Breed Type
Working and Utility
History
The Rottweiler is a German breed, originally developed from Roman Cattle Dogs. During the Middle Ages, it was used for bear hunting and as a herd dog. It was bred in the German town of Rottweil in Wurttemberg. It almost became extinct in the 1800's, but made a comeback in the early twentieth century due to the efforts of breeders from Stuttgart. Today the Rottweiler is used for: tracking, herding, as a watchdog, guarding, police work, carting, competitive obedience, mountain rescue work and even as guide dogs for the blind.
Description
The Rottweiler is a large breed dog with a muscular, powerful body that gives it great strength and endurance. It has a broad head with a rounded forehead and a well-developed muzzle. The ears are triangular, carried forward, and its nose is wide and black. The lips are black and inside the mouth it is dark-coloured. The tail is docked in many countries, but as with many breeds, you can request an undocked puppy from the breeder. Countries banning docking are increasing. Docking is now banned in Australia so most Australian Rottweilers have full tails. Rottweilers are often born with rear dewclaws, these are usually removed when the tail is docked. The coat is short, hard and thick. Rottweilers are usually black with brown markings on the cheeks and muzzle, paws and legs.
Size
Height: 24-27 inches (61-69 cm.) Bitches 22-25 inches (56-63 cm.)
Weight: Dogs 95-130 pounds (43-59 kg.) Bitches 85-115 pounds (38-52 kg.)
Coat
The smooth, glossy coat is easy to groom. Brush with a firm bristle brush and bathe only when necessary. This breed is an average shedder.
Temperament
The Rottweiler is a calm and confident dog with a generally reliable temperament. They have a very strong protective nature and are natural guard dogs. They can be aggressive with other dogs and require positive socialisation experiences with other animals as they grow. They can be strong fighters that seem immune to pain. Training is a must for this breed! They are highly intelligent and will thrive on mental stimulation. With proper socialisation training they can be compatible with other pets and children. As a companion dog they are loyal and loving. The Rottweiler is not a breed for everyone, but will thrive in the right environment.
Longevity
10-12 years
Health
The Rottweiler will overeat if given the chance, and given its large size it is crucial to keep this dog well exercised and within its recommended weight range or many health problems will result. The breed is also susceptible to damaging its anterior cruciate ligament (the ligament around the hock area of the hind legs).
Possible Genetic Disorders
Prone to hip dysplasia. Also prone to entropion (an eyelid problem requiring corrective surgery). You should ask your breeder about the incidence of these problems in their breeding stock.
Best Suited
- The Rottweiler needs plenty of exercise, although being a large breed dog, exercise of young dogs should be monitored carefully in order to prevent bone and joint damage.
- They require owners who can handle their massive size and strength. A Rottweiler owner must be able to make a commitment to provide regular and consistent obedience training and socialisation. Only experienced dog owners should consider a Rottweiler.
- Rottweilers are large dogs and as such are expensive to keep.
- If well socialised, they will make great family pets - however they should be supervised when playing with children, and the children should also be trained in how to play safely with such a large dog.
Worst Suited
- For inexperienced dog owners
- For those without time or patience to provide consistent and firm obedience training
- For busy people that are not able to provide companionship
- For those on a limited budget
Recommended Reading
Training Your Rottweiler (Training Your Dog Series)
