Rottweilers are one of the most popular dog breeds in the world. For centuries this dog breed along with other mixed breed dogs was used for protection purposes.

There are basically 2 major classifications of Rottweilers which are:

• German Rottweiler
• American Rottweiler

This classification is based on where these rottweilers are born. Those who were born in Germany were called German Rottweilers while those who were born in America were called American Rottweilers.

Roman Rottweilers are usually not included within this classification because it is a “type” of Rottweiler.

The term “Roman” is quite confusing because initially they were bred in Germany later Romans used them as guard dogs for gathering, protecting, and herding their animals hence the name “Roman” Rottweiler.

Also known as gladiator rottweilers or king rottweilers because of their enormous size.

In this article, we will see the differences between American, German, and Roman Rottweilers.

You can also read about Serbian Rottweilers and Pug Rottweiler Mix.

Rottweiler Breed Overview

Weight: 80 to 110 pounds (36 to 50 kgs)

Height: 24 to 27 inches (61 to 69 cms)

Coat Color: Tan, mahogany, rust

Child Friendly: Moderate

Other Pet Friendly: Moderate, when raised together

Trainability: Intelligent, needs socialization

Grooming: Minimal

Exercise Needs: 2+ hours a day

Lifespan: 8 to 10 years

American Rottweiler

History of American Rottweiler

They are basically descended from the German variety of Rottweilers.

In 1901 Allgemeiner Deutscher Rottweiler­-Klub (ADRK) registered the standards for the Rottweilers breed. Later this breed also became famous in America.

American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1931 added them into the stud book according to the ADRK’S breed standards.

AKC breed standards are more lenient than ADRK’s standards.

American Rottweiler Size

Males are 24–27 inches tall

Females are 22–25 inches tall

American Rottweiler Weight

Males are 95–135 pounds

Females are 80–100 pounds

American Rottweiler Temperament

They are strong, smart, faithful, obedient, and confident dogs.

When trained properly they love to socialize and share strong bond with family, friends and other pets.

American Rottweiler Appearance

They chest area is wide in them. Wrinkles are present on the body particularly on forehead. They have hair coat which is straight and short.

They are usually found in black and mahogany or black and rust color. One specific feature about them is docked tail.

Their eyes are almond shaped with triangular ears and a longer thinner snout.

History of German Rottweiler

German Rottweiler was originally bred in Germany. German Rottweilers are descendent of German shepherds that were crossed with other dogs brought by Roman soldiers like drover dogs and mastiffs.

Originally they were bred for protecting and guarding farm animals. However, in later years they were also used for pulling carts and wagons.

In the 19th century when their services were excluded they became almost extinct but now they reach popularity again. German Rottweilers regain their reputation as a loyal and protective dog.

German Rottweiler Size

Males are 25–27 inches tall

Females are 22–25 inches tall

German Rottweiler Weight

For males 110–130 pounds

For females 77–110 pounds

German Rottweiler Temperament

German Rottie does not have a loving and snuggly nature.

They are often defined as hard workers, intelligent, bold, and enthusiastic breeds. Since this breed was designed for work purposes they generally have a sturdy temperament of working dogs.

German Rottweiler Appearance

They have wide chests with sturdy legs. Their hair coat is straight and short.

The coat is black in color with tan markings on the eyebrows, legs, cheeks, and muzzle. Snouts are thick and medium in length and have a black nose at the end. In German rottweiler tails are always undocked.

Differences between American Rottweiler and German Rottweiler

Both these breeds are very much similar to each other yet there are a few differences present between them. German Rottweilers are a little bulkier and sturdier.

German Rottweilers have undocked tails. They have more muscles and are bulkier than American rottweilers which are slimmer and thinner.

German Rottweilers have medium to thicker size snouts.

Roman Rottweiler

History of Roman Rottweiler

German and Roman Rottweilers have the same origin (Germany) and are the same dog breed. The name “Roman” is used with their names is a little confusing and misleading. In ancient years Roman soldiers and people used Rottweilers for animal herd guarding and protection from there the name Roman came.

Roman Rottweilers officially don’t come under the 2 major classifications of Rottweillers. Although they share the same roots as German Rottweiler still they don’t justify the description and criteria set by AKC for Rottweilers. If you find Roman Rottweilers breeders or even their puppies it is better to get their full details to avoid any scams.

Roman Rottweiler Size

Males are 25–30 inches tall

Females 24–29 inches tall

Roman Rottweiler Weight

Male Roman Rottweiler weighs 120 pounds

Female Roman Rottweilers 80 pounds

Roman Rottweiler Temperament

Roman Rottweiler is a smart, hardworking, and energetic dogs. Roman Rottweilers are very competent and compatible dogs which is visible from their temperaments.

Because of Roman Rottweiler’s intelligence and strong nature, they are used by the police and the army.

Roman Rottweiler Appearance

Roman Rottweiler found in black and tan or black and mahogany color. They have muscular and strong bodies which may appear bigger when they stand up.

The neck is muscular and is in a slightly arched shape. Almond shape eyes are dark brown in color and are deeply well-placed.

Ears are long, broad, curvy, and triangular in shape which points downwards.

Differences Between German Rottweiler and Roman Rottweiler

Roman rottweilers were actually used for guarding the herds of animals by the “Romans” hence the name Roman Rottweiler.

Roman Rottweilers are a little taller and bulkier. German Rottweilers are slimmer and sleeker.

German rottweilers are usually found in black and rust, black and tan, or black and mahogany color while Roman Rottweilers’ hair coats have multiple color combinations.

German and Roman Rottweilers both are smart and obedient dogs while Roman Rottweilers are a little headstrong sometimes which makes their training a little challenging however, with proper training and socializing they will overcome these temperamental problems.

Final Words on Rottweilers

In conclusion, Rottweilers are undoubtedly one of the popular dog breeds worldwide. They are renowned for their strength, loyalty and protective nature. With proper training, ownership and socialization, they can become well rounded companions.