The Rottweiler Dog

The Rottweiler dog originates from Rottweil Germany dating back to the 1820's where it was bred to be a cattle dog and also a guard dog. It is descendent from an ancient breed that was used for boar hunting. Although quite popular in the early 1800's, the breed's numbers declined almost to the point of extinction by 1900. In an attempt to save the breed, a Rottweiler club was formed in 1901. The club produced a breed standard. Numbers began to recover and popularity grew, especially in North America, where today the Rottweiler is second in the AKC rankings. The Rottweiler has a very strong guarding instinct and will immediately come to the defense of its family if it feels any threat. Because of its size, it needs early socialization, consistent training, and a lot of physical exercise. It may not be suitable for first time dog owners. When obtaining a new puppy, but sure to do so from a reputable breeder as puppies that are not properly socialized may have behavioral problems and in fact may be dangerous.

Origin Germany - 1820's

Original Use Cattle dog, guard dog, cart pulling

Use Today Today the Rottweiler dog is used as a companion, police dog, and as a guard dog.

Temperament The Rottweiler dog is highly intelligent, self assured, and even tempered. A large dog, it is confident and bold. It may have a stubborn streak, but with obedience training is usually quite obedient. It retains a natural guarding instinct and is very protective of its family, but not aggressive or vicious by nature.

Acceptance of: Other Dogs - Not very accepting

Other Pets - Not very accepting

Strangers - Not very accepting

Children - Good, as long as it has been properly socialized as a puppy.

Watchdog Ability Excellent

Guard dog Ability Excellent

Ease of Training The Rottweiler dog is not the faster learner in the canine family, but once it has learned something it will always remember it.

Living Conditions It is content to live outdoors in most moderate to cool climates provided adequate shelter is available. It is equally at home in the city or country as long as its exercise needs are met.

Exercise Requires a lot of physical and mental exercise.

Coat It has a short flat course coat.

Grooming Minimal grooming required.

Colors The Rottweiler dog is black with tan or mahogany brown markings.

Height and Weight Weight range is 90 to 110 pounds (40.8 to 50 kg) while the height range is 23 to 27 inches (58.4 to 68.6 cm). Variations may occur in individual animals.

Life Expectancy 10 to 11 years.

Group The AKC places the Rottweiler dog in the Working group.

Pictures of Rottweiler dog courtesy of Carolyn Cartwright

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