German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix Breed Guide

What is the history & origin of the German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix?

While the breed first began gaining prominence in the late 2010s, they have been bred before.

The German Shepherd Rottweiler mix is a mixture of purebred Rottweiler and purebred German Shepherd, with both these parent breeds having originated in Germany.

The Rottweiler goes back a long, long way; back to the Romans who, having made themselves welcome in Germany, used these dogs to herd sheep alongside other jobs in the town of Rottweil, where the dog breed gets its name.

This breed certainly hasn't forgotten its roots and is still used commonly as police and guard dogs due to their strong desire to have a 'job', as well as being easy to train thanks to their superior intelligence.

The other side of the parental lineage also comes from herding dogs. German Shepherds were bred for just that from the late 19th century and were used routinely throughout the First World War as loyal guard dogs, as well as dependable and brave messenger dogs. Today, unsurprisingly, they are used as service dogs and commonly work alongside police forces across the world.

Who are German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix dogs best for?

German Shepherd Rottweiler mixes need to be kept active, so they must be part of a family that loves long hikes or runs. Basically, being outdoors is key to the well-being of the Shepweiler, both physically and emotionally.

One short walk a day is not enough for these dogs - sometimes up to 3 may be needed, or a bigger hiking trail encompassing 6km+.

They need lots and lots of stimulation in the form of games and playtime activities, so someone who has the time to spend doing this is a must. Those that work long hours would not be suitable owners for a Shepweiler given how attached they become to their owners, and hours of solitude can be bad news for their mental health.

If the Rottweiler German Shepherd mix becomes bored, which happens easily, they can be destructive, taking their frustrations out on your home, including floors and furniture.

How much grooming does a German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix need?

Thanks to the coat of the German Shepherd dog, this breed will shed a lot and, therefore, will require lots of brushing (which, thankfully, many of them enjoy!) to save you and your home from becoming covered in hair! Aim for a good brush of the coat at least twice a week; it provides a lovely bonding experience.

Depending on how much your Shepweiler spends outdoors - which should be a lot - you should bathe them once a week, maybe more, depending on how dirty they get.

As active and mucky pups at times, their paws should be checked and wiped to ensure there's nothing lodged in them - and to save dirty paw marks on your newly cleaned floor, of course! Their nails don't tend to need cut as often as other breeds; being so active means the nails wear down quickly, but always keep an eye on them.

Do German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix bark much?

German Shepherd Rottweiler mixes won't bark for no reason. Although they are brilliant guard dogs, they can become vocal when they sense a threat or are excited. However, they aren't noisy dogs.

Do German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix bite?

German Shepherd Rottweiler pups can tend to nip and bite. To stop this in its tracks, it is imperative that they are socialised from a young age - as early as possible, in fact. Lots of 'little and often' positive reinforcement training will also help limit this.

Thankfully, with the right training and reinforcement, the breed soon grows out of the bad habit.

Any dog that is showing signs of aggression should be brought to a veterinary professional as soon as possible, as it could be a symptom of discomfort or pain.

What is the temperament & personality of a German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix?

The German Shepherd Rottweiler hybrid is extremely loyal and completely devoted to its owner; this trait is commonly seen in the German Shepherd parent. While they will love and bond with the whole immediate family, the Shepweiler will form its closest connection with the main caregiver, who they will like to guard and protect.

And speaking of this trait which, in case you haven't guessed, comes from the Rottweiler, they make excellent guard dogs who will protect your home and family at all costs. And, let's face it, they are good at it; what intruder is going to think they are a match for such a fearsome-looking dog?!

Saying that, when the Shepweiler is with its favourite humans, it can be goofy, humorous, and extremely calm. They love nothing more than a good cuddle after a hectic day at the park or swimming in the pool.

They are not aggressive dogs if they have been socialised well and trained appropriately.

What is the weight & size of a German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix?

As one of the larger dog breeds, the mix can grow in height to up to 70 cm and weigh up to 50 kg.

How much training does a German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix need?

Due to the high intelligence of the breed, the Rottie Shepherd can be trained with ease - something which most definitely cannot be said for every breed of dog!

They love positive reinforcement, which is usually in the form of treats when they do the right thing, although playtime and cuddles can also be incorporated too. It's definitely better for their calorie intake as, although these dogs are very active, they can be prone to weight gain, leading at times to obesity.

What are some of the most common health issues for a German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix?

Largely due to the parent breeds, the Rotten Shepherd can develop some health concerns during its lifetime.

These can include:

• Cancer

• Heart Disease

• Hip and Elbow Dysplasia

• Eye Disease

However, it is important to note that, although there is an increased risk of the breed developing their conditions/illnesses, there is no guarantee that they will. If you notice a change in your dog's health or behaviour, however, you should make an appointment to speak to a vet.

What is the lifespan of a German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix?

A Rottweiler German Shepherd mix can live between 10 and 13 years, but this will largely depend on the overall health of the dog. A Shottie that leads an active and happy life and is fed on premium-grade food is much more likely to live longer.

How much should you feed a German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix?

Because of how active they are, the breed requires a lot of food. This needs to be as high-end as you can afford and nutritionally dense with lots of vitamins and minerals to keep the mixed-breed dog in as good a health as possible. Always avoid food that packs in fillers over quality nutrients.

You can ask your vet to recommend a dog food brand that is most suitable to the breed and also how much you should feed your four-legged friend. Depending on the age and fitness level of your dog, you may need to give them more or less daily amounts of food.

What is the price of a German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix in Australia?

Shepweilers aren't the cheapest dogs to buy from a breeder, and prices do wildly fluctuate, so expect to spend anything between $1000 - $2000 on a pup.

Or, consider checking out your local animal shelter, which might just have a German Shepherd and Rottweiler mix looking for their forever home. And, it's much cheaper than going to a breeder!

If, however, you do wish to consider purchasing over adoption, it's vital to source a reputable breeder that has placed the pups' well-being over profit. Always, always stay away from puppy farms.