Rottweiler Health Guide

Health information for Rottweiler owners—a powerful breed with specific health considerations.

8-10

Years Lifespan

80-135

Pounds (Adult)

Moderate

Health Risk

AKC Popularity

Cancer Awareness Important

Rottweilers have elevated cancer rates, particularly osteosarcoma (bone cancer). Regular checkups, limb checks for swelling, and monitoring for lameness are important as they age.

What Makes Rottweilers Unique

Large, powerful build: Size puts stress on joints and ligaments
Rapid growth as puppies: Controlled growth rate important to prevent joint problems
Deep chest: Increased risk of bloat (GDV)
Cancer predisposition: Higher rates of osteosarcoma than most breeds

Major Health Conditions

1. Hip & Elbow Dysplasia

20%+ affected

Joint malformation common in large breeds. Rapid puppy growth and excess weight increase risk significantly.

Watch for:

• Difficulty rising
• Bunny-hopping gait
• Reluctance to exercise
• Stiffness after rest

Prevention:

• Large breed puppy food
• Controlled growth rate
• Maintain healthy weight
• Avoid over-exercise as puppy

2. Osteosarcoma (Bone Cancer)

High risk breed

Rottweilers have one of the highest rates of bone cancer. Usually affects the legs and typically appears in middle-aged to older dogs.

Warning signs:

• Lameness that doesn't improve
• Swelling on leg (hard lump)
• Pain when leg touched
• Sudden fracture

What to know:

• Aggressive cancer
• X-rays and biopsy to diagnose
• Amputation + chemo common
• Early detection matters

3. Heart Disease (SAS & DCM)

Breed predisposed

Rottweilers can develop Subvalvular Aortic Stenosis (SAS) and Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM). Cardiac screening recommended.

Signs:

• Exercise intolerance
• Fainting (syncope)
• Coughing
• Sudden collapse

Screening:

• Puppy cardiac exam
• Listen for murmurs
• Echocardiogram if needed
• Annual heart check

4. Bloat (GDV)

Life-threatening

Deep-chested Rottweilers are at risk for bloat—a life-threatening emergency where the stomach fills with gas and may twist.

Emergency Signs:

• Distended, hard abdomen
• Unproductive retching
• Restlessness, pacing
• Go to ER immediately

5. Cruciate Ligament Tears

Common

The ACL (CCL in dogs) is commonly injured in large breeds like Rottweilers. Often affects both knees over time.

Signs:

• Sudden lameness
• Sitting with leg out to side
• Swelling around knee
• Clicking when walking

Treatment:

• Surgery usually needed
• TPLO or TTA procedures
• Months of recovery
• Weight control helps prevent

Preventive Care for Rottweilers

Large breed puppy food — controls growth rate to protect joints
Maintain lean weight — obesity accelerates all health problems
Monthly leg checks — feel for lumps or swelling (osteosarcoma)
Avoid vigorous exercise after meals — reduces bloat risk

Emergency Signs:

Distended abdomen with retching (bloat)
Collapse or fainting
Sudden severe lameness
Difficulty breathing
Leg swelling that appeared suddenly

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average lifespan of a Rottweiler?

Rottweilers typically live 8-10 years, which is shorter than many breeds due to their large size and cancer predisposition. Maintaining a healthy weight and regular vet checkups can help maximize their lifespan.

Are Rottweilers prone to cancer?

Yes, Rottweilers have higher rates of osteosarcoma (bone cancer) than most breeds. They also have increased risk of lymphoma and hemangiosarcoma. Regular vet checks, monitoring limbs for swelling or lameness, and early detection are important.

Do Rottweilers get bloat?

Yes, Rottweilers are at risk for bloat (GDV) due to their deep chest. Signs include restlessness, drooling, distended abdomen, and unproductive retching. This is a life-threatening emergency requiring immediate veterinary care.

What is hip dysplasia in Rottweilers?

Hip dysplasia is a genetic condition where the hip joint develops abnormally, causing arthritis and mobility problems. Over 20% of Rottweilers are affected. Controlled puppy growth, maintaining healthy weight, and OFA screening for breeding dogs help reduce risk.

Do Rottweilers have heart problems?

Rottweilers can develop subaortic stenosis (SAS), a congenital heart defect causing narrowing below the aortic valve. They may also develop dilated cardiomyopathy. Annual heart screenings and listening for murmurs at vet visits is recommended.

How do I prevent joint problems in my Rottweiler puppy?

Feed a large breed puppy food to control growth rate, avoid over-exercising puppies (especially jumping and stairs), maintain a lean body condition, and avoid spaying/neutering too early. This helps joints develop properly before bearing full adult weight.