developed as a working dog, used to hunt and retrieve game, guard the family and the property. Their history is one of refined cross breeding with the ridgeback dogs of the Boer settlers in the 16th Century and with native tribe dogs such as the Khoikhoi dog, Mastiff, Deerhound and Great Dane. Reverend Helm brought two Ridgebacks to Matabeleland in 1877 where hunters soon learned of its prowess if used in hunting in packs. They were used to hunt and hold lions at bay until the hunters caught up. They became known as the African Lion Hound.
These strong confident dogs became trusted companions and were valued highly.

The breed was imported into American in 1950 and the American Kennel Club recognised them in 1955. The Labrador Retriever is one of the most popular breeds in America. They originated from Newfoundland where they worked with fishermen to catch the fish that came loose from the net, or they would leap in the freezing water to help pull in the nets. English ships brought them to England in the 1800s. Once there, the dogs were crossed with Spaniels, Setters and other types of Retrievers to increase its instincts for hunting. The breeders were highly successful and the Lab as it is affectionately known, is well regarded for its prowess at hunting and retrieving.

The Lab is easy to train, and as well as becoming a loving companion dog, it is often a dog with a job. They have been used for drug detection work, police work, guide work for the blind, search and rescue, sledding and carting and in the dog show events for competitive obedience. The Lab has a happy nature and always seems to have a wide smile on its face and a tongue hanging out.

Rhodesian Labrador Breed Appearance

Long and leggy, with a svelte athletic body, the Rhodesian Labrador is a handsome dog. A deep chest supports a solid neck, which in turn, supports the fine elegant head. The top of the head is slightly rounded in shape and the dog often has an indent between the eyes. The eyes are bright and alert, full of character and curiosity. A rich deep amber or dark  brown in color, they are round in shape and have a dark rim. The muzzle is long and pointed, ending in a black nose and dark area around the mouth. The teeth meet in a neat scissors bite. The Rhodesian Labrador's ears are set wide apart, almost framing the head, and are held out and slightly erect but can tend to fold over at the tips. A long tail and elegant stance completes the description of a dog who is confident and aware of its surroundings.
Eye Color Possibilities
brown Rhodesian Labrador eyes
Brown
amber Rhodesian Labrador eyes
Amber
Nose Color Possibilities
black Rhodesian Labrador nose
Black
Coat Color Possibilities
fawn Rhodesian Labrador coat
Fawn
brown Rhodesian Labrador coat
Brown
sable Rhodesian Labrador coat
Sable
red Rhodesian Labrador coat
Red
black Rhodesian Labrador coat
Black
isabella Rhodesian Labrador coat
Isabella
Coat Length
coat
Short Medium Long
Coat Density
coat density
pin
Sparse Normal Dense
Coat Texture
coat texture
Rhodesian Labrador straight coat texture
Straight Wiry Wavy Curly Corded

Rhodesian Labrador Breed Maintenance

Easy care and minimal maintenance are the key words here. The Rhodesian Labradors are moderate shedding dogs, and one thorough brushing each week with a stiff bristle brush will remove any shed hair and produce a sheen on their sleek coat. Some dogs may inherit the double coat of the Labrador, in which case they may require more frequent brushing. Professional groomers won't be needed for this dog unless you want them to trim your dog's nails. These dogs can suffer from ear infections due to having floppy ears that can create a moist warm environment for bacteria. Gently clean out their ears each week, and dry them with a soft cloth afterwards. Bad smelling ears are the sign of a bad infection. Bathing is only required when they are really dirty, and be sure to use a gentle dog shampoo which will not harm their skin. After all this, a thorough teeth brush plus a bit of a cuddle and warm praise and your dog will be one happy dog.

