The Rottweiler is a one-of-a-kind breed. Muscular, brave, and loving are some of the top characteristics that pop into my head when I think of a Rottie.
Unfortunately, adopting a dog of this breed mightn’t be an option for some of you. When I was on the lookout for a Rottweiler I realized that there wasn’t a reputed Rottweiler breeder in my area, so I had to give up on my dream of having this breed as a companion.
Perhaps this is not an issue for you, and while you love the look of a Rottweiler you would feel more comfortable with a smaller breed, or a dog that is more suitable for first-time dog owners.
No matter what the reason might be, there are Rottweiler look-alikes out there, and in this article, we’ll go through different breeds of dogs that share similarities with Rotties either physical or personality-wise, and we’ll also go over their differences.
Additionally, we’re going to introduce the Rottweiler breed itself and explain what makes a Rottweiler, well a Rottweiler, and we’ll have a brief discussion on whether you should get a similar breed to a Rottie. If you want to go straight to the 22 dog breeds that look like Rottweilers, then you can use our table of contents to navigate to this list!
What Are Rottweilers Like?
Before we go over each dog breed that is similar to Rottweilers, I think it’s important to mention the Rottweiler dog itself.
So, what’s a Rottweiler dog like?
- Origin: Germany
- Type: Medium to large
- Height: 22 to 27 in (56 to 69cm)
- Weight: 80 to 135 pounds (36 to 60 kg)
- Life Expectancy: 9 to 10 years
The Rottweiler descended from the mastiffs of ancient Rome and according to FCI Standard, it’s considered to be one of the oldest surviving dog breeds.
Because of their natural physical strength Rottweilers were used as herding and driving dogs. In fact, their herding talents are still employed in many parts of the world, however, their main occupation these days is as search and rescue dogs, guard dogs, and police dogs.
This alone is a testament to the intelligence and resilience of this breed, but just because the Rottie is a highly trainable dog doesn’t mean they are suitable for inexperienced owners.
While their intelligence can make them somewhat stubborn, their herding and guarding instincts can make them aloof around strangers, that’s why formal obedience training and extensive socialization from early puppyhood are crucial.
As AKC states “it is very important that discipline be consistent, fair, and firm, without being rough. Roughhousing with the Rottweiler may encourage aggression and should be avoided.”
That being said, Rottweilers are family dogs that will do anything to please their loved ones. Despite their serious and intimidating demeanor, these are clownish dogs that are also oblivious to their own size and strength so don’t be surprised if you find your Rottie sitting on your lap.
Or in your arms, as you can see in this video!
Their strength and size are also why Rottweilers need lots of discipline and shouldn’t be neglected. In fact, it is neglect, abuse, and irresponsible ownership that can lead a Rottie to act out and behave aggressively.
22 Dogs Similar to Rottweilers
Now that you have a clear idea of what Rottweilers are like, it’s time to take a closer look at all the breeds that share striking similarities and a few differences with Rottweilers, be that their origin, size, trainability, or the need to sit on your lap!
1. Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
- Origin: Switzerland
- Type: Large
- Height: 23.7 to 28.5 in (60 to 72 cm)
- Weight: 85 to 140 pounds (38.5 to 64 kg)
- Life Expectancy: 8 to 11 years
The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog, also known as Swissy is a rare breed that was the result of indigenous Swiss dogs mating with large mastiff-type. Perhaps the fact that both the Rottweiler and the Swissy share a common ancestor, the Mastiff, makes them so alike.
According to the AKC “the Greater Swiss is closely related to the Bernese Mountain Dog and is a component breed of Saint Bernard and Rottweiler.” Which means that they do in fact share a deeper connection with Rottweilers.
Their colorings are quite similar, but the Swissy has also splashes of white on their forehead and muzzle as well as their chest, belly, and their paws, which makes it look as if they’re wearing shoes.
