Black Lab Rottweiler Mix

A black Lab Rottweiler mix has one purebred Labrador parent with a black coat, and one purebred Rottweiler parent. There’s no guarantee that puppies will have a black coat even with a black Lab parent. But it’s much more likely if both parent breeds have black fur.

The black Lab Rottweiler mix is loyal, clever, and hard working. Puppies will grow into large dogs with lots of muscle. So, socialization and training from a young age are vital. Are you getting ready to bring a black Lab Rottweiler mix dog home?

What is a Black Lab Rottweiler Mix?

A black Lab Rottweiler mix is the same as any other Rottador mix. But, the Labrador parent will have a black coat, rather than chocolate or yellow. This doesn’t mean that the black Lab parent can’t pass on the genes for a chocolate or yellow coat. But it’s the most common way for breeders to try and get either fully black or mostly black puppies. So, if your heart is set on a black Rottador or a black and tan Rottador, choosing a puppy with a black Lab parent can be a great idea.

Because the black Lab Rottweiler mix has two purebred parents, it is a first generation mix. First generation mix puppies are much less predictable than later generations, since they can inherit any genes from either parent. And if the two parent breeds are quite different, this can cause some real variation, even within a single litter! Luckily, the Rottweiler and Labrador breeds share a lot of traits. So, predicting what a puppy will be like is a little easier.

Will a Black Lab Rottweiler Mix Have Black Fur?

Purebred Rottweilers are black with either mahogany, rust, or tan markings. So, if you pair this with a black Lab, there’s a high chance that your puppies will have black fur too. This is because the genes for black fur are dominant over other shades. However, it doesn’t guarantee that your puppies will have black fur. Some may have markings, like the Rottweiler parent. And some may have different fur altogether, with other common Labrador mismarks, or even chocolate and yellow coloring. This is because black Labradors can carry the genes for chocolate or yellow coats.

Ultimately, you will have to wait for the black Lab Rottweiler mix puppies to be born before you know whether they will have a black coat. But, if this is something you want, speak to your breeder and they may be able to give you first choice of any black puppies in the litter.

Black Lab Rottweiler Mix Temperament

A black Lab Rottweiler mix puppy will usually be similar to its parents in temperament. This means a puppy will often be intelligent, friendly, and very loyal. This mix is also highly energetic. They will love spending plenty of time with you, and need a lot of mental stimulation each day.

The friendliness of the Labrador is well known. But, some people can be wary of Rottweilers. However, with proper socialization and training, Rottweilers will be just as friendly and loving as a Lab.

A study into canine aggression found that Rottweilers scored slightly higher than average for stranger-directed and dog-directed aggression, but lower than average for owner-directed aggression. Rottweilers form very strong bonds with their owners. So, if not socialized properly, their protective instincts may kick in, prompting potential aggression. Socializing your black Lab Rottweiler mix from a young age will help them feel comfortable and happy in the presence of unfamiliar people and animals.

Black Lab Rottweiler Mix Exercise

On top of training and socialization from a young age, the black Rottador mix will need plenty of exercise, as it comes from two high energy breeds. Both the Labrador and the Rottweiler parents have histories working alongside humans. And, both can be seen working with humans today, for instance as police dogs or guide dogs. This working ability is shared by all Rottadors. So, if you have one as a pet, you must make sure they’re getting enough mental and physical stimulation.

Training is a great way to provide some of this. But, these dogs will also need dedicated time outside to stretch their legs and run about. If they take after their Lab parent in particular, they will love fun retrieving games like fetch! Generally, this mix does best in a home with plenty of space. Ideally, they need a large and safely enclosed yard to explore and run around in.

Black Lab Rottweiler Mix Health

Fortunately, there are no specific health risks linked to black fur in dogs. But, this doesn’t mean that a black Lab Rottweiler mix will never suffer from any health problems. In fact, puppies can inherit health issues from either parent breed. Rottadors are prone to the following:

• Hip and elbow dysplasia
• Bloat
• Exercise induced collapse
• Eye issues (including cataracts and PRA)
• Heart problems
• Juvenile Laryngeal Paralysis & Polyneuropathy

Health testing is available for many issues that this mix can face. And breeding from two parent dogs who have clear health certificates can minimise the chance of any hereditary problems passing to your puppy. So, combined with their daily general care, you need to work hard to find a reputable breeder.

Where Can I Find a Black Lab Rottweiler Mix?

The Rottador mix is slowly growing in popularity like many other mixed breed dogs. But, once you’ve found a breeder, you must then make sure they are using a black Lab parent, if this is something you want.

Reputable breeders are the best way to maximise the good health of your future dog. You should never buy a puppy from a puppy mill, pet store, or backyard breeder. These places often do no health tests and treat their dogs poorly. The best breeders will let you visit their puppies and meet the mother dog. Make sure the mom is friendly and confident. This is a good sign for your future pup’s temperament.

And, don’t be put off if the breeder asks you lots of questions. This is a sign they care about the homes their puppies are going to! Make sure you have plenty of questions in return, to ensure you are getting a good quality pup and that the breeder knows their stuff. If a breeder ever refuses to let you see the puppies, where they are being kept, or any health certificates, it is best to look elsewhere.

Another great option is a rescue Rottador. These dogs are often older, so you will be able to tell more about their appearance and temperament. But, you may not know their exact parentage and history. Plus, as the black Lab Rottweiler mix breed is still growing in popularity, finding dogs available for rescue may be a struggle. But, it is still possible!

Do You Have a Black Lab Rottweiler Mix?

Do you already have one of these dogs at home? Or are you just getting ready to welcome one into the family? We would love to hear your thoughts about the black Rottador in the comments!

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References and Resources

• Sponenberg, D. & Rothschild, M. ‘Genetics of Coat Color and Hair Texture’, The Genetics of the Dog (2001)
• Kerns, J. (et al), ‘Linkage and Segregation Analysis of Black and Brindle Coat Color in Domestic Dogs’, Genetics (2007)
• Duffy, D. (et al), ‘Breed Differences in Canine Aggression’, Applied Animal Behavioral Science (2008)
• Keijer, S. (et al), ‘Quantification of the Health-Status of the Dutch Labrador Retriever Population’, Preventive Veterinary Medicine (2019)
• Clements, D. (et al), ‘Dogslife: A Web-Based Longitudinal Study of Labrador Retriever Health in the UK’, BMC Veterinary Research (2013)
• Howell, T. (et al), ‘Puppy Parties and Beyond: The Role of Early Age Socialization Practices on Adult Dog Behavior’, Vet Med. (2015)