Rattador (Rottweiler Lab Mix) Dog Breed Information – 15 Things to Know

If you’ve found this article, chances are you’re already smitten with the adorable and unique Rottweiler Lab Mix. This designer dog, though relatively new to the canine kingdom, is a rising star when it comes to temperament, appearance and loyalty.

Are you considering investing in one of these incredible crossbreed canines? If so, you’ve come to the right place.

While Rottadors are sure to make a stellar companion for the right owner or family, that doesn’t mean they are the ideal dog for everyone. Before you invite a Rottweiler Lab mix into your household, it’s important to learn as much as possible about this hybrid.

With that in mind, let’s quickly take a look at the Rottador’s breed standard.

An Brief Overview of The Rottador Breed Standard

The Rottador is a crossbreed, but there is still an average breed standard that you can look for when considering one of these beautiful hybrids.

Height: 24 – 27 Inches

Weight: 70 – 115 Pounds

Coat: Smooth, short, double-coated, shedding

Coat Color: Black, brown, grey, and sometimes a combination of two or three colors.

Life Span: 8 – 12 Years

Temperament: Intelligent, athletic, confident, protective

Energy Level: High

Exercise Needs: Moderate

Common Health Conditions: Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, Bloat, progressive retinal atrophy, eye issues, cardiomyopathy, subaortic stenosis, skin issues, allergies, and cruciate ligament rupture.

Now, without further ado, here are 15 things you should know about the Rottador Dog.

1. The Rottador Is Not Accepted By All Major Breed Clubs

Hybrid dogs can be somewhat controversial because many of their characteristics are unpredictable.

Are you looking for a dog you can enter into the show ring? If so, you may want to forgo investing in a Rottador. Because the Rottweiler Lab mix is a crossbreed, he’s actually not accepted by most major breed clubs like the American Kennel Club.

That said, there are some clubs that do accept this crossbreed, including:

• The Designer Breed Registry (DBR)
• The Dog Registry of America, INC (DRA)
• The American Canine Hybrid Club (ACHC)
• The International Designer Canine Registry (IDCR)
• And The Designer Dogs Kennel Club (DDKC)

What does this mean for the Rottador? Being recognized by specific registries provides owners with a community and different forums where you can go to ask questions, find answers, and even meet with other Rottador enthusiasts.

This is important, considering Rottador dogs and other crossbreeds like them are somewhat controversial. Newer generation crossbreeds are still unpredictable when it comes to different aspects like temperament, health and appearance, and there is still quite a bit we are learning about them.

2. The Rottador Is A New Crossbreed and Is Still Building His Origin

While the Rottador himself may still be a bit mysterious, we do know that he comes from two of America’s most favorite purebred dogs.

The Rottweiler

Rottweilers are ancient dogs with a devoted personality.

Height: 22-27 Inches

Weight: 80-135 Pounds

Coat: Short, smooth, shedding

Hypoallergenic: No

Life Span: 9-10 years

Temperament: Affectionate, Confident, Devoted, Intelligent

Rottweilers have had to battle somewhat of a bad reputation over the years, but these dogs are actually incredibly loyal, loving and intelligent. They can get along well with most anyone so long as they are properly trained and socialized.

Larger dogs, Rottweilers were once bred as ancient warriors in the Roman Empire. Today, they are some of the world’s most sought after service breeds. According to the American Kennel Club, Rottweiler dogs are listed as number 8 out of 197 on the list of America’s Most Favorite Breeds.

The Labrador Retriever

Labs are some of the world’s most popular dogs.

Height: 21.5 0 24.5 Inches

Weight: 55 – 80 Pounds

Coat: Double coated, dense, water-resistant

Hypoallergenic: No

Life Span: 10 – 12 years

Personality: Clever, Playful, Outgoing, Energetic

Labrador Retrievers sit proudly at number 1 out of 197 on the American Kennel Club’s list of America’s Most Popular Dog Breeds. Labs originated from Newfoundland, Canada and were once employed as water retrieving dogs. As such, they have webbed paws, weather-resistant fur, and incredible stamina.

