German ShepherdRottweiler mix, also known as Shepweiler, is a cross between two formidable German breeds that encompasses the athletic physique of the German Shepherd with a dignified appearance and exceptional stature of the Rottweiler. Both parent breeds are fearless, steady, obedient, clever, and aloof from strangers. Shepweiler is arguably one of the best designer hybrids with a beautiful personality, build, and appearance. They might look imposing at first glimpse but are big softies’ underneath. They are incredibly loyal dogs, they continually get close to you once you build a bond with them. Once they are connected with you, Shepweiler will be a friendly, reliable, and loving guardian to the end.
Shepweilers are usually utilized for guard work and protection but eventually make for an ideal companion. Even though they are strong breeds, they can melt into mush once you pet them. In contrast, they can also be your kids’ best companions. They will safeguard your family and work hard to satisfy you if you raise them suitably. They are characterized by an athletic, firm body depicting strength and stamina, with their eyes reflecting an intelligent, fearless, and alert expression.
Novice owners may find it hard to train these puppies because Shepweilers will continually push the limits of the rules. Both their parent breeds are determined, alpha-pack leaders. Yet, they are not aggressive canines; they will do anything in their ability to guard you and become very connected to their human family and love cuddling and snuggling. If you live in an apartment or lead a sedentary life, Shepweilers may not be an ideal option. They need adequate training and proper exercise to control their stubbornness and separation anxiety. Also, provide them with lots of physical and mental stimulation because Shepweilers can become bored quickly as they are highly spirited breeds.
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Male vs. Female
There are some distinctions between the male and female German Shepherd Rottweiler mix. The male Shepweiler will be more massive and robust than the female counterparts. In terms of daily expenditure, the male Shepweiler is more active than the female, which will require you to provide them with more physical activities to flourish.
Female Shepweilers are more suspicious than males, making them closer to their owners. In addition, they are more docile but remain good watchdogs; they mainly use their bark as a warning, unlike the males who won’t hesitate to fiercely guard their owner by attacking the outsider if they feel that he may be in real trouble. Male or female, the German Shepherd Rottweiler remains an ideal watchdog who devotes unconditional devotion to its owner and displays excellent affection towards all his pack members.
German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix Pros and Cons
Pros
Cons
Great for new owners
Challenging to train
Intelligent and loyal
Separation Anxiety
Good watchdog and guard dog
Potential for aggression
German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix Basic Information
Name: German Shepherd Rottweiler
Height: 22 to 28 inches
Weight: 75 to 115 pounds
Size: Large
Color: Black, gray, sable, white, red, cream, tan, brown
Shepweilers can appear intimidating and threatening at first glance, but you’ll see a flicker of affection in their eyes. These large hybrids have a surprisingly delicate side with patience, love, and tolerance, making them ideal mates for kids. They bark and growl when they feel a threat to ward away any hazards. However, they will become extremely loyal and affectionate family dogs with early socialization and proper training.
A GSD Rottweiler mix has long legs and large feet to support its square frame, and these breeds are designed to run fast with a balanced walk and a high rate of acceleration. However, they have a medium-long dense coat, muscular physique, floppy ears, powerful jaws, black or brown eyes, and a black nose. Their coat color ranges in various shades, including black, red, gray, sable, white, silver, cream, tan, blue, brown, and fawn.
Friendliness Overview
Affection level
High
Family-Friendly
High
Kid-Friendly
High
Pet-Friendly
Medium
Strangers-Friendly
Medium
Adaptability Overview
Good for New Pet Owners
Medium to high
Good for Apartment Living
Medium to high
Sensitivity Level
Medium
Tolerates being alone
Medium
Cold Tolerance
Medium to high
Heat Tolerance
Low
German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix Temperament
German Shepherd Rottweiler mixes are known for the following temperaments:
Kind and caring
Loving and playful
Protective and loyal
Smart and fearless
Snuggle bug
An ideal supervisor/watchdog
Excellent for kids
Exceptional guard dog
GSDs and Rotties are working dogs, which implies that they are brilliantand skillful in carrying out tasks like guarding property or pulling sleds. Like the parent breeds, Shepweilers quickly pick up on commands. These massive fluff balls have all the qualities of an enduring, robust, sporty, and flexible dog. They are excellent family pets as they can handle children and innately guard the homestead. Taking proper care of your Shepweiler will reduce separation anxiety and improve life expectancy. Also, they should be involved in sports, such as agility or obedience, as they require mental and physical stimulation. Hence, Shepweilers are only for someone who has sufficient time to pay attention to these breeds.
