Rottweiler Breed Information
Opposite to what many people believe, the Rottweiler can be a gentle, loving, and faithful pet. This breed’s self-assurance can sometimes be confused with aggression. While the Rottweiler does have an assertive tendency, his main goal is to protect his home and the family he loves. As a physically strong dog and one that is a bold guardian, it takes a firm but loving hand when raising this breed.
Originally, the Rottweiler was a drover dog from ancient Roman days where it soon made its way to southern Germany. The Rottweiler is highly intelligent, protective, dependent, powerful, and extremely loyal. Although used for years in law enforcement, military, and rescue, these dogs are now a popular choice for families.
Rottweiler Temperament
This breed’s temperament can vary from one dog to another. For instance, depending on the breeder, the litter, socialization, and training, you could end up with a Rottweiler that is very clown-like, one that is reserved, or a Rottweiler that simply loves everyone he meets. Even so, keep in mind that this breed does possess strong territorial instincts, meaning when it comes to the people he loves, he will protect.
One of the downsides to the Rottweiler is that they can be somewhat of a bully to other people. For individuals who do not know the dog, this stare-down or physically pushing is very intimidating.
Again, taking your Rottweiler through proper training at the right age and making sure you buy from an ethnical breeder is strongly suggested. If you notice the puppy acting shy, aggressive, or nervous, pass.
Rottweiler Size and Color
This particular breed is physically strong and very confident. Females will generally measure between 22 and 25 inches at the withers while males reach between 24 and 27 inches. For weight, the Rottweiler grows up to weigh anywhere from 80 to 120 pounds with females being the smaller of the two genders. This breed is robust with extreme endurance and strength.
For color, the Rottweiler has distinct markings, which are beautiful. The body is black, which can be straight or slightly wavy. The beautiful tan markings are prominent on the face, chest, and feet. Tails of the Rottweiler are docked and when looking at the male and female, you would notice the male being heavier boned.
Rottweiler Feeding and Grooming Requirements
Remember that not all dog foods are created the same. Your Rottweiler needs to be on a balanced diet so he is healthy, strong, and happy. In fact, nutrition is the key to your pet’s health so good diet is essential.
If you choose commercial foods, make sure you buy only high quality brands such as Iams or Science Diet. In addition to these options, you could also choose a diet of fresh foods, which is becoming quite popular.
The benefit to choosing fresh food for your Rottweiler over commercial food is that it contains natural probiotics, antioxidants, enzymes, minerals, and vitamins. In addition, fresh foods such as lean meats, vegetables, fruits, and whole grains are also easier to digest and assimilate. If you want, you could use both high, quality commercial foods coupled with fresh food, giving your dog the best of both worlds.
For grooming, a daily brushing of the coat will help keep it shiny while reducing some of the shedding. For bathing, a monthly or bi-monthly bath is about all you need. Additionally, be sure you maintain clean ears in that sometimes, the Rottweiler will suffer from ear infections. Other than this, all you need to do is keep the nails trimmed and not much else is required.
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Rottweiler Exercise Needs
The Rottweiler is a working breed. Because of this, exercise is vital. Although this breed wants to please his master, he does not do well without exercise so a home with a yard is important.
Keep in mind that usually, a six-foot fence is suggested to keep the dog from jumping. If you have a smaller yard, you would want to provide daily walks or runs to help maintain good health and attitude.
Read More About Rottweiler
- Rottweiler : 10 Most Common Questions
- Rottweiler Training Guide
- Rottweiler Health Guide
- Owning a Rottweiler : Breeder Recommendations