Dobermans and Rottweilers are highly active dogs that are extremely loyal; hence, you can also expect these traits in their mix — the Rotterman. If you are looking for a loyal dog, you should consider getting this unique crossbreed.
The affectionate and devoted Doberman Rottweiler mix can be characterized as alert and protective. Having it as a family dog will surely bring a sense of security to your home.
Everything you need to know about the Doberman Rottweiler mix will be discussed in this guide, including its history, temperament, and puppy price.
Breed Overview
| Height: | 23 – 28 inches |
| Weight: | 65 – 120 pounds |
| Lifespan: | 8 – 12 years |
| Coat Colors: | Brown, black, rust, amber |
| Temperament: | Loyal, active, intelligent |
| Suitable for: | Families with children, active singles, being a watchdog |
What Is a Doberman Rottweiler Mix?
A Doberman Rottweiler mix is a hybrid between two purebred German dog breeds, the Doberman Pinscher and the Rottweiler. Also known as Rotterman or Rottie Dobie, this mixed-breed dog is fearless and can be quite aggressive. Because of this, Rottermans are usually trained as police or military dogs.
In terms of looks, Doberman Rottweilers are easily recognizable for their sharp appearance. But aside from their physique, they can be great friends to you and your kids, keeping you protected at all times.
However, you should know that a little bit of patience and commitment are needed to train this breed. Their appearance, size, and temperament also depend on the dominant traits they acquired from their parent breeds.
Furthermore, since Doberman Rottweilers are mixed breeds, they are not recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC).
Doberman Rottweiler Mix Origin and History
According to many pet fanciers, the Doberman Rottweiler mix was first developed in the United States. However, aside from this, not much is known about this hybrid’s history.
Fortunately, we can look at the history and origin of its parent breeds to learn more about this mix. First off, Dobermans got their name from Karl Friedrich Louis Dobermann, the person who developed the breed.
The breed was produced to serve as his guard dog since he was working as a tax collector, dog catcher, and night watchman.
Shortly after its development, many breeders took an interest, and after 60 years, the breed was recognized. A few years later, Dobermans were then used by German soldiers as watchdogs during the First World War.
Meanwhile, the Rottweiler breed was used as working dogs for protecting and herding cattle. While modern-day Rotties are no longer considered shepherd dogs, they were among the oldest herding dogs in the world.
If you want to dive deep into the history of this mix, you can read about the origin of the Doberman Rottweiler parent dogs.
Doberman Rottweiler Mix Appearance
A Doberman Rottweiler mix is typically seen with a muscular body that gives off an athletic vibe. This hybrid dog is undoubtedly attractive, showing off a powerful yet regal look.
As solid dogs built for work, they also have long and powerful legs. Naturally, these dogs also sport long and thin tails; however, many owners choose to have their tails docked, similar to their Dobie and Rottie parents.
The eyes of the Rotterman can either be amber or brown, exuding an alert and fearless expression. Thanks to their long-nosed Doberman lineage, Rottermans also have long muzzles.
Meanwhile, they have jet-black noses and are usually seen with floppy or erect ears.
In terms of coats, Rottermans have short and shiny coats. They can come in a variety of colors, including brown, black, rust, and amber. Moreover, Rottermans can also inherit the red tinge of some Doberman Pinschers.
In rare cases, they might come in a diluted bluish-gray color if they have a blue Doberman parent. White and albino puppies are also possible due to the Doberman gene.
The video below shows the powerful stance and build of a Rotterman dog:
Doberman Rottweiler Mix Size and Weight
Both Dobermans and Rottweilers are large dogs, so a Doberman Rottweiler mix is also expected to be a big canine. They weigh about 65 to 120 pounds and can reach a height of 23 to 28 inches.
Like other dog breeds, male Doberman Rottweiler mixes are comparably bigger and heavier than their female counterparts, much like how there are differences between male and female Dobermans and Rottweilers.