I think these splashes of white make Swissies more approachable, and when it comes to their personality, these dogs are more easygoing compared to Rottweilers. Of course, they do need plenty of training and socializing to be this chill.
When it comes to exercise a daily vigorous and brisk run or a good, long walk is sufficient. It’s important to remember that this big dog requires a lot of space, and while this is a family dog, they need an experienced dog owner because you wouldn’t want an uncontrollable giant of a dog that has the strength to pull a load of 3,000 pounds or more! Still, as impressive as that is it still doesn’t make them the strongest canine puller!
2. Bernese Mountain Dogs
- Origin: Switzerland
- Type: Large
- Height: 23 to 27.5 in (58 to 70 cm)
- Weight: 70 to 115 pounds (32 to 52 kg)
- Life Expectancy: 7 to 10 years
The Bernese Mountain dog is actually one of the four Swiss mountain dog breeds, just like the Swissy above, and the two breeds as you can imagine look a lot alike and they share the same colorings. The major difference between them is the fact that the Bernese dog is much fluffier, so be prepared for lots of hair!
Thanks to their strength the Bernese was also used for pulling carts and as a farm dog. This means that these dogs love being active, but they can also be very laid back, and a half-hour of moderate exercise a day can satisfy their needs.
Unlike Rottweilers and Swissies this breed is incredibly gentle and affectionate with children along with being very family oriented. Even though Bernese dogs enjoy outdoor activities they don’t like staying outside instead they want to be around their human to feel happy.
These adorable giants are quite placid, and unlike most breeds on this list, this is an excellent choice for first-time owners.
3. Boerboel
- Origin: South Africa
- Type: Large
- Height: 22 to 27 inches (56 to 68.5 cm)
- Weight: 150 to 200 pounds (68 to 91 kg)
- Life Expectancy: 9 to 11 years
At first glance, Boerboel dogs might not seem that similar to a Rottweiler, but coloring aside both dogs are very robust and muscular and if you look at them while they’re standing their alert posture looks basically identical.
That being said, the Boerboel is much larger, and even though quite similar their heads and muzzle are much bigger than that of the Rottweiler.
Being a mastiff-type dog these similarities are to be expected, and thanks to their incredible strength and resilience the Boerboel was used as a guardian against dangerous wild animals like leopards, and baboons.
This means that this breed is really loyal and their love for their family often makes them too protective and territorial. That’s why the Boerboel is not a good match for novice dog owners, they need to be socialized early on and they require long-term obedience training.
It’s important to note that this breed is illegal to own, or requires special permits in countries, like Romania, Denmark, Russia, and France among others.
4. Cane Corso
- Origin: Italy
- Type: Large
- Height: 23.5 to 27.5 in (60 to 70 cm)
- Weight: 88 to 110 pounds (40 to 50 kg)
- Life Expectancy: 9 to 12 years
Similarly to Boerboel, the Cane Corso has a powerful stance, that truly resembles the Rottweiler. However, the Cane Corso is an even more powerful breed with a bite force of 700 PSI, the third most powerful bite on our list of 68 dogs!
The Cane Corso is not just an impressive dog, but it’s also very lovable. According to AKC “they’re indifferent to other dogs and people not in their family. But they are intensely loyal and protective of their own family.”
In the right hands, the Cane Corso will flourish into an incredibly loyal companion that will be sensitive to your own mood and you can expect them to vocalize their own mood, by snorting, howling, and even singing.
With a strong bring like this one, training is really important, so as you can already guess the Cano Corso is more suitable for experienced dog owners.
5. Tibetan Mastiff
- Origin: Tibetan Plateau
- Type: Large
- Height: minimum 24 to 26 in (61 to 66 cm)
- Weight: 70 to 150 pounds (32 to 68 kg)
- Life Expectancy: 10 to 12 years
I love large dogs, but I have a special place in my heart for fluffy giants and when it comes to Tibetan Mastiffs you can’t get any fluffier.
