by Sharon Davies

People have never been able to leave anything alone – including dogs. They are always wondering if they can breed a better dog. One of the purebreds used for designer dogs – hybrids of two pure bred dogs. Some of the most famous hybrid dogs are Labradoodles (Labrador Retrievers and Standard Poodles) and Puggles (Pug and Beagle). Because of the general magnificence of the Rottweiler, they have been used for no less than six hybrids recognized by the American Canine Hybrid Club, founded in 1969.

When this writer was in England, a common hybrid you would come across was a Rottweiler and German Shepherd cross. This made for big black and tan dogs that needed a lot of exercise, a lot of food, but not a lot of grooming. They were very protective and needed experienced dog owners to train them. However, this cross has apparently not caught on in America, as the cross is not listed among the recognized Rottweiler mixed breeds.

And the Rottweiler mixed breeds recognized by the American Canine Hybrid Club keep on coming. A cross between an Afghan Hound and a Rottweiler is a Rottaf. A cross between a Rottweiler and an English Bulldog is an English Bullweiler. And a cross between a Brussells Griffon and a Rottweiler is (are you ready) a Brotweiler.

Depending on what they are crossed with, the puppies might need more training and exercise than either of the parents. Remember in Rottweiler mixed breeds, not only the best but sometimes the worst traits of the parents are emphasized in the puppies.

You can’t show these dogs in a big show like Westminster, but Rottweiler mixed breeds can make excellent companions and friends. You do need to know the traits of both breeds involved in the mix before you go adopt or purchase one. You need to learn as much Rottweiler information as you can as well as much information on the other breed. The odds are, any Rottweiler mix will be a high-energy dog that is protective and wary of strangers.

Any dog suspected of being a Rottweiler mix, if the mix is at least half Rottweiler, is not considered a good dog for first time dog owners, people with physical handicaps or those of a nervous disposition. Rottweiler mixed breed dogs play rough and often do not know their own strength.

They are often better with children than with adults or other dogs. Rottweiler mixes that are not neutered will become aggressive and often seek fights with other dogs. They need a positive outlet for their massive store of energy.

Any large dog is prone to some health issues such as hip or elbow dysphasia and bloat (equivalent to colic in horses). Some will also have heart problems and visual problems, but they usually show up later in life. If you take on a Rottweiler mixed breed companion dog, you must be ready and willing to pay any and all veterinary care. They would do the same for you.

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