In comparison, the rottweiler and the Labrador retriever each came from other countries. Although the origin of the rot, also know as rottie, is not documented on record, supposition indicates the likelihood that rots descended from one of the drover dogs, indigenous to Ancient Rome. The drover dog has been described as a strong, rugged and willing worker; therefore, the rot is considered in the working group. Police, military, and customs have worked with these dogs for centuries. The Labrador retriever originally came from Newfoundland; it was once believed the Lab originated from Labrador. Labs are also strong, willing workers and some Labs even have had worker’s certificates. In Great Britain, the black Labrador retriever was called a gun dog and retrieved fish nets in the 1800’s. In fact, Labs is now one of the prime breeds selected for guide and rescue work; however, Labrador retrievers are considered in the sporting group. Both of these dogs were taken from their native land and brought to Germany to be used to guard and protect during war time. Eventually, both the rottie and the Lab were brought to the Unites States.



These two breeds can be compared by their color, size, and temperament. Rottweilers are medium, large in size, robust and powerful. The height of rots is usually 24 inches to 27 inches. Rottweilers are black with clearly defined rust markings. In comparison, the Labrador is medium in size (sometimes larger) 23 to 25 inches in height, with strong, large and thick necks, tails, and chests. Black Labs are black, although the coloring can be black and brindle or black and tan, much like the rot. Temperaments of the two breeds are similar. For example, the rottweilers are calm, loyal, and make good companions. Rots are also very intelligent and are very trainable. Labrador retrievers are also loyal, easy going, intelligent, and easy to train. Labs are gentle with children and the elderly; therefore, making great companions as well.

Last of all, in comparing the different breeds, at one time, rots were considered vicious guard dogs and only suitable for guarding. For example, a rottweiler will guard to the point that strangers cannot get past the sidewalk or driveway of the master and home. They are very protective. Although the instinct of the rottweiler is to guard, rotties are not vicious by nature. Whereas the nature of the Labrador is easy going, they will also guard and protect. Labs are known as “alarm barkers"; they bark to warn when there are strangers or intruders around. In addition, the Labrador will come between intruder and family to protect.

In conclusion, both rottweiler and the Labrador, being of different breeds and originating from different countries, are very similar in many ways. Both of these dogs are unique in appearance and performance. Furthermore, with temperament and intelligence similar, these dogs can be easily trained. The rot and the Lab are very compatible to each other and to society. With love and attention, these dogs make great pets and companions.

We lost Bubba in 2002, when we had to have him put down with a brain tumor. He was our rottie of eight years old. We took him at the age of four because he was going to the pound. I knew the chances of him being euthanized were good because not only his age but he was aggressive. I really wanted to get another Labrador retriever to be a companion for Candy. She was two, a black Lab, and she needed another dog around. She and Bubba played together but she put him in his place from the start. Bubba became less aggressive, after working with him and showing him love. He became a big, 117 pound, lap dog. We miss Bubba.

After the mourning time for Candy, we let her pick out her companion. Coco, a mix Lab, a year old that we found at a rescue center. He is so sweet and now the two are best buddies.