Lab Rottie Mix: Complete Guide to Care and Ownership

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The Lab Rottie Mix is a cross between a Labrador Retriever and a Rottweiler, resulting in a unique and lovable companion.

They typically weigh between 70-120 pounds and stand between 23-27 inches tall, making them a sturdy and impressive breed.

With proper care and attention, Lab Rottie Mixes can live up to 10-12 years, providing you with a loyal friend for a long time.

As with any large breed, they require regular exercise to stay happy and healthy, which we'll discuss in more detail later.

About the Breed

The Lab Rottie mix is a unique and lovable breed that combines the best traits of its parent breeds, the Rottweiler and the Labrador Retriever. They're often referred to as gentle giants, weighing between 70 and 120 pounds and standing at around 24 inches tall.

The Lab Rottie mix is a crossbreed that's formally recognized by several organizations, including the Designer Dogs Kennel Club and the American Canine Hybrid Club. They're also known by other creative names, such as the Rottador, the Rottwador, and the Labweiler.

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One of the most distinctive features of the Lab Rottie mix is its coat, which is double-layered and has a straight but coarse outer layer and a soft underlayer. They require regular grooming, brushing four to five times a day during the spring and fall, and several times a week during the winter and summer.

The Lab Rottie mix is a large to giant breed that needs plenty of exercise to stay happy and healthy. They require long walks and runs, as well as playtime in the yard several times a day. This breed is not suited for apartment living, as they need space to roam and play.

Here are some key facts about the Lab Rottie mix at a glance:

  • Weight: 70-120 pounds
  • Height: 24-27 inches
  • Lifespan: 10-14 years
  • Major Health Concerns: Cold tail, Bloat, Bone Cancer, Obesity, Hip and Elbow Dysplasia, and Von Willebrand's Disease

The Lab Rottie mix is a loyal and loving breed that makes a great companion for active families. With proper training and socialization, they can be a wonderful addition to any household.

Physical Characteristics

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Lab Rottie mixes are big dogs, often weighing between 70 to 115 pounds. They can reach heights of 24 to 27 inches.

Their bodies are typically muscular, similar to a Rottweiler, with a head that resembles a Labrador Retriever's. They often have a small face, long muzzle, and floppy ears.

Their coats are usually short and dense, like a Rottweiler, but can also be medium-length and wavy, like a Labrador. They have a shiny, double-layered coat with waterproof properties.

You can expect them to have four color combinations: black, black and tan, chocolate brown, or gray. The two most common colors are chocolate and black and tan, with black being slightly less common and gray being the rarest.

Size

Labrotties can be quite large, with weights ranging from 70 to over 100 pounds. They can reach the size of a large Rottweiler.

Their height can vary, with some Labrotties reaching as small as 24 inches, while others can grow up to 27 inches. They're classified as a large dog, so you'll need to consider their space requirements.

You won't know how big they'll get until around two years of age, so it's essential to plan ahead and ensure you have enough space for a large dog.

Appearance

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These dogs are going to be big, with a weight range of 70 to over 100 pounds.

Their bodies are often muscular, similar to a Rottweiler, or sleek and svelte like a Labrador.

From a distance, they can be mistaken for Rottweilers, especially if they have a black coat.

However, up close, their small face, long muzzle, and floppy ears signal their Lab ancestry.

They can have the facial features of a Labrador or a Rottweiler, and their muscular body can be either bulky or sleek.

Their coats can be short and dense, like a Rottweiler, or medium-length, like a Labrador Retriever.

Coat appearance can be straight or wavy, and they typically have a shiny, double-layered coat with waterproof properties.

They can have four color combinations: Black, Black and Tan, Chocolate Brown, or Gray.

The two most common colors are Chocolate and Black and Tan, with Black being slightly less common and Gray being the rarest.

Their small head, slimmer jaw, and elongated muzzle are key features that distinguish them from purebred Rottweilers.

At a quick glance, they can be mistaken for a purebred Rottweiler, but a closer inspection reveals their Lab ancestry.

Temperament and Behavior

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The Lab Rottie Mix temperament is a unique blend of their Rottweiler and Labrador Retriever parents. They can be naturally wary of strangers and other pets, which can lead to protective behavior if not socialized properly.

Lab Rotties are intelligent dogs that respond well to positive reinforcement training. They're easy to train, but consistency and firmness are key to avoiding unwanted behaviors.

Their loyalty trait means they're family-oriented and love to be loved in a secure home. If they're not exercised, stimulated, or receive enough attention, they can become destructive and require a confident and firm pet-parent to bring out their best.

Lab Rotties are large, exuberant dogs that don't always know their own strength, so it's essential to socialize them from an early age to ensure they're comfortable around children, dogs, and pets.

A key aspect of their temperament is their tendency to become over-protective if not socialized correctly. Early socialization is crucial to help them understand that not every stranger is a threat, and not every small animal exists for chasing.

