[Karyn]

Well here is my worthless 2 cents. My first Rottie was Cromwell. A wonderful powerful dog. He torn out my front porch. He was a rescue and could have been a disaster. But I found help from a wonderful trainer - Cromwell would take his clue from me. If I was apprehensive, he would be watchful, If I was welcoming and relaxed, he would also be welcoming and relaxed. Winston, a rescue, is totally different. He loves everyone. dogs have personalities too.
I read somewhere that in Europe the breeding is much more stringent and they cull litters. I am no expert - I will never breed - I have only trained two rotties with the assistance of knowledgeable trainers.
Judging from German Shepherds - The breed has undergone a change and not for the good. Atlantic Mystique was a beautiful Shepherd - Looking at the one in the Westminster show - my hips hurt to watch it walk. So perhaps there is a difference. I really could not say.