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Brushes for Rhodesian Labrador
Pin Brush
Pin Brush
Slicker Brush
Slicker Brush
Comb
Comb
Nail Clipper
Nail Clipper
Brushing Frequency
fur daily fur weekly fur monthly
Rhodesian Labrador requires weekly brushing
Daily Weekly Monthly

Rhodesian Labrador Temperament

Calm, confident and just downright happy, the Rhodesian Labrador is a true character of a dog. They love to please but they do have a stubborn streak that can kick in now and then. Rather than overreact, the best way to handle this is by lavishing them with praise when they get it right, combined with small yummy treats. They do need a strong leader or they will decide they are the boss and act accordingly. Firm but kind management is required to bring out the best in this noble dog. They can adapt to apartment living as they are calm and quiet when inside, but they will need their daily walk to let off some steam. They are not a noisy dog but will warn you when strangers are around.
Although not aggressive, they may 'posture' to frighten away a perceived intruder. They do have a tendency to chase small animals or shape up to other dogs. Training at an early age will help eliminate it and socialising your dog fully as a pup will help, but it pays to be aware of this trait. The Rhodesian Labrador loves food, lots of it if possible. They put weight on quickly and can suffer from bloat which can be fatal, so divide its meal into small but frequent meals to overcome this problem.
These dogs are ideal companions for children, they love to play, they are affectionate and they will protect the family. Large in size with a heart to match, the Rhodesian Labrador is one big softie when it comes to its family.

Rhodesian Labrador Activity Requirements

The Rhodesian Labrador is an active dog but can be remarkabley quiet and calm inside the house. They are not an outdoor dog as far as living goes, they crave attention and want to be with you and the family. A daily dog walk will take care of the needs for your dog, but remember to keep them on a leash as the Rhodesian Labrador has strong hunting instincts and may take off after some low flying bird or fast running small animal. Once they do they will be oblivious to your shouted orders to come back! They are great with children, and love to play games or splash about in the water. A bit of time at the dog park will help your dog to become used to other dogs and keep them socialised. They will love playing with other dogs once they are used  to them. The Rhodesian Labrador makes an ideal fitness friend, they will happily accompany you on a run or while you ride - they will be happy just to be with you. Once inside, they will snuggle up the family and snooze quietly to regain their energy.
Activity Level
low activity medium activity high activity
Low Medium High
Rec. Walk Mileage Per Week
12 miles
walk mileage
Minutes of Activity Per Day
120 minutes
activity minutes

Rhodesian Labrador Food Consumption

Cups Per Day
2.5 cups
cup per day cost cup per day cost
Daily Cost
$1.50 - $2.00
food bowls daily cost
Monthly Cost
$39.00 - $52.00
food bag monthly cost

Rhodesian Labrador Height & Weight

6 Months
Male Rhodesian Labrador size stats at six months
Height: 15.0 inches Weight: 23.0 lbs
Female Rhodesian Labrador size stats at six months
Height: 13.5 inches Weight: 19.5 lbs
12 Months
Male Rhodesian Labrador size stats at 12 months
Height: 19.0 inches Weight: 40.0 lbs
Female Rhodesian Labrador size stats at 12 months
Height: 17.5 inches Weight: 36.0 lbs
18 Months
Male Rhodesian Labrador size stats at 18 months
Height: 25.5 inches Weight: 77.5 lbs
Female Rhodesian Labrador size stats at 18 months
Height: 23.5 inches Weight: 74.0 lbs

