Rottweiler Dog Breed Information: Facts, Traits, Pictures & More

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Rottweilers are a beautiful breed with a big reputation. While they have a hulking appearance, Rotties can be some of the sweetest and most loyal dogs you will ever meet. Of course, they need proper care and training. A thoughtfully raised, well-socialized Rottweiler is confident, even-tempered, and brave but not aggressive. Although sometimes aloof, the Rottweiler breed is surprisingly playful and has an endearing personality. Let’s get to know the one and only Rottweiler.

Rottweiler Breed History

The Rottweiler is descended from dogs used as herding animals by the Romans as their legions marched through Europe. The pups bred with local dogs en route, and in the German town of Rottweil, the resulting crossbreeds were used by local butchers to drive their cattle to market. They are Molosser dogs and share genetic traits with many dogs, including bully breeds, Mastiffs, Elkhounds, Rhodesian Ridgebacks, and more.

The Rottweiler protected the butcher, guarding his takings from thieves. Robust, strong Rotties were also used to pull delivery carts carrying meat and milk to the butcher’s customers. In the Middle Ages, Rottweilers were used to hunt boars, which are wild pigs with tusks.

Unfortunately, the arrival of motorized transport negated the need for the Rottie. Consequently, the breed almost died out altogether, but luckily, German dog lovers kept the Rottweiler alive. People across Europe were impressed by the breed’s loyalty and work ethic, so the Rottweiler gained popularity, even compared to other dogs like the German Shepherd Dog.

Today, the Rottie is a firm favorite in the U.S. and around the world. The versatile modern Rottweiler has worked in a variety of very different fields, including as a police dog, service dog, herding dog, obedience competitor, and even as a therapy dog.

The intelligent, powerful Rottie is also successful in agility classes and can turn his paw to flyball too. Rottweilers also make great family dogs, being surprisingly sensitive and eager to please. They definitely have a stubborn streak and sometimes get looked at less intelligent as a result.

Rottweiler Temperament

The Rottweiler is a stocky and sizeable canine that is almost always on alert. This sense of attentiveness and sheer size make them both a great option as a family pet and a marvelous guard dog. They are affectionate and sociable with their family of humans, but they can be more aloof of strangers because of their guarding tendencies.

However, they have a reputation for being aggressive, dominant, and territorial. Rottweilers were originally bred for working and protecting, and their personality reflects this instinctual profession. Some Rotties have difficulty with strangers and appear aggressive, but they get along well with people of all ages when properly introduced.

Without adequate training, Rottweilers tend to bark and dig excessively, which can cause damage to your home and yard. They also require close monitoring due to their protective nature, especially around young children or large groups of people. These groups can come off as a threat to their human family.

Are Rottweilers Good Family Dogs?

Rottweilers are people dogs and are affectionate and loyal toward their families. When trained and socialized properly, they make excellent family dogs. They are loyal family members and are excellent guard dogs as well. Rotties tend to follow their favorite person from room to room, so they are always within their eyesight. They are good with children and other dogs, but you should still supervise them.

A fenced yard is better than a kennel environment, and they shouldn’t be chained or tied for extended periods because they don’t do well in isolation and can develop unpleasant traits.

Rotties are& social dogs and should be around people and other dogs if possible. However, they are capable of destructive behavior, which could be due to boredom or anxiety. Rotties are sensitive due to their intelligence and close attachment to their family.

However, many liability insurance companies will not cover Rottweilers because they are considered a “bad breed.” Learn more about dog liability insurance.

Rottweiler Size & Appearance

Rottweilers are large dogs! An adult Rottweiler can grow to stand between 22 and 27 inches at the shoulder. Males weigh 110 to 130 pounds on average, and females 77 to 110 pounds. Although they typically reach their maximum height by age one, Rotties may not fully grow until age two or three.