These dogs are also a family favorite due to their adoring temperaments, which they will likely pass on to their Rottweiler Lab offspring.

3. The Rottweiler Lab Mix Is A High-Energy And Athletic Dog

Rottador dogs are high energy and require routine exercise.

Also known as the Labrottie, the Rottador or Rottweiler Lab Mix is a crossbreed hailing from two working dogs who are athletic and playful. As such, it’s no surprise that this hybrid is going to be energetic and outgoing.

It’s probably not a good idea to invest in a Rottador dog if you’re looking for a more low-key canine companion who enjoys lounging around most of the day and relaxing. Instead, the ideal home type for a Rottweiler Lab Mix is going to be one where owners are active and outgoing, and enjoy being outdoors.

This is because the Rottador is going to require routine exercise each and every day. Experts surmise that Rottweiler Lab Mix dogs will do best with at least a good hour walk each day and plenty of free playtime in between.

And here’s the thing – since your Rottweiler Lab Mix is going to need so much exercise, it’s a great idea to start with leash training at an early age. This will help ensure your Rottweiler Lab Mix has good manners on the street and is well versed in walking with you.

Otherwise, Rottador dogs could potentially become heavy pullers and may be prone to get ahead of themselves.

The good news is that Rottweiler Lab mix dogs are highly intelligent and eager to please, making them a joy to train. But we will talk more about that a bit further down.

4. The Rottweiler Lab Mix Is A Shedding Breed

Rottadors shed year-round and shed especially heavily during shedding season.

Roteador dogs come from two purebred parents who are shedding breeds. The Lab sheds a bit more than the Rottweiler, so your crossbreed Rottweiler Lab Mix’s coat could vary in shedding frequency.

This is not great news for those who suffer from allergies, as Rottador dogs’ coats certainly produce enough allergy inducing dander to cause some issues.

Luckily, a Rottador’s coat is weather resistant and dirt resistant, which means that routine grooming and care should help keep allergy inducing dandar at bay.

And while the Rottweiler Lab mix sheds year-round, he sheds most during shedding season which is in spring and fall. With routine brushing and grooming, especially during this time, your Rottador’s coat should be easy to maintain.

It’s also a good idea to keep your Rottador on a good grooming schedule. This includes bathing him at least once every few months with a dog safe shampoo and conditioner, making sure his nails are trimmed frequently to keep them from cracking and splitting, and making sure your Rottador dog’s ears are clean and free of debris.

And, like all dogs, Rottweiler Lab Mix dogs should have their teeth routinely brushed with a dog-safe toothbrush and toothpaste.

5. Your Rottweiler Lab Mix May Not Look Like Other Rotador Dogs

Your Rottador could look more like his Rottweiler parent or more like his Lab parent, or he could be somewhere in between like the above Rottador.

Many people want a Rottador because they’ve seen one before and fallen in love. Along with understanding a potential Rottador temperamental traits, exercise needs, grooming requirements and training abilities, it’s also important to keep in mind that not all Rottadors will look the same.

Because the Rottweiler Lab mix is a crossbreed, chances are that his appearance can and will vary depending on the breeder and the generation of crossbreed your specific Rottador is.

There are several crossbreed geneartations, but the most unpredictable tend to be first and second generation crossbreeds. A first generation crossbreed is a Rottador who is the direct offspring of a purebred Labrador and a purebred Rottweiler. A second generation Rottador is a Rottador puppy who is the offspring of two Rottweiler Lab mix dogs.

The farther down the generation of Labrottie you are dealing with, the more predictable his characteristics are going to be.

On average, a Rottweiler Lab Mix maintains the below physical characteristics:

Rottador Height: 24 to 27 Inches

Rottador Weight: 70 – 115 Pounds

Rottador Coat Color Possibilities: Black, brown, black and brown, tan and brown, yellow

Rottador Coat Type: Shedding, double coated, weather-resistant

Rottador Eye Color: Brown

6. The Rottador Is A Big Dog Who Needs Lots of Space

Because they are high energy, Rottador dogs will appreciate having a backyard to play in.

