Owning a Rottweiler takes more investigation of self, and the relationship you will have with your dog than most other breeds. This is a time to be very honest with yourself about your ability to handle a big, dominant dog.

Who Should Own a Rottweiler?

These incredible dogs are big and powerful. They are working dogs, and herders by nature. They will not be happy in small, confined spaces, such as an apartment, without the ability to go for at least two long walks per day. They tend not to get along well with other dogs outside of their pack.

A Rottweiler can be too aggressive to have around small children. You may know someone with a Rottweiler and small children, and the situation is working out well. You do need to be aware that not all Rottweilers are created equal. This breed has been the victim of unscrupulous breeding practices. If you have children, or will have children visiting you, this may not be the right dog for you.  Some homeowner’s insurance companies will not insure homes with a Rottweiler in them.

These dogs are not for the timid owner, or those that do not want to be the alpha in the pack all the time. Rottweilers are also not a good choice if you do not have lots of time to spend training your dog. This is definitely not the dog for first time dog owners that aren’t sure if they have the time for a dog.

Having said all that, these dogs are magnificent workers.  They love to have a job to do. I think that is why they tend to get in trouble. You must understand the nature of the dog you are going to buy, not just that you think they are cute. These dogs are a beautiful, powerful vision to behold.

Rottweilers are a great choice of dog for those folks with a big yard with a tall, secure fence. This will give your active dog somewhere to let off steam and exercise. If you are used to handling dogs, or have the time for an obedience course or two, the Rottweiler may be an excellent choice for you.

Why a Rottweiler?

Rottweilers are great guard dogs. They are very territorial, courageous, and have a self assurance. They have a very powerful look to them. People usually instinctively know this is a dog that won’t be messed with. Rottweilers have also been used as police and service dogs with great success. They don’t quickly bond with people, but are very faithful when they do bond with their owner. Once well trained, these dogs are great to go with you for a long, fast-paced hike. They love the exercise.

Rottweiler Description

This is a medium/large breed with males’ weight averaging 110 pounds and the females averaging about 95 pounds. They stand at 22” to 27” at the withers. Rottweilers have big, powerful looking heads and a strong neck. The nose is well developed, and they have a scissor bite. The body is big and powerful. Rottweilers are black with tan markings over both eyes, which gives their faces such a great, intelligent look. They will also have tan on the muzzle and around the mouth, chest and legs, and under the tail.  These dogs have a double coat, and shed more than you might think they would. They will shed their under coat in the spring and fall.

History of the Rottweiler

Rottweilers are one of the first herding dogs that we know of. They were used by the ancient Romans to herd domestic animals around, as they were conquering new lands. These sturdy dogs proved their worth by herding and defending livestock for centuries. Because of their big, powerful bodies, they were also used to carry loads, such as bundles of wood and pull small carts. They dogs really are a powerhouse, and they like to work.

As more modern methods of herding livestock developed, the Rottweiler almost became extinct.  Efforts to restore the breed started in the early 1900’s.  These dogs found themselves working again during WWI and WWII, only this time as police dogs. Today this working breed is still working as police and guard dogs, as well as being the family pet.

Health Concerns

Rottweilers unfortunately are plagued by health issues. This might because of the limited gene pool, as the breed was re-established. It is also propagated by unscrupulous breeders who breed more for one certain quality such as aggression or size rather trying to breed out the negative health qualities. If you are going to buy your puppy, please utilize a reputable breeder with a proven track record of healthy dogs. Please do not support puppy mills. It is so bad for the dogs involved and casts a damper on the really good breeders that are working hard to make this breed healthier.

Rottweilers are susceptible to both hip and elbow dysplasia.  These are both painful for the dog and can have costly and devastating consequences. Older dogs do fairly well with pretty severe diet restrictions to keep their weight down and anti-inflammatory medications. Younger dogs may require surgery to cure the pain. In some cases the only real answer is to euthanize the dog, and that is a devastating decision to have to make. Be sure when you get your pet the transaction isn’t finalized until you have had a chance to take your dog to your vet to have a well puppy check.

Another issue with Rottweilers is osteochondritis dissecans (OCD). This occurs when the cartilage develops cracks on the surface of the growing long bones. This will eventually tear away and leave a cartilage flap. Scar tissue and calcium deposits can also form in the joint. All of this is very painful to your pup. There is no clear cut reason as to why this develops, but over feeding your dog may start the whole scenario. There is also some schools of thought that while your puppy is growing rapidly, they should not be allowed to jump much (as from the porch to the ground). This will take a watchful eye, but try to keep any objects out of your puppy’s play area that he can jump off. If you suspect your dog has OCD, take him to the vet as soon as possible. Crate rest may be just the ticket for your little active work dog. There are surgical remedies available too.

Cancers are very common in Rottweilers. Cancer of the bone is the most common. Any suspicious lum

ps or lesions should be brought to your veterinarian’s attention as soon as possible.

Sub-aortic stenosis is a common heart defect seen in Rottweilers. This is an inherited disease, and can cause sudden death in dogs. Rottweilers are also prone to other heart defects. Rottweilers are can inherit cataracts, and have issues with their eyelids that will require corrective surgery. Add to the list hypothyroidism, epilepsy, bloat, and

bleeding tendencies.

This list was not meant to scare you off, but to educate.  It really is imperative that you seek out a reputable

breeder, and that you know what to look out for.

Training

Last but not least, is training your Rottweiler. Unless you are used to training your own dogs, the prudent thing to do is sign up for obedience classes. Your dog will love working with you. It is a great time to bond. You and your dog can learn to work together. You can get the knowledge you need to make this relationship a successful one.

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