However, some Rotterman puppies may grow up to be smaller than their estimated size, especially if they have a miniature Rottweiler parent.
In addition to this, there are many factors weighing in on the final size of an adult Doberman Rottweiler, like its genetics and nutrition.
Doberman Rottweiler Mix Temperament and Personality
If you want a perfect dog for your family, then a Doberman Rottweiler mix is a wonderful choice. They form close attachments to their owners and are very protective of them.
Surprisingly, they are also good with children, constantly checking on them and making sure that no harm is in their way.
However, Rotterman puppies are highly active and may have aggressive tendencies. Early training is necessary to tame them. This will also help them adapt to their surroundings, especially to other people and animals.
Doberman Pinscher Rottweiler mixes love playing outdoors and will need about 14 miles of walking distance per week. You can bring them to the dog park, but they must be adequately tamed beforehand to avoid dog quarrels.
This mixed breed can be possessive and territorial if they sense danger around them, making them excellent guard dogs. However, they may resort to non-stop growling or barking when alerted by strangers.
All in all, the Rotterman is a dog that can adapt to most families. As long as you are willing to train this dog early on, you are sure to have an excellent furry friend.
Doberman Rottweiler Mix Lifespan and Health Issues
The average life expectancy of a well-cared-for Doberman Rottweiler mix is 8 to 12 years. However, despite their longevity, their health is not perfect.
Both Dobermans and Rottweilers are vulnerable to major canine health diseases, which are mostly due to interbreeding. As early as puppies, it’s vital to visit your vet to check for some health problems.
These are some of the health conditions you should watch out for if you own a Doberman Rottweiler mix:
- Hip and Elbow Dysplasia: This is a painful joint disease that can lead to arthritis. Large mixed breeds, such as the Doberman Rottweiler mix, are predisposed to this condition. Hip and elbow dysplasia can be managed medically, but surgery is often required, especially for severe cases.
- Von Willebrand’s Disease: This is an inherited bleeding disorder common in dogs. Prolonged bleeding, as well as bloody urine and feces, are manifestations of this disease. Blood and DNA tests can be used to diagnose this health condition. However, there is still no known cure for von Willebrand’s disease.
- Hypothyroidism: Another health issue that can affect your Doberman Rottweiler pup is hypothyroidism. It is a hormone imbalance resulting in low thyroid hormone levels. Signs of this disease include weight gain, excessive shedding, and feeling cold.
Make sure you familiarize yourself with common dog diseases and their manifestations.
It is imperative that you get your Doberman Rottweiler mix from a trusted breeder. Vet consults must also be done to monitor these health conditions.
How to Take Care of Your Rottweiler Doberman Mix
Taking care of your Doberman Rottweiler mix shouldn’t be so hard. You just have to provide its basic requirements like food and water sufficiently. Of course, giving it love and care is never out of the picture.
All the necessities as they grow will be discussed in this section. Read more to learn how to effectively take care of your Doberman Rottweiler puppy.
Food and Diet
The Doberman Rottweiler mix is a very active breed with an athletic and muscular frame. To maintain this physique, they need food rich in protein and iron.
This dog breed also has a fast metabolism, so they need a good amount of food in their daily meals. Meanwhile, dog treats must be given in moderation to prevent obesity.
Usually, a Rotterman puppy will not have special dietary requirements, but it is good to consult your vet to avoid possible complications.
Cleaning and Grooming
Because of their short hair, grooming Doberman Rottweilers requires little maintenance. Brushing their coat with a stiff brush will only need to be carried out twice a week.
However, if they inherit the genes of a long-haired Rottweiler, you might need to increase the frequency of brushing to remove loose fur.
Regularly combing your dog’s coat helps remove loose fur, so you won’t have to sweep the floor much. As for bathing, you can bathe your Doberman Rottweiler whenever you think it’s necessary.
