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Dog Breeds 101: Rottweiler – Image To Repin / Share
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The Rottweiler is a breed of dog originally from Germany and it is commonly believed to be a descendent of the Roman Mastiff. [1] Affectionately known as the “Rottie”, this large dog was bred to protect and herd livestock. Rottweilers are not only useful guard dogs, they are also able to perform efficient search-and-rescue operations and are competent guide dogs.
Rottweilers are massive and tend to be extremely strong. Their coats are short-haired, dense and are likely to shed excessively in certain seasons. This breed is always black with rust or mahogany markings. These markings should be located on specific areas of the coat or the dog may be disqualified from a show competition. [2]
Rotties are known to be even-tempered, serious, confident, brave and courageous. This breed’s strength, intelligence and trainability have proven useful especially to military and police forces.
With adequate obedience training and socialization, Rottweilers can get along with children, cats, dogs, and other pets. This type of dog tends to be calm and is happiest when given a task. In fact, they are known to be a hard-working breed.
Currently, it seems the Rottweiler has become a popular choice amongst people seeking additional protection at home. Their impressive body build strengthens their endurance and agility. However Rottweilers can be domineering, stubborn and headstrong. They are especially wary of strangers and need sufficient training throughout their youth to overcome this. Although much of their temperament is learned, it is also inherited. Experts suggest that ill-tempered Rottweilers should never be bred again. [3]
Rottweiler owners claim their dogs can be happy living in an apartment as long as they are given the opportunity to exercise daily. In fact, they thrive on getting plenty of physical stimulation. However, it should be noted that the breed is known to be intolerant of heat. They tend to overheat easily and should live in cooler climates. [2]
This breed is also known to have large litters composed of approximately 10 to 12 puppies at a time. On average, these dogs can live 10 to 12 years.
References:
[1] Holowinski, The Everything Rottweiler Book: A Complete Guide to Raising, Training, and Caring for Your Rottweiler (F+W Media, Inc., 2011).
[2] Joan Hustace Walker, The Rottweiler Handbook (Barron’s Educational Series, 2001).
[3] Richard G. Beauchamp, Rottweilers For Dummies (John Wiley & Sons, 2011).
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