These gigantic dogs have bulky bodies with broad chests. They have distinct block-shaped heads that hold their floppy ears and medium-sized, square-shaped muzzles. Thanks to their floppy lips, Rottweilers tend to drool, which can contribute to their intimidating looks. Most pure-bred Rottweiler puppies undergo a tail cutting of 1-2 vertebrae from their long, powerful tails.

Rottweiler tail docking stems from their role as working dogs and the need to prevent injury. Few Rottweilers maintain those roles today, and docking could be considered cosmetic.

Rottweilers are large, active dogs that aren’t suited to apartment living, and you’ll need a spacious home with a garden if you want to give a home to one of these pups.

Coat & Colors

The Rottweiler is always black with markings ranging from deep mahogany to rust or tan. These markings appear on the dog’s cheeks, over his eyes, on either side of his muzzle, underneath his tail, and on his chest and legs. You’ll also notice tan lines on your Rottie’s toes.

Rottweilers have a short double coat that’s coarse and straight. The Rottie’s coat is dense and lies flat. The outer coat is medium length, with shorter hairs on the ears, legs, and head. The fluffy undercoat is mainly found on the dog’s thighs and neck, and the density and quantity of the undercoat will depend on the climate in which he lives.

Because of their double coat, Rottweilers are moderate shedders. Twice a year in spring and fall, your Rottie will “blow” his coat. That means he’ll shed heavily to change his undercoat in line with the seasons.

Rottweiler Breed Health

Like many large breeds, Rottweilers are prone to a few health problems that you must be aware of if you’re considering taking on one of these pups. A healthy Rottweiler has a life expectancy of 8 to 10 years.

9 Rottweiler Health Issues

1. Hip Dysplasia: Hip dysplasia is a hereditary condition where the hip joint has conformational problems, eventually causing the bone to degenerate and leaving the dog with painful arthritis. There is an expensive surgical treatment option for hip dysplasia, and it can be managed with medication. However, you should always ask your puppy’s breeder for written confirmation that the pup’s parents have both been screened and cleared for hip dysplasia.
2. Elbow Dysplasia: Elbow dysplasia is a genetic condition involving abnormalities in the multiple structures of the elbow joint, specifically the cartilage and the structures surrounding it. Ultimately, the elbow joint develops osteoarthritis.
3. Osteochondritis: Osteochondritis is a very common condition that affects the joints of young dogs, which are growing rapidly. Joint surfaces (the articular cartilage) fail to form bone in specific areas, resulting in areas of thickened cartilage. These weakened areas cause the thickened cartilage to come away from the healthy tissue that surrounds it, forming a flap. The flap of cartilage sometimes detaches from the joint surface, leading to the development of secondary osteoarthritis.
4. Cardiomyopathy: Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a condition in which the heart muscle becomes enlarged. One side of the heart is usually more affected than the other. When the ventricle is affected, it cannot pump blood to the lungs and body efficiently. Fluid accumulates in the lungs, ultimately leading to congestive heart failure.
5. Subaortic stenosis (SAS): Subaortic stenosis is a narrowing of the aorta that takes blood away from the heart. The condition usually shows up as a minor heart murmur, but it’s a serious condition that can lead to sudden death, even in a young dog.
6. Von Willebrand’s Disease: Von Willebrand’s disease is a hereditary condition caused by a deficiency in a particular protein that assists in the blood clotting function.
7. Addison’s Disease: Addison’s disease is more correctly known as hypoadrenocorticism. The condition occurs when the adrenal glands don’t produce enough hormones, including steroids. Steroids help to regulate the dog’s internal organs and body systems. Without the right balance of these essential hormones, the dog’s body deteriorates, leading to severe complications, including death.
8. Cataracts: A cataract is an imperfection or opacity in the eye’s lens. The lens focuses light, and it should be completely clear. If your dog has a cataract, his vision is obscured. Cataracts can be the size of a pinpoint, which won’t be noticeable. However, some cataracts can grow large enough to cover the whole lens, causing blindness.
9. Canine Bloat: Canine bloat, also called gastric dilation-volvulus or gastric torsion, is a very serious and even life-threatening condition that large breed dogs are susceptible to. Canine bloat happens when a dog eats or drinks too quickly, causing the stomach to twist on itself.

