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Rottweiler Colours

Dr. Cristina Vulpe
Reviewed by:
Dr. Cristina Alice Vulpe
Veterinarian

Did you know that Rottweilers come in different colours? When you think of the Rottweiler breed, you probably imagine a big, black dog with rust markings. But these fearless dogs come in all sorts of colours; some are common, and others incredibly rare.

Let’s take a look at the different colours of Rottweiler dogs.

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Common Rottweiler Colours

Rottweilers have a striking coat that is predominantly black with rich tan markings. This classic colour combination highlights their powerful build and strong presence.

The tan markings typically appear on the cheeks, eyebrows, chest, and legs, creating a sharp contrast against the black coat. While the black and tan combination is the most recognised, some Rottweilers may display small white markings, though these are considered less desirable in breed standards.

What Colours Do Rottweilers Come In?

Rottweilers come in more colours than one might think. And while some might be unique and beautiful, according to the American Kennel Club, the only recognised colours of Rottweilers are:

  • Black and Rust
  • Black and Mahogany
  • Black and Tan

The AKC Rottweiler breed standard states: “Always black with rust to mahogany markings.”

Some of the rarer colours include red, grey, white and blue, but some of these colours may indicate a poorly bred, non-pedigree Rottweiler.

Black and mahogany Rottweiler

Black and mahogany Rottweilers are fairly common, especially for American Rottweilers. The mahogany is a deep, red-brown colour, and these markings are clearly defined by the black pigment on the rest of the coat. Mahogany markings are the darkest markings accepted by the AKC as the breed standard.

Black and Rust Rottweiler

Purebred Rottweilers are also available with a black coat and rust-coloured markings. They look fairly similar to black and mahogany dogs; however, the rust marking is slightly lighter in colour.

This colour combination is very common for the Rottweiler’s coat, and the Rottweiler is one of two breeds that are considered to have a “true” rust-coloured coat.

Black and Tan Rottweiler

Black and tan colouring is the last AKC-approved Rottweiler colour. The tan markings are very light when compared to the rust and mahogany markings. Despite black and tan dogs being a common sight, this colour combination is much rarer for Rottweilers.

White Rottweiler

White Rottweilers are not common; their colour is primarily due to a genetic defect or disease, like vitiligo or albinism. A dog with vitiligo will develop white patches on its body. A dog with albinism will have a coat that turns completely white.

Red Rottweiler

Red Rottweilers are very rare, without the recognisable black saddle on their backs. They often look like crossbreed dogs but are actually the result of a poorly bred Rottweiler.

The completely red coat can be an indication that the Rottweiler puppies will suffer health problems later in their life.

Blue Rottweiler

These dogs can also be described as slate or grey Rottweilers because of the lighter pigment in their coat. The blue colouring mostly indicates that the Rottweiler is not a purebred and is the result of they are the result of crossbreeding.

Blue Rottweilers also tend to suffer from health conditions, Follicular Dysplasia in particular. This disease is related to the presence of a dilute gene in the dog’s genetic makeup and results in hair loss.

What Colours Does the Australian National Kennel Council Recognise in Rottweilers?

As mentioned before, Rottweilers can come in many different colours, but only a few are recognised by certain clubs. According to the Australian National Kennel Council, the following colour is approved:

“Black with clearly defined markings of a rich tan on the cheeks, muzzle, throat, chest and legs, as well as over both eyes and under the base of the tail.”

What Colour Rottweiler Should I Choose?

The colour Rottweiler you choose will not determine whether you’re choosing a great guard dog and family companions; however, it does dictate whether or not your dog can compete in shows.

If you wish to enter dog shows or dog sports, you should get a puppy that matches the breed standards of the Australian National Kennel Council and American Kennel Club. This means that you will have to get a mahogany, rust or tan Rottweiler.

You should also be aware that a blue Rottweiler is prone to health issues, such as follicular dysplasia.

If you are only looking for a Rottweiler to have as a pet, then the colour you choose doesn’t really matter too much, as it won’t affect their behaviour and temperament. To ensure you’re getting a good-natured dog, always do your homework and see the parents’ information and pedigree papers.

Rottweiler Puppy Coat vs. Adult Coat

A Rottweiler puppy could have a different coloured coat than an adult dog. As the pups mature, their coats can become either lighter or darker. Once they reach adulthood, their coats will have a defined colour.

Genetics can cause a change of colour. Even if your pup is born with a black outer coat, it could have red or blue genes, which only show through once your pup is a few months old. This is a common phenomenon with other breeds as well.

Final Thoughts on Rottweiler Colours

Rottweilers are amazing dogs and come in a variety of colours when it comes to their chest markings and markings on their front and hind legs. There is no correct colour unless you wish to compete in dog events, so find a Rottweiler puppy with a sweet temperament and welcome the newest fluffy member of your family.

Learn more about: Rottweiler Dog Breed Information

Other helpful information

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