Rottle Basics

The playful Rottle combines the affectionate Rottweiler with the intelligent Poodle.

Origin

The Rottle is the result of a growing trend toward Designer Dogs that surfaced back in the 1980s. These pooches have pure-bred parents but have been crossed specifically to produce puppies that carry the desired traits of both parent breeds – typically a healthier, smaller, hypo-allergenic or gentler form of a popular breed.

Pedigree

The Rottle is ineligible to join the American Kennel Club (AKC) roster of pure-breds because of his mixed lineage however both parent breeds are members; the Poodle joined AKCs “non-sporting” group in 1887 while the Rottweiler has been a member of the “working” group since 1931.

Food/Diet

The Rottle is a large, highly active dog that will require a nutrient-rich kibble designed specifically for his size, age and activity level. As Poodles are known to suffer from digestive issues, plan to feed your dog a top-quality, low-fat food that is also low on the fillers that may make him want to over-eat to feel full. Because Rottles gain weight easily, plan to feed your pooch 2 to 3 smaller meals throughout the day versus free-feeding him.

The Rottle is an affectionate, intelligent dog is playful, up for anything and makes a great companion.

Training

Your Rottle comes from two intelligent and keen-to-please breeds which means he is quick to pick up commands and obedience training should come quite easily. Because of the size of this dog, you will need to take a firm, consistent approach to establishing yourself as the pack leader in order to ensure he takes and responds to commands readily. As with all dogs, a rewards-based approach that includes loads of verbal praise and treats for a job well done will net you the best results.

Weight

Your Rottle is a large dog who will weigh between 75 and 100 pounds when fully grown.

Temperament/Behavior

The Rottle is a calm, even-tempered dog who does well with kids and other animals once socialized. His loyal, protective nature makes him a great potential family watchdog and while he is spirited and energetic when outdoors he calms down nicely once indoors and loves to simply hang-out with his family. This affectionate, intelligent dog is playful, up for anything and makes a great companion – whether running, walking or relaxing on the sofa.

Common Health Problems

While Designer dogs are typically bred specifically to be healthier than their pure-bred parents it’s important that you be aware of what your new pup could inherit, With the Rottle that can include joint issues and digestive problems including bloat from the Poodle as well as bone cancer and heart issues from the Rottweiler.

Life Expectancy

The Rottle is a large dog who is relatively healthy and can be expected to live between 9 and 15 years.

Exercise Requirements

The Rottle is a highly energetic dog who will need long walks or runs to keep him physically fit and lots of active playtime to ensure he is mentally stimulated. He is prone to packing on the pounds which is deadly for a dog prone to joint issues so exercise is a must for this pooch. Tossing a ball in the yard or a visit to the dog park are a great addition to his exercise regimen.

The Rottle is an even-tempered dog that is affectionate with kids and loyal to his family.

Recognized Clubs

Also known as the Rottie-poo, Rottiepoo, Rottiedoodle, Rottweilerpoo and Rottweilerdoodle, the Rottle’s mixed breed status means he doesn’t qualify to join the American Kennel Club (AKC) however he is a member of the American Canine Hybrid Club (ACHC) and the Dog Registry of American, Inc. (DRA).

Coat

The Rottle may have the thick, curly double-coat of the Poodle or the straight, single-coat of the Rottweiler. Either way, he will be a low-shedding dog who may require a little extra attention during shedding season if he leans towards the Rottweiler. A light, daily brushing should keep his coat mat- and tangle-free while periodic professional grooming will help keep him looking his best if he takes after the Poodle with a dense, curly coat. Because floppy eared dogs can experience infections if not properly maintained, inspect and clean his ears weekly.

Puppies

To avoid having a large, unruly dog on your hands it’s important your Rottle puppies be socialized early on and trained in obedience as soon as they are suitably mobile. They come from two smart breeds so will learn quickly and soon become a joy to have in your home. As this pooch can experience joint issues later in life, take it easy on exercise and play that may over-stress tiny limbs.

Photo credit: mattesimages/Shutterstock; D.Bond/Shutterstock; Daz Stock/Shutterstock