Rottweiler
Published: Last updated: by Kyle J. Larson
The Rottweiler is best known as a working breed. They're intimidating to strangers, but when socialized are good with their family and can warm up to others..
Average size and lifespan
Weight: 80-135lbs
Lifespan: 8 - 10 Years
Behavior
- Affection
- Kid-Friendly
- Stranger-Friendly
- Dog-Friendly
- Barking Amount
Care
- Grooming Difficulty
- Shedding Amount
- Easy to Train
- Can Be Alone
- Exercise Need
Environment
- Cold Tolerance
- Heat Tolerance
- Apartment-Friendly
Rottweiler Information
This hardworking dog loves to have a job to perform. His endurance, intelligence, and innate desire to protect make him an excellent companion, and it’s no surprise that he is used as a police dog, service dog, herder, and therapy dog.
The Rottweiler’s powerful appearance can be intimating, but when trained, he is a sweet, loving dog known to sit on his owner’s lap like a small dog. For maintenance, his short black and tan coat needs a quick brushing now and then; for exercise, make sure he gets a good walk or two every day!
Rottweiler History
The Rottweiler is believed to have originated with Roman dogs. These dogs were used for herding cattle, along with traveling Roman armies for food. The dogs both herded and protected the cattle on their journey.
The name Rottweiler originated in southern Germany as these Roman dogs were left behind after Roman armies no longer remained in the Alps, and German farmers used the breed. The name came from a town in the area called Rottweil.
Eventually, the dog was also used for its protective abilities to guard butchers who carried bags of money tied around their necks. Once World War I & II broke out, the breed was used for military services and police dogs.
Rottweiler Training & Temperament
Rottweilers were bred to be working dogs and, as such, are highly trainable. However, it’s best to socialize and train them from a young age, so they become used to strangers and other animals. They want to please their owner and spend time with them but can also be stubborn. It’s also a good idea not to be too rough with them as that can encourage aggressive behavior.
They have a strong drive to protect their territory and their owner, which gives them a bad reputation when they’re owned by irresponsible owners who don’t properly socialize them. Cared for correctly, however, a Rottweiler is a friendly dog though they make some time to warm up to strangers.
Rottweiler Exercise
Rotts are a working breed that needs daily exercise. They enjoy walks and swimming. They can also be trained in various canine activities and work activities like herding, tracking, and obedience.
Rottweiler Grooming
Rottweilers have a coat that sheds some throughout the year and quite a bit a couple of times a year. Brushing weekly will help maintain their coat. They also need their nails trimmed, and teeth brushed.
Rottweiler Health
Rottweilers are a healthy breed in general. However, they can have hip issues as they age. They also are prone to obesity if over-fed or under-exercised. So it’s best to watch their weight and ensure they stay healthy.
Sources: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rottweiler, https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/rottweiler/
All dogs have their own personality and unique training, causing them to differ slightly from these breed stats. However, please let us know if we made an error in the stats, we appreciate your help!
Breed FAQs
Can Rottweilers be apartment dogs?
The Rottweiler needs room to run and play. This makes them difficult to keep in small spaces like an apartment.
Can Rottweilers be left alone?
While Rottweilers prefer to be around their owners, they can do fairly well when left alone if necessary.
Are Rottweilers good with kids?
Rottweilers can do fine with kids. They will require some monitoring and training to make sure they get along and react well to unpredictable behavior.
Are Rottweilers friendly with strangers?
Rottweilers tend to be uncomfortable with strangers. They will require extra training effort to socialize them with those outside their family.
Do Rottweilers get along with other dogs?
Rottweilers aren't usually friendly with other dogs. They tend to not get along unless carefully socialized.
Do Rottweilers bark a lot?
A Rottweiler will most often bark only when alerting about something. They likely need something or see a stranger if they're barking.
Do Rottweilers shed a lot?
Rottweilers shed a medium amount. They will have seasonal shedding, but aren't terrible to clean up after.
Do Rottweilers need a lot of grooming?
Rottweilers don't require very much effort for grooming. You'll just need to provide typical maintenance and baths.
Do Rottweilers need a lot of exercise?
A Rottweiler will need a moderate amount of exercise to be happy. You'll need to plan some basic walks or fetch during the day.
Are Rottweilers easy to train?
Although Rottweilers can be a challenge to train, they can be taught with some dedicated work or by hiring some training help.
Can Rottweilers handle cold weather?
Although Rottweilers can handle the cold weather when out with you, they may not want to stay out for long periods of time.
Can Rottweilers handle hot weather?
Although Rottweilers can tolerate hot conditions, be careful not to expose them for too long.
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