Rottweiler

Other names: German mountain dog, Rottweiler Metzgerhund, Rott, Rottie

Rottweiler

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

Life expectancy :

3

15

8

10

Temperament :

Calm

Size :

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

    Black

    Type of coat

    Hard

    Eye colour

    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.

    Temperament

    • 66%

      Affectionate

      The Rottie is an adorable, friendly, and loyal dog. He is very balanced and overflows with affection; he does not deserve his reputation as a dangerous dog.

    • 66%

      Playful

      This dog enjoys playing games, especially if they have an educational interest that allows him to stimulate his intellect.

    • 100%

      Calm

      This dog is quiet and very balanced, but public opinion considers bad, dangerous, unpredictable and out of control. He will not be so if he receives a firm and consistent education.

      At home, he is calm but always on alert for strange noises.

    • 66%

      Intelligent

      This dog breed is often used for its physical and mental abilities. The Rottweiler is a smart dog that will quickly understand what is expected of him.

      He enjoys learning and working alongside his owner as long as his demands are fair, consistent, and sensible.

    • 66%

      Hunter

      This dog is an excellent tracker. He is often used as a search dog, a job at which he excels. However, his predatory instinct is not very developed and it can be easily controlled.

    • 100%

      Fearful / wary of strangers

      The Rottie is highly protective and will naturally be wary of strangers, so he will need time to analyse the possible danger in any situation. Once he is reassured by his analysis, you will discover the sweet, affectionate, and friendly character of this dog.

      But beware, if he senses a threat, he will not hesitate to attack in order to protect his social group.

    • 66%

      Independent

      The Rottweiler’s character can sometimes seem paradoxical. Indeed, he knows how to be affectionate, loyal, even clingy with his masters, but he will take initiatives and act with determination and courage if he feels that it is necessary.

      In fact, he may come across as independent while remaining very attached to his social group.

      Behaviour of the Rottweiler

      • 66%

        Tolerates solitude

        This dog is not a great loner. He needs to be surrounded by his social group but he does not usually show signs of excessive clinginess.

        He will always prefer to be in the presence of his owners and will not tolerate isolation or confinement.

        However, if he is taught to tolerate the absence of his masters, he will be able to cope with longer, but not excessive, periods of loneliness.

      • 33%

        Easy to train / obedience

        The Rott has a rather strong character and it is not easy to educate him despite his intelligence and docility. Early education is needed and educational methods must be consistent and firm without the use of violence.

        This dog is not to be entrusted to people outside his social group because he could quickly get out of control if he hasn’t been properly educated.

        Moreover, this breed requires safe and substantial teaching to discourage the further spread of that bad reputation of which he is a victim.

        Try to teach him to wear a muzzle and walk on a lead without pulling. This way you guarantee that walks are safe, respectful of the law, and serene for both the dog and his owner.

        Moreover, a rich lesson in socialisation is needed so that the Rottweiler puppy can behave as required throughout adulthood.

        It should be noted that the female Rottweiler is more docile than the male and accepts the authority of her master more easily. However, this will vary depending on her character, education, and relationship with her social group.

      • 33%

        Barking

        This dog doesn’t bark often. He uses his imposing physique more than his voice to intimidate intruders.

      • 33%

        Tendency to run away

        The Rottie is very attached to his social group and particularly loyal to its individuals, so is not a runaway dog. He prefers to stay with his family.

      • 66%