German Shepherd Dog vs Rottweiler

Verdict

The German Shepherd Dog and the Rottweiler are large, confident and loyal guardians that need daily exercise, early socialization and firm, consistent training. Neither suits a household that cannot supervise a strong dog around visitors, and both do best with an owner who has experience and a secure fence.

The German Shepherd Dog scores higher for trainability and is described as watchful and intelligent, but it sheds heavily and needs more brushing. The Rottweiler is the heavier dog, up to roughly 135 pounds, with a calm, protective manner, a lighter shedding load and a rating that makes it a harder first dog. Its profile asks for a calm leader who will train and socialize the dog early.

Choose the German Shepherd Dog if

• You want a highly trainable working partner
• You will attend training classes and give one to two hours of daily activity
• You can manage a heavy-shedding coat
• You are active and have some dog-handling experience

Choose the Rottweiler if

• You want a heavier, calmer protective dog
• You prefer a coat with moderate shedding and little grooming
• You are an experienced owner with a securely fenced yard
• You can start training and socialization early and keep up both