Other Rottweiler Health Concerns

Other health conditions that can affect Rottweilers include progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), hypothyroidism, heart defects including cardiomyopathy and subaortic stenosis, cancer, and parvovirus.

When buying a Rottweiler puppy, you must always ask the pup’s breeder to show you his parents’ health screening certificates. As you’ve seen, many Rottweiler health issues are inherited. That’s why it’s crucial that you know that your puppy’s parents have the necessary screening clearance.

Before a Rottweiler can be added to the Canine Health Information Center (CHIC) database, the American Rottweiler Club insists that the dog has clearance from the Canine Eye Registry Foundation. The dog will also need elbow and hip evaluations from the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals, and an OFA heart examination certificate, too. To see if your puppy’s parents are listed on the database, search the CHIC and OFA websites.

Exercise & Living Conditions

Although Rottweilers are naturally heavyset dogs, they can quickly become overweight if they don’t get enough exercise. An obese Rottweiler can suffer from joint problems, and excess weight can also cause complications such as heart disease and diabetes. They run into the same complications that their cousin, the Doberman, does.

So, make sure your Rottie enjoys a couple of long walks each day and some playtime. Remember that the Rottweiler was bred to be a working dog, so he will thrive in a family that enjoys outdoor activities and lots of fun walking and hiking.

If you plan to harness train your Rottie, make sure you look at dog harnesses designed for Rottweilers, who are notorious for pulling. Daily exercise is important to keep their weight down, but ensuring your Rottweiler is well-behaved on their outdoor excursions is also vital.

In theory, a Rottweiler could live outside. However, the breed is susceptible to excess heat, so you must never leave your Rottie outside in hot weather unless he has unlimited fresh water and plenty of shade to rest in.

Because these pups are so large, their joints can tire over time. You’ll want to invest in a high-quality dog bed that can fit a Rottweiler. They are also notoriously hard on toys, so keep in mind that you’ll likely need a few Rottie-ready dog toys that can withstand their strong jaws. Learn more about the best dog toys for puppies and heavy chewers in our detailed reviews.

Training Your Rottie

Rottweilers are very intelligent dogs that adapt extremely well to a structured training regimen. Although Rotties may look fierce, they are actually placid, loving dogs. Nonetheless, the early socialization and training of Rottie puppies are essential.

You may consider an online training program like Doggy Dan to meet your needs. However, you may prefer someone local who can work with you and your pup in person. Our experts have tips for helping you find the right trainer.

You’ll also want to socialize your Rottie early, giving him the best chance at a friendly temperament and avoiding the possibility of aggressive behavior.

If you plan to crate train your Rottweiler, we recommend finding a crate that accommodates a Rottweiler’s size. Plan on purchasing one that will last from puppyhood to adulthood.

Rottweiler Nutrition

When choosing food for your Rottweiler, always look for high-quality commercial food with meat as its main ingredient. Avoid food that contains high levels of grain, meat meal, and by-products, as these ingredients won’t give your dog enough of the essential nutrients he needs.

Ideally, young puppies should be fed several times each day. Rotties need puppy chow formulated for large breeds. You may also want to consider fresh or human-grade dog food like The Farmer’s Dog or Spot & Tango to give your Rottie the best nutrition.

When your puppy reaches six months of age, and after that, you can reduce the frequency of feeding to twice daily. It’s vital that you don’t overfeed your Rottie, as large, heavy meals could cause your dog to develop canine bloat.

It’s a good idea to ask your puppy’s breeder for recommendations as to what food you should give your new family member. If you’re unsure what food to give your adult Rottweiler, have a chat with your vet for advice.

