Rottweilers are well known as an intelligent working breed that doubles as an excellent family companion. They are at their best when around their owners, and protecting those that they know and love. They have long been praised for their intelligence, loyalty, and strength. But, before adopting any dog, it’s important to understand not only what personality they have, but what kind of grooming routine you are signing up for.
Before adopting a Rottweiler, you may be curious to learn about their shedding habits, and if they shed as much as other breeds. The short answer is, yes, Rottweilers do shed, but it’s not unmanageable.
Rottweilers shed year-round, with heavier shedding in the spring when they lose old hair that was replaced by new fur during winter months. They can also be prone to seasonal allergies which may also contribute to increased shedding. In the remainder of this article, you’ll learn everything you need to know about Rottie shedding habits.
Rottweiler Coats
Many people think that Rotties have a single coat like their Doberman cousin. Rottweilers actually have a double coat that is coarse and thick, regardless of the length. Their fur tends to be short with a thicker undercoat.
The outer layer will vary in length, but coats are usually straight or wavy though some Rotties may have a curly hair texture on their back haunches. Because Rottweilers have double coats, this means they will blow their coats twice per year.
If you are seeking a lower shedding dog, the Rottweiler is probably not your best option. Consider a Rottweiler mix like a Rottiedoodle or a different breed altogether.
Rottweiler Coat Colors
Rottweilers have three AKC-approved breed standard colors. Those colors are Black & Mahogany, Black & Rust, and the most common, Black and Tan.
You’ll find some other Rottweiler colors touted as unique, or special. These coat colors may demand a higher price tag, but it’s important to know that they aren’t recognized by the AKC. If you own a “Red Rottweiler,” then there’s a good chance you won’t be able to allow your dog to compete in AKC events.
Shedding Frequency
Rottweilers shed year-round, though it is more intense in the spring when Rotties lose old hair and replace it with new fur. Their shedding frequency can also be increased by allergies and other seasonal factors.
Rotties will usually shed their coats twice per year, but it’s important to know that some Rottie breeds may blow a third or even fourth coat during an intense molt season. Rotties with longer coats will also appear to shed more because their fur is longer. But the frequency is the same.
It can be hard for Rottweiler owners to keep up with the extra layer of fur during intense shedding seasons. Some dogs may experience a “reverse shedding” where they shed even more than normal during the winter months.
Other Reasons For Shedding
There are other reasons Rotties may shed more than normal. These reasons include the following:
Routine Change: Routine changes can elevate stress levels, increasing shedding.
Stress: Stress from life events can contribute to increased shedding.
Allergies: Allergies or allergic reactions can cause fur loss.
Medication: Some medications have side effects that may cause your Rottie to shed more.
Skin Conditions: Some dogs develop skin conditions that contribute to fur loss.
Food: Changes in dog food can cause hair loss if your dog has an allergic reaction.
Bathing: Some dogs don’t react well to certain types of shampoo, causing fur loss.
Mites: Parasites and/or mites can cause fur loss for in most dogs.
It’s important to visit with your veterinarian if you believe that your pup may have a medical condition that’s caused them to shed more than normal. But if you’ve had something simple like a recent move, or you’ve recently changed foods, it could be something simple that’s causing your pup’s additional loss of fur.
Managing Your Rottweiler’s Shedding
So you’ve decided you want a Rottie, and now just want to know how to manage their shedding habits? The good news is that it’s fairly easy to manage a Rottweiler’s coat.
It’s no more difficult than managing a Labrador’s shedding habits or any other large double-coated breed that doesn’t have long hair. There are a few things you can do to reduce the amount of fur found around your home.
Brushing
Rottweilers should be brushed weekly, at a minimum. Ideally during shedding season you’ll brush your Rottie at least 2-3 times per week to help keep their fur under control. This is the easiest way to properly manage your Rottie’s shedding habits, even without regular bathing, which we still encourage.
The best brushes for double-coated dogs are typically a traditional pin brush. You’ll also want a deshedding tool handy for shedding season. This will likely only be used two or three times per year. It can help with their fur that appears as if it’s molting and dropping everywhere in the summertime.
Bathing
Rottweilers should be bathed regularly, but this frequency will depend on each individual dog. Some Rotties have more sensitive skin than others. Those with less sensitive skin can handle a bath at least once a month.
But usually, you’ll want to bathe your Rottweiler no more than 2 times per month. Any more than that and you’ll dry out their skin, removing the natural oils.
You should also consider using a natural dog shampoo, or a formula with colloidal oatmeal. This will help soothe their skin and promote healthy hair growth.
Diet
Diets are more important than many dog owners realize when it comes to shedding. Rotties that regularly eat a lower quality dog food will likely shed more than a dog who’s eating a high-quality kibble that’s enriched with Omega 3 fatty acids.
Dry kibbles that are enriched with Omega 3 fatty acids help promote healthy skin, and fur. High-quality dog foods can also help keep fur stronger, less brittle, and less likely to end up around your house or on your furniture.
If you’d like to look at a simple way to help manage fur, invest in a premium Rottweiler dry kibble, and you’ll be able to reap the benefits during shedding season.
Supplements
Supplements can be used for dogs that may not have food that gives them all the nutrients they need. It can also be used for dogs that may have identified as nutrient deficient after a trip to the vet.
The most common supplement to improve your dog’s skin and coat health is fish oil, which will contain Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids. These are usually available in both treat, or liquid form which can be put on your pup’s food.
Frequently Asked Questions
When do Rottweilers shed the most?
Rottweilers typically shed more in the spring and fall, just like all double coated dogs. It's during these times of year you'll need to be bathing, and brushing your dog regularly.
Do Rottweilers shed a lot?
Rottweilers have a double-coated coat, which means they will shed more than other breeds of dogs. It's worth noting that they will likely appear to shed less than long-haired breeds.
A dog like the Border Collie will shed about the same, but their fur is longer and will stick to everything. So your Rottie will appear to shed less, as a result.
Do Rottweilers need to be bathed?
Rotties should ideally be washed once per month. This will depend on the individual dog's skin sensitivity and health.
Why is my Rottweiler shedding so much?
If your dog is shedding more than normal, it's important to visit your veterinarian. They can rule out any potential health problems that may be triggering additional shedding in your pup.
As mentioned, double-coated dogs tend to shed more twice per year, so if your dog is dropping more fur than normal, it could just be the time of year.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve decided to welcome a Rottweiler into your home, then know that their shedding habits are manageable. Despite them being bred as a working breed with a thicker double coat, they won’t appear to shed as much as other breeds with long coats.
As we’ve discussed, there are a few things you can do to keep your Rottie’s fur looking healthy and clean, including bathing them regularly. If you follow these steps, you’ll ensure that you can keep your Rottie’s coat off your furniture, floors, and your guests clothing.
Have you ever hear of Kefir given to a dog to help stop shedding?
Thank you for the insights about Rottweiler shedding habits.