Your Rottweiler Lab Mix dog may have a varying appearance, but there is one thing we know for sure – Rottador dogs are BIG. Potentially growing to be over 115 pounds, Rottadors will need lots of space both inside and out in order to stretch out, lounge, play and explore.

For this reason, these crossbreeds are not ideal apartment dogs. They do best in larger spaces and homes with securely fenced backyards where they can run and play freely between walks or exercise routines.

If you don’t have a large backyard, not to worry. When properly trained and socialized, Rottweiler Lab mix dogs can do well with other dogs and will enjoy going to the dog park or on playdates.

7. Rottweiler Lab Mix Dogs are Super Easy to Train

Rottadors are devoted and intelligent dogs, making them a joy to train.

This may come as no surprise, considering both the purebred Labrador Retriever and the purebred Rottweiler are some of the most intelligent dogs in the world. They are also both highly devoted breeds, and their offspring should be no different.

Rottador dogs love their people and will want to do anything they can to please them. This means they are a treat to train, so long as training is done properly.

So, how do you properly train a Rottador dog? Most experts recommend using positive reinforcement techniques like treats and praise and steering clear of scolding or punishing your Rottador if he makes a mistake.

Punishment during training may actually impede your Rottweiler Lab’s learning process and make training less effective.

Instead, keep training sessions short and game-like to hold your Rottador’s interest, and keep upping the anti. Rottador dogs are very smart and will enjoy a challenge.

In fact, once you get a good rhythm going when it comes to training, you’ll be able to employ your Rottador around your home. These hybrids can be great help when it comes to bringing in groceries, sorting laundry, or picking up clutter.

Plus, they’ll enjoy having a job to do. Remember, this hybrid is the product of two working breeds, afterall.

8. Rottador Dogs Are Relatively Healthy, But They Can Be Prone To Health Issues

Rottador dogs can be especially prone to Bloat, which is something owners should keep a close eye on.

There has been a lot of chatter regarding the health of crossbreed dogs in comparison to purebred dogs. Also known as hybrid vigor, there are some experts who insist that crossbreeds are healthier than their purebred counterparts.

The argument is that purebred dogs have been overbred for generations. This overbreeding has reduced their gene pool and thus made them more likely to inherit certain genetic health issues.

One of the benefits of owning a crossbreed is that your Rottador has a wider genepool. This makes it more likely that he will be healthier.

However, this is not a guarantee, and it’s important to make sure you know that the Rottweiler Lab mix could be prone to any of the health issues of his purebred parent breeds.

These health issues include but are not limited to:

• Hip Dysplasia
• Exercise Induced Collapse
• Elbow Dysplasia
• Nueroaxonal Dystorphy
• Leukoencephalomalacia
• And Bloat

What You Should Know About The Above Health Issues in your Rottador

All of the above health issues can be serious and potentially devastating for a Rottador, especially if not taken care of early on. Some of the above health issues are even fatal.

Bloat, also known as Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus or GDV, is a serious and sudden condition that often comes on without warning and requires immediate medical care. It is common in large, deep chested dogs like Rottweilers and Labrador Retrievers, and as such your Rottweiler Lab mix can be at high risk.

You can help combat Bloat and other health issues in your Rottweiler Lab Mix by having your Rottador health screened at an early age. It’s also important to keep up with routine vet visits and to ensure your Rottador is on a healthy diet specified for his age, weight and activity level.

What You Should Know About Your Rottador’s Lifespan

Rottador dogs, on average, are estimated to live between 8 and 12 years. Of course, this range can vary and will depend greatly on genetics and the source from which you get your Rottador puppy.

Purebred Labrador dogs are longer-lived than Rotties, with a lifespan of between 10 to 12 years on average. Rotties live between 8 and 9 years.

Your Rottweiler Lab Mix is likely to live anywhere between this range, though it is possible for them to live even longer than 12 years in the best of circumstances.

9. Rottador Dogs Do Best With Dedicated and Experienced Owners

Rottadors do best with owners who have some experience with large working breeds.