The reason the Tibetan Mastiff is on our list is the fact that it looks exactly like a Rottweiler, with their black coat and tan markings, but larger and much hairier.
If a thick and hairy coat is not a problem for you then you might want to consider getting a Tibetan Mastiff, but you need to be prepared for a sleepy companion.
Don’t get me wrong the Tibetan Mastiff enjoys activities, but they would rather get work-related tasks like patrolling their territory than play fetch. Perhaps this has more to do with the fact that these dogs are all about conserving their energy.
If you’re looking for a loyal family dog that loves children then the Tibetan Mastiff is a great option, but being a protective breed means that it’s also not the best choice for a novice dog owner.
6. Beauceron
- Origin: France
- Type: Large
- Height: 24 to 27.5 in (61 to 70 cm)
- Weight: 70 to 110 pounds (32 to 50 kg)
- Life Expectancy: 10 to 12 years
One might say that the Beauceron and the Doberman Pinscher look a lot alike, and that probably has a lot to do with the fact that these two breeds are often portrayed with their ears cropped and tails docked, two cruel practices that thankfully are no longer legal in most countries.
But if you look at the natural characteristics of the Beauceron you will notice that they look a lot like Rottweilers, they share the same coat colorings and they are more similar in build, even though the Beauceron isn’t as stocky, but still powerful.
Unlike some of the lazier breeds on our list, the Beauceron is more like a Rottweiler, meaning that it’s very athletic. So, they don’t just need an experienced dog owner that can train and socialize this breed early on, but also a human companion that can provide the mental and physical activity they need, in outdoorsy settings.
In return, you will get a sensitive and loving canine friend!
7. Bullmastiff
- Origin: United Kingdom
- Type: Large
- Height: 25 to 27 in (63.5 to 68.5 cm)
- Weight: 100 to 130 pounds (45 to 59 kg)
- Life Expectancy: 7 to 9 years
Even though this breed might not look exactly like the Rottweiler at first glance, the Bullmastiff shares the big and powerful form of the Rottweiler.
But this list is not only about looks, but also the dog’s common personality traits and the Rottweiler and Bullmastiff share a few important traits. They are both fearless, protective, and sometimes too confident and in experienced hands, they can be lovable and silly companions.
There is however one major difference between the two, while the Rottweiler is super active and hard-working, Bullmastiffs are laid back and great walking partners.
So, if you’re looking for a powerful dog that is calm and easy-going in nature compared to the more alert and aloof Rottie then the Bullmastiff it is!
8. American Bulldog
- Origin: United States
- Type: Large
- Height: 20 to 25 in (51 to 63.5)
- Weight: 60 to 100 pounds (27 to 45 kg)
- Life Expectancy: 10 to 12 years
The American Bulldog is another mastiff-type dog that resembles the Rottweiler. While they might not share the same colorings they’re roughly the same size and they both have very muscular physiques.
You can expect the American Bulldog to be equally athletic and that’s why they are mostly suitable for active families. Both breeds are quite playful but American Bulldogs usually get along better with children, however that doesn’t mean they should be left alone with them.
Just like Rotties, the American Bulldog needs lots of training and early socialization, they should also not be left alone, or bored for a prolonged time because they can become chronically fearful and aggressive towards things they don’t know or understand, that includes strangers, other pets, and dogs.
American Bulldogs require responsible pet parents that can offer them a routine in which they can grow and evolve but also feel safe and supported.
9. Anatolia Shepherd Dogs
- Origin: Turkey
- Type: Large
- Height: 27 to 29 in (68.5 to 73.6 cm)
- Weight: 80 to 150 pounds (36 to 68 kg)
- Life Expectancy: 11 to 13 years
Both Kangal and Akbash dogs are part of the Anatolian Shepherd dogs that were and still are used as livestock guardians.
This dog is much larger than the Rottweiler but they do have a similar muscular build and I find that their faces also share some resemblance.
