Rottweiler
Other names: German mountain dog, Rottweiler Metzgerhund, Rott, Rottie
#34
Wamiz's Top Breed
The Rottweiler is a rustic dog with a robustness proportional to his size. He is strong, powerful, and courageous. He is also a protector, particularly loyal to his social group, and suspicious of strangers. Once they have him in their confidence, however, he is an adorable, friendly and affectionate dog, especially among children. Unfortunately, he is the victim of a bad reputation that describes him as naughty and dangerous. This is a 2nd category dog breed, thus he is subjected to strict regulations. His education needs to be initiated at an early age and it needs to be coherent and structured.
Key facts about the Rottweiler
Origins and history
His ancient origin is common to that of all the molossoid-types which have, as their ancestor, the Tibetan Mastiff. Dogs of the molossoid type were present in Germany under different names that varied according to the region. His name comes from the town of Rottweil, where the former “butchers' dog” was common. He helped, accompanied, and protected butchers and their animals. At the beginning of the 20th century, the use of a Rottweiler to drive and watch animals was prohibited. However, he is extremely versatile and is employed to stand guard, defend his master, and perform other activities such as dog-sledding. During the First World War, he was used by law enforcement for his many skills, and he became very popular internationally.
Physical characteristics of the Rottweiler
Adult size
Female : Between 22 and 25 in
Male : Between 24 and 27 in
Weight
Female : Between 93 and 110 lb
Male : Between 99 and 119 lb
Coat colour
The coat is black with some patches of tan (brown-red) on the cheeks, snout, eyes, chest, limbs, and at the base of the tail.
Type of coat
The fur is mid-length but shorter in some areas.
The outer coat is tight, hard to the touch, compact, and smooth. The undercoat is soft and should not be exposed.
Eye colour
The eyes are dark brown.
Description
This dog breed is robust, of medium to large size, and has a massive, muscular body that is capable of incredible strength, flexibility, and endurance. The jaw is very strong and powerful, so owners need to stay vigilant.
Good to know
This breed is regulated, in some places, by law. Owners who want to adopt a dog like this must respect several things:
- Get a holding permit with a qualified canine educator
- Register the dog
- Get him a rabies vaccination
- Take out liability insurance
- Perform a behavioural evaluation of the dog with a veterinarian when he is between 8 to 12 months of age
- Don’t leave him alone with children, or allow minors to walk him alone
- Keep abreast of local dog-related bylaws
- Keep the dog on a lead and wearing a muzzle
It is not uncommon to see the term "Royal Rottweiler". However, no difference is officially recognised between the different sizes; therefore, the Royal Rottweiler does not exist. This term is often used by unscrupulous breeders to add value to their dogs.
It is the same for the white Rottweiler which is often considered rare. Otherwise known as the Snow Rott, you should know that Rottweilers with a white mark on their chest are certainly rare, but it is a defect that invalidates the official standard. The same goes for Rottweilers who have long fur coat.
Therefore, you must be careful when adopting a Rottweiler. You need to avoid falling into the “rare dog trap”. All dogs of this breed are pretty much the same. There is just one official category of Rotts, so nothing justifies an increase in the selling price.
The Rottweiler is a common parent in mixed-breeds. Discover 10 of the most popular Rottweiler crossbreeds.