Here are some general traits to expect from a Lab Rottie Mix:

  • Protectiveness
  • Friendliness
  • Self-Assuredness
  • Easy Socialization

With early training and socialization, Lab Rotties can become devoted, friendly, loving, and fun-loving pets. However, they do require a confident and firm pet-parent who can provide the necessary structure and attention.

Health and Nutrition

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Lab Rottie mixes are generally healthy dogs, but they can be prone to certain health issues. Hip dysplasia is a common problem in both Labs and Rotties, which can lead to mobility impairment and pain.

Lab Rottie mixes are also at risk of obesity, especially if they don't get enough exercise. This can lead to diabetes and other health problems.

To prevent obesity, it's essential to give your Lab Rottie a regulated diet and plenty of exercise. This can be as simple as taking them for a walk or run every day. You should also avoid feeding them "people food", as it's a quick way for them to gain weight.

Here are some essential tips for feeding your Lab Rottie mix:

Lab Rottie mixes need a lot of calories to maintain their energy levels, with a daily intake of 1,700 to 2,200 calories. This can be broken down into 3-4 meals a day, with the first meal being in the morning, followed by lunch and dinner.

Health

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Labrotties are generally healthy dogs, but like any breed, they can be prone to certain health issues. They have an average lifespan of nine to 12 years.

Hip dysplasia is a common problem in Labrotties, as it is in both Labrador Retrievers and Rottweilers. This skeletal condition occurs when the ball of the hip joint grinds against the socket instead of sliding.

Obesity is also a significant issue in Labrotties, especially if they're not getting suitable exercise. Many Labrotties tend to eat voraciously, which can lead to weight gain.

Labrotties are at risk of developing diabetes due to their tendency to obesity. Preventing obesity is as simple as giving your dog a regulated diet and plenty of exercise.

Here are some common health issues that can affect Labrotties:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Bloat

These health issues can be inherited from their parent breeds, so it's essential to check the health records of their purebred parents.

Nutrition

Feeding your Labrottie requires attention to detail, especially since they're prone to obesity and bloat. You'll want to feed them high-quality kibble that's formulated for large dogs.

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To determine the right amount of food, know your dog's exact weight, which can be challenging to do at home. A visit to the vet is usually the easiest option for weighing a large dog.

Choose a food where the primary ingredient is a whole protein, such as chicken or beef, as it provides essential amino acids for healthy muscle and skin development. Avoid foods with meal products, like chicken meal, as they contain filler ingredients.

Feed your Labrottie 2-3 meals throughout the day, with smaller meals to prevent bloat. Typically, morning and evening feedings are recommended, although some people also give their dog lunch.

After eating, wait at least an hour before allowing your dog to run and play. With multiple feedings and exercise periods each day, you'll need to stay on top of your dog's schedule.

To improve joint health, consider adding Cosequin and other supplements to your dog's diet, as Labrotties are at risk for dysplasia.

Here's a rough guide to daily food consumption:

To avoid overfeeding, consider the following feeding schedule:

  • 8AM – Breakfast
  • 1PM – Lunch
  • 6PM – Dinner

Remember, portion control and regular exercise are crucial to prevent obesity and related health issues.

Care and Maintenance

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These dogs are better off in an adult only home with a confident and experienced handler looking for an energetic companion.

They typically have minimal grooming needs, with a short, dense coat that requires only weekly brushing to keep it shiny and healthy.

You'll probably want to give your Labrottie a bath about once a month, although more frequent bathing might be necessary depending on the weather in your area.

With their short coat, a quick brush with soft bristles every week is enough to keep their coats looking healthy and gleaming.

Regular nail trimming and ear checking are also a must, just like with any dog.

Their teeth need to be cleaned at least two to three times a week to keep them healthy and strong.

Grooming Requirements

Their short coat is relatively easy to maintain with a weekly brush using soft bristles.

You'll want to brush your Labrottie at least once a week to keep their coat looking healthy and shiny.

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As the weather warms up, they may shed a little more, requiring an extra brush here and there.

A minimum of one bath a month is recommended to keep them smelling fresh.

Brushing their teeth at least two to three times a week is also a good habit to get into.

Trimming nails and checking ears should be done regularly to keep them healthy.

A monthly bath may be necessary if they spend a lot of time outdoors, especially in areas with harsh weather conditions.

Complete Care Guide

The Labrottie's energy levels are impressive, requiring at least 60 minutes of exercise per day. This can be split into two 30-minute walks, one in the morning and one in the evening, which also helps them avoid the heat in warmer states.

To meet their exercise needs, your Labrottie should walk around 12 miles per week, which works out to over a mile each day. They'll also appreciate a good game of tug-of-war, so be sure to get them some tough, rugged toys.

Adult Brown Labrador Retriever
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If your Labrottie doesn't receive their daily exercise needs, they can become obese and depressed, and may even resort to destructive behavior like chewing up furniture and clothes. They'll need at least one hour of exercise every day to feel comfortable.

