The Rottweiler Breed

My passion has been the Rottweiler for many years. The Rottweiler has a large boxy head and a powerful body. Muscular and athletic, this dogs body was built for work. The muzzle is well-developed with a scissor bite. The Rottweilers eyes are dark with an expression of goodwill, curiosity and loyalty. The ears are triangular, carried forward, and its nose is wide and black. The lips are black and inside the mouth it is dark-colored. The tail is customarily docked within three days of birth. Often born with rear dewclaws which are usually removed when the tail is docked. The coat is short, hard and thick. It is black with brown markings on the cheeks and muzzle, paws and legs.

Rottweiler bitches often have large litters; 12 puppies are not uncommon. With the two litters my female had there were 12 puppies each time.

Some claim there are two variations of Rotties, the German Rottweiler and the American Rottweiler. German Rotties are said to be shorter, stockier and have a bigger blockier head, and American Rotties are said to be taller and leggier without the block head. In any case, there are breeders breeding for the German Rottweiler look, which goes outside the AKC standard, while others are breeding for the American Rottweiler look, which follows the AKC standard more closely. Most people when they think of the Rottweiler and are considering purchasing one for their companion are looking for the more boxy look however, I believe a Rottie is a Rottie and all are loveable, loyal creatures with the exceptional ability of being an excellent companion when cared for correctly!

Temperment

The Rottweiler companion has gained a bad reputation through much help from inappropriate breeding, training (or should I say lack of training) and abuse. The Rottweiler is calm, gentle, loyal, obedient and extremely loyal to its primary caregiver. The Rottweiler will protect its master/mistress fiercly. They are very strong fighters and almost appear to be immune to feeling pain. Firm and careful training is a must for ANY Rottweiler to be able to control these extremely desirable traits. Without proper and continuous training these dogs could become quit dangerous when left to be as they desire. Without training you could end up with an extremely dangerous and aggressive companion.

Because of a Rottweilers size if you are considering a Rottweiler as your companion it is imperative that you are able to control and properly handle their size and strength. Rottweilers are extremely intelligent and if you are not the alpha dog in the pack then your Rottweiler will assume the leader of pack leader and the Rottweilers idea of being pack leader is not the most socialized, well behaved example. Dogs natural instinct is to live as a pack and every pack has its own pecking order. The human members of the pack must establish that they are first in the pecking order. Children must be trained to lead Rottweilers as well as their adult pack members. The primary caregiver usually is identified as the pack leader. Establishing the pack leader role is the only way to have a successful pack that includes a Rottweiler. Socialization is also another key factor in proper training. We all want our Rottweilers to protect our homes and families but we want them to be gentle with our friends and loved ones who come to visit or whom we visit.

Height and Weight Statistics

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.)

Proper exersice is a must with a large breed dog such as a Rottweiler. Too much weight on a Rottie can lead to joint issues and other health problems.

Health Problems

The Rottweiler is prone to cancer, hip displasia and other joint related diseases, and other gastro intestinal diseases. Educating yourself on these ailments and what causes them will help in the proper care and long life of your companion.

Living Environment

Rottweilers can adapt to any living environment when proper exercise is provided. A Rottweiler requires long fast paced walks at least once a day, preferably twice if possible. Rottweilers are relatively inactive when indoors and should have a proper yard or place where they can exercise regularly.

Rottweilers do not have a natural desire to wander away from their pack so open spaces where they can freely run are excellent options. Rottweilers are also excellent swimmers and love to play fetch. Their desire is to please their master/mistress.

Life Span

Rottweilers normal life expectancy is 10-12 years.

Grooming

A Rottweiler requires little grooming. Their coat requires a regular brushing with a bristled brush and bathing only when needed. Shedding for the Rottweiler is pretty average but most peoples idea of what is average differs. I personally have no carpet in my home and I sweep every room in my house (2 bedroom, living room, dining room, kitchen) twice a week.

Group

The Rottweiler belongs to the AKC working dog class. It is believed that they originate from the Mastiffs.