In terms of character, Anatolians are not so different from Rotties, and according to AKC “Anatolian owners must be strong leaders, willing and able to handle a dog as dominating and demanding as he is calm and loving.”
Unlike the Rottweiler, this breed doesn’t require the same amount of exercise, and they will be happy as long as they have a big yard and they are taken for a long walk once or twice a day.
10. Mastiff
- Origin: Britain
- Type: Large
- Height: 27.5 to 30 in (70 to 76 cm)
- Weight: 120 to 230 pounds (54 to 104 kg)
- Life Expectancy: 6 to 10 years
Since the Rottweiler is a mastiff-type dog then it only makes sense that they share some outer similarities with the Mastiff.
The Mastiff of course is a huge dog, but despite their strong and formidable appearance, they are quite gentle with companions.
As AKC states “eternally loyal Mastiffs are protective of family, and natural wariness of strangers makes early training and socialization essential.”
Unlike the Rottweiler, however, the Mastiff is more of a couch potato and they still require moderate exercise to help them stay fit.
So, if you want a gentle giant in your home the Mastiff will be a great fit, but be prepared for some loud snoring, drooling, and licking!
11. Doberman Pinscher
- Origin: Germany
- Type: Medium to Large
- Height: 24 to 28 in ( 61 to 71 cm)
- Weight: 60 to 100 pounds (27 to 45 kg)
- Life Expectancy: 10 to 12 years
It’s not difficult to spot the similarities between the Rottweiler and Doberman even if the latter lacks a robust and muscular frame. Their colorings are basically identical and that probably has to do with the fact that Dobermans come from Rottweilers along with other breeds.
Just like the Rottweiler, the Doberman Pinscher is one of the most trainable breeds of dogs, however, they still need an experienced dog owner, otherwise, they can become pushy, destructive, and unmanageable.
In the right hands, this breed can become the heart of your household, and they are known to bond to one person only, so be prepared to be showered with love and attention.
12. Hovawart
- Origin: Germany
- Type: Medium to large
- Height: 23 to 28 in (58 to 71 cm)
- Weight: 65 to 90 pounds (29 to 41 kg)
- Life Expectancy: 10 to 14 years
If you’re looking for a dog that looks like a Rottweiler and a Golden Retriever then the Hovawart is the ultimate choice!
They share the same colorings as the Rottweiler, but the coat of the Hovawart is somewhat longer and the curls and wavy tips give them a very approachable and happy-go-lucky look.
Just like the Rottweiler, the Hovawart is a working breed and they need lots of mental and physical stimulation. They can also be very protective of their home and family, so early socialization and training from an experienced owner can tame this confident pooch into a more laid-back companion.
If you can offer your future Hovawart pup a house with a yard, at least a one-hour walk, plus 3 or 4 shorter walks to do ‘its business’ daily as well as fun activities to keep them happy then this might be a match made in heaven!
13. Boxer
- Origin: Germany
- Type: Medium to large
- Height: 21.5 to 25 in (54.6 to 63.5 cm)
- Weight: 65 to 80 pounds (29 to 36 kg)
- Life Expectancy: 10 to 12 years
You can find a few similarities between the Boxer and Rottweiler even if that doesn’t include their outer appearance. However, I wouldn’t go as far as to say that the Boxer looks nothing like a Rottweiler, sure they don’t have the same colorings, but their muscular physique and confident stance are quite alike.
Both breeds have guarding instincts but the Rottweiler is more aloof around strangers and other dogs, compared to the more approachable Boxer. When it comes to their families, these breeds can’t get enough of their owners, and they can even appear somewhat clingy.
Exercise and attention are the two things that Boxers crave and if their needs aren’t met or they are left alone for too long then they can get destructive. That’s why this is a dog that is suitable for a big household with lots of people that can give the Boxer the attention it needs.
If you have children you need to be careful because while Boxers love spending their time with little humans they also love to jump around and this can lead to accidents.