Grooming Your Rottie

Ordinarily, you should brush your Rottweiler once a week, using a soft bristle brush or a hound mitt. That will help to keep your dog’s skin and coat healthy. During heavy shedding periods, you’ll need to brush your dog daily to get rid of all his loose hair. A good shedding brush can keep you from having a house covered in hair

If you decide to bathe your Rottweiler, only do so when the weather is warm enough for you to be comfortable in short sleeves. Despite their sturdy appearance, Rotties can feel the cold if they get wet! Expect to bathe your Rottie three or four times a year. The frequency of bathing may increase if you notice an odor or they appear dirty. Be careful not to over-bathe as it can dry out the healthy oils in their skin and coat.

It’s also important to brush their teeth weekly and trim their nails monthly or as needed.

Rottweiler Breeders & Puppy Costs

Expect to spend anywhere from $850 to $4,000 on your purebred Rottweiler.

Although you may see Rottweiler puppies advertised for sale in your local classified ads, it’s better to begin your search for a reputable breeder through the American Rottweiler Club (ARC) or on the American Kennel Club (AKC) website.

The ARC insists that breeders who advertise on their website abide by a list of mandatory practices, including health screening of all breeding stock for hereditary diseases. Also, ARC registered breeders must provide anyone buying one of their puppies with a written guarantee that they will take the dog back if the owner is unable to keep him.

When checking health screening certification for hip dysplasia, you want to see that clearance has been obtained from either the University of Pennsylvania (PennHip) or the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA).

Also, dogs should have been cleared for elbow dysplasia, and the dogs’ eyes should be tested annually by the Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF). Finally, the ARC insists that clearance of breeding dogs’ cardiac health is obtained.

Good breeders often have their dogs tested for thyroid problems and Von Willebrand’s disease, too. Some breeders also go the extra mile by having their dogs certified by the American Temperament Test Society (ATT).

The price you’ll pay for a Rottweiler puppy depends on a few factors:

1. The region in which you live
2. The puppy’s sex
3. Any show ring titles held by the puppy’s parents
4. Whether the puppy has been bred to show or to be a pet

Generally, a well-bred puppy from a reputable dealer can cost from around $850 up to as much as $4,000.

Puppy farms or mills exist purely to produce lots of puppies very cheaply. To keep costs down, breeders don’t bother having their breeding animals health-screened, and the dogs are often kept in deplorable, unsanitary conditions.

Often, sick or diseased puppies are sold to unsuspecting buyers who later regret their purchase when the puppy becomes seriously ill soon after arriving in his new home.

You should also know that many pet stores source their puppies from puppy mills.

Rescues & Shelters

If you don’t want the hard work of training a puppy, you might want to consider taking an adult Rottweiler from a rescue center or shelter. If you do, check out the link to the Rottweiler Rescue Foundation. Also, Petfinder is a very handy website where you might discover your ideal forever canine companion.

However, do proceed with caution when taking a dog from a shelter, as these pups often come with no history. That means you won’t know if the Rottie you’ve fallen in love with has a reliable temperament or comes with any inherited health conditions. Learn more about supporting the “adopt, don’t shop” movement.

Some shelters allow would-be adopters to take a dog on a short trial basis. That’s an excellent idea for both the dog and his potential new owners, as there’s always the option of returning the dog if you’re not compatible.

Popular Rottie Mixes

Because of their loyalty, Rottweilers have become very popular in the “designer dog” craze that’s taken the United States by storm. Here are a few of the popular different Rottweiler mixed breed pups you may be able to find in a shelter or through a designer dog breeder

1. Rottweiler Labrador Retriever Mix
2. Pitbull Rottweiler Mix
3. German Shepherd Dog Rottie Mix
4. The Rottsky
5. Border Rottie

American Rottweiler vs German Rottweiler

Did you know that there’s more than one type of Rottweiler? The most common types are the American and German Rottweilers. These two types are often confused because they are very similar, with the German being only slightly larger. Interestingly, the only real determining factor between the two is where they are born. That’s right, American Rottweilers are born in America, and German Rottweilers are born in Germany.

