Designer dogs are not only popular nowadays to create a smaller and darling breed that has a wider cute appeal but also to produce the best possible breed that is the combination of two powerful parents.
One of these is the Doberman Rottweiler Mix, also known by names such as Doberweiler, Doberott, Rottie Dobe, or the Rottie Dobie. A mix of the muscular Rottweiler and the leaner Doberman. In this article, we will refer to this mix as the Rotterman.
In the following discussion, we will learn about the advantages of owning a Rotterman whether it is right for you or not, and also the proper way of taking care of this breed if indeed you acquired one. We will touch on the various health issues common among this breed so you will be armed with proper information in case you encounter problems with your pet.
What Is The Cross Breed Of Doberman And Rottweiler?
The Doberman Rottweiler Mix is a cross between two popular German dog breeds – the Doberman Pinscher and the Rottweiler. Both these dogs are the epitome of strength, power, and agility. This mix is a working dog ideal as a guard dog, police dog, and of course as a pet that is suited for active individuals and families.
What Does A Doberman Mixed With Rottweiler Look Like?
The Doberman Rottweiler Mix or Rotterman is a large working dog standing an average of 24 to 28 inches and weighs approximately 70 to 130 lbs.
It is a handsome and elegant dog with long, slender legs that supports a strong muscular body. The Doberman Rottweiler has a sleek, short coat that is mostly black with patches of brown in the legs, face, and chest which gives them a tailored look. It has a long and lean muzzle with a black nose, brown or amber eyes, and prick or floppy ears.
Who Should Own A Rotterman?
Rotterman is recommended for experienced dog owners only. Novice dog owners might find it hard to handle the energetic characteristics of this breed.
If you are always away and busy with work, maybe this is not the breed for you. It takes a lot of time and commitment to care for this dog especially when they are young pups who need lots of direction in their behavior development.
They can develop separation anxiety and require constant attention from their owners so leaving them all day in a crate is a big no-no.
How Long Do Rottermans Live?
Mixed breeds are generally healthier than their parent breeds due to the combination of the parent’s genetic contributions. In the case of the Rottermans, they have an average lifespan of 9 to 12 years.
Still, there is no assurance that they would not inherit the diseases their parents had. Proper information would help the owner to determine whether their beloved pet suffers from any of the common health issues.
Hip Dysplasia
This is a condition wherein the ball and socket of the hip joints don’t form a perfect fit, causing them to grind against each other.
Causes may be genetic or environmental which include obesity, injury, or overexertion in the leg area, as well as, early neutering before the pup reached maturity. Symptoms include lameness, difficulty in running and jumping, and a swaying gait.
Von Willebrand Disease
This is quite common among Doberman Pinschers affecting around 70% in a research study. It is a genetic blood disorder where there is not enough formation of blood clots. There is no known cure for this condition but look out for excessive bleeding when your pet gets injured.
Wobbler Syndrome
This is a progressive disorder affecting the neck or cervical spine where there is a compression in the spinal cord and spinal nerve roots. Symptoms include pain when shaking their heads and an uncoordinated gait in their rear or front limbs.
Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism is caused by abnormal production of thyroxine in the thyroid glands causing bodily functions to slow down. Symptoms include lethargy, unexplainable weight gain, excessive shedding, and cold intolerance.
How To Take Care Of Doberman Rottweiler Mixes?
Providing optimal care and proper living conditions for your Rotterman could be a rewarding experience for the owner and the pet.
Here are some things to take into account if you plan to own a Rotterman.
Exercise
If you are the outdoorsy type, Rottermans are a perfect match for you. They are strong, muscular dogs that require at least 30 minutes to an hour of daily exercise. Take them for a run, a long walk around your neighborhood, or even a dip in the pool and your Rotterman would be happier for it.
Having enough backyard space is ideal but small apartment living can be possibly provided you take him out for some needed exercise for them to stay trim and healthy.
Diet
Rottermans are highly energetic and muscular dogs so a well-balanced meal is important, especially their protein intake. Pet Plate is an ideal product for your growing pup or mature pet because it uses human-grade food products without any preservatives.
