Rottweiler
Trait scores
Health risk profile
Conditions below are ranked by documented prevalence and severity in the Rottweiler. Risk level drives both veterinary costs and insurance pricing.
| Condition | Risk | What to know |
|---|---|---|
| Hip and elbow dysplasia | high | Very common in the breed; insist on OFA clearances for both parents. |
| Osteosarcoma (bone cancer) | high | Rottweilers have one of the highest bone-cancer rates of any breed. |
| Cruciate ligament rupture | moderate | Heavy, athletic bodies stress knee ligaments; surgical repair is common. |
| Aortic stenosis | moderate | Inherited heart narrowing; cardiac screening recommended for breeding stock. |
| Bloat (GDV) | moderate | Deep chest raises gastric torsion risk; know the emergency signs. |
Pet insurance for a Rottweiler
Insurers price a Rottweiler from the breed's documented claims profile — here, 2 high-risk conditions, led by Hip and elbow dysplasia and Osteosarcoma (bone cancer). Enrolling early matters more than shopping hard: no carrier covers a condition once it is diagnosed.
Annual cost of ownership
Excluding insurance, the recurring cost of a Rottweiler is driven by how much it eats — which scales with body weight — and how much grooming it needs. At 80–135 lbs and a grooming score of 1/5, the Rottweiler sits below the average dog on grooming spend. Chronic conditions from the risk table above can add substantially to the medical side of the budget — one reason breed-matched insurance matters. For the component-by-component breakdown, see the average cost of owning a dog, and model your own numbers with thecost of ownership calculator.
About the Rottweiler
The Rottweiler descends from Roman drover dogs and later drove cattle and pulled carts in the German town of Rottweil. It is a calm, confident guardian: deeply loyal to family, aloof with strangers, and naturally protective without being noisy. Rotties are highly trainable but powerful, so early socialization, firm boundaries, and obedience work are essential rather than optional. Expect moderate exercise needs, easy grooming, and high food bills. Best for experienced owners prepared to manage a strong guarding breed responsibly.
Origin: Germany
Temperament
Related reading for Rottweiler owners
Rottweiler FAQ
How long do Rottweilers live?
The typical Rottweiler lifespan is 9–10 years. Diet, weight management, and screening for the breed's known hereditary conditions have the largest measurable effect on longevity.
How much does pet insurance cost for a Rottweiler?
There is no published breed-level price for pet insurance, so we do not quote one. NAPHIA's 2026 industry report puts the US average at $836 a year — about $70 a month — for accident-and-illness coverage on a dog, and insurers price above or below that line based on your dog's age, your ZIP code, and the plan you configure. The Rottweiler carries 2 documented high-risk conditions, which is the main reason a Rottweiler policy prices above the national average. For real numbers, request quotes for your dog's exact age and ZIP code.
Is the Rottweiler a good apartment dog?
Usually not. At 80–135 lbs with an energy level of 4/5, the Rottweiler needs more space and daily exercise than most apartments can offer.
What health problems are Rottweilers prone to?
The most significant documented risks are Hip and elbow dysplasia, Osteosarcoma (bone cancer), Cruciate ligament rupture. Ask breeders for the relevant health clearances and budget for insurance early, before any condition becomes pre-existing.