14. Appenzeller Sennenhund
- Origin: Switzerland
- Type: Medium-sized
- Height: 20 to 22 in (51 to 56 cm)
- Weight: 48 to 70 pounds (22 to 32 kg)
- Life Expectancy: 13 to 15 years
The Appenzeller is an adorable dog and while their features are softer than that of a Rottie they still share an uncanny resemblance. Their colorings are practically the same if you ignore the presence of the soft white on their muzzle, chest, belly, and paws.
This breed is also smaller than the Rottweiler but large and strong enough to make their presence known.
The Appenzeller is undeniably an intelligent breed and according to the AKC “due to their versatility and willingness, they excel in agility, obedience, herding, and search and rescue.”
This is definitely not a dog to keep in an apartment, this breed needs lots of activities and they need plenty of room to run. So, if you live on a farm or you have a huge yard and enough time to occupy this breed, properly train it and socialize it as early as possible then the Appenzeller is going to be a loyal and loving dog!
15. Pitbull Terrier
- Origin: British Isles
- Type: Medium-sized
- Height: 17 to 21 in (43 to 53 cm)
- Weight: 30 to 60 pounds (13.6 to 27.2 kg)
- Life Expectancy: 8 to 15 years
The Pitbull Terrier is like the more stocky and short version of the Rottweiler, especially if you look at pictures where the ears weren’t cropped. The resemblance is even more uncanny if you compare a Pitbull terrier that has black and tan coloring.
These dogs are also very energetic and they love to have fun and play with their owner. You can create a very deep bond with a Pitbull Terrier through obedience training and you should also invest some time to socialize this breed otherwise they will have a hard time maintaining their cool around other dogs and strangers. But when they are well-socialized, these pups can be some of the most affectionate canines around!
I also want to mention that while Pitbull Terriers have acquired a negative reputation, behind any aggression this breed has displayed is an irresponsible owner. That being said, a Pitbull will do best in experienced hands and a loving owner.
16. Australian Kelpie
- Origin: Australia
- Type: Medium-sized
- Height: 17 to 20 in (43 to 51 cm)
- Weight: 35 to 50 pounds (16 to 22.6 kg)
- Life Expectancy: 10 to 13 years
I know what you’re thinking, the Australian Kelpie looks nothing like a Rottweiler, in fact, it kind of looks more like a Husky, but if you’re someone who likes the black and tan colorings of Rottweilers and you would like a dog with more naturally pointy ears and less muscular physique then the Australian Kelpie might be perfect for you.
This dog is mostly suitable for very active owners and families that enjoy spending most of their time outdoors. The Australian Kelpie is really energetic and active, even more so than the Rottweiler.
That doesn’t mean this breed doesn’t enjoy some quiet time, according to AKC the Australian Kelpie “can do a five-mile run, then settle on the couch with the family to watch a movie.”
If it’s your first time owning a dog then just like with a Rottie, the Australian Kelpie is not a good option because in the wrong hands these dogs can become disruptive by constantly barking or digging, or by chewing on objects.
17. Slovensky Kopov
- Origin: Slovakia
- Type: Medium-sized
- Height: 16 to 20 in (40.6 to 51 cm)
- Weight: 33 to 44 pounds (15 to 20 kg)
- Life Expectancy: 12 to 13 years
The Slovensky Kopov might not be as big as the Rottweiler or as formidable in its appearance but they share the same dense, solid black with tan markings coat.
The Slovak Hound as it’s also called is a light dog but it still has a solid build, two things that gave this breed the advantage when hunting for wild boar.
This is a lovely breed if you’re after a smaller companion that is still active enough to perform outdoor activities but that also enjoys some indoor activities like hide and seek, chasing a ball, and learning new tricks.
If you’re looking for a unique pet that will be loyal, loving, and somewhat of a challenge then the Slovensky Kopov is a great option.
