Datasheet Rottweiler
Size:
Large (56 to 68 cm)
Life expectancy:
8 to 10 years
fur length:
medium length
coat structure:
short stick hair from undercoat and top coat
Suitable as:
companion dog
Behave:
obedient, confident, trusting, brave
Child friendly:
yes mar_qs, Rottweiler -52773841920, CC0 1.0
Breed characteristics and appearance of the Rottweiler
With a shoulder height of 61 to 68 centimeters for males and 56 to 63 centimeters for bitches, the Rottweiler is one of the medium-sized to large dog breeds. The body weight varies between 42 and 50 kilograms depending on the size.
The appearance of the four-legged friend is stately: Rottweilers have a broad head, strong tail, well-muscled neck as well as a deep chest and a straight, tight back.
The ears are medium-sized and triangular, set high and hanging forward. Its almond-shaped eyes are deep brown in color.
The dark Rottweiler coat is composed of a medium-length, dense top coat and a short, soft undercoat. In addition, the breed is characterized by the typical brown to reddish-brown «marks» on the head, legs and chest.
nature and character traits
An affectionate and peaceful breed, the Rottweiler gets along well with both children and other dogs. As a spirited and affectionate dog, it develops a strong bond with its owner.
Young Rottweilers often react exuberantly and happily when they see their owners, as they cannot yet properly assess their own strength.
However, a well-behaved Rottweiler is neither nervous nor aggressive, remaining alert and calm at all times in stressful situations.
The dog breed has a strong protective instinct. In order to avoid incidents, it is necessary to educate the four-legged friend consistently but lovingly.
Due to its performance-oriented breeding, the dog breed is still active even in old age and needs a lot of exercise and tasks that challenge it.
Origin and History of the Rottweiler
Rottweilers are among the oldest dog breeds. Its agile and powerful ancestors were already used as herding and cattle dogs in ancient Rome.
With the Roman legions, cattle and their herding dogs entered the various cattle trading markets of the empire. This is how the animals got to Rottweil via the Alps. The immigrant dogs mated with local dogs near Rottweil.
The descendants of the four-legged friends tended and drove the herds of cattle and protected the property of their keepers.
Butchers recognized the usefulness of working dogs and began breeding them. Gradually, a new breed developed from the original breed, specially bred for intelligence, endurance and drive characteristics.
The dogs then spread beyond Baden-Württemberg in the late Middle Ages. However, they were soon out of work as railroads made moving livestock more efficient and faster.
In the 20th century, the police quickly recognized the potential of the strong animals. With the recognition of the breed in 1910, its use as a service dog began.
izzyplante, Mr. C. (5047529646), CC BY 2.0
Proper feeding of Rottweilers
Like all dog breeds, Rottweilers need a species-appropriate diet to stay healthy and fit. Since the breed tends to be overweight, you should pay attention to the right amount of food.
A low-carb, low-fat diet and a balanced protein intake are important for Rottweilers. Also remove treats, chewing bones etc. from the feed ration and avoid adding sugar, artificial flavor enhancers and colorings.
Caring for Rottweilers properly
Rottweilers are low maintenance compared to other dog breeds. It is sufficient if you brush out the fur occasionally.
You should also check their eyes, paws and ears regularly. To trim long claws, you can use claw clippers.
To protect your four-legged friend from parasites, you should examine them after walks in the woods or meadows.
Rottweiler health: typical hereditary diseases
The original cattle and herding dogs are very resilient and are characterized by robust health. Nevertheless, there are some hereditary diseases:
- Hip dysplasia (hip dysplasia): This hip deformity can occur at any age. With early detection, you can counteract the disease with the right diet and exercise therapy.
- cruciate ligament tear: The Rottweiler will begin to limp or lame the hind legs. The disease particularly affects dogs between the ages of two and six years.
- Degenerative spinal cord inflammation: Symptoms include a relieving posture, back tenderness, trouble walking, and lameness.
- Elbow Dysplasia: The disease is characterized by lameness of the front limbs.
- Osteochondrosis: In this inherited disease, cartilage transforms into bone, causing lameness and pain. Young dogs in particular are affected.
- Hypothyroidism: Important indicators here are inflammation, hair loss, appetite and an increased need for warmth.
Get your Rottweiler from a reputable breeder and have them screened for breed-specific diseases early on to avoid inherited diseases.
A healthy diet and sufficient exercise are also important for the health of your four-legged friend.
Xdotcommer, Rottweiler Face, CC BY-SA 3.0
Other questions
Are Rottweilers Dangerous?
No dog is born dangerous. When raised and trained properly, Rottweilers make loving and friendly companions and family pets.
In the wrong hands, any dog can be aggressive and dangerous to both adults and children.
How much does a Rottweiler cost from a breeder?
A Rottweiler puppy costs between 800 and 1,200 euros from reputable breeders. In addition to the purchase price, there is also the initial equipment of the four-legged friend.
Are Rottweilers List Dogs?
The Rottweiler is a list dog in the following five federal states: North Rhine-Westphalia, Hesse, Hamburg, Bavaria and Brandenburg.
However, the dangerousness can be refuted by a character test. If this is passed, the attitude is also possible without additional conditions.