American and German Rottweiler – Differences and characteristics of each
The Rottweiler is a German breed, although its origins date back to the distant Roman Empire. It is an imposing animal that has long been trained as a shepherd or guardian. Currently it is an excellent pet dog.
- If you are thinking of adopting an animal of this breed.
- At some point you will face the controversy that exists about German and American varieties.
- Are there different types of Rottweiler or is it just a myth? Read this peritoAnimal article to learn all about the American and German rottweiler.
- Its main differences and the.
The current appearance of the Rottweiler comes from the variety of breed that was perfected in the nineteenth century. Initially, it was intended for breeding and, during World War I, served as a police dog.
It is a strong, muscular and compact body breed, reaching an average weight of 45 kilos. Despite their appearance and weight, they have the typical agility of shepherd dogs. These dogs have a lot of energy and love to exercise.
The fur is short and in tones that combine black with reddish brown. As for personality, this breed is quite intelligent, which makes it very independent. However, this will not be a problem for training, as the Rottweiler develops a strong bond with family members. It is also characterized by its protection and loyalty.
All this, talking about general features. For a long time there was a controversy over the Rottweiler born and raised outside Germany. So much so that varieties as the American and the German compete for the favorite position among fans of this breed. Therefore, if you want to learn to differentiate them, we have gathered below the differences and characteristics of each of them.
The German rottweiler is born not only in German territory, but all those that meet the strict parameters that determine the purity of the breed. Wondering who defines these parameters? Since 1921, there is ADRK or Allgemeiner Deutscher Rottweiler Klub, the German club in charge of preserving the purity of this breed.
ADRK is very strict when it comes to raising rottweilers. In Germany, parents can only cross the family tree that has been carefully studied to avoid variations in the characteristics of the breed.
According to the standards that establish this association, the male rottweiler, from the smallest to the giant, must measure between 61 and 68 centimeters, with an ideal weight of 50 kilos; while females should measure between 52 and 62 centimeters, with an ideal weight of 43 kilograms.
The tail is long and the snout short, with a robust, compact and solid body, shorter than the American one. For a rottweiler to be considered a pure “German”, it must have these characteristics. In addition, ADRK is responsible for carrying out its research to issue or not the genealogical certificate, which accredits it as rottweiler without mixing with other breeds.
Learn more about the ADRK rottweiler standard
At this point, we are entering the field of controversy, as many people claim that the American rottweiler does not really exist as a distinct variety, while others say that it is a branch of the race with clear and defined peculiarities.
Thus, the American rottweiler would outnumber German. Not only because of its height of up to 68 or 69 centimeters, but it is also known that many individuals reach 80 kilos.
The American is characterized by its short tail and long snout. Although solid and wide, it has a very stylized body. But does this mean that there really is a twist on Rottweiler?
In fact, for many experts, the difference between German and American lies mainly in the place of birth and in the various controls (or absence) that are implemented at the time of creation. In the United States, there is no club to monitor the reproduction of these dogs, which leads to crossbreeding with other breeds and the propagation of genes of individuals who do not meet ADRK characteristics.
In addition, the short tail has to do with its mutilation, chosen by many breeders. Fortunately, this procedure is not practiced in Germany, as it has been banned in many European countries, considered an unnecessary and cruel act.
Similarly, the gigantic size and weight of the American, which sometimes even doubles the size of the German, is because, in general, Americans prefer to mate the larger littered puppies, handing out these measures, away from the rules. Ordinary.
If you are thinking of adopting a Rottweiler or already have one, remember that it is considered a potentially dangerous dog in different countries, and that its possession requires liability insurance and the use of muzzle in public spaces. Don’t forget to check these details before adoption.
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