Rottweiler Dogs
Breed Rating (2 Reviews)
Appearance | |
Friendliness | |
Hardiness | |
Garden |
History
The Rottweiler takes its name from the town of Rottweil in Southern Germany where the breed has its origins. The precursor to the modern day breed were most likely the cattle droving dogs that the Romans used. The Rottweiler was used to drive cattle to market, to pull meat carts for butchers and even as a guard dog. Once all produce was sold, the money would be tied around the dog’s neck to stop thieves from taking it. With the advancement of technology, the breed was no longer needed for its original purpose and they faced extinction. In 1901 a breed standard was drawn up and numbers soon started to rise. They are one of the top 20 most popular breeds in America.
Behaviour
Despite their intimidating looks, the Rottweiler is a calm and dependable dog who will be affectionate and loving towards their owners and family. They are good with children, but can sometimes accidentally knock toddlers over when leaning in to them - they just want to be as close as possible. They will try and stop any arguments going on within the household. If raised with cats, other pets and dogs they will be fine with them, though they can be aggressive towards dogs of the same sex and socialsition is crucial to prevent any conflicts later on in thier lives.
Rottweilers are a large and powerful breed who will need to learn their place in the pack. You have to make it clear that you are in charge or they may try and take the top dog spot for themselves. They will protect you if they feel the need, but there is a very fine line between protection and aggression, they need to know that you are in charge and not to question your authority. They will naturally want to guard you, but this has to be on your terms and not theirs.
If trained properly, the Rottweiler will be an affectionate, calm, living and respectful breed who will make for a great companion. This is a smart breed that learns quickly, so be sure to set boundaries early on. They do well in agility, obedience, tracking and even therapy work. With their big brains comes a need for constant mental stimulation, playing with them, providing them toys, going on walks with them and in general involving them in any activities they can take part in will all help prevent boredom and destructive behaviour. They like pleasing their owners.
This breed will need a fair amount of exercise each day and enjoy going for walks. They tend to stick close to their wonders even when out and about. Walking them off lead shouldn’t cause any problems if they are trained properly, but if in doubt keep the lead on. They can be greedy and will eat anything you give them, be sure not to over-indulge them in treats to prevent obesity. They like having someone around them and will do ebay if there is someone in the house most of the day. They can be left alone for periods of time, but if they get bored they will partake in destructive behavior.
Rottweilers have a short double coat that sheds a fair amount of fur, especially when they are moulting. Brushing a couple of times per week will help get rid of any dead hairs. Getting them used to being brushed, having their ears teeth and feet checked from a young age will all help prevent any problems later on.
Temperament
Rottweilers have a confident and headstrong temperament. It is important to socialise Rottweilers early as they need to understand that other dogs or strange people are not a threat to them and shouldn't be treated as such. A decent amount of exercise combined with regular and consistent training will help the Rottweiler develop into a disciplined companion.
Health Problems
Rottweillers are a healthy breed, though Canine Hip Dysplasia, Elbow Dysplasia and Bloat can sometimes be seen, as can luxating patella (dislocation of the knee cap), intervertebral disc disease (pressure on spinal cord that can cause paralysis), cancer (particularly bone cancer), bloat and epilepsy.
Breed Details
- Status: Common
- Life Expectancy: 8 - 12 years
- Weight: 75 - 135 lbs
- Height: 22 - 24"
- Rare: No
- Coat: Short
- Grooming Requirements: Once a week
- Town or Country: Either
- Minimum Home Size: Large House
- Minimum Garden Size: Large Garden
- Breed Type: Working Dog
- Size: Giant
- Energy Level: Medium
- Exercise Required: Over 2 hours
Rottweiler Pictures
Latest Reviews For Rottweiler (2 of 2)
Rottweiler’s as pets - David,
3/3/2023 We have had 7 Rotties since 1986 and all have been unbelievable family pets. Definitely require discipline, love, and exercise.
Wonderful pets! - Gail,