Rotter Breed Guide

What is the history & origin of the Rotter?

The history of the Rotterman isn't exactly clear - all that's known is that they've emerged as a prominent designer dog in recent years in the U.S. The Rotterman may have existed as a crossbreed for centuries, given that both of its parent breeds originated in the same part of the world. The Rotter is the result of the mixing of a Doberman with a Rottweiler.

The Doberman has its origins in the German state of Thuringia where it was first bred by a local tax collector by the name of Herr Louis Dobermann. The Doberman Pinscher became a prominent guard dog breed in the late 1800s and was later used as a police and rescue dog.

They were introduced to America after World War II by U.S. servicemen who took them home with them from Germany.

The ancestors of Rottweilers were introduced to Germany by the Romans thousands of years ago. They were used as working dogs throughout the centuries until the Allgemeiner Deutscher Rottweiler Klub was set up in 1921, and the dog became popular as a family pet. It is thought that the Rottweiler was brought to the U.S. by German immigrants following WWII.

So, the Rotter dog may have been born in Germany as a result of random crossbreeding, but it was first bred on purpose in the US. Despite its potentially lengthy history, this hybrid breed is currently not recognised by the American Kennel Club. It is recognised, however, by the International Designer Canine Registry.

Who are Rotter dogs best for?

Rotter dogs love to keep themselves in shape and can easily tire out the most athletic of dog owners. They're best for owners who not only enjoy spending weekends exploring the countryside but for those who also enjoy going on hearty walks daily. These dogs would love a human partner to explore the world with and get restless if they don't go on a daily adventure.

If you're already the athletic-type, and regularly go on hikes and cycles, a Rotter will be more than happy to run alongside you - and even in front of you! They're excitable pups, and the thought alone of going on a big walk will get them hyped enough to run the entire distance.

On top of this, it's recommended that you spend a bit of time playing dog sports with a Rotter in order to give all of their muscles (including their brain!) sufficient exercise.

Rotter dogs are not recommended for those who stay in an apartment or a house that doesn't feature a garden. A Rotter really appreciates space. If raised alongside a child, a Rotter will protect and respect the child as much as they do their master.

How much grooming does a Rotter need?

Rotters are minimal shedders but will experience one shedding season per year. For the most part, they only need one brush per week, but during shedding season they may require more. You'll be able to tell by the level of dead fur that builds up on their coats how much brushing they need. Their coats remain short and do not require professional grooming.

Like other dogs, you should brush their teeth daily and clean their ears once per week. Rotters are particularly prone to wax build-up, which could infect their ears if left alone for too long. Bathing doesn't have to be a regular thing though - only when they need it!

Do Rotter bark much?

These guard dogs do bark whenever someone approaches their home, but only in a very low bark or growl. They are not loud barkers, despite their size! A Rotter will also never bark for no reason, and typically only do it to warn their masters about a perceived threat or when they're interacting with other dogs. Barking is not a habit you have to worry about.

Do Rotter bite?

Like all dogs, a Rotter puppy will bite to control the pain caused by teething. These bites are not intended to harm, but more just a form of release for the puppy. For this, it's important to get them plenty of chew toys so that they have something to bite on other than their owner's hands!

In adulthood, they're unlikely to bite unless provoked. These high-energy dogs will give you plenty of warning if they're about to bite, through growling or barking. They are highly unlikely to bite out of the blue.

What is the temperament & personality of a Rotter?

These dogs are only standoffish with people who they don't know. They can form a close bond with children and other animals that they grow up with, and can serve as a best friend to your young ones.

Their personality keeps them in control of their aggressions, but their dedication will cause them to become violent should their family members be in any danger. They're not naturally aggressive dogs but will use all the power they have if needed. Rottermans like to check up on members of their family regularly and will hunt around the house until they find you.

Given the Doberman Pinscher influence, they like to keep themselves busy and enjoy being tasked with something to do, such as guarding the house.

What is the weight & size of a Rotter?

Once an adult, this mixed breed weighs between 31 and 58 kg and will be between 58 and 63 cm in terms of height.

How much training does a Rotter need?

Rotters are used to being the pack leader, so strict obedience training is a must to keep them under control. You should devise rules you wish them to follow beforehand and strictly abide by them while training. For example, set boundaries in the house and garden, and firmly tell them off whenever they break the set rules.

As soon as you show weakness to a Rotter, they will try to take control. You also can't be too hard on them, as they won't respond well to harsh reprimands. It's a difficult balance to get right, but positive reinforcement is what works best for Rotters, as with most dog breeds.

These dogs enjoy interactive play sessions, which can be incorporated into your training. They can also carry out agility training and be taught how to complete tasks, such as herding or searching.

What are some of the most common health issues for a Rotter?

Rotters are generally healthy and don't have any specific health problems but may inherit some of the health concerns that their parents suffer from.

A Rotter may suffer from bloat joint dysplasia, Von Willebrand's disease, canine hip dysplasia, gastric dilation volvulus (GDV), hypothyroidism, or mitral valve dysplasia, amongst problems common in other pets such as obesity.

What is the lifespan of a Rotter?

A Rotterman that doesn't experience any health problems will live somewhere between 9 and 12 years - potentially even longer!

How much should you feed a Rotter?

A Rotterman requires 4-5 cups of high-grade dry dog food per day, split into two separate meals. These muscular dogs need to follow a diet appropriate to their body weight to thrive. Speak to your vet for a more accurate feeding recommendation.

What is the price of a Rotter in Australia?

Rotterman puppies can be quite affordable for a designer breed and are often sold for around $900.