Rottweiler

Picture of Baros with thanks to "Trudos Rottweilers" www.trudos.co.uk

See here for more Rottweiler Pictures, Pics 1

Rottweiler Breeders & Puppies For Sale If your a Rottweiler breeder and have Rottweiler puppies for sale, send us your details for free and we will add to our Rottweiler Breeders page.

Rottweiler Rescue Center Visit the Rottweiler rescue centers if your looking to rescue a Rottweiler, as well as learn more about the breed or just support the rescue centers for there hard work.

Group Working Dogs (KC)

Origin / History The Rottweiler is a large breed named after the town of Rottweil in southwest Germany. It was used as a herding dog during the Middle Ages, and in the following years as a courier, draft animal, and beast of burden. It also served as a war dog in both of the World Wars. Its history of hard work, as well as its lineage of war dogs and Mastiffs, accounts for the courage and hardiness for which it is known today.

The Rottie, as it is often called, has been traced back to the Roman Empire (27 to 476 B.C.), when dogs of the kind were bred for work and war. Not the most popular breed of its time, the Rottweiler neared extinction in the 19th century—at one point only one female could be found in Rottweil. The breed was revived as World War I took off and created a demand for sturdy war dogs. Today, Rottweilers are favored as police dogs and family pets throughout the world.

Appearance The Rottweiler has a large, muscular body with a broad head and a short, thick coat. The eyes are somewhat small for its size, but bright and intelligent in expression. The ears are also small, but carried forward and thus more prominent.

Colours The Rottweiler’s coat is almost always black, with markings ranging from rust to rich mahogany. Spots may be located over both eyes, on the cheeks, muzzle, front and rear legs, and the underside of the tail.

Temperament Despite their imposing form, Rottweilers are very calm and affectionate with their families. They will defend their loved ones fiercely, sometimes to the point of self-sacrifice. When in combat, they can be very aggressive, which is why they make excellent police dogs. They also have strong guarding instincts; a Rottie will bark loudly at the sight of a stranger to warn its family.

Height and Weight 58.5 to 63.5cm in height and 41 - 54 Kg in weight. Males are larger than females and at the top end of the size ranges.

Common Health Problems As with most large dogs, hip dysplasia is fairly common among Rottweilers. This can be avoided with a strict diet (Rotties tend to overeat) and proper exercise to control their weight. Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) damage can also result from excess weight. Some bloodlines are prone to entropion, or an unusually narrow slit between the eyelids.

Living Conditions Rottweilers can thrive as indoor dogs, but will do best with at least a small yard. Apartment dwellers should make sure there’s enough space for the dog to stretch and move around comfortably. They aren’t very active indoors, but pups can get restless and destructive if left with nothing to do for several hours. They prefer cool climates and should be kept cool in hot seasons.

Exercise Requirements These dogs don’t need a lot of exercise—usually just enough to keep their weight in check. Owners should be careful not to overwork them, as they tend to have weak bones and tire out easily. A brisk walk or jog daily should be enough. They should also be taken out once in a while. Rotties love all sorts of outdoor activities, whether it’s catch games or swimming in a lake.

Training Requirements Rotties are very intelligent and easy to train. However, it’s important that training start at a young age, when the dog is still of manageable size and its war-dog instincts have not yet kicked in. They should also be socialized early to keep them from becoming aggressive with strangers and other animals.

Life Expectancy Rottweilers usually live an average of 10 to 12 years.

Grooming The Rottie’s coat is naturally smooth and doesn’t need much grooming. Occasional brushing and rubbing should be enough, although brushing should be more frequent during shedding season. Baths should be given only when necessary.

Famous Examples

CompleteDogsGuide Comment

Breeders Comments: Send us yours comments, advice for owners, potential owners etc.

Owners Comments: Send us any of your comments. Thanks in advance.

More Rottweiler Information: Check out our Rottweiler Clubs and links to more informative websites dedicated to the breed.

Submit your Rottweiler pictures Send us any pics of your Rottweiler , let us know there name and age and any other details. We'll add to this page. Contact us

Rottweiler	Rottweiler Puppy
Photos with thanks to Nick Ross

Rottweiler Pics
5 week old Zorgs pups socialising	Zorgs Blazing Image @ Julzez
Zorgs girls and boy
Photo with thanks to Sue (Zorgs Rottweilers) http://zorgsrotties.mysite.wanadoo-members.co.uk/

Rottweiler Pics
Vitosha Sitting on the Snow	Baki Sitting near the Door
Photo with thanks to Inna Ignatova www.dogoart.hit.bg