Dog breed · Working
Rottweiler
Loyal, confident, protective
- Size
- Large
- Weight
- 35–60 kg (77–132 lb)
- Height
- 56–69 cm (22–27 in)
- Life span
- 9–10 years
- Origin
- Germany
By Maya HartThe coat
Short · Saddle / black and tan
Stroke it to see how it lies.
At a glance
Are Rottweilers right for you?
You will love
- Quick to learn
- Next to no grooming
Be ready for
- May not share a home happily with other pets
- Happier with space and a garden
- Several inherited health problems — choose a breeder who screens
How big, really
Adult Rottweilers weigh 35–60 kg (77–132 lb). Shoulder height shown at the top of the range.
About the Rottweiler
Rottweilers are powerful, devoted dogs that were bred to drive cattle and guard. Well-bred and well-raised, they are calm and affectionate with their family. Their size and protective instincts make early training essential — they suit experienced owners.
Health to know about
- Hip and elbow dysplasia
- Osteosarcoma (bone cancer)
- Cruciate ligament injuries
- Aortic stenosis
- Bloat
Care in short
- Early, extensive socialisation
- Calm, consistent reward-based training
- Keep lean to protect joints
- Feed two smaller meals a day
Kit for a Rottweiler
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Best for short coats
Rubber grooming mitt
4.3Soft rubber nubs pick up loose hair and double as a massage.
- Works wet or dry
- Most pets enjoy it
Best for busy minds
Treat-dispensing puzzle toy
4.5Turns part of a meal into a ten-minute job for clever, energetic dogs.
- Adjustable difficulty
- Easy to wash
Best for walks
Padded no-pull harness
4.5Front clip discourages pulling without pressure on the throat.
- Four adjustment points
- Reflective trim
Similar breeds
| Trait | Rottweiler |  Staffordshire Bull TerrierCompare |
 Great DaneCompare |
BoxerCompare |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | 35–60 kg (77–132 lb) | 11–17 kg (24–37 lb) | 45–80 kg (99–176 lb) | 25–32 kg (55–71 lb) |
| Energy | 4/5 | 4/5 | 3/5 | 5/5 |
| Good with children | 3/5 | 4/5 | 4/5 | 5/5 |
| Shedding | 3/5 | 2/5 | 3/5 | 2/5 |
| Grooming needs | 1/5 | 1/5 | 1/5 | 1/5 |
| Trainability | 4/5 | 3/5 | 3/5 | 4/5 |
Questions owners ask
How big does a Rottweiler get?
Adults usually weigh 35–60 kg (77–132 lb) and stand 56–69 cm (22–27 in) tall.
How long do Rottweilers live?
Typically 9–10 years.
Are Rottweilers good with children?
Usually fine with supervision (3 out of 5 on our scale). Every dog or cat is an individual; always supervise young children.
Do Rottweilers shed?
A moderate amount, more in spring and autumn.
What health problems are Rottweilers prone to?
Hip and elbow dysplasia; Osteosarcoma (bone cancer); Cruciate ligament injuries; Aortic stenosis; Bloat.
Tailwise is for general information and is reviewed by veterinary professionals, but it is not a substitute for advice from your own vet, who knows your pet. How we check facts