Hi everyone,
I'm considering getting a new dog and I'm torn between a Doberman and a Rottweiler. I've heard great things about both breeds, but I'm not sure which one would be the better fit for me.
A little bit about my lifestyle - I live in a house with a decent-sized yard and I have a lot of free time to spend with a dog. I'm looking for a breed that is loyal, affectionate and protective of its family. I'm also interested in a breed that is intelligent and easy to train.
I've done some research on both breeds and here are the advantages and disadvantages that I've come across:
Doberman:
Advantages:
- Loyal and protective of its owner
- High level of intelligence and trainability
- Energetic and playful
- Minimal shedding
Disadvantages:
- Can become anxious and nervous if not socialized properly
- Can be aggressive towards strangers if not trained correctly
- Prone to certain health issues, such as hip dysplasia and heart problems
Rottweiler:
Advantages:
- Loyal and protective of its family
- Confident and courageous
- Calm and well-mannered indoors
- Good with children
Disadvantages:
- Can be aggressive towards strangers if not socialized properly
- Prone to certain health issues, such as hip dysplasia and cancer
- High shedding and requires regular grooming
Based on the above information, which breed do you think would be the better fit for me? Any personal experiences with either breed would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance for your help!

Hi there,
I am a long time breeder of Rottweilers, and I wanted to share my perspective on this topic. Rottweilers are known to be one of the most loyal breeds, and I think it's due to their loving and affectionate nature. As a breeder, I have seen many families who choose Rottweilers as a family dog, and they do very well in that role.
Rottweilers are large dogs, so living space is essential. They require adequate room to move around, play, and even exercise. In my experience, Rottweilers take a bit longer to potty train compared to other breeds. Thus, patience, positive reinforcement and consistency are the keys to success.
The breed also requires daily exercise, and playtime is a must for them to be happy and healthy. They also enjoy scheduled feedings, which can be helpful for managing their weight. It can be a bit overwhelming to care for a Rottweiler, but with the right care, they make excellent and loyal companions for life.
One concern pet owners have with Rottweilers is their tendency to be aggressive. However, I have found that this is more of a perception than a reality. Most of the time, Rottweilers are well-behaved, and they usually only become aggressive when their family is threatened. Early socialization and obedience training can help eliminate that risk.
Overall, I believe Rottweilers are an overlooked breed, and it's unfortunate, as they have a lot of love to give. With proper training, socialization and love, Rottweilers can be great family pets. However, as with any breed, it's essential to do your research and ensure you're prepared to give them the care and attention they deserve.