The German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix – Is This Crossbreed Right For You? 

The German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix might be the perfect fit for anyone looking for a large, protective, intelligent dog, but this certainly isn’t the crossbreed for everyone.

Work-oriented, energetic, and very brainy, the German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix is going to do best with a more experienced dog owner who is ready to take on all this amazing canine has to offer.

Is that owner you?

Join us today as we learn more about the German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix and find out!

What Is The German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix?

The German Shepherd Rottweiler mix is what is known as a hybrid dog.

Type: Crossbreed, Mixed Breed, Hybrid or Designer Dog

Parent Breeds: The German Shepherd and the Rottweiler

Height: 22 to 28 Inches

Weight: 75 to 115 Lbs

Temperament: Intelligent, Affectionate, Devoted, Protective, Playful

Average Lifespan: 9 to 13 Years

Average Cost: $450 to $500

Best Suited For: Experienced Dog Owners

Overview Of The German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix:

The German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix is the mixed-breed offspring of the German Shepherd and the Rottweiler. Also known as a hybrid, designer dog, or crossbreed, the German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix is a fast-growing star in the canine kingdom.

This dog is beloved for its unique temperament, which includes a protective nature mixed with plenty of fun-loving personality. When properly raised, trained, and socialized, the German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix can do well in households with children and other pets.

However, in the wrong hands, this is a crossbreed dog that can become domineering, territorial, and may even be wary of strangers.

In order to ensure you are raising the happiest, healthiest German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix possible, it’s important to make sure he’s not only the right dog for you, but that you are the right owner for him.

The best way to do this is to dig a bit deeper into the origin of this mix and learn about his unique quirks, traits, health issues, training needs, and more.

Let’s get started!

Crossbreed Dogs And Breed Bans – Why The German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix Is Considered A Controversial Dog

This hybrid is a cross between two dogs that are considered controversial.

When it comes to hybrid dogs, none may be as popular as the famous Labradoodle. Other doodle dogs follow close behind, with beloved mixes like Goldendoodles, Maltipoos, Yorkipoos, and Schnoodle dogs hitting the scene in waves.

But other crossbreed dogs have also been rising in popularity, and the German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix is one such dog.

While crossbreed dogs like the German Shepherd Rottweiler mix are nothing new in the world, (the practice has been going on for centuries, after all), the idea of breeding and selling first and second-generation crossbreeds as companion dogs has become somewhat controversial.

This has become especially apparent over the last two decades, as “designer dogs” have exploded in popularity, with many being bred and sold at a premium price usually reserved for dogs of a purebred pedigree.

But there’s more to this crossbreed controversy than meets the eye, and there are pros and cons to crossbreeds that many novice dog enthusiasts don’t realize.

For example, one of the cons of owning a first or second-generation crossbreed dog is that many of this dog’s traits will be left up to chance and genetics. This includes traits like temperament, health, and appearance.

The benefit of owning a crossbreed dog, however, is the idea of hybrid vigor. You see, purebred dogs have been long overbred for generations in an effort to maintain their breed standard. This has led to an increase in genetic health issues being passed from one litter to the next.

Crossbreeding purebred dogs allows for this gene pool to widen, thus reducing the chances of specific genetic health issues from taking hold.

Of course, not everyone agrees with the idea of hybrid vigor, and naysayers point out that genetics are genetics and that crossbreed dogs have just as likely of a chance to inherit genetic health issues as their purebred counterparts.

Outside of this basic controversy surrounding designer dogs, there is another controversy you should be aware of that specifically deals with dogs like German Shepherds and Rottweilers.

Breed Specific Legislation, the laws responsible for breed bans throughout the United States, have coined German Shepherds and Rottweilers as “dangerous breeds”, or dogs more likely to have an aggressive temperament than others. For this reason, these dogs and any mixed dog with German Shepherd or Rottweiler, (or in this case, the German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix), may not be legal in certain regions.

Breed bans are highly controversial these days, as the more we learn about our canine counterparts the more we come to understand that a dog’s behavior stems far deeper than genetics.

As activist groups work to change these laws, many people are still striving forward and obtaining these amazing dogs that suffer from them.

Of course, because the German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix is such a powerful and somewhat controversial dog, it’s that much more important that he ends up in the hands of the right dog owner.

Is that owner you? In order to find out, we are going to take a deep dive into this unique hybrid.

Let’s begin with something fun – what will your German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix look like? Keep reading to find out!

