The American Rottweiler and the German Rottweiler are two distinct breeds that have gained popularity worldwide, but they have some key differences. The American Rottweiler is generally taller and longer than the German Rottweiler.
The American Rottweiler's height can reach up to 27 inches, while the German Rottweiler's height is typically around 24-26 inches. This difference in height is noticeable, especially when comparing the two breeds side by side.
Despite their differences, both breeds are known for their loyalty and protective nature. They make excellent family pets and working dogs, but they do require consistent training and socialization.
Identifying a Rottweiler
Identifying a Rottweiler is crucial to ensure you're getting a genuine breed. Any dog that deviates significantly from the breed standard is not a true Rottweiler.
A Rottweiler should have a strong and muscular build with a broad, deep chest and a level topline. Their head should be broad and moderately heavy with a short, broad muzzle and powerful jaws.
For more insights, see: The American Bully Breed
The ears of a Rottweiler should be medium-sized, pendant, and triangular in shape. The tail is customarily docked, but this practice is becoming less common in some countries.
The coat of a Rottweiler should be short, dense, and glossy, with a distinctive black and tan color pattern. The tan markings should appear over each eye, on the cheeks, on the muzzle, on the chest and legs, and under the tail.
Finding a reputable breeder who adheres to the breed standard and prioritizes the health and temperament of their dogs is key.
Rottweiler Differences
The American Rottweiler tends to have a more muscular build compared to the German Rottweiler, which is often described as athletic.
American Rottweilers typically weigh between 95-135 pounds, while German Rottweilers tend to weigh between 75-110 pounds.
The American Rottweiler has a more laid-back temperament, often described as gentle, while the German Rottweiler has a more energetic and alert personality.
German Rottweilers are often bred for their working ability, whereas American Rottweilers are bred more for their companionship and family pet status.
American Rottweilers have a shorter lifespan, typically living between 8-11 years, whereas German Rottweilers can live up to 12 years or more.
German Rottweilers are often more intelligent and trainable, due to their history of being used as police and military dogs.
The American Rottweiler's temperament can vary greatly depending on breeding and socialization, whereas the German Rottweiler tends to be more consistent in their temperament.
Explore further: Personality Traits of German Shepherds
Temperament and Care
Rottweilers are surprisingly intelligent and rank in the ten most intelligent dog breeds.
They are reliable, devoted, and protective dogs, but also have a silly and playful side with clumsy personalities.
Their protective and sometimes stubborn nature means they need an experienced and equally strong owner to get the best out of them.
German Rottweilers are carefully bred and raised to be the perfect companion dog, with a focus on calm and reliable temperament, utmost loyalty, and protective but obedient behavior.
The ADRK has a high bar for temperament in their breeding program, while the AKC is less strict in the show ring.
Here's an interesting read: German Shorthaired Pointer Breed Characteristics
Nutrition and Costs
When it comes to feeding your American or German Rottweiler, remember that both breeds have the exact same nutritional needs. They need a high-quality diet suitable for their size, activity levels, age, sex, and more.
A larger or working dog will likely eat more than a smaller or less active one. So, be sure to monitor their food intake accordingly.
Watch out for bloat because Rottweilers are known to gobble their food fast.
Nutrition
American and German Rottweilers have the exact nutritional needs, so their diets aren't drastically different. A high-quality diet suitable for Rottweilers is essential, regardless of their size or activity level.
Their nutritional needs depend on many factors, such as size, activity levels, age, sex, and more. Watching out for bloat is crucial because Rottweilers tend to gobble their food fast.
A different take: American Akita Size
Puppy Prices
Puppy prices can vary significantly depending on the breed and location. An American Rottweiler is generally less expensive than a German Rottweiler if you live in America.
The cost of shipping a pup from Germany to America can be quite high, bumping up the puppy cost considerably.
An average Rottweiler puppy can cost between $850 and $4,000, sometimes more.
German Rottweiler
German Rottweilers are typically larger and heavier than their American counterparts, with a shorter coat that can be either black or black and tan.
They are generally considered to be more eager to please and less independent than American Rottweilers, which makes them easier to train but also more prone to separation anxiety.
German Rottweilers tend to require less exercise, which can save you money on food and vet bills, but they are also typically more expensive to buy than American Rottweilers.
Their larger size and shorter coat contribute to their higher cost, but they are also less likely to suffer from certain health problems that American Rottweilers are prone to.
Overall, German Rottweilers are a great choice for those who want a loyal and trainable dog, but they do require more attention and care to prevent separation anxiety.
German vs American
The term "American Rottweiler" is often used to refer to dogs bred in the United States. However, these dogs may not have any significant differences in appearance or temperament from their European counterparts.
The differences between German and American Rottweilers are largely cosmetic and do not change the essential characteristics of the breed. Any Rottweiler that deviates significantly from the breed standard should be considered a non-standard or atypical example of the breed.
To find a reputable Rottweiler breeder, look for one who adheres to the breed standard and prioritizes the health and temperament of their dogs.
A unique perspective: American Bully Breed Standard
German Rottweiler
German Rottweilers are typically larger and heavier than their American counterparts.
They have a shorter coat, which can be either black or black and tan.
German Rottweilers are generally considered to be more eager to please and less independent than American Rottweilers.
This makes them easier to train, but they may also be more prone to separation anxiety.
They are typically more expensive to buy than American Rottweilers, due to their larger size and shorter coat.
However, they tend to require less exercise, which can save you money on food and vet bills.
Both German and American Rottweilers are prone to certain health problems, such as hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia.
However, German Rottweilers may be more responsive to training than American Rottweilers, due to their eager-to-please nature.
With proper care and training, your German Rottweiler will be a loving and loyal companion for many years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the 3 types of Rottweiler?
There are three main types of Rottweilers: German, American, and Roman Rottweilers, each with unique characteristics. Understanding the differences between these types can help you choose the right Rottweiler for your lifestyle.
Sources
- https://dkvrottweilers.wordpress.com/2016/03/22/german-vs-american/
- https://blog.tryfi.com/german-rottweiler/
- https://www.caninejournal.com/american-rottweiler-vs-german-rottweiler/
- https://www.kingrottweilers.com/german-rottweilers-vs-american-rottweiler-really-difference/
- https://medium.com/@rottweilerlifestyle/the-german-rottweiler-and-american-rottweiler-explored-93f317500386
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