Most people just think of Rottweilers as coming in ‘black and brown’, but that’s definitely not the case. Rottweilers come in 5 distinct colors and there are also certain markings that you’re going to see in many cases. Today, we’ll tell you about those colors and markings so that you can get a better idea of just how diverse these lovable giants can be!
We’ll even cover the 2 rarest colors, so stay with us and let’s take a closer look at Rottweiler colors and markings!
The 3 Purebred recognized colors
Starting off, there are only 3 colors that the AKC considers as being purebred Rottweilers. When you see a Rottweiler at a dog show, it’s going to be one of these 3:
- Black and Mahogany
- Black and Rust
- Black and Tan
Black and Mahogany are going to be the most common Rotties you’ll see and they are also the darkest in color. These dogs have a coloration rather like a rich cognac that definitely makes for one handsome dog.
Black and Rust Rotties are next and they can be a little harder to distinguish from Mahogany if you don’t know what to look for. With these dogs, the ‘cognac’ color is distinctively lighter, and with a little practice, you can spot the difference right away.
Finally, the Black and Tan Rotties have the lightest coloration of all, giving their coloration a more subdued – and some consider much cuter – look to it. It’s all about grades of color when you get down to it, and you might not think that’s so distinctive but imagine if you were picking clothing that was either cognac, rust, or a more subdued and friendly tan – from that perspective, subtle color changes make all the difference in the world!
Markings that the Rottweiler needs to show
Now if you’re thinking of entering your Rottweiler in a show, then it’s important to know that color isn’t everything. Rottweilers need to have certain markings, as well, taking up no more than 10% of their fur.
Starting off, there are often ‘dots’ just above your dog’s eyes, which tend to give them a more ‘serious’ and even wise look to them. You should also look for two triangular markings that will be present on both sides of the chest.
On your dog’s legs, the color will be lower on the front, while it goes right up the inner thigh behind them. Your dog also has muzzle marks on both sides that you’ll be familiar with, but watch out if they connect across the bridge of the nose – this can disqualify them in events. Finally, their tail stubs are going to be black on top, but with their secondary color on the bottom.
Now, these are just the colors and markings for entering your dog in a show and if your Rottweiler is still a puppy, you should know that they won’t have their final coat color until adulthood. The end color might be lighter or significantly deeper, but only time will tell, and if your dog suddenly seems to change color, then it’s important to note the season – Rottweilers shed a lot and sometimes you’re just seeing a fresh version of the coat that you already know!
Two rare Rottweiler colors that you’re sure to love
We promised you to talk about the 2 rarest Rottweiler colors and now it’s time to deliver. The rarest two Rottweiler colors are going to be Blue and Red.
Blue Rottweilers are the least-rare of this pair, but still quite the lookers! They might have silver, slate, grey, or blue coloration to them, or even a combination of these. Unfortunately, while they are certainly beautiful dogs, Blue Rotties tend to be more prone to alopecia, although it certainly won’t affect all Blues.
The rarest Rottie is going to be red and these doggies definitely stick out from the pack! They won’t have the ‘saddle’ pattern on their coats that you are used to or the standard markings, they are simply what they sound like – a big, reddish-orange Rottweiler!
It’s such a striking contrast that people often don’t know that what they are seeing is indeed a Rottweiler. That said, these dogs are rare enough that if you go looking for a breeder, you’ll want to make sure that they are AKC registered and you’ll want to tour the kennel. Due to the high price that Red Rottweilers demand on the market, some less-than-savory breeders are indeed out there and so you’ll be seen to watch out for them!
5 colors and distinctive markings
Now you know the 3 approved AKC colors, as well as the 2 rarest Rottweilers, and the distinctive markings that you often see. If your own dog doesn’t have these markings then don’t worry – again, they’re only for show, and you might even see a few coat variations out there and they’re perfectly okay.
With some Rottweilers, black won’t be the dominant color on their coats, but rather you might see gray, red, or tan. Whatever colors and markings your own Rottweiler has, they are all big ol’ balls of love and the best friend that anyone could have!
Until next time, we wish you and your Rottweiler the very best!
