Rottweilers were originally bred to drive cattle but later they began to be used in pulling carts. They are also one of the earliest dogs to have served with police and military. Robust and powerful, this breed needs a job to perform. They are inherent protectors and respond quietly and cautiously with a wait-and-see attitude.
Physical Traits
Area of Origin: Germany
Used for: Tracking, hunting, guarding, police and military work
Average Life Span: 10-12 years
Color: Black with rust to mahogany markings
Coat: Smooth, short and glossy
Average Height: 24-27 inches
Average Weight: 95-130 pounds
Group: Working
History and Domestication
The Rottweilers descended from the dogs that were brought by Romans when they invaded Europe. Their herding and guarding instinct were immediately noticed by the Germans and hence they were selectively bred for these traits. The breed almost fell into extinction in 1900s as their services diminished. Later, a breed standard club was formed in 1907 which set the breed standards.
Standard Physical Characteristics
The Rottweiler is a muscular, powerful and massive dog. The head is broad with a round forehead and a moderate muzzle. The nose is black. The almond-shaped, medium-sized eyes are dark too. The triangular ears are carried forward. The chest is deep and broad. Rear declaws are often removed.
Care, Grooming and Health
The short, smooth and glossy coat of a Rottweiler is easy to groom. Use a firm bristle brush for brushing and bathe only when necessary. This breed sheds moderately.
These dogs thrive on exercise and work. They need to be taken on long daily walks or jogs. They would be happiest if allowed to run free in woods or open country. They would also happily run alongside you bicycle and retrieve a ball. This breed is prone to hip dysplasia, ACL damage and entropion. They also tend to snore and overeat.
Living Conditions
Rottweiler will do okay in an apartment if sufficiently exercised. A small fenced-in yard is needed for them where they can run free. They would prefer living with their people inside the home. If left in the backyard for too long, they can become destructive and aggressive.
Temperament
The Rottweiler is a calm, confident and self-assured dog. With his family, he is very affectionate and loves to be around them. However, he can be a little aloof from strangers and doesn’t make friends immediately. He prefers to go the wait-and-see way with external influences. The dog often follows his people around the house. He also has a protective instinct towards his property and family but that shouldn’t turn him aggressive. Some difference in temperament exists in the sexes. While males are watchful and quiet, they will constantly access their vicinity for nay impending threats. On the other hand, females are more affectionate and easier to control. But both of them are highly trainable, though slightly stubborn. They need firm and consistent training as they do not respond well to harsh discipline.
Adoption Groups
Breed Organizations
