Rottweiler vs Beauceron

Rottweilers are powerful and intelligent dogs who benefit from early training and socialization. They are easy to train and eager to please their families, but are also strong-willed and may seem aloof to the outside world.
Originally descending from the mastiffs of the Roman legions, Rottweilers have been valuable companion animals and working dogs for centuries. This is just as true today as it was years ago—families that are willing to put in the time to train and socialize their Rottweiler will be rewarded with an intensely loyal and energetic dog.

In fact, Rottweilers are much more emotionally needy than many people assume. This dog has a fearsome reputation, but in reality, Rottweilers are obsessed with their people and want to be around them all the time. Rottweilers who are isolated from people or kept alone may begin to exhibit unwanted behaviors when they do finally get access to people.

Rottweilers were originally bred to be protectors. Combined with their great strength, this makes it especially important that Rottweilers are properly trained and socialized. Once socialized, Rottweilers can easily get along with other dogs and young children. Like any dog, Rottweilers who are poorly trained, subjected to harsh discipline, or isolated are more likely to exhibit unwanted fear-based behaviors, including biting and aggression.

One especially interesting features of these dogs is their vocalization. Rottweilers aren’t known for excessive barking (although of course they can and will bark), but they do have a deep rumble that sounds almost like a growl. Some pet parents think of this rumbling sound as “talking.” This “Rottie rumbling” is almost like the purring of a giant cat and often means your Rottweiler is happy and content, particularly during belly rubs.

This high-energy, intelligent dog loves to get out and adventure with an active family. As a friendly and regal pup, Beaucerons can adapt well to children if they’re socialized from the time they’re a puppy. To be extra safe with kids, you’ll want to set up playpens and baby gates and close doors when needed, since the dogs can be pretty strong. Plus, they’re herders, so they may try to herd smaller children. And of course, monitor their interactions when they’re together, to ensure everyone—dogs and tiny, young humans alike—respect each others’ boundaries.

Although they look intimidating, Beaucerons are not aggressive. When they do run up to people, it’s to greet them enthusiastically. However, Beaucerons can be trained to be effective guard dogs when needed.

Their high level of intelligence makes them easy to train, but those smarts can also lead them to feel stressed or anxious if they don’t get enough mental stimulation—and it also can mean they can be comedians and get into a lot of funny antics.

Beaucerons have a strong prey drive, so they may not be the best pet for homes with cats or small dogs. But early socialization can certainly help with other dogs and cats in the home. But even around other dogs, you’ll want to supervise them, since they can be a little bossy when they play.

Because of their intelligence, large size and high energy levels, they may not be the best choice for first-time pet parents. But experienced pet parents who have previous experience training dogs may find a Beauceron to be a loyal companion for life.