Rottweiler
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.
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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
Medical Conditions
- Allergies
- Bloat
- Cancers (including osteosarcoma)
- Congenital cardiac disease (including subvalvular arortic stenosis)
- Epilepsy
- Hip and elbow dysplasia
- Hypothyroidism
- Ophthalmic disorders (including entropion, ectropion and progressive retinal atrophy)
- Osteochondrosis Dissecans (defect in cartilage)
- Paneosteitis (bone disease that can cause lameness in growing puppies)
- von Willebrand's Disease (blood disorder)
While the listed ailments may be common in this breed, not all members of the breed suffer from these conditions. Responsible breeders screen for orthopedic and genetic diseases.
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
Other 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
Breed 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
For more information about this breed and breeder referral contacts, please visit the American Rottweiler Club For breed rescue opportunities, visit Rotts Across Texas Rescue
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Webvet does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
Webvet terms and conditions