Rottweiler Dog Breed Information

Personality

Rottweilers are big, confident dogs that are often shown in a less flattering light than they deserve. While they can be strong-willed and sometimes stubborn, improper training can lead them to act aggressively or be protective around new people. If they feel their family or home is in danger, they may become overly dominant. To help them be more friendly and less scary, they require good social experiences, thorough training, and plenty of exercise every day.

History

Rottweilers trace their roots back to Roman herding and drover dogs. They made their home in Rottweil, a town in southern Germany, where they played an important role in driving and guarding cattle. It's believed they were crossed with other breeds of mountain dogs. With the rise of Industrialization and the ban on cattle driving, their numbers dwindled, putting them at risk of disappearing. However, they were later trained for roles in police and military work. By the 1990s, Rottweilers had become the second most favored dog breed in the United States.

Ideal Owner

If you believe in looking beyond appearances and have enough time and room for a pet, a Rottweiler could be a great choice for you. These dogs require an owner who sees their gentle nature beneath their tough exterior and knows that they thrive on patience during training rather than harsh treatment. With proper training, Rottweilers can grow into large, loving companions weighing around 100 pounds, full of affection and playfulness.

Exercise Needs

Rottweilers are energetic dogs that require a lot of physical activity, training, and mental engagement to stay content and fit. Daily routines should include long walks, playtime, socializing, and fun activities. It's important to watch how they interact with other dogs before allowing them to run free—some can be possessive and should remain leashed when near other pets.

Space Requirements

Rottweilers are not just big; they are also very energetic and need plenty of exercise. It's best to have a spacious, fenced yard or a farm where they can keep watch. If you have guests, mail delivery, or package drop-offs frequently, make sure to create a safe area where the dog can’t go.

Training

Rottweilers are strong and energetic dogs that require knowledgeable owners who can manage them well through extensive training and social interaction. When cared for by the right person, they can achieve impressive training results. These alert dogs excel in various dog sports and work tasks, but they demand significant effort to keep their minds and bodies engaged.

Grooming

In training, the Rottweiler may require some attention, but when it comes to grooming, they are quite low-maintenance. Keeping their fur glossy and in good shape takes minimal work. Simply use a rubber glove to brush them occasionally, especially during shedding times.

Suitability for Family Life

Rottweilers tend to be extremely loyal to the kids in their households, but they often have a hard time welcoming guests and unfamiliar children who visit. Being big and somewhat awkward, they can easily topple little ones, making them a better fit for families without young kids or those with older children. Their behavior improves significantly with proper training and socialization.

Did You know?

Gunner, a Rottweiler known for search and rescue, was honored with the AKC Hero Dog Award for his bravery during 9/11. The breed nearly disappeared due to industrial growth. With the arrival of railroads and paved roads, moving cattle became simpler, reducing the need for herding dogs. They then took on new roles as police and military canines. Notable people who own Rottweilers include Bruno Mars, Leo DiCaprio, Will Smith, and Hayden Panettiere.