Labrador Retriever vs. Rottweiler

Last Updated on April 26, 2023 by Becky Roberts

It is said that the Labrador as well as The Rottweiler have two distinct breeds It’s easy to distinguish them. They are both very different. Lab is the most well-known family-friendly Andrex puppy. The Rotties are more well-known for their imposing appearance and human-protection skills. However, you might be surprised to discover that they’re more alike in character than you think!

In this comparison of dog breeds We compare the two breeds from every angle. From their past, how each breed was selected, and the impact that this has on their personality. In addition, their grooming, training, and exercise requirements and more.

It doesn’t matter if you’re looking for a dog’s education or trying to decide which dog is the perfect family member. This guide will provide everything you require to make a decision. So, let’s get started!

Labrador Retriever vs. Rottweiler

Breed History

Understanding the history of a dog is a crucial aspect of the research process for breeds. It’s not just fascinating however, it can give you a better understanding of the dog’s personality as a whole. It will reveal from the Lab and Rottie’s story how they came to be how they are, how they behave as they behave, as well as how much they love certain things. Let’s go through a brief canine history class…

Labrador

It is the Labrador Retriever is one of the most well-known dog breeds in the world. He’s been rated as the most popular dog of 197 breeds over 30 years. The American Kennel Club (AKC) declares the fact that the breed’s reputation as a pet for families isn’t diminishing anytime soon. His love for people and his intelligence and obedience mean that he’s a top dog breed for therapy, assistance, and search and rescue dog professions.

It is believed that the Labrador is an purebred dog that was first discovered in the 1800s. He is a descendent of the now dispersed St John’s water dog. The Labrador is the traditional water dog of Newfoundland (no it’s not Labrador as many believe!). The bird and fisherman have chosen Labradors to assist in capturing the quarry (mainly ducks) and to round the fishnets.

Rottweiler

It is the Rottweiler is another purebred dog that is instantly recognized. While he’s not as well-known than other breeds like the Labrador Retriever, he consistently ranks among the top 10 most popular dog breeds on the AKC popularity contest. He is among the most sought-after guard dogs ever. He is frequently chosen for estate protectors, guard dogs for people and military and police services all over the globe.

Rottweilers descend from massive Roman combat dogs. The role of the dog was to defend his army’s cattle from thieves and predators. The dogs eventually were brought to Germany, as did the city of Rottweil was the place where the Rottweiler breed we have today as we know today was born.

While still protecting the herds of farmers His work earned him the name, the “Butchers Dog. Similar to other dogs in the Lab, Rotties were one of the first guide dogs, and has proven his worth as a search and rescue dog.

Appearance

The two breeds appear distinct in their appearance. This can be a major decision-maker when it comes to choosing among the breeds. Are you looking for a classic size dog that is friendly and affectionate? The Labrador could be the perfect dog. If you’re seeking a stunning, formidable big to huge dog breed that will make people reconsider then the Rottie could be the best choice.

Labradors are a large to medium-sized dog. They measure somewhere between 21.5 to 24.5 inches in height, from shoulder to paw. He weighs between between 55-80 pounds. The Rottweiler is approximately between 22-27 inches in height. He weighs more than the average dog, ranging between 80 to 135 pounds. The difference in their weight is often enough to indicate that less weight for the Lab can be the sole choice for many homes with families.

Both are proportionate, however, they are both stocky dogs and Rottweilers being the more stocky dog. The Lab has a distinctive thick Otter tail. Their coats are alike in both length and texture. Both have a straight double coat that’s shorter to medium in length. Both breeds have a dense, thick coat that isn’t too rough, but not too silky smooth. Both shed often during the shedding season and also moderately throughout the all year.

The coat colors, however, differ greatly. Labs can choose from three coat colors: brown, black, and yellow. The Rottweiler wears the famous black and tan/rust coatt. The tan-colored markings are visible over his eyes, on his muzzle and across his chest and on the lower part of his leg. Both breeds may be all black or a majority dark coat. The Rotties are frequently confused with the Doberman which has the same coat.

Temperament

It is surprising to discover that the traits of the dogs are more alike than most people believe. People who haven’t met an Rottie prior to (or only in guard duty!) likely think that he’s an aggressive dog that wouldn’t be a good fit in a family. However, this is a widespread myth. Like the Lab and the Labrador, the Rottie is a great pet for a family.

