rottweiler overview

Rottweilers

Rottweilers are a powerful, intelligent, and loyal dog breed known for their versatility and strong bond with their families. Originally bred for herding and guarding, they have a confident and protective nature that makes them excellent companions when raised and trained correctly. This guide provides a detailed look at Rottweilers, answering common questions about their history, temperament, and care needs.

Table of Contents

 

What are the pros and cons of owning a Rottweiller?

Pros

  • Loyal and Protective: Rottweilers are deeply devoted to their families and naturally protective, making them excellent guard dogs and companions.
  • Intelligent and Trainable: Ranked among the most intelligent dog breeds, Rottweilers are quick learners and excel in obedience training, agility, and working roles.
  • Versatile Working Abilities: They are capable of excelling in various tasks, from police and military work to therapy and search-and-rescue roles.
  • Affectionate with Family: Despite their imposing appearance, Rottweilers are gentle and loving with their owners, often enjoying close contact and cuddles.
  • Confident and Stable: Rottweilers are naturally confident, calm, and composed, making them a reliable companion in most situations.
  • Good with Children (with Supervision): When properly socialised and trained, Rottweilers are patient and protective of children, earning a reputation as great family dogs.
  • Low Grooming Needs: Their short, dense coat is easy to maintain with weekly brushing, making grooming relatively low-maintenance.
  • Great Exercise Companion: Rottweilers enjoy physical activities and make excellent companions for runs, hikes, and other outdoor adventures.

Cons

  • Not Ideal for First-Time Owners: Due to their strong will and intelligence, Rottweilers require experienced handling and consistent training.
  • Strong Protective Instincts: While their protective nature is a pro, it can lead to territorial or overprotective behaviours without proper socialisation.
  • High Exercise Needs: Rottweilers require a significant amount of physical and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behaviours.
  • Size and Strength: Their large size and strength can make them difficult to manage for those unprepared for a powerful breed.
  • Health Concerns: Rottweilers are prone to certain health issues, such as hip and elbow dysplasia, heart conditions, and bloat, which may result in higher veterinary costs.
  • Separation Anxiety: Rottweilers are people-oriented dogs and can suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for long periods.
  • Stigma and Misunderstanding: Due to their intimidating appearance and history as guard dogs, Rottweilers may face unfair stigma or restrictions in certain areas. Moderate Shedding: While their grooming needs are minimal, Rottweilers shed moderately year-round, requiring regular brushing to manage.
  • Potential Aggression Without Proper Training: Without early and consistent training, Rottweilers can develop aggressive tendencies, particularly towards strangers or other animals.
  • Cost of Ownership: The cost of owning a Rottweiler can be higher than average due to their need for high-quality food, training, pet insurance, and potential medical expenses.

Brief History of the Rottweiler

The Rottweiler is one of the oldest working dog breeds, with origins tracing back to the Roman Empire. Roman soldiers used robust, mastiff-like dogs to drive and guard their livestock as they marched across Europe. When the Romans settled in what is now Germany, these dogs were bred with local herding dogs, creating the foundation for the Rottweiler.

The breed's name comes from the town of Rottweil in southern Germany, where they were used extensively as herding dogs and cart pullers. Known as the "Rottweiler Metzgerhund" or "Butcher’s Dog," they were employed to protect livestock and transport goods to market.

As industrialisation reduced the need for herding dogs, Rottweilers found new roles as police, military, and guard dogs. Today, they are beloved as both working dogs and family companions, admired for their loyalty, strength, and intelligence.

Are there different types of Rottweilers?

While there is only one recognised Rottweiler breed, slight variations exist depending on the region and breeding lines.

  1. German Rottweilers:

    • Bred according to strict standards set by the ADRK (Allgemeiner Deutscher Rottweiler Klub) in Germany.
    • Typically have a more muscular build and blockier head.

  2. American Rottweilers:

    • Tend to be slightly taller and leaner, as breeding standards in the US are less rigid.

  3. Roman Rottweilers (not officially recognised):

    • A term often used for oversized Rottweilers bred for appearance rather than health or temperament.

Colours of Rottweilers

Rottweilers have a distinct black coat with rust or mahogany markings, typically found on the cheeks, muzzle, chest, legs, and beneath the tail. Any other colour variation, such as albino or blue, is not recognised by reputable breed standards.

How big do Rottweilers get?

Rottweilers are a large and muscular breed. Adult males typically weigh between 50 to 60 kg (110 to 132 lbs) and stand 61 to 69 cm (24 to 27 inches) tall at the shoulder. Females are slightly smaller, weighing 35 to 48 kg (77 to 105 lbs) and standing 56 to 63 cm (22 to 25 inches).

Their size and strength make them powerful dogs that require confident and experienced handling.

How much exercise does a Rottweiler need?

Rottweilers are active dogs that require at least 1 to 2 hours of exercise per day. This can include long walks, runs, or playtime in a secure area. They also benefit from activities that challenge their mind and body, such as obedience training, agility, or tracking.

Without sufficient exercise, Rottweilers can become bored and may develop destructive behaviours. Regular activity is essential for maintaining their physical health and mental well-being.

How energetic is a Rottweiler?

Rottweilers are moderately energetic. While they enjoy vigorous exercise, they are also content to relax at home with their family. Their energy levels are well-balanced, making them capable of both high-intensity activities and quiet companionship.

Are Rottweilers easy to train?

