Rottweiler Vs Pitbull: Choosing The Right Pet To Protect Your Family

Adekunle Olanrewaju Jason
Oct 26, 2023 By Adekunle Olanrewaju Jason
Originally Published on Nov 19, 2021
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Rottweiler puppy having fun in a park

Both Rottweilers and Pitbulls are powerful dog breeds and are much talked about.

Before you get your dog, you might not give much thought to its past. However, learning about your dog's origins, on the other hand, can be fascinating and quite helpful.

Another certain technique to decide on one breed over the other is to read over all of the major traits of both breeds and weigh the benefits and drawbacks. So, let's delve a little deeper into the specifics of both of these great guard dog breeds.

The Rottweiler evolved from the Roman Empire's use of Asian mastiff-type canines. These dogs were famous in the German town of Rottweil after the fall of the empire. During the Roman Empire, soldiers employed this breed to defend cattle from other animals and burglars while moving with the rest of the army.

In general, the name 'Pitbull' refers to various bull terrier breeds developed in Great Britain a few centuries ago by individuals who practiced blood sports. Bulldogs were known for their jaw strength, while terriers were known for their perseverance, therefore a new crossbreed between the two was formed.

The Pitbull is not a dog breed, but rather a type of dog.

Pitbull dogs were bred as baiting or fighting dogs, mostly for bulls and bears, and are known for their robust and muscular body, large head, and powerful jaw. They were pitted against each other until this behavior became unlawful.

While the Rottweiler has a uniform appearance, Pitbulls come in a wide range of colors, coat patterns, and sizes. Pitbulls are typically medium-sized canines with wedge-shaped heads and muscular, stocky bodies.

Blue, brown, black, gray, fawn, merle, red, and white are just a few of the colors available. They stand between 17-20 in (43.18-50.8 cm) tall at the shoulder and weigh between 40-70 lb (18.14-31.8 kg). Pitbulls are very expressive dogs who are known for their happy-looking doggy grins.

Check out the Akita Pitbull mix and bite force of a Pitbull to discover more unknown facts about Pitbulls.

Which breed makes a better pet?

When the question arises which one between a Rottweiler and Pitbull makes a better pet, there are two criteria to consider while doing the comparison.

One of them is the way they can socialize in a surrounding. The other one is how good are they at keeping a watchful eye and guarding your home.

The Rottweiler and the Pitbull are both large strong dogs, however, they have very different appearances.

The Rottweiler is a dog breed that stands between 24-27 in(61-69 cm) tall and weighs 80-135 lb (36.2-61.2 kg). Floppy ears, a docked tail, and a silky coat in four patterns distinguish them: with coats of black, blue, tan, and mahogany.

Pitbulls, on the other hand, are taller, more muscular, and have huge heads and wide jaws, as well as clipped or floppy ears and a long tail. The Pitbull's coat is short and sleek, just like the Rottie's, but it comes in a variety of colors, including black, brown, gray, tan, and fawn.

From the point of view of agility and alertness, Rottweilers are seen to do a better job. The Rottweiler breed is inherently defensive. Rottweilers are known for intimidating people with their formidable muscles and teeth. Because they are friendly with people, they make excellent family dogs.

Pitbulls are overly sociable and fail to differentiate between genuine people and an intruder which makes their guarding ability and protective instinct faulty. However, Pitbull dog breeds are excellent companions and love human company and attention.

So, it's difficult to draw a very specific conclusion and answer whether a Rottweiler or Pitbull makes a better pet, but considering some essential factors Rottweilers do make way better guard dogs while being affectionate pets to their family at the same time.

Rottweiler Vs Pitbull History

The Rottweiler and Pitbull are two breeds that are powerful and stunning canines, yet they originate from quite different histories.

The Rottweiler is a descendant of ancient Roman herding breeds that originated in Germany. The Rottie eventually rose to prominence as a well-known butcher's companion. It's no surprise that this enormous and muscular drover became known as the Rottweiler because much of his early labor took place in the town of Rottweil.

According to history, Pitbull breeds were purposely mixed with terriers and bulldogs for their jaw strength and perseverance. Pitbulls were trained to fight other dogs or to fight in groups against a bull.

Pitbull puppy lying on dark wooden floor

Rottweiler Vs Pitbull Temperament

It's vital to consider the temperament and personality of a dog while choosing the ideal one for you.

The Rottweiler is a bold, affectionate, and dedicated breed that focuses on people. They can form strong ties with their owners and protect their homes fiercely. A Rottweiler has a calm temperament and can get along with almost any other dog if socialized from a young age.

Pitbulls are gregarious animals and they just want to be friends with everyone. Contrary to popular belief they don't have a fighting tendency.

Because Pitbulls are so sociable, they suffer from separation anxiety if left on their own, so if you can't devote a significant amount of time to them, then they might not be the right dog for you.

Additionally, it is to be noted that only in rare cases do Pitbulls become ferocious. A Pitbull in its aggressive form can easily take down a Rottweiler. When confronted with a clear threat, most dogs back off, thus even a Rottweiler would back off from a violent Pitbull.

Rottweiler Vs Pitbull Exercise

Because both of these breeds are muscular, they will require a lot of play-time and exercise.

Rottweilers can be vicious, they require daily exercise and would enjoy participating in any outdoor activities with you. Herding, tracking, and obedience are all canine sports that they can excel at.

Dog chores, such as bringing the newspaper or carrying light burdens around the house, should be assigned to them. They require cerebral stimulation as well as a lot of playing. Your Rottweiler will enjoy the play-time you spend with it, whether it's with a puppy puzzle toy or a game of tug in the garden.

