Dobermans and Rottweilers are very similar looking dogs that have complex personalities that might seem similar. Both were also early police dogs which makes them expert watch dogs. However, they have their own unique characteristics that stand out and set them apart. Keep reading to find out.
Weight And Size
A male Doberman will weigh anywhere between 40 to 45 kilograms while a female will weigh between 32 to 35 kilograms. Their height falls between a range of 61 to 72 cm.
A male Rottweiler weighs between 50 to 60 kilograms while a female will weigh between 35 to 48 kilograms. Their height ranges from 56 to 69 cm.
Characteristics
A dog lover can recognize a Doberman anywhere because of their gait and build that appears both noble and powerful. These elegant dogs are medium-sized and muscular, with distinctive erect ears and a long muzzle. You will find Dobermans with their ears cropped or their tails docked, practices that are illegal in some countries. They are available in five standard colors of black and rust, fawn and rust, red and rust, blue and rust, and white. Of these, black and rust is the most common colored Doberman you can find. Additionally, black with rust and red with rust are colors that have the least health related problems. Markings are commonly found on their muzzle, legs, or paws, above the eyes, and underneath the tail.
Rottweilers look very similar to Dobermans except for one key difference – they aren’t as muscular and have large heads. Their outer coat has short and harsh hair that stands flat against the surface. Additionally, their ears are docked, and have loose lips, so they can be seen drooling. They are available in three standard colors of black and tan, black and rust, and black and mahogany. You might also find Rottweilers with a bluish-greyish coat which is indicative of dilution and such Rottweilers can be prone to illnesses like Follicular Dysplasia. Markings can be found on the legs, muzzle, throat, and chest, and under the tail.
Temperament
As their appearance might suggest, Dobermans are both fiercely loyal and confident dogs. You can be sure that they will protect your family, especially the children if properly trained and socialized. Additionally, they are watchful and determined as they were bred to be police dogs, and can chase away almost any intruder. However, this also makes them intimidating and aggressive towards strangers, if not socialized properly. They also bark often, specifically to alert against an intruder, a trait that’s understandable because of their watchful nature. However, if trained, they are extremely adaptable and can become obedient dogs that will make great companions for dog sports.
Ever wondered if there are dogs that are affectionate and calm around family while being aloof around strangers? Rottweilers are just that! These dogs are known to be expert guardians due to their tendency to be on guard in unfamiliar situations. Additionally, they are courageous, protective, and fierce enough to guard their family in times of danger. Furthermore, they are considered family dogs because of their playful and silly disposition around family, so much so that they’ll pounce on your lap for snuggles! Consequently, they are affectionate and loving towards children, which is a plus if that’s on your list!
Grooming
Dobermans are low maintenance when it comes to grooming. You don’t need to bathe them frequently, nor is professional grooming required. However, quickly going over their coat with a grooming mitt or a soft bristle brush daily will make them look neat. There’s one thing you need to keep in mind, and that’s cleaning a Doberman’s ears regularly and carefully. Additionally, similar to other dogs, it’s essential to keep their nails trimmed and brush their teeth from time to time.
Unlike Dobermans, Rottweilers shed heavily during spring and fall, and moderately throughout the year. During heavy shedding periods, daily brushing and weekly baths are crucial. Subsequently, brushing once a week with a soft-bristle brush to remove dead hair during other periods would suffice. Their teeth must be brushed regularly and nails kept short as well. Never forget to gently clean their eyes and ears regularly as per the veterinarian’s instructions.
Monthly Maintenance
The monthly expenses of both a Doberman and Rottweiler can range from Rs 2,000 to Rs 10,000 depending on the quality of food and other miscellaneous items you provide.
Yearly, you might have to spend an average of Rs 3,000 to Rs 5,000 on vaccinations and checkups which might increase depending on your place of residence.
Diet and Nutrition
Dobermans require a high-quality diet that’s rich in protein to maintain their energy levels. However, since they are prone to illnesses related to their kidneys, their meals must be balanced and the protein content must not exceed 26 percent. Additionally, the feed must be age-appropriate, for which it’s best to consult a veterinarian, as each dog is unique. On average, pups between 6 to 8 weeks old can be fed 3 times a day, which reduces to 2 meals a day after 8 weeks. As their metabolism lowers with age, smaller portions might be beneficial. Dobermans also require fats to keep their skin in the best possible condition. The primary ingredient must always be meat and not grains, as grains cause flatulence.
Rottweilers thrive on high-quality food as do other dogs. Till they reach the 6-month threshold, they can be fed 3 times a day, which reduces to 2 meals later on. Essentially, Rottweilers grow at a slower rate than most other dogs, so the switch to adult food must not be made before 18 to 24 months, depending on what your veterinarian suggests. Their diet must include a balance of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, and vitamins. They have a tendency to become overweight, which is why you must not overdo treats and closely watch their diets in such cases. Additionally, keeping away from white rice, corn and soy can help fight obesity. Senior Rottweilers can be given senior kibble since they gain weight faster.
Exercise
Unsurprisingly, Dobermans require high amounts of physical activity. They love runs, hikes, and various sports because of their active and energetic nature. Not only will physical activity benefit their bodies, but it is also beneficial for their mental health. Some methods you can use to help a Doberman exercise can involve taking them to dog parks where they can run with other Dobermans, or having them run with you when you ride a bicycle or roller skate.
Since Rottweilers are athletic dogs, they love exercise that could involve anything from strolling around to swimming and hiking. They are fast learners, so you can teach them new sports fairly quickly. Additionally, physical activity helps to keep their weight in check and gives them the mental stimulation they require. These adorable dogs also value companionship, so they love playtime with their owners or other dogs. Consequently, playtime should be in addition to some other physical activity like running to fulfill their needs.
Training
Training a Doberman is considered a manageable task as they are obedient and respond quickly to commands. However, if you are a first-time dog owner, the task of training a Doberman can become extremely difficult, as they require firm, experienced, and commanding owners. If Dobermans are not trained and socialized properly, they can engage in destructive behaviors and become excessively aggressive and unmanageable. Obedience training and puppy training classes in their early years can be extremely beneficial.
Rottweilers benefit from early obedience training and socialization classes. Additionally, the more time they spend with you in the house in their early years, the more well-mannered they become. Training them is considered fairly easy, since they are always eager to please and are intelligent by nature. However, they might show stubbornness and at such times, it is essential to be firm, persistent, and fair with discipline. Being rough while training is surely not advised, since it tends to encourage aggressiveness.
Conclusion
We hope you can point out some similarities and differences between the two breeds by now! Both Dobermans and Rottweilers need high endurance physical activity and make great watchdogs. At the same time, Rottweilers are a tad bit more affectionate as compared to Dobermans. We suggest you learn about every unique trait these dogs have before you choose a pet to be your companion.
To know more about these two breeds, read these detailed articles on Doberman and Rottweiler.
