The Rottweiler Lab mix is a common cross and combines the stamina of the Rottweiler with the high energy and enthusiasm of a Labrador Retriever. Some of the common names given this hybrid include the Labrottie and Rottador. Although no major breed associations recognize this mix, the hybrid is listed on the registry of the American Canine Hybrid Club. Enthusiasts would love to see the hybrid eventually listed as its own breed. If you’re considering this mix as a pet for yourself or the entire family, it’s a good idea to learn more about theRottweiler Lab mix, its history, appearance, temperament, grooming needs, health, and more.
Origin and History
Since the Rottweiler and the Labrador Retriever are both very popular breeds, it’s easy to see why the Rottweiler Lab mix has become quite popular. No one is quite sure when the hybrid was first started, but it was probably started within the past 20-30 years. To better understand the origins of the mix, it’s a good idea to look at the history behind both of the parent breeds.
The ancestors of the Labrador Retriever trace back to Canada in the 17th century, and soon the Canadian water dogs would be differentiated into different breeds, including the Labrador Retriever, the Flat Coated Retriever, the Newfoundland, the Chesapeake Bay Retriever, and the Landseer. These dogs were used to help Canadian fishermen retrieve fish and nets, and eventually the dogs were imported into England where they were bred to become better retrievers and gun dogs. It wasn’t until 1903 that the Kennel Club in England recognized the dogs as their own breed, and later they would be accepted into the American Kennel Club in 1917. These dogs became extremely popular throughout the world in the 20th century and continue to be one of the most popular dogs in the United States and around the world.
The complete history of the Rottweiler is unknown, although experts think that the breed comes from drover dogs used by the Romans to help move livestock. While the dogs were probably used for centuries for guarding purposes and working with livestock, not much was written about these dogs until the 1900s. The first written standard for the Rottweiler was written by the Rottweiler and Leonberger club. These dogs became quite popular as police dogs, and the German army used the dogs in World War I as well. It wasn’t until 1931 that the Rottweiler was admitted to the Stud Book by the American Kennel Club, and in 1971, the American Rottweiler Club was formed. Later, in 1966, England’s Kennel Club would recognize this breed as well.
Appearance
Of course, since these dogs are hybrids, the Rottweiler Lab mix can vary greatly in appearance. They are fairly large dogs, and while they often have the head of a lab, they generally have the muscular, strong body of the Rottweiler. These dogs can vary in height, usually ranging between 21 and 27 inches at their shoulder. They are generally quite large, and their weight can vary from 55 pounds to 110 pounds, depending on which parent breed they take after.
Since both the Lab and the Rottweiler have short coats, you can expect the Rottweiler Lab mix to have a short coat as well. However, the double coat is quite dense, depending on the climate where the dog lives. The coat color can vary, coming in black, chocolate, or yellow, and the dogs may have some of the beautiful Rottweiler markings on their body.
Rottweiler Lab Mix Temperament
Because these are hybrid dogs, the temperament of the Rottweiler Lab mix can vary greatly, and every dog will have a temperament of its own. The temperament often depends on the breed the dog takes after. Since both breeds are very loyal, you can expect loyalty from these dogs, and most of them are quite protective of their family. However, early training and socialization is very important. Both breeds have a lot of energy as well, so you’ll need to make sure that you give these dogs plenty of exercise or they may turn to destructive behavior.
Grooming
While Labs shed heavily all year long, Rottweilers usually only need to be brushed weekly. This means that the grooming needs of your Lab Rottweiler mix can vary, depending on the specific dog. If the dog sheds a lot, you’ll need to brush him several times a week, but if his coat doesn’t shed much, weekly brushings will be fine. Bathe these dogs as needed, and make sure that you check their ears out regularly for infection, irritation, or wax buildup. Cleanse the ears using a cleanser that’s been approved by your vet. Your dog should also have their teeth brushed a couple times a week to eliminate bad breath and to prevent the buildup of tartar. If your dog doesn’t naturally wear down toenails, make sure to trim them once a month.
Working Roles
The Lab Rottweiler mix makes an excellent watchdog. These dogs may also perform well as sporting dogs or even as police or military dogs.
Health
On average, you can expect a Rottweiler Lab mix to live to be between 10 and 14 years of age. The Labrottie can have any of the health concerns from either parent. Some of the common health concerns for this mix may include:
- Diabetes mellitus
- Progressive retinal atrophy
- Elbow dysplasia
- Melanoma
- Obesity
- Hip dysplasia
- Entropion
- Cataracts
- Allergies
- Ectropion
- Glaucoma
- Patellar luxation
- Generalized and central retinal dysplasia
- Insulinoma
- Osteochondrosis
- Congenital portosystemic shunt
- Cranial cruciateligament rupture
- Lymphoma
- Distichiasis
- Von Willebrand disease
- Parvoviral infection
- Hypothyroidism
- Bloat
- Epilepsy
- Iris cysts
- Subaortic stenosis
- Mucocutaneous hypopigmentation
- Medial canthal pocket syndrome
- Ligament injuries
- Congenital deafness
- Follicular lipidosis