Doberman vs Rottweiler

If you’re considering a Rottweiler, you may also be thinking about a Doberman Pinscher. These two breeds have many similarities and differences you’ll want to consider. While Dobermans are slightly taller, Rottweilers are 10 to 30 pounds heavier. They both have a similar temperament, but Dobermans have a much higher energy level and require more activity. The health concerns you may encounter with both breeds are average, but a Doberman’s lifespan could be up to two years longer.

Frequently Asked Questions

There are many questions about the magnificent Rottweiler breed. I’ve answered some of the top ones below, but let me know in the comments if I skipped yours.

What Is The Best Dog Food For A Rottweiler?

Rotties need a diet that contains 22% to 26% protein. The best choice for protein is whole proteins that come from lean meats and fish. The best way to determine the proper diet for your pup is to talk to your vet. They can help you understand your dog’s proper nutrition and calorie needs based on size and activity level. Our experts help you simplify feeding by reviewing the best dog foods, fresh dog food, raw dog food, and dog food delivery options.

Do Rottweilers Drool?

Drool will likely be a part of life if you have a Rottie in your home. Some Rottweilers drool more than others, and it’s more common in large males with loose upper lips (flews). If you notice excessive drooling, it may be a sign of something concerning like gum disease, a tooth infection, illness, or licking or eating something poisonous.

Are Rottweilers Hypoallergenic?

Due to their shedding and pet dander levels, Rottweilers are not hypoallergenic. However, there are lots of great non-shedding breeds if your allergies are a concern.

Video Of Funny Rottweilers

This compilation of Rottweilers is priceless. Our favorite is the Rottie sitting on the ottoman watching TV.

Are Rottweilers Good Dogs?

If you’re looking for a protective family dog that is loyal and loving, a Rottie might be just right for you. Rottweilers are beautiful dogs and can be great companion animals if appropriately trained. However, if you aren’t up for the challenge of providing the physical and mental stimulation this dog requires, you may need to reconsider. To learn more about Rottweilers, check out The Complete Guide To Rottweilers. And if you are welcoming home a brand new Rottie puppy, we can help you find the perfect name for your Rottweiler.

My Personal Experience With Rottweilers

I adopted a Rottweiler pup named Jade to help as a companion for a disabled family member. Jade is a sweet, loyal, and very intuitive pup. She can handle stressful situations and is very in tune with the needs of this family member. She has been a loyal companion for a decade and has made a hugely positive impact. I do recommend getting pet insurance when your Rottie is young. We almost lost Jade to a serious fight with parvovirus when she was about a year old. Along with that, she has a few other health issues that can be expensive to treat. Overall, she has been a lovely companion, and I would happily adopt another Rottie.

I’d love to hear about your experience with Rottweilers in the comments.

Caring For A Breed With An Aggressive Reputation

Rotties are among the breeds that carry an aggressive reputation. While this is not always the case, some can be. Whether aggressive or not, when raising a breed like the Rottie, Pitbull, Doberman, or other dog breed considered aggressive, you must be ready to take some extra steps. Learn more about training an aggressive dog as well as what to do if you need to rehome a dog that starts acting aggressively. It’s also good to brush up on dog bite statistics and rumors and misconceptions about the breed you adopt. This helps you train, socialize, and prepare your pup to behave, and it shows that big dogs like the Rottie can be wonderful companions despite their aggressive reputation.

Why Trust Canine Journal?

Danielle is a dedicated dog owner with over 30 years of experience. She has raised several dog breeds that get called aggressive, including Rottweilers and Pitbulls. Danielle knows firsthand how amazing these dog breeds can be, but she also understands that it is a bigger responsibility to care for one of these pups. Along with her lifelong dedication to raising happy, healthy dogs, Danelle is a skilled researcher and writer with a background in education and behavior management. As part of the Canine Journal research team, she works alongside a dedicated group to provide dog parents with the most helpful and accurate information to better their pets’ lives.