Rottweiler

The Rottweiler is a powerful breed originating from Germany. They are known for their loyalty, intelligence and protective nature.

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Rottweiler Breed overview

Rottweilers are a powerful and loyal breed with strong guarding instincts. They have a high energy level and require regular exercise and mental stimulation to maintain their physical and mental health. Rottweilers get along well with their human family members and can be good with children, but they can also be reserved or wary around strangers. Proper socialization and training from a young age is crucial for managing their guarding instincts and preventing potential behavioral issues.

Height:
22-27 inches
Weight:
85-130 lbs
Life expectancy:
8-11 years

What To Expect When Caring For a Rottweiler

Health

Rottweilers are generally healthy dogs, but are prone to certain health problems. The breed is susceptible to hip and elbow dysplasia, as well as eye diseases such as cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy. Rottweilers can also suffer from bloat, a life-threatening condition that requires immediate veterinary attention.

Exercise

Rottweilers are an active breed that requires regular exercise to stay healthy and fit. Daily walks and play sessions are recommended, as well as training and fun activities like agility, tracking, and obedience competitions.

Training

The Rottweiler is an intelligent breed that requires early and consistent training. Positive reinforcement techniques work best, as the breed responds well to praise and rewards. Socialization should begin early to prevent aggression and to ensure that the Rottweiler grows up to be a well-adjusted, well-behaved member of the family.

Grooming

Rottweilers have a short, thick coat that requires minimal grooming. Weekly brushing is recommended to remove dead hair and keep the coat shiny and healthy. The breed does shed, but not excessively.

Nutrition

Rottweilers require a high-quality, balanced diet that is appropriate for their age and activity level. Feeding should be scheduled around exercise, and treats should be given in moderation to prevent obesity. Fresh water should be available at all times.

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Rottweiler Traits & Characteristics

Rottweilers are a medium to large breed with males standing 24 to 27 inches tall and weighing between 95 and 135 pounds. Females are slightly smaller, standing 22 to 25 inches and weighing between 80 and 100 pounds. The breed is black-brown with clearly defined tan markings on the cheeks, muzzle, throat and legs. They have a muscular and athletic build with medium-sized, pendant shaped ears. Rottweilers have a short, thick coat that requires minimal grooming.

Affection

The degree to which a breed shows love and affection towards its human family members.

independent lovey-dovey

Rottweilers are very affectionate towards their human family members, often displaying loyalty and protectiveness. They are quick to bond with their owners and enjoy spending time with them. However, due to their strong guarding instincts, they can be reserved or wary around strangers.

Children

How well a breed interacts with children, including tolerance for play and energy level.

not suitable for kids great with kids

Rottweilers are generally good with children and enjoy spending time with them. They have a high energy level and enjoy playing, but they can be very large and may unintentionally knock smaller children over. It's important to supervise interactions between Rottweilers and children to ensure both parties stay safe.

Dogs

The breed's friendliness and sociability towards other dogs.

not dog friendly very dog friendly

Rottweilers can be friendly with other dogs, but their strong guarding instincts can sometimes cause them to be more aggressive. Proper socialization and training from a young age can help prevent these issues, but it's important to supervise interactions between Rottweilers and other dogs.

Strangers

The breed's reaction to unfamiliar people, including whether they tend to be wary or friendly.

reserved with strangers friendly with everyone

Rottweilers are generally reserved or wary around strangers. Their strong guarding instincts can cause them to be protective of their family members, which can sometimes be mistaken for aggression. Proper socialization from a young age can help prevent these issues.

Playfulness

The breed's activity level and tendency to engage in play and games.

laid-back very playful

Rottweilers have a high energy level and enjoy playing, especially with their human family members. They can participate in a variety of activities, such as fetch, Frisbee, and agility training. It's important to give them plenty of mental and physical stimulation to prevent boredom and potentially destructive behaviors.

Alertness

The breed's level of awareness and vigilance, which can affect their ability to perform certain tasks or jobs

less alert very alert

Rottweilers are highly alert and aware of their surroundings. Their strong guarding instincts make them excellent watchdogs, as they are quick to sound the alarm if they perceive a potential threat. However, this can sometimes cause them to be overly reactive to stimuli and may require management and training.