These meals are formulated by veterinary nutritionists so you know your pet is getting the highest quality of food possible. A growing pup would need around one-and-a-half cups of food daily and a mature dog around 3 to 4 cups daily.
Multivitamins are also recommended for your canine buddy’s optimum health.
Dental Water Additives
One way to assure your pet’s optimal oral health is to use dental water additives. This prevents the build-up of plaque and tartar and also freshens your pet’s breath. Adding a few drops to their water bowl not only promotes dental care but also keeps their water bowl clean and free from bacteria.
Are Rottermans Good With Kids? Temperaments Of Doberman Rottweiler Mixes
Rottermans are protective and friendly with kids however it is better with older kids who know how to handle and respect the boundaries of large dogs. Proper supervision is needed when it comes to smaller kids because they can be accidentally nudged when running around with these dogs.
Are Rottermans Good Dogs?
Misconceptions abound about the Rotterman and their similar-looking parents because of their strong, aggressive looks. Creating a bond with these pooches is actually very easy because they are attentive and affectionate.
A Rotterman likes following you around whether inside the house or outside and it gives you a sense of security because of its protectiveness. Plus, Rottermans do not mind being petted and cuddled by their owners.
Problems only arise if they are not properly trained and socialized and only appear aggressive if they sense danger and are not treated well. This trait could be minimized by proper socialization and exposing your pets to new places and smells. This way he would get used to different people and events.
Are Rottermans Easy To Learn?
Rottermans are very trainable, smart, and obedient. Their parents rank high among the most intelligent breeds in the world. However, they can be stubborn and take advantage of you if they find you are being inconsistent with your firmness when giving commands. Consistency and assertiveness on the part of the owner cannot be emphasized enough.
Do Doberman Rottweiler Mixes Shed? Grooming Tips For Doberman Rottweiler Mixes
Are Doberman Rottweiler Mixes Hypoallergenic?
People might be mistaken to think that Rottermans are not shedders. They are mild to moderate shedders, making them mildly hypoallergenic. Doberman Rottweiler Mixes need brushing once or twice a week and more during their shedding season.
What regular brushing does is that it removes the old coats of your Rotterman while encouraging new growth to keep it looking neat and shiny.
Using a product like the FURminator Undercoat Tool will minimize your weekly brushing because it reduces by as much as 90% the loose hair from your Doberman Rottweiler Mix. Its curved edge follows your canine buddy’s natural shape making your pooch comfortable during brushing time.
Brushing also helps release the natural oils that would make your Rotterman’s coat smooth and shiny.
Bathing
If you are doing your regular brushing, Rottermans need not be bathed more than necessary. Too much bathing could reduce the number of natural oils on their skin causing some skin irritation due to dryness and cracked skin.
When bathing your dog, it is perfect to use a product like Mighty Petz 2-In-1 Oatmeal Shampoo and Conditioner that doesn’t irritate your pet’s skin. It is all-naturally made with organic ingredients plus the fresh lavender scent makes snuggling even more enjoyable.
Your Rotterman’s floppy ears should also be wiped and cleaned once in a while. Use a damp towel or cotton to clear the ear wax and other debris. Additionally, clip their nails when it gets too long. Overgrown nails could limit your dog’s movements and cause him to sit or stand uncomfortably.
Related Questions
How Much Does A Rotterman Cost? A Rotterman puppy could cost from $300 to up to $3,000 depending on their parent breeds. Finding a reputable breeder is recommended so you can be assured of a healthy pup. Another option is to adopt from a local shelter to give abandoned dogs a new lease in life and a proper home.
Are Rottweilers Or Dobermans Smarter? According to Stanley Coren in his book, The Intelligence of Dogs, the Doberman Pinscher ranks 5th while the Rottweiler comes in 9th based on the dog’s ability to understand new commands. Either way, both these dogs are in the Top 10 so expect the Doberman Rottweiler Mix to be up to the task.
Do Rottermans Like Water? Rottermans are athletic dogs and they can learn to like water and swim as long as you give them some encouragement. Although their parents are not natural swimmers, coaxing them with their favorite toy or a little rubber duckie could trick them to get into the pool. Support their bodies with your arms under their bellies to let them get used to the water.