Rhodesian Labrador Owner Experiences

Lynyrd
5 Years
2 People
Condo
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
He is my first one. I didn't even know what a Rhodesian Ridgeback was until a few vets and breeders approached us as we were walking to say what a beautiful Ridgeback. I thought he was Lab/Shepard which is what the rescue had him as. He is the sweetest, kindest, soulful, affectionate dog I've ever known. Everyone that meets him, falls in love with him. He's not a fan of male dogs regardless if they are intact or neutered but I think there is trauma there from before I rescued him. He's a goofball but very trainable and the description of the breed is not kidding when they say they have a stubborn streak. If I reprimand a bit too harshly by his definition, he does sulk and gives me puppy dog eyes. After reading about the RR breed, I have trained myself to do more of the YES's! and less of the NO! and it works out well. He has picked up on his training super quickly. I would never own another breed again. These are literally the best dogs ever
2 years, 1 month ago
Sansa
4 Years
2 People
House
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Really intelligent and smart, she enjoys playing ball and running. Great with children. A little stubborn and takes care of her best friend Luca, a lab 8 years old. Doesn´t like to be close to small dogs or cats.
3 years, 4 months ago
Ollie
19 Months
2 People
Apartment
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Walk
Tug-of-war
Definitely can be stubborn, very gentle for his size. Loves to snuggle.
6 years, 10 months ago
Gracie
26 Months
3 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Freezbee
Tug-of-war
Walk
Fetch
She is thee most amazing dog. She loves to spend time with everyone in the family and loves to be involved and helping with chores, whatever that may be. Extremely intelligent and caring. Very goofy. Loves to make us laugh. She also thinks ahead and can plan ahead for favorable outcomes. At times, quite stubborn. Amazing watchdog and very protective.
6 years, 10 months ago
Gunner
1 Year
4 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Fetch
I got Gunner when he was about 6-7 weeks old. I potty trained him before he was 4 months old. He is a great dog. I love him with everything I have, but he's territorial. He doesn't like strangers nor other dogs around me and my husband nor the yard. I definitely recommend a rhodesian ridge back lab mix!
6 years, 9 months ago
Bear
1 Year
3 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
He is my first one. So far so good.
6 years, 7 months ago
Max
4 Months
7 People
Apartment
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Fetch
Walk
He is our first of this breed. He loves all of the kids and loves to go outside and play.
6 years, 7 months ago
Venus
4 Months
6 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Walks,
Running around
Great dog. Very friendly to children. Excellent watch dog - readily barks when she senses or sees an intruder. Has a stubborn streak and can be quite hard-headed. Loves to play a lot. Very snuggly.
6 years, 6 months ago
Simon
6 Years
1 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
I've had Simon since he was 6 weeks old. He's definitely predatory with small animals (not good at the dog park) and stubborn. But he's the happiest, sweetest boy...loves kids, big dogs and people. Loves cuddles and lots of kisses. He's frustrated me at times...but then he does something so darn cute and sweet that I can't get mad. Highly recommend but as with rhodesians...not for the faint of heart!
6 years, 5 months ago
Sawyer
2 Years
2 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Walking
Playing catch
Going to the beach.
Going on hikes
We inherited, by way of a surprise Christmas gift, Sawyer. He was only a few months old but had already been with multiple people. Since he's a rescue dog we don't know much about his past and he certainly has major fear issues with strangers. He shakes even with friends who have visited the house many times. We were told he was a Golden Retriever/Yellow Lab mix but it was clear that he has RR in him. He's the softest, gentlest, kindest little guy I've ever known in a dog. Everything is soft, gentle, and loving. While he still cannot get comfortable with our human friends, he loves other dogs and always wants to play. He is very gentle when eating treats or food.
6 years, 3 months ago
Tucker
8 Months
2 People
House
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Tucker was a rescue and immediately after we got him we began formal training. He has responded very well so far and seems to catch on very quickly.
6 years, 3 months ago
Marley
5 Months
1 People
Condo
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Walking
Hiking
Running
Marley is a very high energy puppy. She requires a walk of AT LEAST a mile every day or she becomes a terror sprinting around the house destroying everything in her path. She is very trainable and learns quick and easily: she was potty trained in 2 weeks. She loves all people and children. She does chase my 2 cats but has never shown aggression towards them, she just wants to play. She loves all other dogs and is very submissive to them. At 5months she is 20” at the shoulders and just over 40lbs, quite larger than the standards listed here.
6 years, 1 month ago
Eli
8 Years
3 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Hike
Swim
Eating Snacks
