The Labradoodle Rottweiler Mix Explored

Are you well and truly Doodle obsessed? Do you spend your day looking at any dog breed as a potential Doodle cross? Does your daydream progress to what difference adding a Labradoodle over just a Poodle would do?

If so, we’ve got you. In this article, we will explore the possible results of crossing two breeds that arguably couldn’t be more different, the Labradoodle and the Rottweiler. In this article, we will explore what this seemingly bizarre pairing could offer up. We have done extensive research in areas of temperament, health, coat, and build for both the Labradoodle and Rottweiler to build a picture of what a cross between these two may bring.

Labradoodle History

The Labradoodle is a cross between a Labrador Retriever and one of the three sizes of Poodle (Standard, Miniature, or Toy). While this mix was noted to have occurred as early as the 1950s it was around 1989 that the term Labradoodle became commonplace, and the popularity really increased.

The publicity surrounding the Labradoodle increased in the early 1990s where many guide, assistance, and/or therapy dogs associations realized the Labradoodle would be an option for individuals who experienced dog allergies. Often the addition of Poodle genetics greatly reduced the amount of shedding that would be associated with Labrador Retrievers.

The Labradoodles smarts and low shedding coat attracted the attention of normal domestic pet owners and there was a meteoric rise in the number of breeders over the course of the ’90s and 2000s. Generally, Labradoodle owners favor the breed’s natural friendliness while their energetic and affectionate nature makes them popular for active singles, couples, or families with children.

Rottweiler History

The Rottweiler has some serious historical credentials.  They can trace their roots all the way back to drover dogs marching alongside the armies of the Romans.

While the specifics of where the breed originates are not 100%, it is widely believed that they come from an offshoot of Asian Mastiffs. The drover dog played a vital part in helping Roman foot soldiers to cover vast distances by protecting and herding the live cattle they were required to bring along.

But how do we get from marching Roman armies to a distinctly Germanic-sounding Rottweiler?

In the decades and centuries following the collapse of the Roman empire, the town of Rottweil in southern Germany, became a hub for livestock and grain markets. The butchers there continued to breed drover dogs for their strength in pulling carts and ability to guard herds which resulted in the development of the breed we recognize as the Rottweiler today.

As the world changed with the rise of railways and the industrial revolution of the 19th century, there was a diminished need for herding dogs like the Rottweiler, resulting in the breed being pushed nearly to extinction.  Luckily the 20th century brought renewed demand for the Rottweiler as their strength, intelligence, and guard dog kudos meant they were enlisted into the ranks of police and military dogs. From here they made the jump to domestic companion dogs and have remained consistently popular ever since.

The modern-day Rottweiler often referred to as a “Rottie”, is a large breed that is bright, loyal, and make great guard dogs owing to their tendency to be territorial. They have short coats with distinctive black, tan, and/or liver markings.

What Do We Call a Labradoodle Rottweiler Mix?

Here at Know Your Doodle’s we have scoured the web and available research however there is little to no documented cases of a Labradoodle Rottweiler mix hybrid, much less a planned breeding program. That being said, with the popularity of both the Labradoodle and the Rottweiler it is inevitable that even an accidental cross will occur.

It might be easier to think what it wouldn’t be called. For instance, a “Rottle” is the term used for a Rottweiler crossed with a Poodle and a “Rotador” is already reserved for a Rottweiler crossed with a Labrador.  By this logic, a Labradoodle Rotweiler mix could conceivably be referred to as a “Rotadoroodle” but that is a bit of a mouthful.

Why Is This Cross Being Bred?

In short, this cross is not being bred. Well not intentionally anyway.  The concept of mixed or hybrid breeds such as a Labradoodle Rottweiler can be polarising for some pedigree or purebred enthusiasts. As the Rottweiler is extremely loved as a purebred this can make some people skeptical of introducing Poodles let alone Labradoodles to breeding lines.

The Possible Benefits of a Labradoodle Rottweiler Mix

A Labradoodle Rottweiler has the potential to combine the brains of the Poodle, the pleasant nature of the Labrador alongside the protective streak of the Rottweiler. Bundle that up with the potential for a low shedding coat with some rich Rottweiler chocolate tones and what is not to love?

Why use a Labradoodle though when a Poodle could be used? In theory, if a 2nd or later generation Labradoodle is utilized there can be greater consistency in terms of coat and size which can help predict these features in subsequent litters.

The Possible Cons of a Labradoodle Rottweiler Mix

While introducing another breed can help breed out conditions common in a purebred parent, if a condition is common to both the Poodle, Labradoodle, and Rottweiler then the risk will still remain.

The main con however is the element of the unknown in this mix. There are few instances of this mix to date therefore we cannot say with certainty what to expect in terms of key attributes like weight, size, and temperament.

While often a dog’s environment has more to do with its behavior and training is always an option there isn’t much you can do if your Labradoodle Rottweiler ends up a lot smaller or bigger than you expected.

Size and Weight or a Labradoodle Rottweiler Mix

Without the luxury of multiple Labradoodle, Rottweiler mixes to compare we have to look to the sizes of the parent breeds as an indicator of what to expect.