Like other furry pets, your Rottweiler Doberman mix needs to get its teeth brushed at least two to three times a week to ensure good oral health. Doing this will prevent bad breath in your pup.
Cleaning your Rotterman’s ear is also a must since it reduces the risk of ear infections. Keeping their nails trimmed once or twice a month is also advised.
Training and Exercise
Even though Doberman Rottweilers are extremely intelligent dogs, a lot of patience will be needed to train them due to their stubborn streak. They need a strong owner that can reinforce commands.
Training them yourself can also serve as a bonding time with your pet. However, they can be more receptive to instructions in the hands of a more experienced trainer.
It is crucial to start obedience training at an early age to instill good behavior and obedience. Early socialization is also recommended for the Doberman Rottweiler mix to be a well-adjusted dog.
You can give them plenty of positive affirmations to follow commands effectively. Allowing them to socialize with other dogs will also improve their attitude.
As high-energy dogs, Rottweiler Doberman mixes have demanding exercise needs. They need at least 30 to 45 minutes of long walks or intense physical activities for them to get enough exercise daily.
How Much Does a Doberman Rottweiler Mix Cost? Puppy Prices & Expenses
Prices of hybrid dogs are usually higher than purebred dogs. With this in mind, you can expect a Rottweiler Doberman to be quite expensive at around $700 to $1,800 from a reputable breeder.
Aside from the price of the dog itself, you will also need to provide for its needs and other requirements. Your additional expenses will include dog food, medical checkups, and grooming fees.
The table below summarizes the initial costs associated with owning a Doberman Rottweiler mix:
| Type of Expense | Cost |
| Food and Treats | $80 – $150 |
| Bowls | $15 – $40 |
| Toys | $30 – $100 |
| Beds | $50 – $300 |
| Collars and Leashes | $15 – $50 |
| Crates and Carriers | $60 – $500 |
| Grooming Essentials | $50 – $250 |
| Initial Vet Visits | $100 – $500 |
| Initial Vaccine Shots | $50 – $300 |
| Deworming, Flea, and Tick Medications | $40 – $300 |
| Neutering or Spaying | $50 – $500 |
| Microchipping | $40 – $60 |
| Dog License | $10 – $20 |
| Other Essentials | $30 – $80 |
| Total Initial Cost | $620 – $3,150 |
The initial cost of owning a Doberman Rottweiler puppy might break your bank quite a bit. Luckily, you can ask an experienced dog owner for tips to cut costs.
Places to Find Doberman Rottweiler Mix Puppies for Sale and Adoption
It’s best to take some time to find the right dog from a reputable breeder or rescue. Luckily, this article has a round-up of the best sources for Rotterman puppies.
Below are some sources where you can get your own Doberman Rottweiler:
- PuppySpot – PuppySpot is a community of dog lovers dedicated to advertising purebred and designer-breed puppies like the Doberman Rottweiler mix. They enforce the highest standards when it comes to improving the experience of their customers and the breeders that register on their website.
- Lancaster Puppies – This advertising website is a convenient and efficient way to find a Doberman Rottweiler puppy. Dogs from Lancaster Puppies are guaranteed to be sourced from reputable breeders. Check out their listings from time to time to see if they have Rottermans for sale.
- Next Day Pets – Located in Annapolis, Maryland, Next Day Pets is another source of Doberman Rottweiler puppies. To avoid puppy scammers, they require ID verification from qualified breeders. You can also check their forums to find other owners of Doberman Rottweiler mixes.
Meanwhile, if you prefer adopting a Rotterman, try reaching out to the following pet adoption websites:
- Rotten Rottie Rescue – This is a small, non-profit rescue that focuses mainly on Rottweilers and Rottweiler mixes. They address all the medical issues of their dogs and provide vaccinations for some diseases. Their goal is to rescue, restore Rotties’ health, and place them in safe and loving homes.
