The Rottweiler is a powerful and aloof working breed that requires plenty of exercise. They are dedicated family pets who require early training by their owner.

Physical Characteristics

• Large, muscular build
• Dense, coarse coat
• Short drop ears
• Dark, almond-shaped eyes
• Black nose
• Coloring of black with rust or mahogany markings
• Height: 22-27 inches
• Weight: 90-115 pounds
• Average lifespan: 9-12 years

Temperament

• Calm, courageous, serious, steady, hard-working, intelligent
• Interaction with people: Wary of strangers
• Interaction with animals: May be aggressive toward other dogs; needs socialization to other pets at a young age
• Level of attention needed: Affectionate and devoted toward family; requires significant love and companionship
• Training: Needs firm and unwavering training at a young age
• Protection: Excellent guard dog

At Home

• OK for apartments with sufficient exercise
• Needs lots of exercise, including walking, jogging, swimming or running

Grooming

• Easy to groom
• Average shedder
• Brush with a firm-bristle brush

Brief History

• Originated in the 1820s in Rottweil, Germany
• Likely a descendent of Roman cattle dogs
• Has been used in the military, as a police dog, in search-and-rescue, and as cattle drover, guard and companion
• Guarded supplies for the military at night
• Cattle droving was outlawed in the late 1800s and the breed declined
• Grew again in popularity after the Allgemeiner Deutscher Rottweiler Klub formed in 1921

Fido's Facts

• Litters can contain up to 12 puppies
• The town of Rote Wil (now Rottweil) means "red tile" because of the red-tiled roofing on Roman buildings
• Cattle owners placed their earnings in pouches around Rottweiler's necks for safekeeping