Adaptability

The breed's ability to adjust to new environments and situations, including whether they are adaptable or may become stressed.

less adaptable very adaptable

Rottweilers can adapt to new environments and situations, but they prefer routine and stability. They may become stressed or anxious if subjected to frequent changes or disruptions. Proper socialization and training from a young age can help prevent these issues.

Shedding

The amount of hair a breed sheds, which can affect allergies and cleanliness.

no shedding hair everywhere

Rottweilers have a short, thick coat that sheds moderately throughout the year. Regular brushing can help minimize shedding and keep their coat healthy. However, their shedding can still cause issues for those with allergies.

Grooming

The amount of maintenance required to keep a breed's coat healthy and clean.

low maintenance high maintenance

Rottweilers are relatively low maintenance when it comes to grooming. They require regular brushing to keep their coat healthy and clean, and occasional baths to keep them smelling fresh. Their nails will need to be trimmed regularly to avoid overgrowth and potential injury.

Drooling

The amount of saliva a breed produces, which can affect cleanliness and potential drool-related issues.

dry mouthed heavy drooler

Rottweilers are not excessive droolers, but they can produce a moderate amount of saliva. This can sometimes cause issues with cleanliness and hygiene if not managed properly.

Size

The breed's overall size, including their weight and height.

very small very large

Rottweilers are a large breed, typically weighing between 90 and 135 pounds and standing between 22 and 27 inches tall at the shoulder. They are powerful and muscular, with a compact and sturdy build that enables them to perform tasks such as drafting, guarding, and herding.

Energy

The breed's overall activity level, including their need for exercise and play.

couch potato high energy

Rottweilers have a high energy level and require daily exercise to maintain their physical and mental health. They enjoy activities such as walks, hikes, and playtime in the backyard, and thrive with regular exercise and stimulus.

Exercise

The breed's need for physical activity and exercise to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

low exercise needs high exercise needs

Rottweilers require daily exercise to maintain their physical and mental health. They enjoy a variety of activities, including walks, hikes, and playtime in the backyard. It's important to provide them with plenty of space to move and explore, as well as mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors.

Working

The breed's suitability for working and performing certain tasks or jobs.

not suitable for working great for working

Rottweilers are a working breed that excel in a variety of tasks, including guarding, herding, drafting, and police work. They possess strong instincts and are highly trainable, making them ideal for jobs that require intelligence, loyalty, and physical strength.

Hunting

The breed's natural hunting abilities, including their prey drive, scenting abilities, and tracking skills.

not suitable for hunting great for hunting

Rottweilers are not typically used for hunting and do not possess strong hunting instincts. They are better suited for other tasks, such as guarding or herding.

Vigor

The breed's physical stamina and endurance, including their ability to maintain high levels of activity and energy.

low-drive high vigor

Rottweilers possess a high level of physical stamina and endurance, enabling them to perform a variety of tasks over long periods of time. They require regular exercise and activity to maintain their strength and overall health.

Health

The breed's overall health and potential health issues, including whether they may be prone to certain illnesses or conditions.

less healthy very healthy

Rottweilers are generally healthy dogs, but they may be prone to certain health issues such as hip or elbow dysplasia, bloat, and eye problems. It's important to feed them a healthy diet, provide them with regular exercise, and schedule regular veterinary checkups to catch and address any potential health issues.

Obesity

The breed's tendency to gain weight and become overweight or obese, including whether they require extra monitoring and exercise.

not prone to obesity highly prone to obesity

Rottweilers can be prone to obesity if they are overfed or do not receive enough exercise. It's important to monitor their diet and ensure they are receiving an appropriate amount of food and exercise to maintain a healthy weight and prevent potential health issues.

Cold

The breed's ability to tolerate cold weather conditions, including whether they require extra warmth and protection.

not cold tolerant high cold tolerance

Rottweilers have a thick double coat that provides them with good insulation from the cold. However, they may still require extra protection in extremely cold weather, such as a jacket or booties to keep them warm and prevent frostbite on their paws.

