The Rottweiler is a huge running breed high-quality recognized for its shiny black coat with rich mahogany markings.
However, some Rottweilers are born with a light tan or fawn Rottweiler Colors Tan instead of the standard black.
These unusual tan Rottweilers are controversial and were historically shunned. But today, tan Rottweilers are gaining more acceptance, although they remain rare.
If you’re considering a Rottweiler puppy, it’s important to understand the genetics, controversy, and care requirements for tan Rottweilers compared to the typical black and mahogany dogs.
This article will cover everything you need to recognize about the Rottweiler breed’s precise tan coloration variation.
Common Rottweiler Colors Tan
The most common and preferred Rottweiler coat colors are:
Black
It is considered the classic Rottweiler color. The dog has a shiny black base coat over most of their body, with distinct mahogany markings on the cheeks, legs, chest, and paws. The black fur should not have any tan or brown hairs mixed in.
Mahogany
All Rottweilers have mahogany markings to some degree. These rich rusty red markings appear above the eyes, on the cheeks, inside the legs, and on the paws. The mahogany contrasts beautifully against the deep black coat.
Tan
Instead of being born black, tan Rottweilers have a light fawn or tan base coat. They will still have the typical mahogany markings as well. The tan coat can range from a light cream to a deep bronze.
Details on Tan Rottweilers
Let’s take a closer look at the controversial tan Rottweiler specifically.
Genetics Behind Tan Color
A recessive gene mutation causes the tan coat. Both the mother and father must carry the gene for there to be tan puppies. When two black Rottweilers mate, they can produce a tan pup if both are carriers.
The tan gene changes the production of black pigment, causing the coat to default to tan instead. However, the mahogany markings are controlled by a different gene unaffected by the tan mutation.
Controversy Over Tan Rottweilers
For years, tan Rottweilers were considered faults and excluded from breed standards and registries. The traditionalists argued tan wasn’t an acceptable color for the working Rottweiler breed.
However, the controversy was unfair to responsible tan Rottweiler breeders producing healthy, temperamentally sound dogs. Rejecting tan pups solely for their color seemed unjustified.
Acceptance of Tan Rottweilers
Today, major kennel clubs are softening their stance and recognizing tan Rottweilers as long as they meet all other breed standards. More breeders are intentionally producing a tan litter.
While some stigma remains, tan Rottweilers are slowly gaining acceptance from owners drawn to their unique look. Normal, they make similarly incredible pets and operate puppies.
Taking Care of a Tan Rottweiler
Do tan Rottweilers have different care needs compared to the typical black dog? Here are some tips:
Grooming
All Rottweiler coats are easy-care short and dense double coats. Brush your tan Rottie once a week to remove loose hairs. Bathe only when needed using a mild dog shampoo.
The mahogany markings shouldn’t fade, but you may need to touch them up occasionally with non-toxic grooming chalk. Never dye your dog’s fur.
Training
Rottweilers are effective operating dogs that want vast obedience education, socialization, and mental stimulation. Make sure your tan Rottweiler pup respects you as the strong pack leader.
Any Rottweiler’s training and exercise needs are identical regardless of coat color. Don’t let their teddy bear tan looks fool you – they need a firm, consistent handler.
Health
Reputable Rottweiler breeders will health test parent dogs and provide health clearances proving the puppies are free of inherited diseases like hip dysplasia.
Ask for multiple generations of health clearances. There are no additional health risks associated with the tan color specifically.
Finding a Responsible Tan Rottweiler Breeder
It’s essential to locate a moral, experienced Rottweiler breeder if you need a tan domestic dog. Here are tips for identifying the best breeders of tan Rottweilers:
- AKC registered, follows all breed club codes of ethics
- Experienced in producing a health-tested litter
- Familiar specifically with tan Rottweiler genetics
- Socializes pups extensively before placement
- Provides health clearances for parents
- Interested in matching you with the right temperament
Avoid any breeder who can’t provide documentation on the pup’s health or parentage. Never buy a Rottweiler from a pet store or online retailer.
Conclusion
While controversial in the past, tan Rottweilers are gaining acceptance as people recognize you can’t judge a dog by its fur color. With the right breeder and ownership, tan Rottweilers make awesome partners and operate puppies. Their unique tan color provides a different look on a classic powerful breed.
FAQs
Are tan Rottweilers purebred?
- Yes, tan Rottweilers are purebred dogs that meet the breed standard aside from their coat color. A recessive gene mutation causes the tan color. Both parents must carry the tan gene to produce tan puppies. But otherwise, tan Rottweilers have typical Rottweiler confirmation and temperament.
Do tan Rottweilers stay tan?
- Unlike some breeds where the puppy coat changes color as they mature, tan Rottweilers will remain tan-colored throughout their life. However, the shade may deepen slightly from a lighter cream to a rich bronze tan. But you won’t see any black fur suddenly appear in a mature tan Rottweiler.
Do tan Rottweilers have health problems?
- There are no health problems directly associated with the tan coat gene. Reputable breeders producing tan litters still health test the parents. A well-bred tan Rottweiler from health-tested lines should be as healthy as a black Rottweiler. As with any puppy, you’ll want to see all health clearances for the parents before adopting.
Are tan Rottweilers rare?
- Yes, tan Rottweilers are still rare compared to the standard black color. Only about 1 in 100 Rottweiler puppies born are tan. They remain uncommon since they require two carrier parents with the recessive tan gene mutation. Responsible breeding produces more tan pups than before, but they are still a rarity.
Do tan Rottweilers make good pets?
- Yes, a well-bred tan Rottweiler from health-tested parents makes an excellent pet. They have the same loyal, protective temperament and trainability as any well-bred Rottweiler. Their tan coat is simply a cosmetic color difference that doesn’t affect their personality or ability to be a family companion. Proper training and socialization are vital for any Rottweiler.
