Rottweiler

Rottweiler Characteristics

Overview of the Rottweiler Breed

Hailing from Germany, the Rottweiler breed emanates power, strength, and prestige. At their origin, these bulky dogs played integral roles as part of the Roman army that traversed throughout Germany in centuries past.

Originally bred as working dogs that herded and guarded, Rottweilers continue to be devoted workers and companions to this day. One of the most popular breeds in the United States, this breed can be a wonderful asset to any family, if trained correctly.

Appearance

Anyone can tell from these Rottweiler images, this breed is large and in charge. Their stature gives off a commanding facade. This breed is built with ample muscle. They possess large, boxy heads, prominent snouts, and stubby tails. Their ears are a bit small and floppy.

Their coat is short and dense. It is always black in color with brown or tan detailing around its face and paws.

Size and Weight

Rottweilers are dogs great in size. The males weigh up to 135 pounds, and females weigh up to 100 pounds. Some of the world’s biggest Rottweilers can get up to 195 pounds.

Both sexes belonging to this breed can stand between 24 to 26 inches tall.

Lifespan

In regard to the average life expectancy of Rottweilers, most live to be 9 to 12 years old. This number is more often than not contingent upon their overall well being and state of health. This breed tends to be prone to several health issues, so how well this dog is cared for can influence its longevity or lack thereof.

Personality Type

This stunning dog is one that possesses intense loyalty and protection for those it trusts. Because it was bred to be a guardian in centuries past, it maintains a cautious, alert approach to strangers.

These athletic dogs enjoy going on hikes or intense walks. They also do very well in training environments. It is recommended Rottweiler owners train their dogs several tricks and commands to keep up their mental acuity and need for firm direction.

Are Rottweilers Dangerous?

There is no doubt that Rottweilers are widely misunderstood as a breed. Many potential owners avoid this breed due to the negative connotations attached to them.

While it is true that some can be aggressive and territorial, this is only a reflection of their training as guard dogs. Proper training can usually do away with these traits.

Contrary to popular opinions, they are actually gentle-mannered dogs if trained well. Obedience and socialization training are vital tools that owners or breeders should employ during the dog’s puppy hood. If trained well, a Rottweiler’s temperament can be well-mannered, loving, and playful.

Rottweilers are loyal companions, confident protectors, and affectionate family members.

Dog Breeds

For some enthusiasts, more than one breed of Rottweiler exists. Some say that there are American, Roman, and German Rottweiler breeds.  Essentially, all this means is that the particular Rottweiler is from that part of the world. For instance, a German Rottweiler is merely a Rottweiler that was born in Germany.

Besides this, there are several notable and popular mixed breeds of Rottweiler. Below are the breeds that share half their DNA with the Rottweiler breed:

• Pitweiler (Pitbull mix)
• Labrottie (Labrador mix)
• Golden Rotties (Golden Retriever mix)
• Borderweiler (Border Collie mix)
• Rotthound (Basset Hound mix)
• Boxweiler (Boxer mix)
• Rotterman (Doberman mix)
• French Bullweiler (French Bulldog mix)

All of these mixed breeds possess unique characteristics in terms of their appearance and personality type. In one way or another, these dogs possess some semblance of the great breed.

Caring for Rottweilers

Grooming

Besides the occasional bath to keep their black coat fresh and shiny, Rottweilers only require a weekly brushing. These dogs are moderate shedders, so brushing it once or twice per week will keep the excess hair at bay.

Frequent nail trimming and teeth brushing should also be part of the grooming regimen. It is also a good idea to regularly check the dog’s ears, legs, and fur for parasite infestation.

Do Rottweilers Drool?

Rottweilers are known for being moderate droolers, so owners should be aware of this fact. The larger ones tend to have loose lips that allow drool to seep out.

Exercise

Because these dogs have been bred to be strong and stalwart, Rottweilers possess a muscular build that needs to be kept up through daily exercise. Most vets recommend about 75 minutes of adequate exercise per day, whether that be through playtime or a brisk walk.

Rottweilers love participating in sports and interactive, challenging games. Physically-demanding activities such as competitions, swimming, and agility training are great options for this breed.

Even more, these dogs are predisposed to obesity, so it is important for vigorous exercise to be a daily part of a Rottweiler’s care.

Diet

Rottweilers should be given nutritious diets consisting of poultry, fish, and meats. It is recommended that a Rottweiler’s diet be made up of around 25% protein to supplement its large build and need for energy.

Health Problems

Like all dogs that are large and heavy, this breed is no exception to the many potential health problems that assail them.

According to the American Kennel Club, Rottweiler dogs should receive evaluations of their hips, elbows, heart, and eyes during their life to ensure everything looks healthy.

Some of the common health problems that this breed sees are:

• Hip Dysplasia

In Rottweiler hip dysplasia, the joints of the hip do not fit together seamlessly. This can cause painful limping, stiffness, and a multitude of other issues within the joints.

• Aortic Stenosis

In this heart condition, the heart valves become narrow and insufficient blood is transferred throughout the dog’s body.

• Entropion

This occurs when the eyelid rolls inward toward the eye. This is common in large dogs and can be very painful.

• Ectropion

Opposite on entropion, this is the outward rolling of the eyes. Conjunctivitis and other eye issues may result.

• Bone Cancer

This is, unfortunately, a common health concern. The dog should be frequently checked over and scanned for any noticeable lumps.

While there remains a multitude of other health conditions that Rottweilers are prone to, concerted efforts to keep the dog in good health through excellent veterinary care and care at home, this magnificent dog can live wonderfully full, healthy lives. This includes getting core vaccinations (such as those for rabies and parvo) and preventative medication for heartworm, fleas, and ticks.

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