The Labrador is renowned for his affectionate and friendly temperament, which is the reason the dog is so beloved as a pet for families. Similar to it is true that the Rottweiler is also an extremely gentle soul at family. He is a lover of nothing more than cuddling on the couch with his loved ones. In the end, the Rottie is a huge cuddler who is quite sensitive. Don’t let his pals know in the doggy park, because he’s got an image to live up to!

In terms about being sensitive, the Rottweiler isn’t one being left to himself. While the Labrador loves to be with his friends. If you’re not a fan of animals that need to be with you all of the day, then the Rottweiler may not be the right breed for you. This is why you should consider investing in an animal crate for your Rottweiler to be able to leave him alone at times when you need to be able to let him go.

If you’re looking for an animal guardian You’re likely to know the dog that is your ideal option. Rottweilers are an incredibly confident dog that will protect you and your family members in the event of danger. They also notify you of anyone who is visiting and barks an extremely loud bark. Contrary to that to the Labrador isn’t an animal guardian in any way by the imagination. He is instead welcoming to everyone he meets and will expect anyone to become his new best friend.

Exercise

Both breeds of dog require around sixty minutes daily exercise to stay healthy and happy. Both come born into working breeds which means they both have energy that needs to be used up. But this is where their similarities in exercise end. The Labrador’s workout has to be vigorous to get the most out of his potential. In contrast to the Rottie, who’s a little more relaxed.

The routine of exercise for Labradors must be diverse to keep him engaged in his brain. He’s an intelligent and curious dog that needs an adventure. Otherwise, he’ll get bored of the same routine day in and day out. Consider different activities, water sports, puzzle toys and agility courses. While Rotties require exercise to focus on his strength. Think of tug-of-war games, and a simple workout.

Labs require greater interaction during the course of the day, too. The dog will want to play interactively with his human companions, and due to his Retriever genes, he’ll want to play with his fetch. The Rottie will require more durable toys to play with to keep him entertained.

The Rottie is inclined to take more afternoon napping as compared to the Lab and is certainly more relaxed at home. It is possible to get your Rottie to get out of the house since he’s considered to be lazy. While Labs are more than happy to go on an adventure.

Training

Both dogs are consistently selected as working dogs because they both want to be a good servant to their master. It doesn’t matter if it’s in the security sector or in therapy or assistance tasks, they are both capable of being trained. Studies show that the Lab is the seventh-highest intelligent breed of dog. You might be shocked to find out that the Rottie isn’t too far behind, he’s ninth.

However, if you’re an aspiring dog-owner and are unsure of which dog would be the most suitable then the Labrador is the best choice. Rottweilers can be a bit stubborn and can make the training process difficult for a new pet owner. Additionally they are Rottie is prone to being aggressive due to his instinct to protect. Therefore, it is recommended that only experienced dog owners are allowed to take their Rottie on.

As with all breeds of dog they can benefit greatly from early training for dogs. Make sure you choose a reliable breeder who will begin training early. This is especially true for the Rottie. If you don’t teach good manners to the Rottie at a young age, it could develop into a dog who is difficult to handle.

This is why puppies’ obedience training classes are essential for any Rottie. While the Lab is still in need of early training since he does not possess the instinct to guard but he’s much more suited to becoming an obedient dog.

Both breeds are more responsive to positive reinforcement than any other kind of dog training. Always reward your dog for good behavior. Both dogs love snacks So be sure to keep them in your hand during you are training your puppy.

Socialization is also a crucial method of training. It is an lifetime obligation to the Rottie and must be able to mix with humans and other dogs frequently to avoid becoming too protective.

Health

The two breeds of dogs are generally healthy breeds of dogs. The life expectancy of the Labrador is between 10 and 12 years, while the Rottie’s life expectancy is between 9 and 10 years. But, this isn’t due to the fact that it’s because the Lab is the more healthy dog from the two. In fact, the Rottie is a huge dog and has shorter lifespans than smaller breeds.

The most prevalent health issues that impact those who live with the Labrador are the elbow and hip dysplasia. It is a joint issue that is caused by inheritance of genes and abnormal bone growth. It is a condition that can be caused by gene inheritance and irregular bone growth. Lab can also be predisposed a variety of eye diseases, including cataracts, as well as the progressive atrophy of retinas. Exercise-induced collapse is a different health issue that needs to be examined in Labs as well.

It is essential to choose an accredited breeder who produces healthy and well-behaved dogs. Make sure you inquire about all health certifications.