What Will The German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix Look Like?

The appearance of a German Shepherd Rottie mix is going to vary and will depend greatly on genetics.

As we discussed above, crossbreed dogs can be unpredictable when it comes to certain traits, especially if they are first or second-generation crossbreeds.

But what is a first or second-generation crossbreed? Well, a first-generation crossbreed when it comes to the German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix, for example, would be a puppy that is the offspring of one purebred German Shepherd and one purebred Rottweiler. A second-generation crossbreed would be the offspring of two first-generation crossbreed dogs, and so on.

The farther down the crossbreed generation goes, the more predictable the hybrid dog becomes in terms of appearance, temperament, and health.

This means that if you have an earlier generation crossbreed, determining what he will look like for certain as an adult can be tricky.

However, there are some basic characteristics we can predict when it comes to this crossbreed, which we have listed below.

Height: 22 to 28 Inches

Weight: 75 to 115 Lbs

Coat Type: Smooth, Short, Double-Coated, Shedding

Overall Appearance:

The German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix is going to be a large breed dog with a dense, double coat that sheds heavily year-round. His head could be large and boxy, like his Rottweiler parent, or it could be more narrow like his German Shepherd parent. Or, it could even be somewhere in between.

Rottweilers tend to have docked tails while German Shepherds have long tails. Because docking a Rottie’s tail is not necessary for health reasons, it’s likely your German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix will not come with his tail docked.

German Shepherd dogs in particular have pointed erect ears while Rottweilers have floppy ears. Your crossbreed puppy or dog could have either, depending on genetics.

When it comes to color, the German Shepherd Rottweiler mix is often brown and black, though depending on his German Shepherd parent he could be born all black, or even come with a different pattern.

How To Best Predict What Your German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix Will Look Like:

One of the benefits of raising a purebred dog is that you have a general idea of what your dog will grow up to look like if you obtain him during puppyhood. This is not the case when it comes to crossbreed dogs like the German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix.

If you wish to obtain a German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix with a particular appearance, the best way to go about this is to look for breeders who specialize in this type of hybrid and who can offer you a third or fourth-generation puppy.

Another way to go about obtaining a specific-looking German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix is to rescue an adult dog through a trusted shelter whose coat has already been established.

Of course, while we often do fall in love with particular breeds based on their appearance, it’s important to remember that you’re raising so much more than something cute and cuddly.

Like all dogs, the German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix has a unique temperament that should be taken into consideration before you decide if this is the perfect dog for you.

Is The German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix A Good Family Dog?

The German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix can do well with children and other pets when raised with them.

The German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix is a darling dog, that’s for sure. He comes from two parent breeds who are famous for their devotion, affectionate nature, and hard work ethic.

The German Shepherd specifically was a bred herding dog in Germany, and he went on to become a military dog, police dog, search and rescue dog, and even a therapy dog. This purebred is incredibly intelligent and devoted, and often bonds most closely with one specific owner in the household.

Rottweilers, on the other hand, are very family-oriented. They are incredibly protective over what they see as theirs, and this can include their family. Bred butcher dogs, it was once the Rottweiler’s duty to carry meat to market for their master’s. No one would dare mess with the massive black dog or try to steal the money he received from the butcher to take back to his master. This is all thanks to the Rottie’s fiercely protective nature.

When you combine these traits, you get a hybrid that is intelligent, loyal, devoted, and affectionate.

However, the German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix can also have guarding instinct. This means he can be prone to territorial behaviors and may even be wary of strangers if not properly trained and socialized at an early age.

The good news is that with proper training, socialization, and when raised by the right owner, the German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix can make a wonderful family dog that is patient and gentle with children and other pets.

This is a dog that will do especially well with youngsters he is raised with, but even then it’s important to work with children on how to recognize certain canine body language.

Teach your children how to respectfully interact with the family dog and refrain from allowing them to hug, tease, sit on, or roughhouse with their German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix, as these behaviors could lead to a nip or bite. It’s also important to never leave very young children alone with the family dog unsupervised.

Let’s Talk About The Importance Of Socialization And Training

Like all dogs, the German Shepherd Rottweiler mix requires early socialization and training.

All dogs require routine training and socialization at an early age, and the German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix is no different. In fact, large breed dogs with a potential for guarding instincts especially should be given extra attention and time when it comes to training and socialization.

You can begin training as early as you like with your German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix. If you obtain your German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix during puppyhood, then training can begin as early as seven or eight weeks.

