What common problems do Rottweilers have?

Rottweilers are like the gentle giants of the dog world—muscular, loyal, and with a stare that says “I’ve got your back.” But anyone who’s lived with one knows they come with their own set of quirks and challenges. These dogs aren’t for the faint of heart, and understanding their common issues upfront helps you love them better, through thick and thin.​

Their bodies are built for strength, but that bulk can take a toll on their joints. Hip and elbow dysplasia are big ones—conditions where the joints don’t form right, leading to pain or stiffness, especially as they age. You might notice them slowing down on walks, or struggling to jump into the car they once bounded into. Keeping their weight in check helps—extra pounds put more strain on those joints. Your vet can check for signs early with X-rays, and there are supplements or even physical therapy that can ease discomfort. Let’s be real, no one wants to see their tough Rottie limping.​

Heart issues are another concern to watch for. Dilated cardiomyopathy, where the heart muscle weakens, is more common in Rottweilers than many other breeds. They might tire easily during play, or cough after exercise—subtle signs that something’s off. Regular checkups with a vet who knows the breed can catch this early, sometimes with medication to help the heart work better. Eyes matter too; they’re prone to conditions like cataracts, which can cloud their vision. Catching that early means more time to manage it, so they can still chase that ball in the yard.​

These dogs have energy to burn, and when they don’t get enough exercise, boredom sets in—and boredom leads to trouble. Chewed shoes, dug-up flower beds, even excessive barking—chances are, it’s because they’re understimulated. A quick walk around the block won’t cut it. They need long hikes, games of tug-of-war, or training sessions that challenge their brains. Many areas have breed-specific exercise groups, which aren’t just good for their energy—they’re great for socializing too.​

Socialization is non-negotiable, and not just for their sake. Rottweilers are naturally protective, which can tip into wariness around strangers or other dogs if they’re not exposed early. Puppy classes that let them meet different people, sounds, and animals help them learn what’s “normal.” It’s also part of being a responsible owner—many communities have rules about keeping large breeds well-behaved in public. A well-socialized Rottie is a joy to take out; one that’s not can make every trip to the park stressful.​

They’re also big eaters, and that love for food can lead to obesity. Those pleading eyes at mealtime are hard to resist, but extra weight worsens joint pain and heart issues. Stick to a feeding schedule, measure their food, and save treats for training—no sneaking table scraps. Puzzle feeders can make mealtime last longer, keeping their minds busy while preventing overeating.​

Rottweilers aren’t perfect, but then again, no dog is. Their challenges are manageable with attention, care, and a little patience. Whether it’s a daily walk long enough to tire them out, regular vet visits to catch issues early, or puppy classes to shape their sweet nature—those efforts pay off in a dog that’s not just healthy, but a devoted companion for life.