Heat

The breed's ability to tolerate hot weather conditions, including whether they require extra cooling and protection.

not heat tolerant high heat tolerance

Rottweilers are not well-suited for hot weather, as their thick coat can cause them to overheat. It's important to provide them with plenty of cool water and shade, and to avoid leaving them in the sun or in hot cars for extended periods of time.

Apartment

The breed's suitability for new or inexperienced dog owners, including their trainability and temperament.

not suitable for apartments great for apartments

Rottweilers are not well-suited for apartment living, as they require space to move and exercise. They may become bored or frustrated if confined to a small space for long periods of time, which can lead to potentially destructive behaviors.

Wanderlust

The breed's tendency to wander or roam, including whether they may become lost or require a lot of supervision.

less likely to wander very likely to wander

Rottweilers can sometimes have a tendency to wander or roam, especially if not properly exercised or trained. It's important to provide them with appropriate outdoor activities and stimulation, and to ensure they are well-trained and supervised when not in a secure area.

Sensitivity

The breed's sensitivity to criticism or negative reinforcement, including whether they may become stressed or anxious.

less sensitive very sensitive

Rottweilers are relatively sensitive to criticism and negative reinforcement, and respond best to positive reinforcement and reward-based training. It's important to avoid harsh or punitive training methods, as they can cause them to become stressed or anxious.

Separation

The breed's tolerance for being left alone, including whether they may become anxious or destructive.

not suitable for alone time great at being alone

Rottweilers can become anxious or destructive if left alone for long periods of time. They may also exhibit separation anxiety if they have not been properly socialized or trained to be alone. It's important to gradually acclimate them to being alone and provide them with stimulating toys and activities to keep them occupied while you're away.

Barking

The amount of barking a breed tends to do, including whether they may be vocal or prone to excessive barking.

quiet very vocal

Rottweilers are not excessive barkers, but they may bark to alert their family to potential threats or visitors. Proper training can help prevent excessive barking and keep it under control.

Mental

The breed's need for mental stimulation and engagement, including whether they are intelligent and require challenging activities.

happy to lounge needs a job or activity

Rottweilers are intelligent and require mental stimulation to prevent boredom and potentially destructive behaviors. They enjoy learning new commands and participating in obedience training or puzzle games to keep their minds engaged.

Novice_owners

Some dogs are simply easier than others; they take to training better and are fairly easygoing. They're also resilient enough to bounce back from your mistakes or inconsistencies.

not suitable for novice owners great for novice owners

Rottweilers require experienced and knowledgeable owners, as they can be stubborn and challenging to train. They also have strong guarding instincts that need to be managed properly, which can be difficult for novice owners to handle. However, with proper training and socialization, they can be excellent pets for experienced owners.

Trainability

The ease of training a breed, including whether they are intelligent, obedient, and willing to learn.

difficult to train easy to train

Rottweilers are intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train. Proper socialization and early training is crucial, as their strong guarding instincts can make them difficult to handle if not properly trained from a young age.

Affection

independent lovey-dovey

The degree to which a breed shows love and affection towards its human family members.

Rottweilers are very affectionate towards their human family members, often displaying loyalty and protectiveness. They are quick to bond with their owners and enjoy spending time with them. However, due to their strong guarding instincts, they can be reserved or wary around strangers.

Children

not suitable for kids great with kids

How well a breed interacts with children, including tolerance for play and energy level.

Rottweilers are generally good with children and enjoy spending time with them. They have a high energy level and enjoy playing, but they can be very large and may unintentionally knock smaller children over. It's important to supervise interactions between Rottweilers and children to ensure both parties stay safe.

Dogs

not dog friendly very dog friendly

The breed's friendliness and sociability towards other dogs.

Rottweilers can be friendly with other dogs, but their strong guarding instincts can sometimes cause them to be more aggressive. Proper socialization and training from a young age can help prevent these issues, but it's important to supervise interactions between Rottweilers and other dogs.

Strangers

reserved with strangers friendly with everyone

The breed's reaction to unfamiliar people, including whether they tend to be wary or friendly.

Rottweilers are generally reserved or wary around strangers. Their strong guarding instincts can cause them to be protective of their family members, which can sometimes be mistaken for aggression. Proper socialization from a young age can help prevent these issues.