But if you get your German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix as an adult through a rescue or shelter, don’t worry. It’s never too late to begin working with a dog on training.

Though he may look tough, the German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix is a sensitive hybrid. He is eager to please and highly trainable, so it’s important to use positive reinforcement techniques when it comes to training sessions.

Avoid punishments or scolding when it comes to training and stick with using treats, praise, and patience. You will certainly get the most out of your German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix when you go this route. Furthermore, positive reinforcement training methods will help you build a strong, trusting bond with your dog going forward.

The best cues to begin with when it comes to training a large dog like the German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix are going to be the basics like sit, stay, leave it, and come.

Along with training, it’s imperative that you begin socializing your German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix as early as possible.

Properly socializing your dog will help reduce problematic behaviors like fear and anxiety that could lead to fear-based aggression down the road.

The best way to begin socializing with your dog is to introduce him to as many new experiences as possible at an early age. These experiences should include sights, sounds, people, children, other animals, and even cars.

When you’re working on socializing your dog, remember that it’s important not to force your dog into a situation that he is clearly frightened of. Allow your German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix to explore the new experience on his own terms and encourage him gently with treats and praise.

Train Me High-Value Training Treats

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We suggest training treats like the above Train Me High-Value Training Treats when training your dog because they are low calorie, smelly and small. These are all traits that make training treats successfully when it comes to holding your dog’s attention.

We should also note that training and socialization should be ongoing throughout your dog’s lifetime.

Luckily, this is a dog that loves to learn and will enjoy being around you, so ensuring you incorporate training and socialization into your daily routine with your German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix is a great way to continue building that strong bond with him.

What Are The Exercise Needs Of A German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix?

This is a mixed breed that needs routine exercise each and every day.

If you’re looking for a more lowkey, laid-back kind of canine, you may be barking up the wrong tree when it comes to the German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix. This is a dog that is very work-oriented and is happiest when he has a job to do.

Exercise and mental stimulation are going to be an important part of your German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix dog’s daily life, and ensuring he is well exercised and has plenty of mental stimulation will not only help keep him healthy and happy but also keep him from becoming anxious and destructive.

The proper exercise for a German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix should include about an hour or so of dedicated exercise a day. This could include walks, jogs, runs, hikes, and even swimming. The German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix will also benefit from some free playtime in a large, securely fenced yard.

If he is well trained and socialized, then a German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix could also be a good candidate for play dates at dog parks.

Along with routine physical exercise, the German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix should also have plenty of mental exercise each day.

Because this is such a brainy mixed breed, your German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix could do well when given a job to do around the house. This could include fetching the newspaper or the mail, helping sort the laundry, or even loading the dishwasher!

We also suggest investing in puzzle toys for your German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix like KONGS, and toys that incorporate food to help hold his interest, especially while you are away.

The Classic KONG

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The classic dog KONG is a tried and tested dog chew toy that can be stuffed with all of your dog’s favorite goodies to help keep him busy while you are away. KONGS can also help reduce anxiety, keep your dog challenged, and reduce destructive behaviors.

Remember, the German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix is going to be a strong dog, and as such he has powerful jaws. Look for quality-made toys which are not only tough and durable but which are also safe for your dog if they end up chewed or torn apart.

Grooming And Basic Care Needs For A German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix

Depending on the coat type he inherits, grooming could vary for this mix.

The purebred Rottweiler has a short, sleek coat that sheds year-round while the German Shepherd has a dense, double coat that sheds a bit more heavily.

The amount of loose hair your specific German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix will produce could depend on which coat type he inherits from his purebred parents, but either way, this may not be the best dog for those who struggle with allergies.

To help manage shedding, it’s important to try and brush your German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix at least twice a week with a deshedding comb and undercoat rake. During the shedding season, which is in Spring and Fall, you may need to brush your German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix dog’s coat more frequently.

Along with routine brushing, the German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix will also need to be bathed periodically. Thankfully, this is a dog that has a weatherproof coat and he is relatively clean on his own.

However, he will need a bath if he gets particularly dirty, and he should have a routine bath at least once every six to eight weeks regardless.

When bathing your German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix, we recommend using quality shampoo made specifically for dogs. Avoid over-bathing your German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix, as this could result in stripping his coat of the natural oils his fur produces.