Yes, Rottweilers are highly intelligent and trainable, but they require a firm, consistent, and positive approach. They are eager to please and thrive when given structure and clear boundaries.

However, their strong-willed nature means they can become stubborn without proper training. Early socialisation and obedience training are crucial to ensure they grow into well-mannered adults.

How much do Rottweilers shed?

Rottweilers have a short, dense double coat, which sheds moderately throughout the year. They tend to shed more heavily during spring and autumn when they blow their coat.

How often should I groom a Rottweiler?

Rottweilers are relatively low-maintenance when it comes to grooming. Weekly brushing is sufficient to remove loose hair and keep their coat healthy. During shedding seasons, brushing may need to be done more frequently.

Other grooming needs include:

  • Regular ear cleaning.
  • Nail trimming every 3 to 4 weeks.
  • Bathing every 2 to 3 months, or as needed.

Do Rottweilers bark excessively?

Rottweilers are not excessive barkers. They are generally quiet dogs that will only bark to alert their owners of something unusual or if they feel their territory is threatened. Proper training can help manage unnecessary barking.

Are Rottweilers good with children?

Yes, Rottweilers can be excellent with children, particularly when raised with them. They are protective, patient, and gentle, making them great family companions. However, due to their size and strength, supervision is essential during interactions with younger children to ensure safety.

What is the temperament of Rottweilers?

Rottweilers are known for their confident, loyal, and protective temperament. They are highly devoted to their families and have a natural instinct to guard and protect. Despite their powerful appearance, they can be affectionate and playful with their loved ones.

However, their protective nature means they can be wary of strangers, making early socialisation crucial to ensure they are well-adjusted and friendly.

How do Rottweilers get along with other pets?

Rottweilers can get along with other pets if properly socialised from a young age. While they tend to be friendly with dogs they are raised with, their guarding instincts may make them dominant or territorial around unfamiliar animals. Careful introductions and supervision are key when integrating a Rottweiler into a multi-pet household.

Can Rottweilers live in apartments?

Rottweilers can adapt to apartment living, provided they receive sufficient exercise and mental stimulation. Their calm nature indoors makes them suitable for smaller living spaces, but their size and exercise needs require a committed owner who can provide daily activity and outdoor time.

How does the Rottweiler cope with being left alone?

Rottweilers are highly people-oriented and do not like being left alone for extended periods. Prolonged isolation can lead to separation anxiety and destructive behaviours. If you work long hours, consider hiring a dog walker or arranging for someone to check on your Rottweiler during the day.

What are the common health problems in Rottweilers?

Rottweilers are generally healthy but are prone to certain health issues, including:

  • Hip and Elbow Dysplasia: Genetic conditions affecting joint health.
  • Osteosarcoma: A form of bone cancer more common in large breeds.
  • Heart Conditions: Such as subaortic stenosis (SAS).
  • Bloat (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus): A life-threatening condition requiring immediate attention.
  • Obesity: Due to their love of food, careful portion control is essential.

Regular veterinary check-ups and a healthy lifestyle can help mitigate these risks.

What is the lifespan of Rottweilers?

The average lifespan of a Rottweiler is 8 to 10 years, though some may live longer with proper care and attention to their health.

How much does a Rottweiler cost to keep each month?

Owning a Rottweiler typically costs between ÂŁ80 to ÂŁ150 per month, including food, grooming, veterinary care, and pet insurance. Large breeds like Rottweilers tend to incur higher costs due to their size and potential medical needs.

How intelligent is a Rottweiler?

Rottweilers are highly intelligent, ranking among the top dog breeds for trainability. They excel in tasks requiring problem-solving, obedience, and working skills. Their intelligence makes them well-suited for roles such as police dogs, therapy animals, and search-and-rescue dogs.

Are Rottweilers sociable?

Rottweilers are naturally reserved with strangers but affectionate and sociable with their families. Early socialisation is essential to ensure they are confident and well-mannered around new people and animals.

What are common behavioural traits in Rottweilers?

  • Protective: They are natural guardians and will defend their family if they perceive a threat.
  • Confident: Rottweilers are self-assured and calm.
  • Affectionate: Despite their imposing appearance, they are loving and enjoy being close to their families.
  • Strong-Willed: They require firm but fair leadership to ensure they remain obedient and well-behaved.

What is the best diet for a Rottweiler?

A balanced diet is essential for a Rottweiler’s health. They thrive on high-quality dog food rich in protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates. Due to their size, portion control is important to prevent obesity.

Who is an ideal owner for a Rottweiler?

The ideal owner for a Rottweiler is someone who:

  • Has experience with large, strong-willed breeds.
  • Can commit to regular training, socialisation, and exercise.
  • Lives in a home with enough space for a large dog.

Rottweilers are best suited for confident, active owners who can provide the structure and companionship they need.

Recommended Treats & Chews for Rottweilers

  • Pate: Extremely high value which can be important for dogs with high prey drive. Can be cut into bite sized pieces and frozen to extend shelf life once opened.
  • Furry Rabbit Ears: Good for teeth as the fur helps to 'brush' plaque and tartar away. The fur can also help keep anal glands to naturally express (as spaniels can be prone to anal gland issues).
  • Buffalo Roll: Very long lasting, low odour and will keep your spaniel occupied during periods of inactivity.

For any further help and advice please contact us on 01484 246420 and why not join our social media channels and online community on Instagram, Facebook or YouTube.

With Wags and Woofs,

Laura, Dolly & Reggie

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