We have 2 currently and I have owned 2 others in the past. Both are German but not registered so there could be some Am mixed in. Generally speaking, it is supposed to be American, German then Roman in size order from smallest to largest. There is a problem with overbreeding (like any breed) so you will want to make sure you thouroughly vet a breeder if you buy vs rescue. They can be very hard-headed and require consistent training. Rotts are pretty much puppies until around 2 so that may be a consideration for you as the destructive tendencies can linger longer than with some breeds. Rotts are very family protective but tend to bond with one person in the family more than anyone else. In my house my oldest is my husband's baby and the youngest is mine. Personality wise, they are very smart overall and are real problem solvers. My youngest, Temperance is a serious problem solver who likes to figure her way right out of the crate! SHe is a big goof, loving to play and will fall at your feet like she lost her bones for pets! LOL Tempe is almost 11 months. Mercy is the oldest and is 2.5 years and is almost the polar opposite. She is much more aloof, very alert for any noise, constantly patrols the house, etc. Mercy is only goofy when no one except family is around. They both love kids but can knock a small child over with a kiss so we watch their interactions very closely! LOL Rotts are my first love as far as dog breeds and I can't imagine not having at least 1! They are great family dogs and really their exercise requirements are up to you. If you are working them, they need more exercise. If they are strictly pets, a 30 min walk 4 times a week will usually do. Rotts are generally not overeaters like beagles and bassets are known to be, but Rotts can get overweight pretty easily if they are not engaged. They need interaction and challenges or may overeat out of boredom. They can get heatstroke pretty easily in the summer and they do shed contrary to what most people think. I use a furminator once or twice a week on ours and it takes care of it. They do not need daily brushing but usually enjoy it so it's up to you. ANy questions I can help you with, let me know. I think Lisa has a lot of experience with training Rotts (she's the pro!) so she will have good insight especially with the SCH.