Rotties vs Giant Schnauzers.

[falconry-fan]

I love big dogs and I'm particuarly fond of German breeds.

I've had experience of owning German Shepherds in the past and I adore them but I'd like to try another German breed.

I used to be wary of Rotties, but there's a delightful one in my street, who is gorgeous and has an excellent temperament, and who is in love with my Tibbie and now that I think of it 2 of the sweetest dogs I've met have been male rotties.

I also adore Giant Schnauzers but haven't had quite so much experience with them, having known only one.

Space, exercise and shedding aren't concerns so any advice on owning either of these would be much appreciated.

 

[RedyreRottweilers]

I can comment on the Rottweiler.

First of all, health issues are a concern, even with breeders who are doing all they can do to screen. Do not consider any breeder who is not screening hips, elbows, eyes, and hearts, and RELEASING ALL RESULTS to the OFA data base.

Other issues that can and do affect Rottweilers, but which we are unable to screen for include cancers (bone and lymph being most common) and digestion abnormalities.

This breed is commonly dog aggressive towards other adult members of the same sex. This should be expected with Rottweilers. Also highly territorial. You need 6' fencing with locked gates, and no utility meters inside your fencing.

Early socialization and training is not optional, and any good breeder will insist on this.

Also, THESE DOGS SHED. A lot. Year 'round.

Rottweilers, particularly males, can think they are quite the sauce when growing up, and need an upstanding owner who can present the dog with a positive strong leader figure. Formal training should continue for at least 18 months with most dogs.

Rottweilers are not heat tolerant dogs, so if you live in an area where it is hot in the summer, provisions have to be made for the dog. My dogs are not outdoors for long periods if temperatures are above 90F.

On the positive side, they are affectionate intelligent responsive dogs. Most really enjoy the water, and are natural working dogs who love to retrieve, herd, hike and enjoy most types of training.

If you decide the Rottweiler is for you after your research period, if you will PM me with your general location I would be happy to recommend some good people in your area.

More information about the breed can be found at the American Rottweiler Club website.

 

[golden&hovawart]

I don't know the rotts well,although all the ones have met,were really cool,loving dogs!.They were as friendly as could be.
I've trained a Salt/pepper Giant Schaunzer for carting and fell in love with him,thus,the breed!.Really cool,loving dog that doesn't shed!.I was told by the owner who had both colors that the black was more active,fun and goofy than the S/P.
If you don't mind the grooming side and expense of about 80 dollars,every couple of months.
I love both breed but I know that in my house,I would go for the Giant Schaunzer before the rott cos my dh was attacked by a rott and told me he would never ever own one!.

 

[RedyreRottweilers]

I am so sorry your DH was attacked by a Rottweiler. This is one reason why proper breeding, and early training and socialization are so important, along with belonging to a responsible person.

These dogs can do great damage if they ever do bite someone. I can certainly understand why one would be a little apprehensive of the breed if they have been attacked by one.

 

[golden&hovawart]

DH had to sidekick the rott to the ground cos the dog was coming at full speed directly at him!.He wasn't bitten but it scared him!.DH is 6ft8 and did a full contact move on the dog.Rotts are vey powerful dogs and in the wrong hands can do a lot of damage!.As for the ones,I've met,they were more like big lapdogs than anything else!.That's how a bad experience or a good one,makes you see a breed!.