Rottweiler — Complete Breed Guide
Working · from Germany · AKC rank #8 (2025)
Key facts
| Breed group | Working |
| Origin | Germany |
| Weight | 36–61 kg (79–134 lbs) |
| Height | 56–69 cm |
| Lifespan | 9–10 years |
| Coat | short dense |
| AKC popularity rank (2025) | #8 of 202 recognized breeds |
Trait ratings
Our editorial 1–5 scoring, based on breed-standard temperament data.
Monthly cost
Expect roughly $120–$230 per month (estimate: food, routine vet care, grooming, insurance). Larger breeds and heavy groomers sit at the higher end. Price out the years, not just the day, with our monthly dog cost calculator.
Common Rottweiler mixes
Designer mixes get a lot of searches, so here's an honest map: a mix inherits unpredictably from both parents — no guarantees on size, coat, or temperament. If a mix catches your eye, read both parent profiles where they exist and judge the dog in front of you.
- Rottweiler × Pitbull — judge the individual dog, not the label.
- Rottweiler × Pit Bull Mixed — judge the individual dog, not the label.
Health issues to know
- hip and elbow dysplasia
- aortic stenosis (heart)
- bloat (GDV)
- osteosarcoma
- First-time owners (easy to train)
- Active owners (running, hiking, sports)
- You can't commit to 1+ hour of daily exercise
- You live in a small apartment with no yard access
Frequently asked questions
How long does a Rottweiler live?
Typically 9–10 years. Larger individuals and lines with known health issues tend toward the lower end.
How much does a Rottweiler cost per month?
Roughly $120–$230 per month for food, routine vet care, grooming and insurance — an estimate that varies by location.
Is the Rottweiler good for apartments?
It scores 1/5 for apartment suitability. Not ideal — it needs space and struggles in small homes.
Is the Rottweiler good with kids?
It scores 3/5 for kid-friendliness. Generally fine with kids when socialized early.
Does the Rottweiler shed a lot?
Shedding scores 3/5. Moderate, manageable shedding.
What are the weaknesses of a Rottweiler?
Size and strength first: 36–61 kg of guardian instinct (apartment 1/5) demands an experienced, committed owner. Health runs second — hip and elbow dysplasia, heart issues (aortic stenosis), and bloat are documented risks, with a 9–10 year lifespan among the shortest in our dataset. The temperament itself (trainability 4/5) is sound; everything around it is demanding.
Doberman or Rottweiler — which is better?
The Doberman (27–45 kg, trainability 5/5, exercise 5/5) is the sharper, more athletic guardian — faster to train, harder to tire. The Rottweiler (36–61 kg, trainability 4/5) is heavier, calmer indoors, and more naturally territorial. Both need expert handling; pick the Doberman for trainability and the Rottie for steady power — and read both full profiles first.
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Health information is for general guidance only and is not veterinary advice. Always consult your veterinarian about your individual dog. Cost figures are rough estimates and vary by location.