Hello people! I want a big dog and I am not so sure if I will be getting a Labrador Retriever or Rottweiler. I love big black dogs. Can you please tell me the major difference between the two? I know that both breed are very intelligent. I think both are in the top 10.

Well, we have 2 labrador retrievers here at home. And my dad did consider getting a Rottweiler before so I know a bit about them. I don't think there's any major difference between the two, aside from the Rotts natural guarding abilities.

While both dogs are large breeds, Rotts do weigh a bit heavier and grow taller than the Labs. Both breeds are intelligent and reliable, though Rotts make better watchdogs because of their innate aggression and guarding abilities than Labs. But they do have to be trained while their still young, and should be handled carefully, especially around other dogs. Labs are suitable for children since they're loving and affectionate dogs, though they also make good watchdogs. They crave attention and care from what it considers as it's family. They're also easily trained and are good swimmers. Both breeds eat a lot, but Labs tend to get obese easily (probably since Rotts thrive on exercise ). No high maintenance for both breeds, just regular brushing.

Really good summary there, dogfriendly!

I do want to point out that if you go with the Rottweiler you may get an unfair response to the breed. But it's also an opportunity to show the world that with love and proper training, a Rottie doesn't automatically mean it's aggressive and dangerous.

Thank you so much for your response dogfriendly. Now, I know more about Labadors and Rottweilers. I am thinking of buying one so my Lhasa Apso will have a companion. My Lhasa Apso will have a wife by November so I'm thinking of having a big dog with them.

Labs are more playful

The lab is a more people pleasing dog.They seem to always want to make you happy.
Rottweilers do to,but they can be a bit strong headed and need someone who can deal with them trying to take control.
I have owned and shown Rottweilers since 1990 and think they are a great breed,but they are not for everyone.
Plus both dogs are very popular and being over bred.
Make sure when purchasing either that both parents have at the least their hips certified from the OFA
Make sure you see this
Orthopedic Foundation for Animals

Being checked by a vet is not enough.Some breeders are doing hips,Elbows,Hearts and eyes.

little things like how experienced you are with dogs, have you had many big dogs before? And what sort of time you have for training etc?
A lab is a good old faithful if your handling experince is not high. Rotties can be a fantastic dog to have around but may need a fair bit of time spent socializing to ensure that you can keep a bit of a check on potential dog agression. Do you have the time to put in?
Do you have any other pets in the home, if you do and they are smaller pets such as cats, a lab is less likely to see them as a prey than the rottie.

At the end of the day both these breeds can be a fantastic companion. Labs are the tried and tested favorite family pet and will live only to be with and please you, a rottie will do anything to protect you and ensure you and your home are safe, the only thing to consider like posted by somone before, if you get the rottie, be prepared for a bit of criticisim and negative responses from the odd person.

Good luck in your decision.

Labs are great but they need to get out and run around, especially as a puppy. Too many people get labs, never let them out of the house for any length of time and feed them way too much. They have a strong appetite drive and will literally eat themselves to death.

English labs are smaller with the same appetitte drive as the larger american labs and tend to fat more so as a result of their smaller frames but large appetitte.

Hans

Rotties are great dogs but they need a strong leader in the house otherwise they will assume the leadership role. Never a good situation when the dog think they are in charge.

- Hans