Everything You Need to Know About the Long Haired Rottweiler

Breed Overview

Characteristic	Male	Female
Height	24 to 28 inches	22 to 26 inches
Weight	115 to 135 pounds	85 to 115 pounds
Coat Type	Thick, fluffy	Thick, fluffy

The Long Haired Rottweiler is a special twist on the typical Rottweiler you might know. These dogs have thick, fluffy coats that make them appear even larger than their short-haired counterparts. Regarding size, male Rottweilers can stand 24 to 28 inches tall and weigh between 115 and 135 pounds, while female Rottweilers with long hair are slightly smaller, standing 22 to 26 inches tall and weighing 85 to 115 pounds.

These Rottweilers are not just about looks; they have unique personalities, too. Males and females can be quite different in terms of temperament and behaviors. Males might be a bit more territorial and independent, while females tend to be needier for attention and a little more aloof. Whether you’re a dog owner or thinking about bringing one into your home, understanding these differences can help you respond better to their needs. It’s all about knowing what makes these lovely pets tick so you can create a way to break into their hearts right from the start.

History

This is rare and uncommon type of dog. Even though they exist in the US, the American Kennel Club (AKC) has breeding regulations that make them rare. The AKC doesn’t like them to be involved in illicit activities like dog fighting. Going back in history, Rottweilers are one of the oldest dog breeds. They started off in the Roman Empire, working as drover dogs.

When the Romans conquered and settled in parts of Germany, they used these dogs to farm and manage cattle in the booming markets of southern Germany.These dogs come from a mix of Molossus dogs and regional breeds in that area. They were great for transporting things and keeping watch, making them valuable as both guard dogs and drought dogs. In 1901, the first Rottweiler dog club was set up to preserve the breed.

Then, in 1921, the Allgemeiner Deutscher Rottweiler Klub was founded to help advance their care and standards. Another reason for their rarity today might be because of neutering and spaying. Neutering means taking the testicles off a male dog, and spaying is when the ovaries and uterus are removed from a female dog. These practices stop the dogs from having puppies and also lower the risk of certain cancers.

Temperament & Intelligence

These dogs are super intelligent, which makes them a lot of fun to train. They are also loyal and obedient, always ready to listen if you have a steady hand and keep things consistent. This addition to your home can bring so much joy because of these behavioral traits. They’re not the kind of pets for people who are faint of heart, though. It would be best to be confident in handling a smart and strong dog. With the right approach, these Rottweilers can be the best pals you ever had.

Are These Dogs Good for Families?

These are outstanding family dogs because they’re loyal, obedient, and protective. They love being around families and are especially friendly, but you must be careful around smaller kids. Since they’re large, there’s a risk of a small child accidentally falling if the dog gets too excited. Always supervise interactions with children to ensure their protective instincts don’t get kicked in during play. These dogs are great friends and protectors, but remember to watch them closely when playing with smaller family members.

Does This Breed Get Along With Other Pets?

They can handle being around other pets at home, but it’s really important to start socializing them early and do it often. They are large and powerful dogs, so teaching them how to deal with other animals from a young age is critical.

If they get used to being around other pets when they’re puppies, you’ll have an easier time thinking about letting them roam free when they’re older. But even then, always keep them on a leash when out and about, just to have control if they act out. It’s good to know how to restrain them safely if needed, especially if you find out the hard way that they don’t always play nice.

Health 

Common Health Problems in Rottweilers:

According to a study by Jurina and Grevel (2004), “Clinical signs were consistent with focal compression of the affected spinal cord segments,” leading to symptoms like ataxia (lack of coordination) and tetraparesis (weakness in all four limbs). Diagnosis often requires advanced imaging such as myelography or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to assess the location and extent of the pseudocysts.

