Technically, a Rottweiler can breed with any other breed of dog, since they both are members of the same species. Very tiny dogs will not be able to manage the physical complications surrounding a successful mating. A large stud dog should never be bred to a very small bitch, as the puppies will grow far too big for her to naturally give birth. When given a choice, Rottweilers do seem to prefer mating with dogs about their own size.

One cross that does have a cute name and a loyal following is the St. Weiler (that’s right - a Rottweiler and Saint Bernard). Since these are massive dogs, they need a lot of room, a lot of food and a lot of care. Big dogs are prone to a lot of structural problems that is due to their size and not due to their breed. Although not giants like Irish Wolfhounds, they are usually over one hundred pounds and rarely live beyond ten years of age (giant size dogs live only six years, on average.) The average length of a purebred Rottweiler’s life is 1twelve.

The Rottweiler mixed breeds recognized by the American Canine Hybrid Club include the Afghan Hound and Rottweiler make a Rottaf, the Brussels Griffon and the Rottweiler make a Brotweiler and the Bulldog and Rottweiler make an English Bullweiler.

Then there is the Donerman Pinscher and the Rottweiler mix that makes a Rotterman, the St. Bernard and the Rottweiler that make a St. Weiler, the Labrador Retriever and the Rottweiler that make a Labrottie. And finally, the Mastiff and the Rottweiler make up the English Mastweiler.

Rottweilers seem to often be crossed with German Shepherds and Labrador Retrievers. You can usually tell if a Rottweiler or Doberman is in the mix of a mongrel by looking for what is known as devil stripes (black stripes against red paws on the toes). Rottweilers are also often purposefully crossed with Doberman Pinschers, which are close to Rottweilers in temperament, looks and needs. The result is called a Rotterman (I guess that’s better than Pinscherweiler).

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.

Large, active dogs often do not know their own strength and may accidentally hurt you. Rottweiler mixes seem to be more exuberant and high on life than mean or vicious. Any large dog needs a healthy diet and regular exercise to help curb the 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.