German Shepherd vs Rottweiler

Both the German Shepherd and Rottweiler are large breeds. The German Shepherd typically lives significantly longer. Both breeds make loyal companions but suit different lifestyles.

German Shepherd

Trait

Rottweiler

Large

Size

Large

65–90 lbs

Weight (Male)

95–135 lbs

50–70 lbs

Weight (Female)

80–100 lbs

24–26″

Height (Male)

24–27″

12–14 yrs

Lifespan

9–10 yrs

Medium double coat

Coat Type

Short double coat

Herding

AKC Group

Working

Germany

Origin

Germany

Temperament & Care Ratings

High

Energy Level

Moderate

Grooming Needs

Low

Extreme

Shedding

Moderate

Exceptional

Trainability

Eager

Good

Good with Children

Moderate

Good with Dogs

Cautious

Frequent

Barking Level

Moderate

Common Health Issues

German Shepherd

Hip dysplasia
Elbow dysplasia
Degenerative myelopathy
Bloat

Rottweiler

Hip dysplasia
Elbow dysplasia
Osteosarcoma
Bloat

Learn More

German Shepherd Breed Profile

Complete guide to the German Shepherd — size, temperament, health, and care.

Rottweiler Breed Profile

Complete guide to the Rottweiler — size, temperament, health, and care.

← Compare more breeds

German Shepherd vs Rottweiler

Both the German Shepherd and Rottweiler are large breeds. The German Shepherd typically lives significantly longer. Both breeds make loyal companions but suit different lifestyles.

German Shepherd

Trait

Rottweiler

Large

Size

Large

65–90 lbs

Weight (Male)

95–135 lbs

50–70 lbs

Weight (Female)

80–100 lbs

24–26″

Height (Male)

24–27″

12–14 yrs

Lifespan

9–10 yrs

Medium double coat

Coat Type

Short double coat

Herding

AKC Group

Working

Germany

Origin

Germany

Temperament & Care Ratings

High

Energy Level

Moderate

Grooming Needs

Low

Extreme

Shedding

Moderate

Exceptional

Trainability

Eager

Good

Good with Children

Moderate

Good with Dogs

Cautious

Frequent

Barking Level

Moderate

Common Health Issues

German Shepherd

Hip dysplasia
Elbow dysplasia
Degenerative myelopathy
Bloat

Rottweiler

Hip dysplasia
Elbow dysplasia
Osteosarcoma
Bloat

Learn More

German Shepherd Breed Profile

Complete guide to the German Shepherd — size, temperament, health, and care.

Rottweiler Breed Profile

Complete guide to the Rottweiler — size, temperament, health, and care.

← Compare more breeds