Cindy’s Other Blog

Technically, a Rottweiler can breed with any other breed of dog, since they both are members of the same species. Very tiny dogs will not be able to manage the physical complications surrounding a successful mating. A large stud dog should never be bred to a very small bitch, as the puppies will grow far too big for her to naturally give birth. When given a choice, Rottweilers do seem to prefer mating with dogs about their own size.

One cross that does have a cute name and a loyal following is the St. Weiler (that’s right - a Rottweiler and Saint Bernard). Since these are massive dogs, they need a lot of room, a lot of food and a lot of care. Big dogs are prone to a lot of structural problems that is due to their size and not due to their breed. Although not giants like Irish Wolfhounds, they are usually over one hundred pounds and rarely live beyond ten years of age (giant size dogs live only six years, on average.) The average length of a purebred Rottweiler’s life is 1twelve.

The Rottweiler mixed breeds recognized by the American Canine Hybrid Club include the Afghan Hound and Rottweiler make a Rottaf, the Brussels Griffon and the Rottweiler make a Brotweiler and the Bulldog and Rottweiler make an English Bullweiler.

Depending on what they are crossed with, the puppies might need more training and exercise than either of the parents. Remember in Rottweiler mixed breeds, not only the best but sometimes the worst traits of the parents are emphasized in the puppies.

Rottweilers seem to often be crossed with German Shepherds and Labrador Retrievers. You can usually tell if a Rottweiler or Doberman is in the mix of a mongrel by looking for what is known as devil stripes (black stripes against red paws on the toes). Rottweilers are also often purposefully crossed with Doberman Pinschers, which are close to Rottweilers in temperament, looks and needs. The result is called a Rotterman (I guess that’s better than Pinscherweiler).

The future looks good for a Rottweiler mix, as the breeding of them seems to be more concerned with making a healthy, happy family companion. The good traits of being a guard dog and gentle with kids seems to be crossing (for the most part) to the designer dog offspring. Any big dog needs a lot of space and a lot of food. Be ready to clean up a lot of messes as well.

They are very strong dogs and eager to take charge of a situation unless you seem like a more capable leader. They are not recommended for first time dog owners, or those with physical disabilities.

Any large dog is prone to some health issues such as hip or elbow dysphasia and bloat (equivalent to colic in horses). Some will also have heart problems and visual problems, but they usually show up later in life. If you take on a Rottweiler mixed breed companion dog, you must be ready and willing to pay any and all veterinary care. They would do the same for you.