If you’re a proud Rottweiler owner, you’ve likely encountered the self-proclaimed “Rottweiler expert” who stops you mid-walk with this question: “Is that a German Rottweiler you have there?”

After a moment of doubt, you aren’t sure what to answer. You purchased your Rottweiler from the United States that’s for sure, but you know for fact that the dog breed originated in Germany, so does that make your Rottweiler officially German or American?

Perhaps it all boils down to this: Does your Rottweiler have a deep bark with a slight German flair and a fondness for bratwurst, sauerkraut, and schnitzel? Clearly German.

Does your Rottweiler bark with a “yo, what’s up?” flair and drools over pancakes, burgers and fries? Definitely American.

Jokes aside, what really makes a Rottweiler German? Let’s dig in and finally clear up the confusion, once and for all.

What Is a German Rottweiler?

 In Germany, dog breeding was never a casual affair. You don’t just stroll down the street with a female dog and knock on the neighbor’s door for a quick matchmaking session!

 In Germany, breeding Rottweilers is a serious business. The term “German Rottweiler” therefore refers to more than just a dog born in Germany. It embodies a specific standard and philosophy of breeding that adheres to the stringent guidelines set by the Allgemeiner

Deutscher Rottweiler-Klub (ADRK), the official Rottweiler breed club in Germany.

The ADRK hosts a database that keeps track of all Rottweilers and their breedings, tracking each specimen down from their birth until their death.

In a nutshell, the ADRK is not a “breed standard,” it’s “the breed standard” par excellence. Indeed, it has established the definitive standard of perfection for the Rottweiler, serving as the foundation for all other breed standards, including those in America and Britain.

Basic Facts About German Rottweilers

 German Rottweilers (like regular Rottweilers) originate in Germany. They are used as loyal companions, but can also be used for work. These versatile dogs indeed are a jack of all trades, being used for protection work, police and military work, search and rescue, therapy and service work and detection work.

 German Rottweilers may also be seen participating in a variety of dog sports such as Schutzhund (a German sport that tests obedience, tracking, and protection) and IPO (International Working Dog), where they’re able to showcase their intelligence and working drive.

As regular Rottweilers, German Rottweilers are dogs categorized under the “Molossian Type > Mastiff Type” by FCI classification. Let’s break this down: Molossian type encompasses large, powerful dogs that are believed to have originated from the ancient Molossians—an ancient Greek tribe known for breeding large, strong dogs.

Mastiff type is a broad category encompassing various large and powerful types of dog often boasting a short coat, large and bulky skull and drooping ears.

German Rottweiler Vs Rottweiler

 So what really makes a German Rottweiler scream, “I’m a well-bred Rottweiler!?” What are some specific physical traits that make them stick out of a crowd as if they’re stating: “I’m here to work, protect, and impress?”

 Let’s take a look at what makes these Rottweilers so special!

The Powerful Appearance

A well-bred Rottweiler is medium to large in size with a balanced, powerful build that exudes strength without being overly heavy or too light.

Leggy or weedy Rottweilers are frowned upon. What’s were looking for here are dogs that are compact and blessed with a well-proportioned frame . This exudes remarkable strength, agility, and endurance, leaving no doubt about physical capabilities.

The Blocky Head

 German Rottweilers are known to adhere to the ADRK standard which asks for a skull of medium length, that is relatively broad in between the ears. The stop (the indentation where the dog’s forehead meets the muzzle) is relatively strong.

This gives the Rottweiler breed its characteristic blockhead appearance that appeals to many Rottweiler lovers. German Rottweilers sport a full, glorious tail that is carried proudly like a badge of honor.

The Presence of a Tail

 Of course, all Rottweilers have a tail, but in several countries Rottweiler tails are docked (their tail is removed shortly after birth). In Germany, the Rottweiler tail is highly valued and left intact. Since 1981, only Rottweilers with tails have been bred by ADRK breeders.

Tail docking is banned in Germany with only a few exceptions. A strong, proudly carried tail in a Rottweiler bred to ADRK standards is a clear mark of its German heritage.

Its carriage varies based on the Rottweiler’s emotional state. When the Rottweiler is relaxed, the tail is typically held hanging, reaching approximately the hocks or maybe a bit longer.

When the Rottweiler is paying attention, the tail is typically held in a neutral position. When the Rottweiler is excited, the tail is carried upward in a light curve.

The Correct Markings

 Well-bred Rottweilers adhere to the standard which asks for a medium-length black coat that is not too long or wavy and has clearly defined markings.

 The tan markings are found on the Rottweiler’s cheeks, over both eyes and on the muzzle, throat, chest, legs and under the base of the tail.

White markings are considered a fault that leads to disqualification from the show ring.

The Solid Temperament

The ADRK calls for a good-natured dog with a placid disposition. Quality traits in this breed are its devotion, biddability and eagerness to work.

 Self-assured, steady and fearless, Rottweilers react to their surroundings with great alertness, but while maintaining a balanced, even temperament.

 Aggressive or overly shy dogs are considered serious disqualifying faults. Well-bred Rottweilers exude confidence. Their confident demeanor screams, “I’ve got this,” as they survey the scene with their tail held high.

Is a German Rottweiler Bigger?

 Not necessarily. Rottweilers are considered to be medium to large in size, they’re not meant to be giant dogs. It’s best if Rottweilers are neither heavy nor light. The golden way in between is ideal.

 Male Rottweilers may measure 61 to 68 centimeters at the withers, but the correct height is considered to be about 65 to 66 centimeters. Males are expected to weigh about 50 kilograms. Females may measure 56 to 63 centimeters at the withers, but the correct height is considered to be about 60 to 61 centimeters.

Females are expected to weigh about 42 kilograms. While many people find huge Rottweilers appealing, sheer bulk will lead to potentially catastrophic joint problems and would fail to give the Rottweiler the necessary strength and agility to perform as the breed was intended.

 Where Can You Find a German Rottweiler?

 As seen, the ADRK’s mission is to preserve the Rottweiler as a working dog, which is why their standard is so strict. Their focus on health, temperament, and function helps ensure that German Rottweilers remain true to their historical purpose as working dogs, while also thriving as loyal family companions.

 If you’re looking for a German Rottweiler, it’s important to locate breeders who follow these principles and prioritize the health and integrity of the breed. A list of ADRK breeders can be found on the ADRK breeder search.

A true German Rottweiler isn’t just a random label; it’s ultimately a deep commitment to maintaining the qualities that make this breed extraordinary.