Eli is an energetic pup. We have had him since he was about 2 months old. As a youngster he would eat anything and everything in the house regardless of how many times he was walked or played with. He is very smart was easy to train. He has a personality of his own and often likes to lounge on high surfaces like table tops, railings, and one time the roof! He plays well with other dogs and is always very friendly. Eli loves water. Nothing excites him more in the summer than going to a lake or the ocean. Beware of proper cleaning. If his thick coat isn't dried completely after a dip in the water he develops a nasty bacterial infection. Since growing into adulthood Eli has laid off of "destroying the house". He tends to stick to his own toys and long naps instead (a welcome change). He will occasionally act out if he is left alone for long periods of time. Eli is a lean 105 lbs and stands at about 25" at the shoulders. Overall, Eli is a fantastic dog and I would recommend the Rhodesian Labrador to anyone with an active lifestyle. He is gentle, active, friendly, and a loving.
6 years ago
Banyan
3 Months
2 People
Apartment
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Running
Exercising
skating
I got Banyan when he was 7 weeks old at 4 pounds, he is about 15 pounds now. Like any other puppy I have had, he was caught biting and breaking a lot of things around the house. But, at 3 months old he is rarely biting anything and care more about biting his toys now. He is 90% potty trained and he is a VERY fast learner if you take the time and be patient with teaching tricks. Very friendly with people and love other dogs. I love him so much and I am glad I have this crossbreed
5 years, 8 months ago
Samantha Jean
One Year
4 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
She is loving but a nut-head! Since we have had her she has had to be shown she is not the leader of the pack!! Loves to snack, amber eyes pleading for more! She can nap in an instance and then right back up to play. Love this nut-head!!
5 years, 7 months ago
Canyon
8 Months
1 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Long walks,
Hiking
Camping
Tug-of-war
Cuddles
Fetch
Dog Parks
Found my girl at the humane society and she literally is the quietest dog I’ve ever known. She has a deep growl and bark when she hears something at the door or outside and she has a protective streak but she never barks for attention and whines only when she wants your attention (has to go outside, excited for a walk, wants out of her kennel). I worked from home for the first 5 months of having her and now work in an office. Installed a doggy door and she loves to sleep all day, run around outside and chew on sticks or dig in the yard, then come back inside and hang. She’s like my shadow but does not have separation anxiety. Definitely an alpha, so distinguishing myself as the leader has been a learning curve but she is incredibly smart and loves to train. Definitely responds better to praise and calm instruction over aggression and raised voices. Loves walks and the dog park! Great off leash in enclosed areas, working on off leash on trails. She doesn’t quite know her own space yet and because she’s so incredibly strong, she has a tendency to knock people over, which is rude and can be a problem. Despite 1 or 2 things we are still working on, she’s absolutely incredible. Beautiful, smart, sweet, playful, strong, and protective. I love her beyond words!
5 years, 4 months ago
Leah
16 Years
3 People
House
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Best friend ever! I have a friend who also has this mix of dog and he is very happy as well. My girl Leah is a Yellow lab-Rhodesian Ridgeback mix. Her ears look like tortilla chips (perfect triangles). She learns tricks very easily and can even do combo tricks...for treats of course. Very good with kids. She is protective of the family for sure...even in her old age. I surely will miss her when she passes on. Best friend and pet for sure. She has never not once had fleas even around other dogs with fleas. Definitely sheds needle like fur constantly but her kisses are well worth it. She loves to be around the family at all times but will be a good girl when we are not home. Definitely a great mix of dog.
4 years, 8 months ago
Dak
17 Weeks
4 People
Condo
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
playing fetch, tug of war- training games
training games
Dak has been a joy and a job:) he is very smart, trained to go potty on a wee wee pad on our terrace by 11 weeks, and now shakes the bells that we have hung to the door. LOVES treats- but can be aggressive during play.we are all in love .
4 years, 4 months ago
Olivia “Livi”
19 Weeks
2 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Livi is the sweetest friend. During this COVID-19 time we were lucky to find her. Last female pup of a litter of 13. She is my office mate here at home and keeps me getting up for breaks. She is so smart but demands my attention at times. By demand “she barks/yells at me.” I forgive her because I’m in love with her.
4 years, 4 months ago
Ginger
3 Years
4 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Fetch
Walk
Playing in the snow
This poor girl was a local surrender after her owners decided to focus their attention on their new baby instead. Honestly, I wouldn’t have it any way; they never took her on walks (which explains her leash pulling even at home), never socialized her (which is why she barks at every dog she sees). Now she loves to play fetch, go on walks, and play with her dog friends. She’s like a magnet and follows you around wherever you go.
4 years ago
Book me a walkiee?
Pweeeze!
Sketch of smiling australian shepherd