Oldest Rottweiler vs. Oldest Pitbull: Who Lived the Longest

Written by Amber LaRock
Updated: March 11, 2023
© Natthapot Chantaraviboon/Shutterstock.com
Share this post on:
Continue Reading To See This Amazing Video

Most large breed dogs have an average lifespan of anywhere from nine to 13 years. Large breed pups are known to have a shorter lifespan than their smaller canine friends. However, some big pups have reached impressive ages!

When speaking of large dogs, there are a few popular breeds that come to mind. We thought it would be fun to compare our favorite breeds when it comes to record-breaking ages. Today, the contenders are rottweilers and pitbulls!

So, when comparing the oldest rottweiler to the oldest pitbull, who lived longer?

30,807 People Couldn't Ace This Quiz

Think You Can?

How Long Does the Average Rottweiler Live?

The average lifespan of a rottweiler is anywhere from eight to 10 years.

©iStock.com/BiancaGrueneberg

The average lifespan for the rottweiler is anywhere from eight to 10 years. While there are outliers on either side, it is uncommon for our rottweiler friends to surpass the 10-year mark. Rottweilers often fall victim to predispositions that impact their lifespan.

Unfortunately, our beloved rottweilers are much more prone to developing cancer than many other canine friends. Some experts state that rottweilers are 5 times more likely to develop osteosarcoma (bone cancer) than other breeds. This will of course impact the length of their life.

How Old Was the Oldest Rottweiler?

The oldest rottweiler on record was a 13-year-old rottie named Bort. Bort lived in Holliston, Massachusetts with his dedicated owner. He appeared to have a wonderful life with his loved ones at his side. Bort was even visited by Dr. David J. Waters during his “Old Grey Muzzle Tour,” during which the doctor traveled the country to meet the oldest canines.

How Long Does the Average Pitbull Live?

When it comes to varying lifespans, the pitbull takes the cake! The average pitbull lifespan is from eight to 16 years, which means some pitbulls live as long as small dogs. Though there is quite a gap in this average, it does appear that most pitbulls live for about 12 years. However, there are different types of pitbulls, so each breed type may have a slightly different lifespan average.

How Old Was the Oldest Pitbull?

Pit bull terrier
The oldest pitbull was rumored to reach 29 years of age!

©sobakabarobaka/Shutterstock.com

The oldest pitbull on record was a handsome boy named Max. He is rumored to have lived for 29 years, which comes close to the oldest dog ever recorded! However, while Max’s owners claimed he was 29 years old, his age was unable to be confirmed. The appropriate vet records were not available, so we can only base this on his family’s statements.

Oldest Rottweiler vs. Oldest Pitbull – Who Lived Longer?

Now that we know the ages of the oldest rottweiler and the oldest pitbull, we know who lived the longest. The oldest rottweiler lived 30% longer than most rottweilers, to an impressive 13 years of age. But the oldest pitbull lived more than twice that long. Even though Max lacked vet records, we know that he is proven to be much older than 13. The pitbull wins!

Ready to discover the top 10 cutest dog breeds in the entire world?

How about the fastest dogs, the largest dogs and those that are -- quite frankly -- just the kindest dogs on the planet? Each day, AZ Animals sends out lists just like this to our thousands of email subscribers. And the best part? It's FREE. Join today by entering your email below.

Up Next:

What's the right dog for you?

Dogs are our best friends but which breed is your perfect match?

X-Small
Small
Medium
Large
Xtra-Large

If you have kids or existing dogs select:

Kids
Other Dogs

Should they be Hypoallergenic?

Yes
No
How important is health?
Which dog groups do you like?
How much exercise should your dog require?
What climate?
How much seperation anxiety?
How much yappiness/barking?

How much energy should they have?

The lower energy the better.
I want a cuddle buddy!
About average energy.
I want a dog that I have to chase after constantly!
All energy levels are great -- I just love dogs!
How much should they shed?
How trainable/obedient does the dog need to be?
How intelligent does the dog need to be?
How much chewing will allow?

More from A-Z Animals


The Featured Image

pitbull smiling
Pitbulls can be fierce and protective, but also loving and silly.
© Natthapot Chantaraviboon/Shutterstock.com

Share this post on:
About the Author

My name is Amber, and I am a Licensed Vet Tech with a degree in Veterinary Technology. My love for animals and their pet parents drove me to work remotely in this field, aiming to provide pet education and guidance whenever it's needed. There’s nothing I love more than helping you feel empowered about your dog or cat’s care!

Thank you for reading! Have some feedback for us? Contact the AZ Animals editorial team.