Rottweilers are historically a working dog breed, and these pups need lots of exercise, training, and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. They can be a great option for a family with older children and they can also be good companions for individuals who have a love for adventure and want to take their dog along for the ride.
Rottweilers have a lifespan that is in line with other larger dogs, and these pups may be prone to certain health issues throughout their lives that can affect their lifespan. Our article gives you more information on how long Rottweilers live and what you can do to ensure your dog lives a long and happy life.
How Long Do Rottweilers Live?
Like many other larger dog breeds, Rottweilers have shorter lifespans than their smaller dog counterparts. You can expect this breed to have an average lifespan of between 8 and 10 years, though some Rottweilers have been known to live to around 14 years old.
A number of factors can affect how long your Rottweiler companion lives. Health problems, genetics, and the care that your dog receives throughout their life all play an important part in your dog’s overall lifespan. It’s important to be familiar with your dog’s expected lifespan and proper care measures so you can help them have a healthy and happy life at your side.
Health Issues That Impact the Lifespan of a Rottweiler
Rottweilers are prone to certain health issues that can impact their lifespan. These health issues may be due to genetic predispositions or the result of poor breeding. Other times, these issues develop due simply to bad luck.
Common health issues that may affect your Rottweiler’s lifespan include:
Obesity – This condition can cause Rottweilers to easily become overweight, something that impacts their daily enjoyment of life as well as their lifespan. Proper diet and nutrition are essential to keeping this breed at a healthy weight.
Hip and Elbow dysplasia – Like many other large breeds, Rottweilers are prone to elbow and hip dysplasia. These conditions occur when the joints of the hip or elbow are too loose, and it causes pain, inflammation, or trouble with mobility.
Cranial Cruciate Ligament (CCL) Rupture – This is similar to an ACL tear in humans, and may cause dogs to limp. It can generally be repaired with surgery and managed with pain medications and joint support.
Osteosarcoma – This is a type of aggressive bone cancer that Rottweilers are unfortunately predisposed to. However, it can generally be treated if diagnosed early. It causes pain, swelling, and lameness in Rottweilers.
Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV) – Also known as bloat, GDV is a medical emergency in dogs that happens when a dog swallows too much air and their stomach twists. It is characterized by an enlarged abdomen, unproductive retching, and loss of appetite. It can be fatal if left untreated.
Heart Murmurs – Rottweilers commonly have heart issues, including heart murmurs. Routine veterinary care can help diagnose heart problems before they become serious.
It’s important to seek veterinary help if you suspect any of these health issues in your dog or if you notice any concerning symptoms. Oftentimes, quick veterinary treatment can make all the difference in your dog’s longevity and well-being.
Tips to Encourage a Long Life for Your Rottweiler
The following tips can help encourage a long life for your Rottweiler. Implement each of these tips into your dog’s care routine to help them stay happy and live as long as possible.
Ensure Proper Breeding Practices
If you’re welcoming a Rottweiler into your family, you may be looking to purchase a puppy from a breeder. When it comes to Rottweiler breeders, it’s important to select one that has the health of the parent dogs and puppies in mind.
A reputable and ethical breeder will not overbreed, they will not engage in unsafe practices, and they won’t encourage inbreeding. Reputable Rottweiler breeders will also be able to answer all of your questions about the breed and will likely make you sign a contract before you bring your pup home.
Backyard breeders and unethical breeders are less likely to put the health of the dogs first. This can result in your Rottweiler having health problems from puppyhood, which could affect their lifespan.
Encourage Mental and Physical Stimulation
Rottweilers are large, energetic, and playful dogs, and these pups need a lot of mental and physical stimulation to stay healthy and happy. Rottweilers have historically been used as a working breed, and they tend to thrive in households where they can receive extensive training or be given jobs to perform throughout the day.
In addition to mental stimulation in the form of training, your Rottweiler should receive several walks per day, plus an hour or so of dedicated playtime as well as outdoor adventures each week. Physical stimulation can help keep your dog healthy and encourage a proper weight, both things that can impact their lifespan.
Feed a Healthy Diet
Rottweilers are prone to obesity, so it’s essential that your dog receives a healthy diet that is both nutritionally balanced and meets their caloric needs. Obesity and a lack of nutritional balance in your dog’s diet may lead to health issues down the line. This can impact your dog’s lifespan and their overall enjoyment of life.
We recommend providing your Rottweiler with a balanced diet that is recommended by your veterinarian. You can supplement your dog’s diet with healthy treats, but make sure not to overdo it. Refrain from giving your dog table scraps to ensure they stay healthy.
Keep Up With Dental Care and Grooming
An often overlooked part of caring for your Rottweiler is dental upkeep and making sure their coat is in good health. Dental health is a key part of your dog’s overall health. Dental diseases can impact your dog’s longevity and well-being if left untreated. Regular brushing of your dog’s teeth — plus dental treats and vet visits to keep your Rottweiler’s dental health in check — are a vital part of your dog’s care.
Grooming your dog and brushing them every other day is also essential, as Rottweilers do shed. You will need to brush them to remove any loose fur. Brushing your dog can help you check their skin and coat for any signs of disease or discomfort, too.
Practice Preventive and Life Stage Care
Adjusting your Rottweiler’s care to their life stage is one of the best things you can do to ensure their health. For example, Rottweiler puppies need a different type of food, more exercise and more socialization training than an adult Rottweiler. Senior dogs may benefit from food targeted to specific health issues and lower-impact exercise sessions.
Preventive care like check-ups at the vet and adjusting your dog’s living spaces, beds, training, and toys to their life stage can also help your dog feel completely supported throughout their life and encourage them to feel their best.
Schedule Routine Veterinary Visits
Routine veterinary visits are key to making sure your Rottweiler is healthy. They can help catch potential health issues before they turn into something more serious. As puppies, Rottweilers should go to the vet every six months to make sure they adhere to the proper vaccine schedule. Adult Rottweilers generally only need annual visits, while senior dogs might need to see the vet twice a year. Consistent, timely vet care can help your dog live long and always feel their healthiest.
If you notice any concerning symptoms in between vet visits, always call your vet or take your dog to an emergency vet service as needed.
When Do I Need to See a Vet About My Rottweiler?
Sometimes, Rottweilers may present more concerning symptoms that need to be treated by a vet immediately. If you notice the following symptoms, seek emergency care, either from your regular vet or from the closest animal emergency center.
Emergency health symptoms in Rottweilers include:
- Seizures or unconsciousness
- Extended loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
- Bleeding
- Inability to use the bathroom
- Difficulty breathing
- Swollen abdomen
- Limping, inability to move, or obvious traumatic injury
Remember, the sooner your Rottweiler receives treatment, the sooner they may be able to recover and get back to being their happy, healthy self.
Surpassing the Average Rottweiler Lifespan With Proper Care
When it comes to caring for your Rottweiler, encouraging an active lifestyle, providing training and socialization, and providing your dog with a healthy diet are all essential activities.
For most dog owners, proper care and lots of love are a staple in their Rottweiler’s life. You can supplement this care with veterinary visits and special attention for any health issues your Rottweiler may develop. With care like this, you can help encourage your Rottweiler to live past the expected lifespan for years of happiness at your side.
Sources:
Author Blaseser L., Lauren, DVM, DACVS, “Gastric Dilatation Volvulus (GDV) … or “bloat””, Ethos Veterinary Health, 2024,
Author Cohen, Aly, DVM, “Osteosarcoma in dogs”, Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, August. 2024.