Playfulness

laid-back very playful

The breed's activity level and tendency to engage in play and games.

Rottweilers have a high energy level and enjoy playing, especially with their human family members. They can participate in a variety of activities, such as fetch, Frisbee, and agility training. It's important to give them plenty of mental and physical stimulation to prevent boredom and potentially destructive behaviors.

Alertness

less alert very alert

The breed's level of awareness and vigilance, which can affect their ability to perform certain tasks or jobs

Rottweilers are highly alert and aware of their surroundings. Their strong guarding instincts make them excellent watchdogs, as they are quick to sound the alarm if they perceive a potential threat. However, this can sometimes cause them to be overly reactive to stimuli and may require management and training.

Adaptability

less adaptable very adaptable

The breed's ability to adjust to new environments and situations, including whether they are adaptable or may become stressed.

Rottweilers can adapt to new environments and situations, but they prefer routine and stability. They may become stressed or anxious if subjected to frequent changes or disruptions. Proper socialization and training from a young age can help prevent these issues.

Shedding

no shedding hair everywhere

The amount of hair a breed sheds, which can affect allergies and cleanliness.

Rottweilers have a short, thick coat that sheds moderately throughout the year. Regular brushing can help minimize shedding and keep their coat healthy. However, their shedding can still cause issues for those with allergies.

Grooming

low maintenance high maintenance

The amount of maintenance required to keep a breed's coat healthy and clean.

Rottweilers are relatively low maintenance when it comes to grooming. They require regular brushing to keep their coat healthy and clean, and occasional baths to keep them smelling fresh. Their nails will need to be trimmed regularly to avoid overgrowth and potential injury.

Drooling

dry mouthed heavy drooler

The amount of saliva a breed produces, which can affect cleanliness and potential drool-related issues.

Rottweilers are not excessive droolers, but they can produce a moderate amount of saliva. This can sometimes cause issues with cleanliness and hygiene if not managed properly.

Size

very small very large

The breed's overall size, including their weight and height.

Rottweilers are a large breed, typically weighing between 90 and 135 pounds and standing between 22 and 27 inches tall at the shoulder. They are powerful and muscular, with a compact and sturdy build that enables them to perform tasks such as drafting, guarding, and herding.

Energy

couch potato high energy

The breed's overall activity level, including their need for exercise and play.

Rottweilers have a high energy level and require daily exercise to maintain their physical and mental health. They enjoy activities such as walks, hikes, and playtime in the backyard, and thrive with regular exercise and stimulus.

Exercise

low exercise needs high exercise needs

The breed's need for physical activity and exercise to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Rottweilers require daily exercise to maintain their physical and mental health. They enjoy a variety of activities, including walks, hikes, and playtime in the backyard. It's important to provide them with plenty of space to move and explore, as well as mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors.

Working

not suitable for working great for working

The breed's suitability for working and performing certain tasks or jobs.

Rottweilers are a working breed that excel in a variety of tasks, including guarding, herding, drafting, and police work. They possess strong instincts and are highly trainable, making them ideal for jobs that require intelligence, loyalty, and physical strength.

Hunting

not suitable for hunting great for hunting

The breed's natural hunting abilities, including their prey drive, scenting abilities, and tracking skills.

Rottweilers are not typically used for hunting and do not possess strong hunting instincts. They are better suited for other tasks, such as guarding or herding.

Vigor

low-drive high vigor

The breed's physical stamina and endurance, including their ability to maintain high levels of activity and energy.

Rottweilers possess a high level of physical stamina and endurance, enabling them to perform a variety of tasks over long periods of time. They require regular exercise and activity to maintain their strength and overall health.

Health

less healthy very healthy

The breed's overall health and potential health issues, including whether they may be prone to certain illnesses or conditions.

Rottweilers are generally healthy dogs, but they may be prone to certain health issues such as hip or elbow dysplasia, bloat, and eye problems. It's important to feed them a healthy diet, provide them with regular exercise, and schedule regular veterinary checkups to catch and address any potential health issues.

Obesity

not prone to obesity highly prone to obesity

The breed's tendency to gain weight and become overweight or obese, including whether they require extra monitoring and exercise.

