Robust, strong and imposing, the Rottweiler has a reputation for being brave for its intimidating bearing, but in reality it is just a dog with a great instinct for protection and loyalty to its owner. The dog of this breed can be docile, affectionate and great companion for the family, when trained.
The rottweiler learns quickly and is easy to drive, as he is very intelligent and eager to work. These characteristics make it suitable as a police dog, shepherd (on farms or ranches), therapy dog, among others. Daily occupation and exercise are very important for Rottweilers, as well as a spacious place to spend energy and minimize the chances of developing destructive behavior (like gnawing on furniture or other objects within reach!).
Origin: Germany
Weight: 34-58 kg
Height: 55-68cm
Life expectancy: 8-10 years
Story
The Rottweiler’s history is not well documented, but it is believed to be a probable descendant of a mastiff-type dog, which emerged in Germany through cross-breeding. To settle in the German region, the army of the Roman Empire brought the Drover Dog (typical breed on farms and used to help control livestock). There, they needed large, strong dogs capable of controlling and herding flocks, as well as watching over the camp. For that reason, soldiers decided to cross them with German shepherds and mastiffs – and this mixture gave rise to the rottweiler.
Initially, the rottweiler was bred to protect the army at night and guide cattle during the day. Subsequently, he went on to hunt bears as well. Later, the breed gained popularity in the city of Rottweil with butchers, who used it to pull meat carts. This fact gave them the name “Rottweiler Metzger und” – or Rottweil butcher dog.
Characteristics
Race colors
The rottweiler has black as its main coat color and markings that can be mahogany (reddish), rust (reddish-brown) and bronze. Such markings are clearly defined and present on the cheeks, muzzle, throat, chest and legs, as well as over the eyes and under the base of the tail, filling up to ten percent of the body, according to the American Kennel Club (AKC).
Although rare, a base coloring other than black can occur, with or without the demarcations listed above. However, these variations are not recognized by the American Rottweiler Club, the institution responsible for determining the breed standard.
Do rottweilers bark a lot?
The rottweiler is not a dog that usually barks a lot, only when necessary. Usually in dangerous situations or to draw attention to something important.
Is race destructive?
It might be. It is a breed that requires training to be docile. Otherwise, it tends to develop an aggressive and destructive temperament. However, upon being instructed, it is a very obedient dog.
Is the rottweiler fussy?
Not a lot. The rottweiler has a lot of energy and needs daily activities, such as walking or running, but it is not agitated, especially at home. It is a quiet dog as long as it is trained and, of course, raised in a safe yard to roam around, exercise regularly and be around people to maintain its health and vigor.
care
– Training: The rottweiler is a natural protector and loves his family, but requires obedience training and socialization. Otherwise, he can become very ferocious and blow up the house.
– Space: dogs of this breed require a fenced space of approximately 2 meters (or more) so that they can exercise, avoiding boredom and the development of rough behavior.
– Attention: the rottweiler can be outside and is great as a guard dog. But that doesn’t mean he doesn’t need attention. The ideal is not to leave him alone for long periods and allow him to enjoy the affection and company of the family, as he is very attached.
– Teeth and Nails: Brushing your teeth regularly helps maintain oral health and prevents the extraction, loss or breakage of teeth. It is also necessary to pay attention to the cutting of nails , as they grow a lot and can bother you.
– Feed: it is very important that puppies of this breed have a high quality diet as puppies to ensure healthy bone growth and avoid problems as adults, the elderly or obese.
Health
In general, this breed is quite healthy and does not cause major concerns. However, like any other dog, the rottweiler is subject to some health problems and genetic problems. The examples below are the most common.
– Hip: Hip dysplasia is a malformation of the hip joints, which usually causes pain as the dog ages. It is a genetic disease that can have varying degrees of defect. In addition, excessive exercise, injuries, and obesity can also contribute to or exacerbate the problem.
– Elbow: like hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia is a hereditary disease that causes malformation of the elbows.
– Heart: some dogs have malformation of the heart or great vessels, usually caused by a genetic inheritance.
– Obesity: the rottweiler has a tendency to gain excessive weight, so it is important to monitor the diet and avoid excess weight with regular physical activities.