The Labradoodle comes in three size variations, largely dependent on the Poodle parent used. A Standard Labradoodle is the biggest and can be up to 24” in height and weigh up to 65lbs.

A Medium Labradoodle will come in at between 17” and 20” in height and weigh between 30 lbs and 45lbs. The smallest, the Miniature Labradoodle, will be no taller than 16” and weigh between 12lbs and 25lbs.

The Rottweiler meanwhile only comes in one size band and is considered a large breed.  They do vary slightly between male and female with a fully grown male Rottweiler coming in at between 24” and 27” and tipping the scales at anywhere between 95 and 135lbs. The female Rottweiler will be on the smaller side at between 22” and 25” tall and weigh in at 80lbs to 100lbs.

When considering the matching, it would be likely that a Medium or Standard Labradoodle would make for the best match for the Rottweiler. Crossing two parents of similar sizes reduces the chance of significant size differences in the offspring. It is always recommended to reduce the chance of complications for the mother in the case that the puppies she carries become too big for her to safely whelp.

It would be conceivable that a Labradoodle Rottweiler mix would fall somewhere in the region of 20 to 25” in height and likely to weigh in the region of 65 to 100lbs. There could always be outliers that take after the larger weight and height of a male Rottweiler therefore any potential owner should allow for this.

Color and Coat Types Expected in a Rottweiler Labradoodle Mix

The Rottweiler brings a distinctive black coat with tan points and facial markings and the Labradoodle comes in almost any color imaginable. This means that in theory a Rottweiler Labradoodle mix could be any color out however it is likely a degree of Rottweiler marking will be passed on.

In terms of coat type, the adding of Labradoodle genetics has the potential to transform the short, shedding coat of the Rottweiler into a scruffy to wavy mid-length hybrid coat that will shed considerably less.

Of course, with decreased shedding, grooming needs will increase as any broken hair will not naturally fall out and can become tangled. Think regular brushing and 6 to 8 weekly groomer visits to keep Labradoodle Rottweiler in the best shape.

Health Benefits / Concerns of the Labradoodle Rottweiler Mix

In order to understand what the health status of a Labradoodle Rottweiler may have, we can look to the parent breeds. The Rottweiler has a higher risk of a number of health conditions that have been a result of some historical breeding practices. Introducing the Labradoodle which is generally considered a healthy hybrid has the potential to dilute the risk of some of the problematic health conditions.

There are some conditions though that are present with both the Labradoodle and Rottweiler and the risk of these cannot be eliminated. Below is a list of potential conditions that could be seen in a Labradoodle Rottweiler mix:

  • Cruciate ligament damage
  • Elbow dysplasia
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Dermatitis

This is only a list of possible conditions; careful matching of parents and health screening can reduce the risk even further. In many cases, conditions can be treated and managed.

What is the Temperament of a Labradoodle Rottweiler Mix?

It is a tricky business predicting temperament even in purebred dogs so adding mixed breeds to the equation makes for even more uncertainty. In a new or rarer breed such as a Labradoodle Rottweiler, it is effectively a roll of the dice.

If you are considering this mix, it is key to meet the parent dogs as this will give a better indication of puppy characteristics than just breed norms.  The Labradoodle Rotweiller does “on paper” have the potential to be a great hybrid dog. The naturally friendly traits common in the Labradoodle can temper the territorial traits of the Rottweiler, while the Rottweiler’s calmer and more controlled nature can lessen some of the hyperactivity associated with Labradoodles.

One of the key things that makes this hybrid appealing is the match of intelligence in both the Labradoodle and Rottweiler. They both have smarts and have shown themselves to be amendable to training evidenced by the fact both breeds can find themselves as working and assistance dogs.

Exercise Needs of the Rottweiler Labradoodle Mix

A Labradoodle Rottweiler mix is likely to be in the mid to high energy range and will need daily vigorous exercise. They will need in the region of 60 to 90 minutes exercise per day in addition to access to an outdoor space or regular play and toy time.

The Labrador genetics can make this breed incredibly food motivated while the Rottweiler genes can make them predisposed to a bit of laziness if allowed. This means regular exercise is a must to manage their weight.  As a larger breed, even being slightly overweight can have a serious negative impact on joint health and overall wellbeing.

Feeding Requirements in the Labradoodle Rottweiler Mix

Big dog = big appetite = bigger food bills.

A Labradoodle Rottweiler mix will need approximately 2.5 to 4 cups of good quality dry food a day split over two meals. Weights and content of raw or wet feeding will vary depending on the choice of ingredients.

As mentioned above they have the potential to be food orientated. This can be helpful for training but remember to consider smaller treats or low-calorie options to avoid pilling on the excess pounds.

Summary

The Labradoodle Rotweiller mix is not yet prevalent however has the potential to make for a relatively healthy, good-spirited, and intelligent hybrid.

Anyone seeking out this mix is encouraged to find a reputable breeder who can provide as much information as possible regarding the parent breeds. If you do go for one, be aware that there will be a degree of uncertainty about aspects like adult size, coat, and temperament however if you are flexible with plenty of space and room in your heart for a big dog, then it could make for a great gamble.