• • Hip Dysplasia: Improper formation of the hip joints, leading to pain and mobility issues.
  • Heart Disease: Abnormal heart rhythms and murmurs are detectable via X-ray, ECG, or echocardiography.
  • Cancer: Treatable with chemotherapy or surgery, depending on the type and stage.
  • Entropion & Ectropion: Eyelid disorders where the lid rolls inward (entropion), causing corneal ulcers or outward (ectropion), leading to dryness and discomfort.
• Genetic Abnormalities and Hereditary Illnesses:
  • Ensure the breeder provides proper documentation to avoid hereditary diseases.
• Eye Conditions:
  • Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): Leads to blindness; characterized by hazy eyesight.
  • Cataract: This can lead to blindness but is often treatable with surgery.
    • Diabetes Mellitus: Monitor how much the dog eats, drinks, urinates, and manage blood sugar levels.
    • Dental Diseases: Includes tartar build-up and gum and root infections, which can lead to tooth loss and potentially kidney damage.
    • Obesity: This can lead to heart disease, digestive issues, back pain, joint pain, and heart attacks.
• Infections and Vaccinations:
  • Protect against bacterial and viral infections like rabies, parvo, and distemper through proper vaccinations.

If you’re concerned about common health issues such as paw licking or other signs of discomfort, check out this helpful guide on why dogs lick their paws for more insights.

Care

Caring for a Rottweiler means a bit more grooming than usual. Their long fur can get tangled and matted, so you’ll need to brush them a few times a week to keep the shedding under control and prevent knots. It’s also smart to brush your dog’s teeth a few times a week to keep their mouth clean. This not only keeps their breath smelling better but can also save you money on dental visits down the road.

Their thick, dense coat is water-resistant, which is great for staying dry in the rain, but it can trap moisture and create a foul odor if not dried properly. After a wet walk, use a hairdryer on the coolest setting to quickly dry them off and avoid a damp dog smell. This routine might take some getting used to, but once you get into the swing of things, both you and your cute dog will find it a regular part of your day.

Food & Diet

When you have a long haired Rottweiler, a large dog like this needs to eat well to stay happy and healthy. This pup should consume about 6 cups of premium, dry kibble daily. This kind of food is high-quality and fills all the nutrition needs of bigger dog breeds, including your furry friend.

Remember, it’s good to supplement their diet with some treats, but don’t overdo it! If you’re planning your budget, expect to spend between $75 and $125 each month on dog food. From my own experience, my Rottweiler, Bruno, loves his snacks, especially the crunchy ones. I always make sure they are necessary and healthy, keeping him both happy and in tip-top shape.

Here are some of the most common foods loved by dogs:

• Chicken (cooked, without bones)
• Beef (lean and cooked)
• Turkey (plain, cooked, no skin or bones)
• Rice (plain, white, or brown)
• Carrots (raw or cooked)
• Peanut Butter (unsalted, no xylitol)
• Sweet Potatoes (cooked and plain)
• Apples (without seeds or core)
• Eggs (cooked, scrambled, or boiled)
• Pumpkin (plain, cooked, or canned without sugar or spices)

It’s essential to know which foods are safe and which aren’t. For example, potatoes can be a tricky food for dogs. Learn more about whether it’s safe for dogs to eat potatoes in this article

How to train a long-haired Rottweiler

• Daily walks (at least 30-60 minutes)
• Fetch games (use a ball or frisbee)
• Tug-of-war
• Obstacle courses (homemade or at a dog park)
• Running or jogging (great for high-energy dogs)
• Hide-and-seek (hide treats or toys for them to find)
• Agility training (jumping, weaving, etc.)
• Swimming (if they enjoy water)
• Interactive toys (like puzzle feeders)
• Chasing games (in a safe, fenced area)

Rottweiler is a large, high-energy breed that thrives on physical exercise and mental entertainment. These energetic dogs need about 2 hours of daily activity, like a walk, a game of fetch, or outdoor playing in a fenced-in yard. Since Rottweilers are intelligent, they can sometimes show an independent streak, so it’s important to train them early with short, fun sessions.

Use a steady hand and stay consistent; they respond well when you say exactly what you want every time. My own Rottie learned to do tricks quickly when I led with confidence and avoided showing frustration. They’ll look to you as their pack leader, so don’t hesitate to take charge, even if the process feels slow at first. With patience and effort, their power and loyalty shine through, and you’ll see why they’re such amazing companions.

Adoption

When considering the adoption of these dogs, it’s super important to pick a trustworthy breeder or adoption centre. The right breeder should know everything about the breed and let you meet the puppy’s parents to see their health and temperament. If you’re adopting, make sure the centre gives you all the info about the dog’s history. Some reputable breeder organizations in the USA include the American Kennel Club (AKC), the United States Rottweiler Club (USRC), and the Rottweiler Rescue Foundation (RRF).

