When some individuals envision Rottweiler dogs, they may imagine a fierce guard dog. However, Rottweiler breeds possess characteristics that are quite different. Each Rottweiler breed can be loving, composed, and good with children.
So, what sets apart German and American Rottweilers? And what about Roman Rottweilers? Do they still exist?
Here is an insight into the various types of Rottweilers, their physical appearance, and their behavior to provide a better understanding of this ancient breed.
Are There Different Types of Rottweiler Dog Breeds?
While the AKC officially recognizes only one Rottweiler dog breed, there are distinct types of Rottweilers. Read on to understand!
Rottweilers from different countries may exhibit varying characteristics due to differences in breeding standards. There are three primary types of Rottweilers corresponding to the countries where these dogs are bred. Nations like Germany implement stricter breed norms encompassing physical attributes, behavior, and genetic well-being, resulting in German Rottweilers that closely resemble the original Roman breed. In contrast, in the US, dogs born from two Rottweiler parents can obtain purebred certification, leading to more diversity.
In essence, while there are no officially recognized different Rottweiler dog breeds, various types exist based on their countries of origin.
The 3 Types of Rottweiler Dog Breed Origins:
1. German Rottweiler
The history of the German Rottweiler is somewhat mysterious. It is believed to have descended from one of the drover dog breeds, originating in ancient Rome. Similar to breeds like Bernese, Great Dane, Alaskan Malamute, and Mountain Dog, German Rottweiler dogs are recognized as working dogs. They are highly energetic and cheerful when given tasks to perform.
German Rottweilers are large-sized canines. Adult males typically weigh between 110 to 130 pounds, while females weigh around 77 to 110 pounds. A male German Rottweiler can reach heights of up to 27 inches, whereas females may grow up to 25 inches tall.
The average lifespan of a German Rottweiler is up to 10 years.
Height: 25-27 inches Weight: 77-130 pounds Appearance: Thick bones, Broader body, Blocky heads Temperament: Intelligent, Patient, LoyalAppearance
German Rottweilers boast a more imposing appearance than most American Rottweilers, with thick bones, broader bodies, and blocky heads. This is due to stringent adherence to ancient Rottweiler standards during breeding.
Their eyes resemble those of their American counterparts – almond-shaped and dark. They possess broad, triangular ears similar to American Rottweilers.
German Rottweilers have slightly larger bodies than American Rottweilers. They exhibit a muscular forechest and well-developed ribs.
Their tails are usually left unaltered. Tail docking is prohibited for German Rottweilers, a notable distinction from other breeds. They display both a topcoat and an undercoat. The topcoat is of medium length and rough, while the undercoat is fully dense.
Temperament
German Rottweilers are renowned for their loyalty and dedication to their owners.
Their intelligence, patience, and eagerness to work make them excellent candidates for service, police, and therapy dogs. With proper training, they interact well with children and other dogs but exhibit protective behavior towards their family unit.
German Rottweilers require significant endurance and responsibility. As robust dogs, they necessitate consistent training, regular physical activity, and socialization to maintain good behavior.
2. American Rottweiler
American Rottweilers trace their lineage back to the time of the Roman Empire when they were utilized as herding dogs by the Roman legions.
The modern Rottweiler breed was developed in Germany and was included in German stud books from 1901 onward. The name “Rottweiler” originates from a town in Germany called Rottweiler, the birthplace of the breed.
In contemporary times, American Rottweilers serve various roles as working dogs, ranging from cart haulage to police work along rail lines and even herding. Their muscular physique and willingness to work equip them to handle a wide array of tasks.
Height: 22-27 inches Weight: 80-135 pounds Appearance: Medium-sized, muscular build, docked tail Temperament: Loyal, affectionate, and protectiveAppearance
American Rottweilers are medium-sized canines with a robust, muscled build. They typically exhibit a black coat with distinct rust markings. Males are generally larger than females, possessing larger frames and sturdier bone structures. While females are typically smaller in size, they still present a solid, muscular physique.