However, being very dependent and close to their owners, Shepweilers can show symptoms of jealousy if the pet parents pay more attention to anyone other than them. So, it is necessary to work on their sociability and get to know your puppy well to recognize when they are uncomfortable in specific situations. They can be a great family guardian and devoted companion with a solid bond for you, mainly kids. They can quickly get along with pets, humans, and other animals. However, it is urged to socialize them early to help ensure their proper behavior when meeting another dog. Since Shepweilers have a high prey drive, keeping them away from tiny animals or gradually and carefully introducing them is advised.
German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix Exercise Needs
Shepweiler is a designer dog with high energy and athleticism. However, they might display an independent disposition, making them feel dominant, so they will require firm but positive training to prove you as the pack leader. A bored Shepweiler can develop undesired traits and might ruin your home. Therefore, these rambunctious breeds need an hour or two of daily exercise to keep their bodies and minds fit, sharp and active. They can jog or walk at least 10 miles weekly, and long walks at least thrice a day will ensure that they get mental and physical stimulationto be happy and well-behaved dogs.
Here are some of the training activities that you need to do with your Shepweiler:
You are raising a strong dog breed, so it’s best to take responsibility and seek guidance from an experienced trainer if you struggle during their training. We highly suggest positive training methods for guarding breeds like Shepweilers. However, punishment-based training can result from masking fearful or aggressive reactions in dogs and making them more viable to bite without warning in the future.
However, they are territorial and aggressive dogs who require socialization and training to adapt to your household. They have an infectious lively streak, but there is a possibility of some stubbornness trait. Shepweilers always strive for human companionship, yet, they may undergo loneliness if they are left alone. Positive reinforcement such as praises and rewards are highly advised in training your dog. Check these effective techniques in which you can train your Shepweiler:
German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix has a medium-length dense double coat with minimal shedding. Regular brushing will suffice. But, if they inherit double coats, grooming needs might be high. Their coat will have straight, wavy hair, which will be longer and thicker around the neck and back of the legs. They are non-hypoallergenic, but they shed moderately as the fur lays close to their body. Weekly brushing will help maintain their coat.
German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix will have long nails, it will be uncomfortable while walking. Trim their nails once in three to four weeks. Cleaning their ears using wet wipes and moisturizing them will prevent ear infections. Brushing their teeth is an essential part of dental health. Bath Rottweiler Shepherds once a month or whenever necessary, but never overdo it. Bathing often might dry out their skin, causing various skin conditions, including dry skin and itching. You can opt for organic shampoo and conditioner, or you can use a vet-recommended shampoo. If your dog has any skin condition, use shampoos prepared specially for those conditions.
Grooming Overview
Amount of Shedding
High
Tendency to Drool
Medium
Tendency to Snore
Low
Easy to Groom
Medium
German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix Health
German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix is a mixed breed dog, they are relatively healthy. This does not mean that they will be immune to any disease. However, a healthy lifestyle, balanced diet, and regular health checkups can prevent many health conditions.
Health Overview
Basic Health
Medium
Weight Gain Possibilities
Medium to high
Size
Medium to high
Elbow Dysplasia: Elbow dysplasia commonly affects large dog breeds. This hereditary condition is caused by the variations in the growth rates of the three elbow bones. Due to this, the joints will be loose, which can cause pain and lameness. Treatments range from pain control supplements to surgery.
Hip Dysplasia: Hip dysplasia is a distressing condition caused when the socket portion of the hip does not entirely fit the ball portion leading to joint dislocation. As it is hereditary, hip dysplasia may occur at birth or in early life. When the affected dog ages, hip dysplasia can further develop into arthritis. Affected dogs can have discomfort and lameness on one or both rear legs. Treatment may range from medication to hip replacement through surgeries.
Bloat: Bloat occurs if the dog’s stomach is filled with air or gas due to pressure. When the dog cannot get rid of this excessive air, it will result in a fall in blood pressure, and he might go into shock. Symptoms include swollen abdomen, excessive drooling, retching without vomiting, restlessness, lethargy, depression, and weakness with a rapid heart rate.
Hypothyroidism: Hypothyroidism results from a disorder in the thyroid gland. It can further cause epilepsy, obesity, hair loss, lethargy, dark skin patches, and other skin conditions. It can be treated through medication and a proper diet.