While both the Rottweiler and the Labrador Retriever are popular dogs, they are also somewhat high-maintenance. This is especially true when it comes to the purebred Rottweiler, who can be prone to serious behavioral issues if not properly raised, trained or socialized.

Since the Rottador is a mix between both the Lab and the Rottweiler, it’s important to treat him as if he will inherit temperamental traits of both. With this mindset, the Rottador will do best with experienced dog owners who understand working breeds and guarding breeds.

Guarding breeds like the Rottweiler need special attention when it comes to training and socialization to help ensure they are happy, healthy and well-rounded.

They also require owners who are able to be around them often to ensure they are properly exercised and to reduce potential behavioral issues, which we’ll discuss further down.

10. Rottador Dogs Can Be Prone To Destructive Behaviors If Their Needs Are Not Met

Rottador dogs require lots of mental stimulation in order to stay happy and content.

All dogs require routine exercise, mental stimulation, training and socialization, and the Rottador is no exception.

In fact, if his needs are not met, the Rottador can be especially prone to some serious destructive behaviors like chewing, digging, barking, bathroom accidents, hyperactivity and even depression, aggression and anxiety.

To ensure your Rottador is happy and healthy, and to protect your home and belongings from a potentially destructive Rottweiler Lab Mix, make sure your Rottador’s needs are being met.

A good hour walk each and every day should help keep your Rottador from building up excess energy, as should free playtime outside.

Your Rottador will also appreciate puzzle toys, chews and interactive toys that help keep them distracted and busy throughout the day. Training will also help keep your Rottador happy and mentally sound, and giving your Rottador jobs to do around the house can help him feel he has a purpose.

11. Rottweiler Lab Mix Dogs Need A Specific Type of Diet To Thrive

Make sure your Rottador dog eats a quality dog food high in real animal protein and free of additives or byproducts.

Your dog’s diet plays a major role in his overall health and vitality. Because they are high-energy, muscular and athletic dogs, the Rottweiler Lab mix will do best on dog food that is made with 30% real animal protein like chicken, turkey or beef. He will also need quality sources of carbs, fatty acids, vitamins and minerals and a good source of water.

A good diet not only helps protect your Rottweiler Lab mix from potentially developing future health issues like Bloat or bone and joint problems, but it can also help aid in skin and coat health, overall energy levels, and prolong your dog’s lifespan.

When looking for the best dog food for your Rottador, make sure you steer clear of dog foods that contain animal byproducts, additives, fillers, corn, soy or wheat. It’s also important to make sure that your Rottador eats a dog food that is specified for his age, weight and activity level.

Rottweiler Lab Mix dogs may also thrive on either raw dog food, wet dog food, dry dog food or homemade dog food so long as all their nutritional needs are being met. If you’re not sure which type of dog food would be best for your unique dog, it’s never a bad idea to speak with your veterinarian.

12. Rottador Dogs Love Being Outside, But They Are Not Outdoor-Only Dogs

Rottador dogs love being outdoors, but they should spend the majority of their time inside or with you.

Many people wrongly assume that larger, more energetic dogs like Rottador mixes enjoy spending the majority of their time outside. On the contrary, Rottador dogs are people-oriented dogs who become very bonded with their family members.

As such, they will do best living inside right alongside their humans. In fact, a Rottweiler Lab mix who is left on his own or outside for the majority of his day is much more likely to struggle with serious behavioral issues, guardian instincts and aggression.

Instead, make sure your Rottweiler Lab mix gets his outdoor fix with you by accompanying you on hiking trips, camping adventures, road trips and routine walks.

13. Rottadors Can Have Guarding Instincts and Should Be Monitored Carefully Around Children

Rottador dogs can be prone to aggressive behaviors, especially if they are not properly raised.

Any dog can be prone to aggressive tendencies, especially if they are not properly trained and socialized. Unfortunately, the Rottweiler breed specifically has been linked to a disproportionate number of aggressive incidents.

Because the Rottador is a mix between both the Lab and the Rottweiler, this is an important thing to consider if you have children or if you are around children often.

