As the previous poster said, both breeds are very different, save their colouration and markings. A lot depends what you expect out of the dog.

Both have very similar traits in being very people-oriented and needing a lot of exercise and mental stimulation to prevent destructive boredom. As youngsters, both tend to adapt well to other animals and children. Both also need good leadership and discipline. They're very strong-minded dogs and need to remember you set the rules, not them.

Dobermans are very intelligent, high-energy dogs (which makes them great at athletic sports like agility and dock-diving) and need a lot of engagement from their owners.

Rottweilers tend to have more of a quiet, laid-back personality, and have natural herding instincts which makes them great if you have property with livestock.

I don't recommend either breed if you're a first-time dog owner, but both are great in their own ways. :-)

Beau answered on 1/2/13. Helpful? / 1