18. German Pinscher
- Origin: Germany
- Type: Medium-sized
- Height: 17 to 20 in (43 to 51 cm)
- Weight: 25 to 45 pounds (11 to 20.4 kg)
- Life Expectancy: 12 to 14 years
If you’re dreaming of a smaller-sized dog that still takes up substantial space in your home and also resembles a Rottweiler then the German Pinscher is a great option.
In fact, the German Pinscher looks like the slightly smaller and leaner version of the Doberman, however, the origin of this breed is not completely known, they are considered one of Germany’s oldest breeds and it seems to be the shorthaired equivalent of the Schnauzer.
Just like most dogs on this list, the German Pinscher is a smart dog and it requires an experienced owner, otherwise, it can outsmart you. It also thrives in the company of an energetic human that can dedicate a big chunk of their time to their mental and physical needs.
According to AKC the German Pinscher are outstanding performance dogs and will do well in “canine sports such as obedience, agility, rally, tracking, and barn hunts.”
That being said it’s important to remember that the German Pinscher is also a loving dog, and because they are very enthusiastic you should be prepared for a very jumpy greeting.
19. Manchester Terrier
- Origin: England
- Type: Toy and standard
- Height: 15 to 16 in (38 to 40.6 cm)
- Weight: 12 to 22 pounds (5 to 10 kg)
- Life Expectancy: 15 to 17 years
Then again if you want an even smaller companion that looks a lot like a Rottweiler then you should go for a Manchester Terrier.
It’s important to keep in mind that while Rottweilers are athletic dogs, you can’t really compare them to small breeds like the Manchester Terrier, because this breed doesn’t tire that easily.
The Manchester Terrier is active, swift, and athletic and you will need to walk them a couple of times a day to keep them happy. That of course doesn’t mean that the Manchester Terrier can’t be chill, in fact, they can make great cuddle buddies once their needs are met.
If you live in an apartment you will be happy to hear that this breed comes in two different sizes toy and standard and both are suitable for an urban environment as long as they get the right amount of exercise, training, and socialization.
20. Miniature Pinscher
- Origin: Germany
- Type: Small
- Height: 10 to 12.5 in (25 to 32 cm)
- Weight: 8 to 10 pounds (3.6 to 4.5 kg)
- Life Expectancy: 12 to 16 years
For those of you who are looking for a miniature version of a Rottweiler then the Miniature Pinscher should definitely do it!
Despite their small size, one look at the confident stance of the Miniature Pinscher is enough to draw parallels between them and the Rottie.
Known as the “King of Toys” (or sometimes Zwergpinscher) the Miniature Pinscher is a fun-loving and silly companion that loves their family. They are also very intelligent and they can test the waters to see if they can get the upper hand in the household, so proper training and socialization are a must.
An experienced owner can make the Miniature Pinscher incredibly happy and if you’re someone who lives in a small apartment then this breed is definitely worth looking into!
21. Dachshunds
- Origin: Germany
- Type: Miniature and standard
- Height: 5 to 9 in (12.7 to 23 cm)
- Weight: 11 to 32 pounds (5 to 14.5 kg)
- Life Expectancy: 12 to 16 years
Another small breed on our list is the Dachshund, and while they might not possess the robust proportions of the Rottweiler they share the same colorings.
This similarity could be enough for some of you, but if you’re looking for a more startling resemblance then you won’t find it in their appearance. But I must say that Dachshunds and Rottweilers are not so different because they do share a few personality traits.
The Dachshunds are also very intelligent as well as independent and often stubborn. This breed also requires plenty of early socialization because they can be similarly aloof or even become aggressive towards strangers and other dogs.
That being said, the Dachshund, is a loving dog and they are very loyal companions just like the Rottie!
22. Rottweiler Mixes
Finally, for those of you who are looking for a dog that looks a lot like a Rottweiler, it’s worth looking into Rottweiler Mixes, as long as they come from a reputable breeder that you can trust.
Some of the most well-known Rottweiler mixes are:
- A cross between a Rottweiler and a Labrador Retriever also called Labrottie.
