Rottweiler – Four-Paws Courageous Bodyguard

Rottweilers are among the oldest German dog breeds. However, their roots lie beyond the Alps. The Romans brought not only cultural achievements but also animals to the conquered territories. They used Rottweiler’s ancestors as herdsmen to keep livestock for the legions. Local cattle traders were very impressed by the strong dogs because they too had to lead their animals safely along the trade routes. This is how the original Rottweilers came to Germany. Around the town of Rottweil, the Roman animals mixed with the local dogs: the Rottweiler was born. Since butchers there also appreciated the qualities of the Rottweiler as a guard dog for the cattle, the name “Rottweiler Metzgerhund” was established at that time.

The Rottweiler has been officially recognized as a breed since 1910. With industrialization, its role as a herding dog fell away in many places. His current area of ​​responsibility is primarily in the police and military service. He is also used as a helper in disaster areas with his resilient, willing, and obedient nature. Due to its alert, calm and self-confident nature, it is also suitable as a tracking, guide, and therapy dog. Nothing fazes a Rottweiler that easily, he acts quickly, deliberately, and purposefully, not a trace of nervousness.

The appearance and nature of dog breeds are well defined. The FCI – Fédération Cynologique Internationale – is an association of breed associations from several countries that have existed since 1911. The FCI defines a total of 367 dog breeds and divides them into groups. The Rottweiler belongs to FCI Group 2, Section 2: The Molossoids. These also include Hovawart, German Boxer, and Leonberger. Animals in this group have a strong build and were bred to look menacing, as they were used as guard dogs, among other things. In the past, Rottweilers and other representatives of this group were used not only for guarding cattle but also for hunting big game and are said to have even been used for gladiator fights even earlier.

Although the Rottweiler was never bred specifically as a fighting dog but is an old working dog, it is considered a list dog in some states. Holders must then meet special requirements. In some cases, the dog can be kept without any problems by passing a character test. In some places, however, no exemption from the leash and muzzle obligation is possible. Please inform yourself about local legal regulations before getting a dog.

The Rottweiler is characterized by a typical stature and coat color. The short, dense coat ranges from black to dark brown with some rust markings on the face, legs, chest, and base of the tail. The medium-sized, close-fitting lop ears, almond-shaped eyes, and overall stocky build are other characteristics of this dog breed. There is not a large variety of colors in the Rottweiler. Despite his muscular physique, he doesn’t look clumsy, but rather athletic.

Rottweilers are known to be confident, spunky, and alert. They have not entirely discarded the herding instinct of their ancestors. Willingness to defend and courage are central character traits, which, however, can turn into dominance. It’s up to you to patiently teach your Rottweiler to be submissive. Otherwise, the behavior of the animal can get out of hand, since the Rottweiler then quickly takes over the lead himself. A lack of upbringing and employment or insufficient attachment to the human pack leader could otherwise result in aggression in the sensitive Rottweiler. As the owner of a Rottweiler, you should show a confident aura.

Training a Rottweiler, therefore, belongs in the hands of an experienced and assertive owner. If you are a novice dog, the Rottweiler is not recommended. Alternatively, beginners should rather adopt an older, calmer representative from the animal welfare organization: because, as with any breed of dog, each individual has their their character.

In any case, keep in mind that a Rottweiler needs tasks and activities that he can live out in work assignments. The Rottweiler’s nature is extremely territorial and he reliably guards his territory. With good reason, the Rottweiler is a valued object protection dog and working dog for the police and security services – i.e. wherever a certain authority of the dog is desired. The Rottweiler is also still used as a herding dog. Also, since it’s a requirement in some places, at least on public transport, you should train your Rottweiler to wear a comfortable muzzle in public.

Without exercise and intensive training, a Rottweiler is often not suitable as a classic family and leisure dog. In addition, there is the sheer bulk and strength that a human being cannot necessarily compete with when the animal decides to go its way. As a sports companion of an active owner and with sufficient intellectual support, for example, when tracking, a species-appropriate Rottweiler is an excellent companion who builds a close bond. In addition, due to its friendly and peaceful nature, it is also suitable for families with children. A lot of attention and cuddles should not be neglected in addition to consistent training with the Rottweiler: He enjoys the closeness and the connection.

Rottweiler bitches reach a height of around 60 centimeters at the shoulder, males an average of 65 centimeters. Rottweilers weigh between 100 and 100 pounds, depending on their size and gender. Animals tend to be overweight, so ration food and resist begging attacks.

You should clean your dog’s hanging ears regularly to prevent infections. The short coat is generally easy to care for, but regular brushing can prevent excessive hair loss. Brushing also stimulates circulation. Knob gloves or other dog brushes are suitable for grooming.

As with many large dogs, the average life expectancy of the Rottweiler is ten years, which is lower than that of smaller dog breeds. Due to heredity and their size, Rottweilers are prone to dysplasia and heart problems.