When I found my Rottie, the breeder answered all my questions and showed me vet records, which made me feel confident. Always choose someone who truly cares about these amazing dogs. They’re not just selling puppies; they’re finding them homes. A long-haired Rottweiler is a big commitment, so take your time and make sure you’re ready!

Long-Haired Rottweiler Puppies

6 Facts About the Long-Haired Rottweiler

 

1. They Were Originally ‘Drovers’

Rottweilers were first used during the Roman Empire as herding dogs, helping to move livestock for the army. These dogs worked hard to secure the food supply for traveling armies when there was no refrigeration. Their strong and versatile nature makes them skilled participants in modern herding events, much like sheepdogs or shepherds in the field.

2. They Also Guarded Money

Thanks to their natural guarding instincts, Rottweilers were trusted to protect cattlemen’s money. The butcher’s dog, or Metzgerhund, would carry a bag of cash tied around its neck to keep it safe from a thief. Their fierce loyalty and courage made them reliable for such important tasks.

3. They Gained Popularity as Police Dogs

In the mid-1800s, as railroads and donkey carts replaced dog carts and cattle droving, Rottweilers fell out of favor. But by the early 1900s, their intelligence and trainability made them ideal police dogs, bringing them back into popularity.

4.They Are Rarer Than Short-Haired Ones

The Long-Haired Rottweiler is a unique version of the breed, caused by a recessive genetic trait. While their appearance is different, they have the same temperament, strength, and fierce loyalty as the more common Short-Haired Rottweilers.

5. They Are Intelligent and Trainable

These dogs are incredibly intelligent and can easily complete tasks when trained with care. Despite their independent streak, they are highly obedient when given clear commands. Their trainability makes them excellent family dogs, watchdogs, and herding companions.

6. They Are Versatile and Loyal

The Long-Haired Rottweiler is a smart and versatile dog with a rich heritage. Their loyalty and protectiveness make them exceptional companions. With an experienced handler, they can excel in obedience training, herding, and even guarding their family with unmatched devotion.

Final Thoughts

The Long-Haired Rottweiler is a rare breed that’s less popular than the Short-Haired Rottweiler, but just as confident and lovable. They’re great family dogs with the perfect mix of loyalty and protectiveness. Whether you’re raising a puppy or adopting an adult, they need proper care and training to stay happy at home. These Rotties are a sight to see, with their unique coats and soulful eyes that make every meeting special. While they might be more expensive than the typical short-haired version, they’re worth every bit of effort. A Fi Collar can be handy to keep track of your Rottie, especially since this breed loves adventure and can easily roam far from home.

FAQs

Can a Rottweiler have long hair?

Yes, a purebred Rottweiler can have long hair, but it’s a rare trait. This long hair doesn’t meet the breed standard set by most Rottweiler clubs, and it’s often seen as undesirable. These coats can be thicker and longer, especially behind the ears and around the neck. It happens when a recessive gene is passed down from the parents, and some puppies may be coated with this longer hair as they grow. It’s not very common, and most people prefer the shorter coat for the breed.

What are the three types of Rottweilers?

There are three main types of Rottweilers, and they’re distinguished by their origin: German, American, and Roman. Each type has a slightly different temperament and build, but all Rottweilers are known for being loyal and strong. It’s important to know which type you want because their behavior and training needs might differ, especially in the future as they grow into their roles as family dogs.

How much does a long-haired Rottweiler cost?

If you’re looking to bring a long-haired Rottweiler into your home in 2024, you can expect to pay anywhere from $1,500 to $2,500 for a puppy from a reputable breeder. The price may go up if the dog has exceptional pedigrees or rare coat colors. However, if you’re looking for a more affordable option, adopting from a rescue organization is a great choice. Adopting can be less expensive, and you might find a long-haired Rottweiler that needs a loving home.

What two dogs create a Rottweiler?

The Rottweiler is believed to have descended from mastiff-like dogs used by the Romans. These dogs were cattle-herders that traveled with the Roman armies as they swept across Europe. When the army settled in Germany, the Rottweilers were bred with local sheepdogs to produce the breed we know today. This mix helped create a dog with a strong, protective nature and excellent herding abilities.