PostHeaderIcon The Rottweiler Dog Breed

Hiking Backpacking

The Rottweiler definitely knows their own mind and needs firm training but when raised with love and patience, they make an obedient companion. One who is both tranquil and affectionate.

They are a serious dog, who all too often, is bought and ill trained by novice dog owners. Rottweiler owners should be experienced with dogs and be dedicated enough to ensure proper training, socialization and exercise for this dog’s entire life. This is an extremely intelligent dog, who with firm but fair training can easily become a good reliable canine citizen. They are very biddable and eager to work.

The irresponsibility of humans has been the downfall of the Rottweiler not the Rottweiler himself. When raised properly the Rottweiler is a calm quiet good-natured dog, full of love and very loyal to their family. They can be rather standoffish with strangers and does not make friends with just anybody. They are alert and courageous and able to make their own decisions when needed, making them an excellent and reliable home guardian.

CHILDREN: The Rottweiler is good with children, especially when raised with them. However, they may refuse commands from family members who have not established leadership over them. Children should not be allowed to walk this strong dog alone, as they could bolt or get into a fight and a child could be seriously hurt.

OTHER ANIMALS: The Rottweiler is usually good with other household pets and familiar dogs but some can be aggressive with strange dogs.

EXERCISE: This powerful dog takes a fair amount of exercise to keep them physically and mentally fit. Owners should try to get them at least a couple hours of exercise daily. There are many activities that can be enjoyed with a Rottweiler: cartage and hauling, schutzhund, obedience and agility trials, hiking and backpacking, conformation shows, jogging and bicycling, flyball and Frisbee, therapy work, draft tests and herding trials.

HEALTH: The Rottweiler is prone to hip dysphasia, bloat, retinal problems, spinal cord paralysis and entropion. Poor breeding is a serious problem so buyers should choose their breeder with care, one who offers a two- three year health guarantee are best. Pure working or Schutzhund lines can be more aggressive than show/pet lines. Their usual life span is about 10-12 years.

APPEARANCE/COAT CARE: The Rottweiler stands 22-27 inches and weighs 90-130 pounds. Their short coat comes in black and tan or black and mahogany. It needs only a quick brushing once a week to keep it neat and tidy.

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