Full Grown German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix Guide

The German Shepherd Rottweiler mix, also known as the German Rottweiler or Shepherdweiler, is a large designer dog breed resulting from the crossbreeding of a German Shepherd and Rottweiler. In this guide, we'll explore what to expect from this dog once it reaches full maturity.

About the German Shepherd Rottweiler Mix

The Shepherdweiler is a relatively new mixed breed without an official standard. Like many designer dogs, it was developed to inherit desirable traits from both parent breeds while minimizing their potential health issues.

German Shepherds and Rottweilers are working dogs known for their loyalty, strength, and protective instincts. The Shepherdweiler aims to combine these traits into an impressive family guardian.

Size at Full Growth

Male German Shepherd Rottweiler mixes typically reach full size between 2-3 years of age. Females mature slightly faster at 18-24 months. On average, a fully grown male Shepherdweiler will stand 24-26 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh 90-115 pounds. Females are slightly smaller at 22-24 inches and 80-100 pounds.

In terms of length from nose to tail, expect a fully grown Shepherdweiler to measure around 3-4 feet.

Appearance at Full Growth

The Shepherdweiler's appearance will vary depending on which parent breed dominated its genetics. In general, expect a large dog with strong, muscular limbs and a thick double coat.

Common coat colors include black, tan, gray, and sable. Its face will likely have Rottweiler-esque features like a broad skull and medium-length muzzle.

Other distinguishing physical traits of a fully grown Shepherdweiler include an upright triangular ears, almond-shaped eyes, and a natural docked or bobtail. Its paws will be large and round to support its hefty weight.

Personality at Full Growth

While puppies of any breed change drastically as they mature, the Shepherdweiler's personality really settles in once fully grown. Traits that often emerge include being highly energetic, playful, loyal, and incredibly protective of its home and family. Socialization is critical to curb any aggressive or shy tendencies.

With strong herding and guarding instincts, the fully grown Shepherdweiler takes its role as a watchdog seriously. It forms close bonds yet can be wary of strangers without early positive exposures. Consistent training and leadership is needed to retain its obedience and train any suspicious behaviors out of this powerful breed.

Price of a Fully Grown Shepherdweiler

While adoption fees for Shepherdweilers in shelters/rescues usually range from $50-$200, expect to pay considerably more for one from a reputable breeder once fully grown:

• $800-1500 for an adult female
• $1000-2000 for an adult male

Top-quality, show-quality Shepherdweilers with champion bloodlines may cost $2000-$3000 full grown.

Food and Feeding a Fully Grown Shepherdweiler

Given their large size and muscular frame, fully grown Shepherdweilers have high caloric and protein needs. A quality dry adult dog food formulated for extra-large breeds is recommended. The daily amount will depend on the individual dog's metabolism but on average plan to feed:

• 2-3 cups twice a day for active females
• 3-4 cups twice a day for active males

Stick to scheduled mealtimes and avoid snacks between to prevent weight gain in this breed prone to obesity.

Lifespan of a Fully Grown Shepherdweiler

With proper care, training, regular vet checkups, and absence of serious health issues—the average lifespan of a fully grown Shepherdweiler is 10-12 years. Some may live as long as 13-15 years if all their needs are excellently met.

Health Concerns at Full Growth

As a hybrid breed, Shepherdweilers are less likely to suffer genetic conditions than their purebred parents. However, common issues that may develop include hip and elbow dysplasia, partial or complete blindness, epilepsy, and various cancers like bone, lymphoma and mast cell tumors.

Yearly wellness exams are recommended after maturity to screen for developing conditions. Also monitor weight closely to avoid orthopedic issues from excess body mass.

Care and Nutrition Needs as an Adult

Once fully grown, Shepherdweilers still need:

• 1-2 long walks or play sessions daily to burn energy and maintain muscle tone
• Regular brushing 2-3 times a week to distribute oils and remove dead coat
• Ears and coat inspected weekly for infections or pests and cleaned if needed
• Teeth brushing 2-3 times a week and professional cleanings 1-2 times a year
• Nail trims every 1-2 months to avoid cracks and infection
• Grooming to trim hair if it grows too long on face/feet

Cost of Owning a Fully Grown Shepherdweiler

Core monthly expenses for an adult Shepherdweiler include:

• $100-150 for high-quality dry food
• $30-50 on treats, bones, chews
• $10-30 on heartworm, tick, flea preventatives
• $10-20 on miscellaneous supplies
• $30-50 for grooming every 4-6 weeks
• $1000-2000 annual medical fund

Calculate $200-400 per month depending on individual needs to properly budget for this large dog breed as an ongoing commitment.

Behavior Changes Post Maturity

In general, the Shepherdweiler's behavior settles into an easier-care routine past 2 years old. However, some males may develop same-sex dog aggression due to high prey drive and hormones. Obedience training keeps this instinct in check.

Some shedding of puppy coat may occur. Food guarding is another issue to curb with positive methods. But overall, maturity enhances the bond and makes this dog more reliable as a family protector without adolescent antics.

Notable Characteristics at Adulthood

By full growth, Shepherdweilers display an intimidating size and stature. Combined with their dominant presence and guarding instincts, strangers may find them quite frightening if unmanaged. However, their devoted, good-natured temperament toward owners is a standout trait.

Also notable is their sensitivity to their handler's tone combined with relatively simple training. Shepherdweilers respect assertive, calm pack leadership above all else as mature dogs.

Determining Full Maturity

While growth plates typically fuse by 18-24 months, full maturation isn't just physical. For Shepherdweilers, expect the final transition to occur between 2-3 years when:

• Head, chest and limbs reach proportional size
• Annual coat changes end and it lies flat
• Activity needs plateau after adolescence
• Personality shows consistent traits
• Health issues become less frequent

Are Shepherdweilers Suitable Pets?

While wonderful companions for experienced owners, the Shepherdweiler is not a good first-time pet due to size, protection instincts, exercise needs, and potential health problems. They require an owner committed to socialization, obedience classes, daily mental/physical stimulation and veterinary care.

With proper training and handling methods, this large breed can settle into an admirable family companion and guard dog. Their intensity demands an owner able to provide structure while meeting affection needs.

Apartment living isn't suitable, as they need a securely fenced yard and owners with time for activities. Committed dog lovers seeking a strongly devoted protector will appreciate the Shepherdweiler's merits with guidance.

In Summary

The German Shepherd Rottweiler mix is an impressive dog that truly comes into its own physically and mentally past 2 years of age. Their full growth period shapes them into powerful watchdogs demanding an experienced owner. With balanced leadership, socialization and routines addressing exercise, training and healthcare needs, the Shepherdweiler can thrive as a devoted family member for over a decade.

Their intense protective instincts also come at the cost of wary or aggressive behavior if not properly managed from puppyhood onwards. Only suitable adopters able to commit long-term time, consistency and guidance daily should consider this large guardian breed once reaching maturity.