Rottweilers and German Shepherds are America’s most prevalent dog breeds cause they’re clever, loving, and faithful to their owners. Both as family pets and as vicious guard dogs, but which is better?
To begin, let us state that we do not feel that any breed is necessarily superior to another. This does not rule out the chance that one is better for you than the other.
There are many similarities between these breeds, but there are also some significant distinctions, which can be essential when picking which suitable animal for your family.
Size
Rotties are roughly two feet tall on average, with males being somewhat taller and females being slightly shorter.
The Rottie is a tightly packed dog, a medium-sized dog with a lot of muscle.
Males weigh 110-130 pounds on their muscular frames, while females weigh 80-100 pounds.
Rottweilers are muscular and agile canines.
They have a deep chest and long, well-muscled thighs, and are expected to live for 8-11 years.
German Shepherds, like Rottweilers, stand about two feet tall, with males standing a couple of inches taller than females.
German Shepherd females can weigh up to 70 pounds, and both sexes live for about 7-10 years.
When it comes to comparing the weight of a Rottweiler and a German Shepherd, the Rottie comes out on top.
Personality
It’s crucial to remember that both of these canines were bred with certain goals in mind. They are both working breeds, and their personality are built around a strong work ethic. They’re also both as obstinate as you’d expect.
Rottweilers, in particular, thrive when they are properly trained and socialized at a young age.
They are strong-willed canines who must fully comprehend their owner’s behavioral requirements in order to have a harmonious and cooperative relationship.
Rottweilers are a naturally confident breed that has trained to defend territory, belongings, and/or humans over generations.
When a dog strikes, the Rottie has powerful jaws and great strength, two characteristics that can cause catastrophic injury.
Rotties are prohibited in several locations due to their aggressive reputation and/or real-life conduct.
Especially if or when a Rottie exhibits unfavorable behavior.
The GSD, like the Rottie, is typically described as a devoted companion and excellent protection dog.
However, in order to make effective family dogs, these characteristics must be decreased by constant training and early socialization.
The temperaments of Rottweilers and German Shepherds are strikingly similar. Neither breed is typically recommended for first-time owners. Before taking on one of these rambunctious breeds, you should have some experience training and directing dogs.
Rottweiler and German Shepherd dog training
Fortunately, kids are both intelligent and quick to pick up new information.
When it comes to training ability, Rottweilers get an almost universal thumbs up from their owners.
Of the two breeds, Rottweilers may be more food oriented. Rottweilers are notorious for being greedy dogs. You may use goodies to encourage good behavior in your dog while also keeping its stomach filled.
Given the correct training, they also score almost as well when it comes to compatibility with other canines and children.
However, if Rotties are not properly socialized, they may develop an unpleasant inclination to show indiscriminate distrust and, as a result, unnecessary hostility.
GSDs become bored easily when left alone for lengthy periods of time, which can lead to destructive behavior.
As a result, play and praise are more likely to encourage German Shepherds.
Because they are more eager to please, German Shepherds are the easier of the two types to teach.
A Rottweiler, on the other hand, is more likely to find a way around your rules. As a result, you must adhere to a rigid exercise regimen. Allowing misbehavior to slide will teach your Rottie how to manipulate you.
The German Shepherd is a quicker learner when it comes to obeying directions. They’ll be steadfast once you’ve taught them how to do anything. Even yet, each animal is unique. The personality of dogs are not usually determined by their breed.
German Shepherd versus Rottweiler Health
Nobody wants to think about their beloved canine companions being in pain.
However, ignoring the very real risk that your pet will become ill at some point is a disservice to your pet.
It’s helpful to have a basic grasp of the diseases that your dog is susceptible to.
That way, you’ll be aware of any potential symptoms in the future.
Each breed has its own medical idiosyncrasies, with some being more genetically inclined to certain diseases than others.
Obesity can be a concern for Rottweilers. This can result in cardiac problems, spinal disorders, hip dysplasia, and other complications. They’re also prone to retinal problems, which can lead to blindness later in life if not closely monitored.
The following are the most prevalent Rottweiler health problems:
Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) and cataracts are the most frequent vision disorders.
Problems with the bones and joints
Aortic stenosis is a narrowing of the aortic valve.
Lymphoma and bone cancer are the most frequent cancers.
Bloat or Obesity
Allergies to the skin
Addison’s disease is a condition that affects the adrenal glands.
Von Willebrand’s illness is a type of thrombosis that affects the
Syndrome of the wobbler
Dental problems
Infections
Hip and elbow dysplasia are more common in German Shepherds. They are also at significant risk of arthritis, and degenerative disc disease is a concern because of the slope of their backs.
The following are the most usual health issues in German Shepherds: Joint issues
Osteoarthritis (OA) causes vision issues.
Cancer or Obesity
Diarrhea and bloating
Allergies to the skin
Thyroid issues
Dental problems
Infections like parvovirus and distemper are common.
Syndrome of the wobbler
While neither breed is likely to have many health difficulties, it’s important to bring them in for frequent checkups examinations so you can catch any potential problems early.
German Shepherd’s and Rottweiler’s intelligence
When it comes to intelligence, Rotties and GSDs are without a doubt at the top of the canine class.
Each dog is highly regarded and sought after for critical community activities, such as law enforcement and narcotics detection.
They both have high canine IQs and are capable of learning and remembering new knowledge after only a few repeats.
Aside from their high IQs, both dogs have enormous stores of devotion and loyalty, making them ideal candidates for service work.
GSDs are considered as a curious breed that excels at completing tasks when given the opportunity.
Their intellect was bred expressly for them.
As a sheepherder and as a helper to humans on farms, in the military, and law enforcement.
As previously said, these are two of the world’s brightest dog breeds. According to Stanley Coren’s book The Intelligence of Dogs, German Shepherds are the third brightest breed, while Rottweilers are ninth.
Rottweiler’s or German Shepherd’s Cost
It’s difficult to split the money between these two breeds in a budget battle.
If you want to buy a Rottweiler or German Shepherd, the price you pay will, as with all dog purchases, be determined by where you acquire it. And whether or not the dog is a pedigree.
A Rottie puppy from a respectable breeder will normally cost around $1,500, while a German Shepherd will cost around $1,000. Why is there a distinction? Because the Shepherd is increasingly popular, there are more breeders, affecting supply and demand in different areas. However, this does not rule out the possibility of finding high-priced German Shepherd puppies. Champion breeding lines can fetch upwards of $5,000 for puppies.
You should also consider the long-term expenditures of owning both kinds. Because of their size, a Rottie will undoubtedly cost more than a Shepherd over his lifespan, even if the difference isn’t significant.
Rotties are huge to giant-sized dogs, and larger things, such as beds, crates, collars, and toys, tend to be more expensive. His food bill is also higher. However, because the Shepherd is expected to live the Rottie for a few years, the difference may not be substantial.
So, which should I go with?
Both dog types can be ideal if you want a large family companion that will be faithful to the end.
Both German Shepherds and Rottweilers are devoted, protective dogs who make excellent companions for families seeking security and friendship.
Both breeds are not advised for inexperienced dog owners who lack the time to properly teach and exercise their pets.
While GSDs and Rottweilers have an intimidating appearance and are known for their violent tendencies, if properly taught and socialized, they can be the most loving and kind dogs you’ll ever have.
A healthy dog with proper training has a great chance of fulfilling his full potential as a delightful, loyal, and loving lifetime companion.
You must be assured that the type you’ve chosen is suitable for you and your family. Also, you’ll make a good mutt owner.