- Shepweilers are a mix between German Shepherds and Rottweilers.
- A mix between a Border Collie and a Rottweiler results in a Borderwieler.
- Rottwemans are a mix between a Doberman and a Rottweiler.
- A mix between a Boxer and a Rottweiler results in a Boxweiler.
These are usually considered Mixed breeds or Designer-bred dogs. They’ve become quite popular in the past few years because of the belief that these dogs are healthier than pure-bred dogs but this is not entirely true.
What’s important here is to look for breeders that are responsible which means: “regular veterinary care, screening for genetic problems, pre-breeding tests, and regular exercise and good nutrition.”
Are There Miniature Rottweilers?
A lot of people would love to have a Rottweiler as a loyal and loving companion, but not everyone has the space to bring a large breed like that into their small homes.
If that’s the case for you then you might be wondering if there are miniature Rottweilers out there.
Well, it seems that miniature Rottweilers might be a thing, at least according to the internet. However, this breed is not recognized by any official dog kennel or club, which means it’s safe to assume that there are no regulations for ethical miniature Rottweiler breeding.
If this breed does exist, then it means that the method was achieved through breeding litter runts, Rottweilers diagnosed with dwarfism, or crossbreeding with other breeds.
Just like with teacup dogs, each method screams unethical breeding, and keep in mind that this breed might not even exist, at least you won’t get it from reputable breeders, and because there can be online miniature Rottweiler scams, it’s best to avoid this breed.
So, if you want a small-sized healthy pup that looks like a Rottweiler I’d advise you to check the small breeds on our list!
Are There Small Dogs That Look Like Rottweilers?
Instead of looking for a breed that might not even exist, our list is a great place to find small breeds that share a lot of similarities with Rottweilers, be that their looks or personality traits.
Here’s a list of small dogs that look like Rottweilers:
- Miniature Pincher
- Manchester Terrier
- Dachshund
Between these three dogs, I think the Manchester Terrier, being the more robust and muscular, is the small breed that resembles the Rottweiler the most.
But before you decide on one of these dogs, it’s good to remember that while small Rottweiler-like breeds are just as smart and loyal as a Rottweiler, and in the case of the Manchester Terrier and Dachshund they are great for first-time dog owners, they are also more energetic, and they tend to bark more.
Should You Get A Dog Breed Similar to Rottweilers?
I think no one can deny the presence the Rottweiler holds and the sheer power they exuberate, and while many dogs on this list emanate the same sort of raw strength, I wouldn’t advise anyone to go for a dog breed just based on looks.
Instead, I would tell you to look at the personality traits and trainability of each breed listed here. Not all of them will share the same personality traits as Rottweilers, but even if they do it’s important to understand that most dogs on this list are not suitable for inexperienced owners.
You need to be aware of your own capabilities as a dog owner, as well as the free time you have, and the space you can offer them. Living in an apartment in the city is likely to write off most breeds on this list, on the other hand, you might find it difficult to get your hands on some of these breeds in your country or area altogether.
So, before you settle on a dog that looks like a Rottweiler make sure you know what kind of dog companion you want to share your life with.
Are you looking for a dog that gets along with your kids, and is friendly with other people and dogs? Do you want an energetic breed that you can take into the wilderness with you or do you want a chill, fluffy friend?
All of these questions play a far more important role compared to how much your future dog looks like a Rottie!
Closing Thoughts
As you can see there are more than a handful of dogs on our list that share similar characteristics with a Rottie, from the dark coat with brown markings to the size and muscular build.
Some of these breeds are a lot like Rottweilers in terms of their personality, they are loyal guardians and loving companions. However, each breed brings something unique to the table. Some might be smaller, others leaner, while there are those breeds that are better suited for inexperienced owners.
So, before you set your mind on one of the 22 breeds on our list make sure that you’re not simply going for a Rottie look, and that you’re also taking into account the unique needs each of these Rottie look-alike breeds have!