Rottweilers can be prone to obesity if they are overfed or do not receive enough exercise. It's important to monitor their diet and ensure they are receiving an appropriate amount of food and exercise to maintain a healthy weight and prevent potential health issues.

Cold

not cold tolerant high cold tolerance

The breed's ability to tolerate cold weather conditions, including whether they require extra warmth and protection.

Rottweilers have a thick double coat that provides them with good insulation from the cold. However, they may still require extra protection in extremely cold weather, such as a jacket or booties to keep them warm and prevent frostbite on their paws.

Heat

not heat tolerant high heat tolerance

The breed's ability to tolerate hot weather conditions, including whether they require extra cooling and protection.

Rottweilers are not well-suited for hot weather, as their thick coat can cause them to overheat. It's important to provide them with plenty of cool water and shade, and to avoid leaving them in the sun or in hot cars for extended periods of time.

Apartment

not suitable for apartments great for apartments

The breed's suitability for new or inexperienced dog owners, including their trainability and temperament.

Rottweilers are not well-suited for apartment living, as they require space to move and exercise. They may become bored or frustrated if confined to a small space for long periods of time, which can lead to potentially destructive behaviors.

Wanderlust

less likely to wander very likely to wander

The breed's tendency to wander or roam, including whether they may become lost or require a lot of supervision.

Rottweilers can sometimes have a tendency to wander or roam, especially if not properly exercised or trained. It's important to provide them with appropriate outdoor activities and stimulation, and to ensure they are well-trained and supervised when not in a secure area.

Sensitivity

less sensitive very sensitive

The breed's sensitivity to criticism or negative reinforcement, including whether they may become stressed or anxious.

Rottweilers are relatively sensitive to criticism and negative reinforcement, and respond best to positive reinforcement and reward-based training. It's important to avoid harsh or punitive training methods, as they can cause them to become stressed or anxious.

Separation

not suitable for alone time great at being alone

The breed's tolerance for being left alone, including whether they may become anxious or destructive.

Rottweilers can become anxious or destructive if left alone for long periods of time. They may also exhibit separation anxiety if they have not been properly socialized or trained to be alone. It's important to gradually acclimate them to being alone and provide them with stimulating toys and activities to keep them occupied while you're away.

Barking

quiet very vocal

The amount of barking a breed tends to do, including whether they may be vocal or prone to excessive barking.

Rottweilers are not excessive barkers, but they may bark to alert their family to potential threats or visitors. Proper training can help prevent excessive barking and keep it under control.

Mental

happy to lounge needs a job or activity

The breed's need for mental stimulation and engagement, including whether they are intelligent and require challenging activities.

Rottweilers are intelligent and require mental stimulation to prevent boredom and potentially destructive behaviors. They enjoy learning new commands and participating in obedience training or puzzle games to keep their minds engaged.

Novice_owners

not suitable for novice owners great for novice owners

Some dogs are simply easier than others; they take to training better and are fairly easygoing. They're also resilient enough to bounce back from your mistakes or inconsistencies.

Rottweilers require experienced and knowledgeable owners, as they can be stubborn and challenging to train. They also have strong guarding instincts that need to be managed properly, which can be difficult for novice owners to handle. However, with proper training and socialization, they can be excellent pets for experienced owners.

Trainability

difficult to train easy to train

The ease of training a breed, including whether they are intelligent, obedient, and willing to learn.

Rottweilers are intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train. Proper socialization and early training is crucial, as their strong guarding instincts can make them difficult to handle if not properly trained from a young age.

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History of the Rottweiler

The Rottweiler has its roots in ancient Rome. The breed was first used as a herding dog and later as a guard and police dog. Their name comes from the town of Rottweil, Germany, where they were first bred. Rottweilers were almost extinct in the early 1900s but were revived by breeders who recognized their immense loyalty, intelligence and protective nature.

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Rottweiler Puppies

Rottweiler puppies are born with floppy ears that stand up in a few weeks. They are usually ready to leave their mother and go to their new home at 8 to 12 weeks old. Socialization and obedience training should begin early in a Rottweiler's life, to ensure they grow up to be well-adjusted and well-behaved.