American Rottweilers have docked tails. Their fur is straight and coarse, featuring a medium-length outer coat. The undercoat is limited to the thighs and neck. Shedding may occur sporadically throughout the year.
Temperament
American Rottweilers are loyal, affectionate, and protective companions who excel as guardians. Contrary to common misconceptions, these dogs are intelligent and composed, rather than aggressive. They exhibit a strong desire to protect their owners if needed but do not seek out confrontations.
Within the household, American Rottweilers are affectionate and enjoy playful interactions. They demonstrate consideration and affection towards all family members, including children. Towards strangers, however, they maintain a sense of detachment, making them excellent guard dogs.
3. Roman Rottweiler
The Roman Rottweiler represents the giant category among Rottweiler breeds. These dogs command a substantial physical presence, potentially reaching large or oversized heights.
Roman Rottweilers can grow exceptionally big, reaching the size of a giant breed. They are renowned as one of the largest canine breeds existing.
Male Roman Rottweilers can reach heights of up to 23 inches, with some attaining giant proportions of 30 inches. In contrast, female Roman Rottweilers are generally smaller than their male counterparts, ranging from 24 inches to giant sizes of 29 inches.
On average, a typical Roman Rottweiler weighs around 95 pounds. Females typically weigh less than males. Male Roman Rottweilers can weigh between 95 to 130 pounds, while females usually weigh 85 to 115 pounds.
The life expectancy of a Roman Rottweiler typically falls between 10 to 12 years on average. Female Roman Rottweilers, however, can live up to 14 years, significantly longer than their male counterparts.
Height: 23-30 inches Weight: 85-130 pounds Appearance: Strong, muscular, broad head, strong necks Temperament: Affectionate, loving, and protectiveAppearance
Roman Rottweilers commonly exhibit a coat in black and tan or black and mahogany colors. They display strength, musculature, and may exude a wild appearance depending on their stance. These dogs have broad, muscular heads with well-developed lower and upper jaws.
Their eyes are well-positioned, rounded, deep, and dark brown. They possess large lower and upper jaws with scissor-like teeth. The triangular, broad, and well-shaped ears of Roman Rottweilers add to their appearance.
With sturdy, curved necks and robust bodies, these canines maintain a well-balanced stance due to their straight forelimbs and stout hind legs.
Temperament
Contrary to misconceptions, the Roman Rottweiler is an affectionate, loving, and protective dog willing to go to great lengths to ensure its owner’s safety. These dogs have historically served as guard dogs, endowing them with exceptional protective instincts.
Similar to the conventional Rottweiler breed, Roman Rottweilers are brave and possess notable intelligence and cognitive abilities owing to their well-developed minds.
The intellectual prowess of Roman Rottweilers renders them eager learners, relatively simple to train, attentive, and highly submissive when acquiring new skills. Their keen focus and submissiveness during the learning process demonstrate their openness to learning and mastering new abilities.
Final Thoughts
The primary discrepancy between German and American Rottweilers lies in their physical appearance. While the German Rottweiler retains its naturally long tail, the American counterpart has a docked tail. Nevertheless, both breeds are recognized for their affectionate, composed nature and compatibility with children.
The Roman Rottweiler is a less commonly acknowledged type, characterized by its unusually massive size, rendering the breed susceptible to various health issues.
Due to their large stature, these Rottweilers are prone to joint and orthopedic concerns. In numerous instances, the Roman Rottweiler is typically a hybrid breed derived from a Rottweiler and a Mastiff.
Your upcoming reading materials:
- 150+ Rottweiler Names: Popular & Strong Ideas for Your Rottie
- 10 Best Foods for Rottweiler Puppies – Reviews & Top Picks
- Long-Haired Rottweiler
Featured Image Credit: McCann Michelle, Shutterstock
