The Rottweiler is a big, powerful and courageous soul, making it a popular choice as a guard dog or search and rescue dog. Rottweilers have earned a bad rep over recent years, but they don’t have a naturally vicious nature. (Thanks a bunch, unresponsible owners and poor media coverage.) With careful breeding and training the Rottweiler can actually be pretty laid back. Let’s take a closer look at the traits of the ‘Rottie’.
Facts:
Breed Group: Working
Size: Large
Sheds?: Yes
Coat length: Short
Exercise: More than 2 hours per day
Grooming required?: Once a week
History
Opinions differ as to the origin of the Rottweiler. Sources seem to agree that a Mastiff features somewhere in its ancestry. The Rottweiler proved useful for guarding livestock and herding cattle – the name comes from the town of Rottweil, where this breed played a key part in the town’s cattle commerce.
Health
The Rottweiler has an average lifespan of 8-11 years.
Health issues include knee damage, hip problems, eye problems and obesity. Keep a close eye on your Rottweiler’s diet, as they’re not shy of overeating. Expect some snoring too.
Characteristics
The tireless trekker
Members of the working dog breed group are, unsurprisingly, not shy of being active. Rottweilers need plenty of varied exercise to fulfil their natural instincts.
Not for everyone
As a member of the working dog breed group, Rottweilers are smart, protective, attentive and bold. Not to mention more than capable of holding their own when faced with trouble! There is a risk of attack if they sense their humans are being threatened, so this breed is not recommended for inexperienced owners. You might want to supplement your Rottweiler’s development with a course at obedience school.
Training
Rottweilers are smart cookies, and they learn quickly. With the right approach – confident and directive – they are not difficult to train.
Housebreaking
It’s relatively easy to housebreak a Rottweiler.
Where to find Rottweilers
Rottweiler Groups
Want to find some Rottweiler solace in fellow owners of this much-maligned breed? Find a group below.
The Rottweiler Club
Scottish Rottweiler Club
Adopt a Rottweiler
Want to adopt a Rottweiler in need of a loving home? Find a rescue centre below.
Rottweiler Welfare Association
Rottie Friends Rescue
Fife Rottweiler Rescue
Breeders
Sold on the Rottweiler’s powerful presence? Take a look at these Kennel Club Assured Breeders.
Do you own a Rottie?
If you own a Rottie let us know in the comments below and upload your picture to our Facebook, Twitter and Instagram tagging @DogBuddyCo.