Glaucoma: Glaucoma is common in both dogs and humans. This eye condition can even lead to blindness. Symptoms such as pain, squinting, watery eyes, and redness can be seen in affected dogs. Through regular health checkups, you can detect Glaucoma at an early stage and cure it.
Intervertebral Disc Disease: Intervertebral Disc Disease is similar to hip dysplasia. In Intervertebral disc disease, the cushion-like joints of the vertebrae slip or break, causing the vertebrae to press hard on the spine. Wrong exercises, injuries, and obesity can cause intervertebral disc disease. Symptoms include a disinterest in jumping or climbing the stairs and staying in one place without moving. As this condition can be painful, the affected dogs will cry out in pain and refuse to eat. If the condition worsens, it can lead to paralysis. Treatment ranges from supplements to surgeries, depending on the severity of the disease.
Corneal Dystrophy: Corneal Dystrophy is an inherent condition that affects the layers of the cornea in the eyes. Symptoms such as the growth of an opaque layer can indicate Corneal Dystrophy in German Shepherds Rottweilers.
Epilepsy: Idiopathic epilepsy causes seizures and can occur in moderate and extreme seizures. Unusual actions, such as running desperately as if being chased, stumbling, or hiding, may signify a seizure. Various factors such as metabolic conditions, respiratory diseases of the brain, cancers, toxic poisoning, and extreme head trauma can cause seizures. Even though seizures are alarming, dogs with idiopathic epilepsy have a very positive long-term prognosis.
Heart Disease: Heart Diseases cause abnormal heart murmurs and heart rhythm. It can be diagnosed through an X-ray, ECG, or echocardiogram. In addition, medications, dental care, and weight control can help control this disease.
Degenerative Myelopathy: German Shepherd Rottweilers can inherit degenerative myelopathy from their German Shepherd parent genes. In this condition, the spinal cord degenerates, causing lameness in the rear legs, further resulting in paralysis.
Allergies: Allergies are common in dogs caused due to food or environmental factors. It can result in breathing issues and skin itching. Identifying the allergens and changing the diet and environmental adjustments can help avoid allergens.
Dental Disease: It affects 80% of pets by two. It causes tartar build-up on the teeth, infection of the gums and roots, and in extreme cases, loss of teeth and damage to the kidneys.
Obesity: Obesity is a significant health condition in the German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix. Excess weight can cause joint problems, back pain, digestive disorders, and heart diseases. The best way to prevent this condition is by following a healthy diet and regular exercise routine.
Cataracts: A cataract-affected eye will look opaque due to the formation of a white film-like layer over the eye lens. This condition should not be ignored as it can lead to blindness.
German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix Diet and Nutrition
German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix need a protein-dense, low-carb diet. As per the American Food Control, a German Shepherd Rottweiler puppy’s diet should contain 22% protein and 18% protein for an adult. Their everyday calorie intake should not exceed more than 800 Cals. They are prone to bloating, you can feed your German Shepherd Rottweiler small quantities of food multiple times a day. You can also include meat and fish in their diet.
Ensure that your dog is slowly eating the food as fast intake of food can lead to bloat. German Shepherd Rottweilers can gain weight easily, so it is necessary to compensate for their treats and food quantity. Avoid feeding them alcohol, coffee, chocolates, food with chocolates, salt, onions, raisins, grapes, garlic, chives, chicken bones, and other harmful foods for dogs.
German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix Living Condition
GSD Rottweiler mixes are not good at adapting to diverse living conditions. Here are the reasons:
Shepweilers are unsuited for apartment living because of their colossal stature, exercise needs, and high energy.
If you are a novice owner, Shepweiler is not ideal for you.
They are slightly more susceptible than many other dog breeds.
Shepweilers are at their best when they are around their human family.
Shepweilers need a house with a fenced backyard to roam and play freely.
Shepweilers should never be left alone for extended periods, mainly without toys to keep them engaged.
Adding a German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix to Your Family
Things to Remember Before Buying a German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix
Research and locate a reputable breeder specializing in breeding the German Shepherd Rottweiler mix. A reliable breeder will provide health clearance certifications, genetic tests, and cross-breeding records. In addition, it is recommended to meet the purebred German Shepherd and the purebred Rottweiler.
Cost of a German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix Puppy
The cost of a German Shepherd Rottweiler puppy can range from approximately $200 to $1000, depending on the breeder.