What To Know About Children and Potentially Aggressive Dogs

Purebred Rottweilers were originally bred as guard dogs. As such, they are more prone to territorial behaviors. For the most part, Rottweiler dogs do fine with the children in their immediate family, especially when raised with them and properly trained and socialed.

However, neighborhood children, friends of your own children, or children of extended family members could be at risk if your Rottador dog is not carefully trained and socialized.

Strangers and outsiders are also at risk when it comes to an improperly trained or socialized Rottador dog, especially if your dog is fearful or anxious.

What You Can Do To Reduce the Risk

Rottador dogs are generally known to do well with children, strangers and other dogs when properly socialized, trained and exercised. You can also reduce chances of aggressive behaviors in a Rottador dog by ensuring you get your dog from a reputable source.

When going through a breeder, ask to meet the parent breeds of your potential Rottador puppy and make sure they are temperamentally sound and at ease around you and your family. This should give you a good idea as to how your Rottador puppy will grow up to behave.

Studies have also suggested that the most aggressive dog is an unneutered male dog. You can help reduce the chances of a bite or other aggressive situation with your children or outsiders with your Rottweiler Lab Mix by ensuring males are neutered.

Regardless of how well trained or behaved your dog is, it’s always a good idea to make sure you monitor very young children around your Rottador. Teach older children how to properly interact with the family dog, and take time to understand canine body language to better be able to read how your dog is feeling and when he is uncomfortable.

14. Rottador Dogs Must Be Socialized at an Early Age

Rottador coats are generally weather resistant, but they will still need routine grooming.

As we mentioned above, socialization is incredibly important when it comes to a Rottweiler Lab mix dog. Since Rottweiler dogs and Rottweiler mixes have been linked to aggressive behaviors and attacks, it’s imperative that you go about ensuring your Rottador is exposed to as many new experiences, people, places and things at an early age as possible.

This should include children, loud sounds, sights, strange men and women, and other animals.

Try and ensure these experiences are positive for your Rottador to help reduce potential fear and future anxiety. If you have children and want a Rottador, it’s a good idea to get your Rottweiler Lab mix during puppyhood and ensure he is around different children consistently.

Rottweiler Lab mix dogs are also great candidates for obedience school and training classes. Getting your Rottador dog into puppy classes or working with a positive reinforcement-based training at an early age can help increase your chances of raising a happy, healthy and mentally sound Rottweiler Lab mix.

15. You May Have to Look Extra Hard to Find A Rottador Puppy or Rescue Dog

Try and go through qualified, reputable sources when looking for a Rottador puppy from a breeder.

Based on everything we have learned about the Rottador dog, it comes as no surprise that it’s very important to go through reputable sources when looking for a Rottador puppy.

However, because Rottweiler Lab mix dogs are relatively new to the scene, it could be difficult to find them through a breeder or rescue. Still, it’s best to be patient and take your time to find sources that you trust and who understand the importance of responsible breeding practices.

If you want to find a Rottador through a shelter, it is probably best to look for shelters that specialize in Labrador Retrievers or Rottweilers, or Lab or Rottie mixes.

When rescuing a Rottador dog from a shelter, be sure to express any concerns you have regarding temperamental traits and health, and let the shelter or rescue know if you have children in the home so they can be sure to match you with the right type of dog.

If you wish to go through a breeder, it is a good idea to ask to meet the parent dogs of your Rottador puppy. Bring along the whole family and watch carefully to ensure the parent dogs are comfortable around strangers and children.

On average, a Rottador puppy from a breeder is around $300 to $600, which is relatively affordable when it comes to crossbreeds. For this reason, there is really no need to cut corners or go through backyard breeders.

Instead, stick with qualified breeders who are able to provide you with certificates of health and breeders who again can provide you with insight as to your Rottador puppy’s parents’ temperamental traits.

We hope this has been a helpful guide on the Rottador! Now it’s your turn to share. What do you think about this clever and devoted hybrid?

Leave us your opinions on the Rottweiler Lab Mix in the comment section below.