German Rottweiler vs. American Rottweiler: Know Your Rotties

German Rottweilers are bred under the strict guidelines of the Allgemeiner Deutscher Rottweiler Klub (ADRK), which mandates a breed suitability test for all breeding dogs. These dogs are evaluated for temperament, structure, and health before being allowed to reproduce.

American Rottweilers follow the American Kennel Club (AKC) standard, which emphasizes physical appearance and has fewer breeding restrictions, resulting in greater variability among the dogs.

German Rottweilers tend to be larger and stockier, with broader heads and thicker bone structure. They often have almond-shaped eyes and are considered true working dogs. Many German Rottweilers have natural, undocked tails due to tail docking being banned in Germany.

American Rottweilers, sometimes referred to as American Rotties, can vary more in size and shape. Tail docking is still common among American breeders, especially for dog shows. Their body build is often slightly leaner compared to their German cousins.

German and American Rottweilers share similar traits: loyalty, intelligence, and strong protective instincts. However, German Rotties are generally more consistent in temperament due to strict breeding standards.

Early training and socialization are crucial for both types to thrive as family dogs, herding dogs, or security dogs.

American Rottweilers can exhibit greater variability in behavior, influenced by differences in breeding practices. Reputable breeders in both countries prioritize health screenings for hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia, which are common in the Rottweiler puppies of both types.

German Rottweilers are commonly used as police and working dogs due to their reliability and strength, and have even been used as guide dogs. American counterparts are more common as companion animals and family dogs.

That said, both can make wonderful dogs with proper training and care.

Whether you choose a German Rottie or an American Rottie, focus on selecting from a reputable breeder. Look for clear documentation, health screenings, and information on the animal's tail status, lineage, and training.

We created this article in conjunction with AI technology, then made sure it was fact-checked and edited by a HowStuffWorks editor.