It is believed that the Rottweiler is also susceptible to elbow and hip dysplasia, which is related to the same eye issues like the Lab however, it has another common issue, entropion. It is believed that the Rottie breed can also be prone to heart issues like subvalvular aortic narrowing.

It’s true that the Lab as well as The Lab and the Rottie Both are at risk for becoming obese. It is because they both love snack foods and food that should not be eaten. Therefore, be aware of the waistlines of both of them.

Nutrition

The two breeds are remarkably different in terms of size. Like you would expect, the Rottweiler consumes more then the Labrador. Labradors consume up to three or two cups of premium food.

Comparatively to the Rottweiler who require about three to four cups per day. For dogs that work, be the Lab or Rottie They will require much more to fuel their lives ahead. The Rottie will require food specifically designed specifically for large breeds.

It is essential that both dogs eat a premium food that provides a balanced diet. Be sure to consider your dog’s particular requirements for diet and stick to high-quality brands. Whatever you consume, they are at risk of gastric torsion particularly the Rottie. It is a serious condition that you should be aware of.

Grooming

The two dogs have very similar coats. Therefore, their grooming routines are alike. Both require brushing at least two times per week to control their shed and more often during times of shedding.

To manage their dense double-coat of shedding Deshedding brushes are the best option. If we had to pick one breed that would be the Lab, then it would be the Lab. Labrador is by far the more heavy shedder among the two breeds.

It is recommended to bathe your Lab as well as the Rottie every 8 weeks or at least every eight weeks. Do not wash them more often or only when they are very dirty during their travels. Use only shampoos for dogs that are made of gentle, natural ingredients. Both dogs require their teeth regularly cleaned, and make certain to examine their large drop-down ears for any indications of an infections.

Puppy Price

The Labrador’s price for puppy is typically less than that of the Rottweiler. The price for a puppy of the Labrador is approximately $800. In comparison to the more expensive average cost of Rotties that is about $1,500.

The final cost will depend on the area, the supply and demand within your region and the caliber that the breeder you choose to work with. One thing you must keep in mind is that the higher quality of the breeder you choose to work with is the higher chance you’ll get an animal that is healthy.

The Labrador as well as Rottweiler as well as the Labrador Rottweiler are purebred dogs So, you are able to decide to partner with one of the AKC recognized breeder. This is a crucial decision to consider if you wish to exhibit your dog or participate in AKC dog competitions.

Prices for puppies aren’t the only aspect to take into account; keep in mind that both breeds have ongoing expenses. In general the Rottie is more costly to take care of throughout his life than Labradors. Lab.

Final Thoughts

It is said that the Labrador as well as the Rottweiler are two different breeds in many ways. The Labrador is a family-favorite dog, renowned for its charming and affectionate manners. It’s also the capability to be a part of almost every family setting. The Rottweiler is more well-known for his fierce nature and protective appearance. However, when you have the right people and the right family, the Rottie is also a great pet for the family.

To summarize, there are a few major distinctions in the breeds. The Labrador is a friend to all people, including his beloved family members and strangers alike. The Rottweiler isn’t as welcoming of strangers and will defend his family members if they discover them in danger. It is the Labrador is the more active of the two, as is it is the Rottie is a huge fan of afternoon napping. If you’re new to dog ownership You will be able to train with a Labrador than the Rottie I’m sure of it.

Many people have encountered the Lab. If you’ve never had the pleasure of meeting an Rottie before, you should know that they’re not as terrifying as they appear to be. They’re sensitive and more dependent as compared to the Labrador. However, the most suitable dog breed you can get is the one that best matches your lifestyle. Both the Lab as well as the Rottweiler are great canine companions. All you have to decide is whether you’re Team Lab or Team Rottie! If you’re unable to choose between the two you have the option of choosing a combination of both, the labrottie!

Becky Roberts

Becky Roberts

One of Becky's favourite things to do every morning is to browse the top pet-related forums, looking for issues and questions that people have. She then shortlists the most common ones, and turns them into blog posts for Fuzzy Rescue. She's had over 4 cats and 2 dogs over the past decade, so she does know a thing or 2 about raising/training, and more importantly, loving them. She's the only one on our team that doesn't like coffee, but it seems to us she really doesn't need more energy :). We're very fortunate to have her on board as she does most of the heavy listing for the site, outputting an insane amount of content each month. Read More

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