Breed comparison

Bullmastiff vs Rottweiler

How the two breeds compare on the American Kennel Club's 1 to 5 trait ratings, and which one suits which home.

4Affection with family5
3Good with young children3
3Good with other dogs3
3Openness to strangers3
3Playfulness4
4Energy level3
4Trainability5
4Mental stimulation needs5
3Adaptability4
5Watchdog / protective5
1Barking1
3Shedding3
1Coat grooming1
3Drooling3

The biggest differences

These two breeds are close on every trait: no score differs by more than one point.

They score the same on good with young children, good with other dogs, openness to strangers, watchdog / protective, barking, shedding.

Which one should you choose?

Pick the Bullmastiff if you want an energetic exercise partner. Pick the Rottweiler if you prefer a calmer dog, you want a dog that is easier to train, you live in a smaller home or move often.

Ratings are general breed tendencies from the AKC. Every dog is an individual, so meet the dog, and its parents if you can, before you decide. Not sure? Try the breed selector.

Source: American Kennel Club breed ratings (compiled February 2022). How we check.

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