Bathing and brushing aside, the German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix should also have his ears checked and cleaned often to remove the buildup of debris, water, or wax. His nails should be trimmed routinely using a pet nail trimmer or grinder, and his teeth should be brushed daily with a dog-safe toothbrush and toothpaste.

The German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix Health And Lifespan

The German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix has an average lifespan of between 10 and 13 years, though some of these mixed dogs can live longer when well cared for.

While the German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix can benefit from hybrid vigor, this is not guaranteed. It should be noted that all dogs can be predisposed to any and all of the same genetic health issues as their purebred parents.

The most common health issues the German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix, in particular, is prone to suffering from include:

• Bloat
• Eyelid Problems Including Entropion and Ectropion
• Degenerative Myelopathy
• Congenital Heart Defect
• Hip Dysplasia
• Bloat
• Hip Dysplasia
• Elbow Dysplasia
• Cancer
• Hypothyroidism
• Heart Disease
• Allergies
• And Autoimmune Diseases

To combat any of these health problems, it’s important to have a good idea early on of what your German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix may be predisposed to. You can get a glimpse into his overall health by having your dog DNA tested at an early age.

We also suggest keeping up with routine vet visits. For large breed dogs, most veterinarians recommend scheduling wellness exams once a year until the dog is seven, and then twice a year thereafter.

Keeping up with routine exercise, mental stimulation, and grooming practices will also help ensure your German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix is happy and healthy, as will ensuring he stays on a healthy diet.

Large, deep-chested dogs like the German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix are known to suffer from a number of health issues related to diet, including a life-threatening condition known as Gastric Dilation Volvulus.

Also known as Bloat, Gastric Dilatation Volvulus can come on suddenly and is often caused by an improper diet, or when a dog eats or drinks too quickly.

To reduce chances of bloat, try and ensure your German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix is eating a quality dog food specified for his age, weight, and activity level. Avoid dog foods that contain fillers, additives, byproducts, dyes, and other unnecessary ingredients.

You can also help combat Bloat by investing in Puzzle Feeders to help slow your dog down and reduce the amount of air he swallows during mealtime.

Do You Have The Ideal Home Type For A German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix?

This is a crossbreed that does best with attentive, experienced dog owners.

The German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix is an amazing dog, there is no doubt about it. However, and as we’ve mentioned, this is not the dog for everyone.

When it comes to the German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix, the ideal owner is going to be a more experienced dog owner with a good understanding of working breeds. This owner will have plenty of time and patience to dedicate to socialization and training, and this owner will also understand that a German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix in particular is a family-oriented dog that is happiest when his people are around.

With that being said, the German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix will enjoy a backyard where he can play freely, so the ideal home for this type of hybrid will have a large, securely fenced yard where they can let their dog frolic for an hour or so every day.

Last, the right owner for a German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix is going to be an active person who enjoys the outdoors and is ready and willing to take their German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix on plenty of adventures.

And although the German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix can do well with children and other pets, it will be up to the owner to ensure their dog is trained and raised properly and that children are supervised and taught about how to behave safely around the family dog.

Tips On Finding A Healthy German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix Puppy or Rescue

It’s best to go through reputable breeders or shelters when looking for any puppy or rescue dog.

Have you decided that the German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix is the right dog for you? Then congratulations are in order! This is absolutely a delightful dog for the right owner, and we want to share some expert tips and tricks on how you can go about finding the healthiest German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix puppy or rescue dog for you.

First, Always Go Through Reputable Sources

When you’re looking into buying your puppy from a breeder, it’s important to avoid backyard breeders, online sellers, or those who are not certified breeders. It’s also best to avoid dogs who are being sold for much more or much less than you know them to be worth.

The German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix ranges in price from about $450 to $500 when coming from a breeder. However, you also have the option of obtaining your dream dog through a rescue. On average, rescuing a German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix costs around $250.

Ask Plenty Of Questions

Regardless of if you go through a rescue or a breeder, it’s important to ask plenty of questions. It’s also a good idea to explain to the breeder or shelter what you’re looking for out of a dog so they can point you in the right direction and help you further determine if a German Shepherd Rottweiler mix dog is right for you.

We should also note that reputable sources should be able to provide you with paperwork proving that your dog has been screened and cleared of any major health issues.

Last But Not Least, Enjoy Your New Furry Family Member!

Of course, it’s important that you enjoy your new furry family member! German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix dogs make excellent additions to families and owners who are committed.

Is that owner you?

Tell us if you’ve decided on a German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix in the comment section below. Thanks for reading!