- Southern States Rescued Rottweilers, Inc. (SSRR) – This organization is dedicated to rescuing Rotties and saving them from abuse. Another great thing about them is they aim to educate the public knowledge about Rottweiler appreciation, health, and training. You can contact them further to see if they have Rottermans available for adoption.
- Doberman Rescue League – Situated in Oakland Park, Florida, this organization started out in 1977 and has been saving Dobermans since. They make sure that their dogs have up-to-date shots and have been spayed or neutered, preparing them for their forever home. Although they mainly rescue Dobbies, mixed breeds like Rottermans can occasionally be found in their shelter.
Buying or rescuing a dog is a full commitment. You have to be responsible for taking care of them and providing for their needs. More than just having the budget, you must have the right attitude when owning a pet.
Pros and Cons of Owning a Doberman Rottweiler Mix
There are mixed opinions on crossbreeds. Some adore them, but some prefer not to have them as pets. While Rottermans are excellent dogs, they also have their fair share of pros and cons. Let’s take a look at them.
Here are some advantages of owning a Rottweiler Doberman mix:
- Unique appearance: The physical qualities of a Rottweiler Doberman mix depend on its gene pool. Doberman Rottweilers have short fur, which is typically black and brown. This appearance is enough to know that it is from Doberman and Rottweiler’s parents.
- Better attitude: Dobermans and Rottweilers are both loyal, intelligent, and very active dogs. Dobermans can be considered quite stubborn and aggressive, but this can be toned down by Rottweilers’ love for cuddles. In addition, a Doberman Rottweiler mix is devoted to its family.
- Fewer health conditions: A Doberman Rottweiler pup has less risk for health conditions like heart issues and joint problems. This is true because there is more diversity in a mixed breed’s gene pool.
And here are some downsides of owning a Rottweiler Doberman mix:
- Unpredictable behavior: The behavior and temperament of a dog are very important factors for an owner. An individual will look at a dog and will know if it is suitable for him and his lifestyle. A crossbreed like the Doberman Rottweiler mix might have unpredictable behavior, unlike purebreds.
- Hard to predict size: Although considered a large dog, there is no way of knowing the exact size of a full-grown adult Doberman Rottweiler mix.
- Expensive to purchase: With the growing interest of dog lovers in designer breeds, a Doberman Pinscher Rottweiler costs more than a purebred dog. You can expect to spend a little more if the pup you are getting comes from a champion bloodline.
When you are thinking of buying a Doberman Rottweiler, always weigh the pros and cons of owning one. This will help you decide if this particular breed is best for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Doberman Rottweiler Mixes Aggressive?
Doberman Rottweiler mixes have aggressive tendencies, but only when they sense danger around them and their pack. They will not be aggressive for no reason, and they will make you feel protected at all costs.
Are Doberman Rottweiler Mixes Hypoallergenic?
Many mistake Doberman Rottweiler mixes as hypoallergenic dogs. In reality, they shed their coats heavily. This makes them non-hypoallergenic and not suitable for allergy sufferers.
Do Doberman Rottweiler Mixes Shed a Lot?
It may not look like it, but Doberman Rottweiler mixes shed heavily, especially during shedding season.
Combing their coat will help remove loose fur from their short coats. Regular grooming also helps a lot in reducing shedding.
Are Rottermans Smart?
Rottermans are one of the most intelligent dog breeds out there. They are very easy to train, especially when you employ positive reinforcement. This makes them outstanding guard dogs.
Final Thoughts
This loyal and protective pooch loves cuddles and will surely be a great addition to your family. They are surprisingly good and gentle with kids and will guard them no matter what.
Doberman Rottweiler mixes love to play outdoors, so it’s advisable to have a backyard. They need lots of physical activities, so having one will push you to have a more active lifestyle.
As strong dogs, they may be a bit stubborn, so they are best suited for firm and experienced owners.
Surely, your life will be much happier with this lovable pooch. Let us know your thoughts about the Doberman Rottweiler mix in the comments below!