Their warm, weather-resistant coats mean they can play in cold weather without issue, but they do tend to get hot relatively easily, so it's best to avoid midday sun. A typical Labrottie puppy will set you back about $600-$700, although prices may vary depending on their parentage.

With their strong will and large size, Labrotties are best suited to adult-only homes with a confident and experienced handler. Early training and socialization are essential to ensure your new pup inherits the desirable characteristics and temperament of their parents.

Labrotties have an average lifespan of between nine and 12 years, so be prepared for a long and loving companionship. They'll need regular exercise and attention to stay happy and healthy, but the rewards will be well worth it.

Finding and Owning

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If you're considering bringing a Rottador into your life, be prepared to pay at least $800 for a puppy, and potentially much more.

Paying a bit more for a puppy raised by a reputable designer dog breeder can provide you with valuable certifications, including hip scores and parental health history.

You can also find Rottweiler Labradors in rescues and shelters, especially adult dogs.

Different Names

Different cultures have different naming conventions. In some cultures, a person's name changes after marriage, while in others, it remains the same.

For example, in some African cultures, a woman takes her husband's surname after marriage, but in others, she keeps her own surname. This is evident in the case of a woman in the article who took her husband's surname after marriage, while another woman in the same culture kept her own surname.

In some Asian cultures, a person's name is determined by their birth order, with the eldest child being given a specific name. This is seen in the example of a family in the article where the eldest child's name is a combination of their parents' names.

A person's name can also be changed due to cultural or personal reasons. For instance, a person may choose to change their name to reflect their cultural heritage or to distance themselves from their past.

Breeders & Costs

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When considering purchasing a Rottador, it's essential to factor in the costs associated with buying from a reputable breeder.

Pricing can vary, but expect to pay at least $800 for a Rottador, with prices often exceeding $1,000 or more.

A reputable breeder will provide valuable certifications, such as hip scores and parental health history, which can give you peace of mind as a new owner.

These certifications can also help ensure the health and well-being of your new pet.

Rescues & Shelters

If you're considering adopting a Rottweiler Labrador mix, rescues and shelters are a great place to start your search. Many adult dogs of this breed end up in shelters due to their high energy needs and large size.

Rottweiler Labradors are often surprisingly easy to find in rescues and shelters, especially adult dogs. This is because many people adopt these dogs as puppies without understanding their needs.

You'll find specialized organizations across the country dedicated to helping Rottweiler Labradors find suitable homes. These organizations exist to address the same issues that lead to these dogs ending up in shelters.

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Puppies

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Your Rottweiler Lab Mix puppy will grow up fast during their first seven months and be fully grown at two years old.

A typical 8-week-old Rottweiler Lab Mix puppy weighs around 15 pounds.

Here's a rough estimate of your puppy's weight as they grow:

You can expect to pay between $300 to $600 for a Rottweiler Lab Mix puppy, but their medical expenses can range from $450 to $600 each year too.

As Family Pets

As a family pet, the Labrottie is a loyal protector with a loving and playful personality. They require lots of time spent around people, which means they're not a good fit for busy households.

They're energetic dogs that need two 30-minute exercise sessions each day, so be prepared to get moving with your Labrottie. This will help keep them happy and healthy.

Labrotties are intelligent and easy-to-train using positive reinforcement, which is a great bonus for first-time dog owners. With patience and consistency, you can teach your Labrottie all sorts of cool tricks and behaviors.

They're large dogs, and they don't always know their own strength, so you'll need to teach them to be gentle and careful around young children.

Kennel Club Recognition

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The Kennel Club Recognition of Labrotties can be a bit confusing. The American Kennel Club doesn't recognize them as a breed.

This means there are no official breed standards or pedigree papers. However, you can still research their family tree and pedigree since their parents are purebred.

Labrotties can be registered with several organizations, including the International Designer Canine Registry, American Canine Hybrid Club, Designer Dogs Kennel Club, Dog Registry of America, and Designer Breed Registry.

Here are some organizations that register Labrotties:

  • International Designer Canine Registry
  • American Canine Hybrid Club
  • Designer Dogs Kennel Club
  • Dog Registry of America
  • Designer Breed Registry

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a labrottie a good dog?

Labrotties make excellent family pets, known for their friendly, protective, and affectionate nature, but may require time to warm up to new people. They are also alert and vocal guard dogs, making them a great choice for those seeking a loyal companion.

What is the lifespan of a Labrottie?

The average lifespan of a Labrottie is 9 to 12 years. Regular exercise and daily walks are essential to ensure a long and healthy life for this active breed.

What is a Rottweiler Lab mix called?

A Rottweiler Lab mix is commonly known as a Rottador, Labrottie, or Labweiller. This energetic and loyal breed combines the best qualities of its Rottweiler and Labrador Retriever parents.

Heather Murphy

Writer

Heather Murphy is a passionate and dedicated writer with a keen interest in the world of pets. With a background in animal care, she brings a unique perspective to her writing, making her articles informative and engaging. Heather's articles have been featured in various publications, covering topics such as pet treats and other related subjects.

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