Pitbulls require daily exercise as well. They, like the Rottweiler, will love the opportunity to burn off some energy while also bonding with you. A Pitbull is a high-energy dog that requires a lot of exercise throughout the day. Outside, a quick jog, a long trek, or a game of fetch will suffice.

Both of these breeds will like snuggling up with you in the evenings if given adequate activity. Regular exercise also helps in maintaining mental health, reduces aggression and dog-fighting tendencies.

Rottweiler Vs Pitbull Health

Dogs do suffer from serious health issues too if not properly looked after from an early age.

Rottweilers are unfortunately susceptible to a variety of health issues, including eye illnesses, heart disease, cancer, and hip dysplasia. Hip dysplasia is a genetic condition in which the femur head does not fully fit into the hip socket.

It can range from mild to severe, with the latter being particularly painful but treatable through surgery. Von Willebrand disease, Addison's disease, folliculitis, hypothyroidism, gastroenteritis, and a high cancer rate are all blood clotting disorders that affect this breed.

Eye issues include anomalies in the eyelids, progressive retinal atrophy, and cataracts. Subaortic stenosis and cardiomyopathy are two heart problems.

Choosing a responsible breeder, on the other hand, can help you avoid these problems.

Pitbulls can live into their mid-teens if they are in good health. Hip dysplasia and cerebellar abiotrophy are two major problems.

Hip dysplasia is a condition in which the hip joint develops abnormally, causing pain in his legs and debilitating arthritis. Cerebellar abiotrophy is a condition in which the portion of the brain that controls coordination and balance is injured, making it impossible for the person to move as they should.

Elbow dysplasia, allergies, heart problems, and vision difficulties are all common in the Pitbull breed.

L-2 Hydroxyglutaric Aciduria is a metabolic disease that can affect the Staffordshire Bull Terrier.

Overall, both breeds have certain inherited potential diseases, however, health monitoring by the breeder can help to prevent these.

Grooming Requirements Of The Rottweiler Vs Pitbull

Because of their short coats, both breeds are fairly low maintenance when it comes to grooming.

Rottweilers require a little more upkeep than Pitbulls, especially when it comes to grooming, but the difference isn't significant. To keep them looking healthy and bright, they'll need to be brushed once or twice a week. A Rottweiler, like any other dog, would benefit from a bath every six weeks.

In terms of grooming, Pitbulls are the easiest dogs to care for. This guy's hair is only short, so a weekly brush will suffice to remove any dead hairs and keep him looking bright and healthy.

The Pitbull only needs a bath every two to three months unless it discovers a muddy field to roll about in. If the Pitbull has skin allergies, you may need to bathe your dog with medicated treatments a little more frequently.

Both the Rottie and the Pitbull have short, coarse coats that only require a shampoo or brushing once in a while. They also shed now and then. Their dental health should be monitored by brushing their teeth regularly, and their nails and ears should be examined regularly.

Rottweiler or Pitbull? Which one is better for family and protection?

The Rottweiler and Pitbull are two breeds of power-packed dogs.

These two devoted and affectionate dogs would be at home in almost any household.

They make excellent pets for young families because they are compassionate and protective of their human siblings.

People have a lot of preconceptions about the Pitbull breed. True, they have the potential to have violent behavior.

Their personality, on the other hand, might be given proper training to make them adorable and extremely sociable. These kinds of dogs could be a wonderful charmer if given a lot of love and attention.

It's also nice to keep them as family dogs but you should be wary if you have little children at home. If they can respect their personal space, older children are the best ones to accompany them.

Rottweilers, on the other hand, can be vicious. They're known as protective breeds of dogs, and if they or their friends feel threatened, they'll fight right away.

The Rottie is a better choice if you're looking for a guard dog who is friendly and also vigilant of strangers, whilst the Pitbull is a better choice if you're looking for a more lively and intense youngster.

Despite their frightening reputations, both breeds make wonderful family dogs if coming from a responsible breeder and when properly socialized and trained at a young age.

Rottweiler vs. Pitbull: which dog breed should you choose?

When it comes to the final decision-making, it's quite a task for all dog owners to be.

Both these canine breeds being equally vicious and agile make it difficult for the owner to make a comparison and decide which one to buy. Pitbulls and Rottweilers are both sweet and sensitive breeds.

A Rottweiler can get along with almost any other dog if socialized from an early age. This people-oriented dog breed has a strong desire to please others especially their owner.

Pitbulls, on the other hand, might acquire unexpected hostility toward other dogs due to their beginnings as fighters. This is why your other pet dogs should never be left alone with them.

When thought about it carefully the Rottweiler has more beneficial characters from the point of view of protection and safety. This, in no way, demeans the capabilities of our loved Pitbulls. They are equally excellent breeds, with some amount of training they would surely prove to be equally as great as the Rottie.

Here at Kidadl, we have carefully created lots of interesting family-friendly facts for everyone to enjoy! If you liked our suggestions for Rottweiler vs Pitbull then why not take a look at American bulldog vs Pitbull, or Pitbull facts

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Written by Adekunle Olanrewaju Jason

Bachelor of Science specializing in Mass Communication.

Adekunle Olanrewaju Jason picture

Adekunle Olanrewaju JasonBachelor of Science specializing in Mass Communication.

With over 3+ years of professional experience, Olanrewaju is a certified SEO Specialist and Content Writer. He holds a BSc in Mass Communication from the University of Lagos. Throughout his dynamic career, Olanrewaju has successfully taken on various roles with startups and established organizations. He has served as a Technical Writer, Blogger, SEO Specialist, Social Media Manager, and Digital Marketing Manager. Known for his hardworking nature and insightful approach, Olanrewaju is dedicated to continuous learning and improvement.
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