Rottweiler - Characteristics and personality of the Rottweiler dog breed

Characteristics and personality of the Rottweiler dog breed

At first glance, a Rottweiler has compact strength, something quite true.

Rottweiler’s, slightly longer than tall, are large dogs, ranging in height from 55 cm in small females to 70 cm in large males. The weight ranges from 36 to 54 kg.

They are compact shaped dogs with huge heads. The ears are quite close to the head and hang down a little. The muzzle is square and strong. These animals can be somewhat slimy because their lips (lips) are droopy. Rottweilers should always be black with brown dots, and ideal hair is fairly short, dense, and somewhat harsh. Although a "bushy" puppy is sometimes born in a litter, that coat is disqualified from breeding. The tails are amputated very short, ideally with an extension of one to two vertebrae.

As is often the case in larger breeds, Rottweiler’s can mature slowly. Many do not reach full adult size until they are two to three years old, although adult height is usually set at one year. With age, these dogs will gain weight by widening their chests and becoming the huge dogs we expect.

Personality

Rottweilers have been selected as watchdogs and for protection work, something to be aware of at all times. Although well-socialized Rottweiler’s get along well with people and other dogs, males in particular can be somewhat aggressive and overbearing. They are active and intelligent dogs, so sure of themselves as to act on their own, so they need to be guided from the first moment.

If left to their own devices, they can become annoying barkers or diggers, and given their size they are capable of extensive damage. Raised for work, the best thing for Rottweiler’s is training and homework, even if it's just the accompaniment of a child. Assaults can be a problem, and this dog is fully capable of doing a lot of damage, so Rottweiler’s need firmness and a patient and skilled owner.

Coexistence

Rottweilers are pretty easy to maintain for how big they are, and in fact, they tend to become obese if they don't get enough exercise. Hair care is minimal: a quick weekly grooming will almost always suffice.

One of the most important things to remember about Rottweiler’s is that they need extensive and ongoing socialization to be good family partners. Training is essential and must start very young. Although his bravery is unquestionable, it could be mishandled. This breed is not suitable for a first-time owner. Rottweiler’s love to work and will cheerfully compete in virtually all canine sports, from obedience to grazing and weight-dragging.

Ideally, a Rottweiler is exposed to other pets, including dogs, from the start, and also to children. They are usually very protective of their children and should be supervised when they are with a group of children. For this breed you certainly have to go to a reputable breeder, because its popularity has caused some problems of temperament and health. They usually live 12 years.

History

Rottweilers are one of the oldest breeds. They accompanied the Romans on their journey through Germany, leading cattle and protecting border posts. Many stayed behind, and in the city ofRottweilerl, in southern Germany, they became the breed we know today. They are considered to belong to the Mastiff family. Subsequently, they contributed decisively in the development of the Dobermans.

From the beginning, Rottweiler’s were working dogs: they drove cattle to the market, dragged cars, protected homes, and even carried money to the market in belts that had subjects around their necks. They currently work in security and grazing.

The Rottweiler almost disappeared as a breed shortly before the start of the 20th century, when smaller, easier-to-maintain dogs took on many of their roles. Fortunately, dedicated breeders regained the breed, and it is one of the most popular breeds in the United States today. There is a series of children's books, with beautiful illustrations, about a Rottweiler named Carl and his adventures with his family's baby.

Of German origin, the Rottweiler is a muscular and athletic dog. It has strong jaws, a large head and a short muzzle.

Its mere appearance commands respect. In fact, it was the breed chosen to embody the Devil's dog in the horror series The Prophecy. However, it has nothing to do with this dark side, because - despite its strong character - it is very friendly and faithful.

The Rottweiler is a robust, strong, solid and resistant dog. With a powerful and well-proportioned silhouette, it also stands out for the color of its coat, shiny and dark, and its penetrating gaze. It is one of the oldest races and is believed to have accompanied the Romans on their expeditions through German lands. The legionaries entrusted them with protection tasks at the border and grazing posts. Some specimens stayed in the city of Rottweil and became the breed we know today.

Although its imposing figure and powerful appearance impose distance and even fear, the Rottweiler is a friendly and peaceful dog with a tendency. He is very affectionate, little barking and kind to children. Docile and applied, he always shows a very good disposition to work. He is always alert and ready to react to his surroundings. Of course: it does not easily accept other dogs.

It is very important to note that Rottweiler dogs have been selected as guard dogs and to carry out protection tasks. Despite the fact that well-socialized Rottweilers are friendly to people and other dogs, males can be aggressive and overbearing. Especially those who have been left to themselves.

For this reason, the Rottwelier needs to have a good socialization as a puppy, so that he can interact smoothly with both animals and people. You must get him used to always being with others - apart from his family - and, like all dogs, he needs someone to dedicate himself to his education with patience and consistency. If you have not had a dog before, we do not recommend that you start dog training with a Rottweiler. It can be a very stubborn dog and will need obedience classes.

ROTTWEILER FEATURES

DIFFERENCES BETWEEN MALE AND FEMALE

There are notable differences in character between male and female specimens of this breed. Thus, males are much more dominant than females, while they are more tolerant and less independent, making them better integrated into family life. Females also have a highly developed protective instinct, making them much more suitable for living with children. Still, under no circumstances can a child own or be left with a Rottweiler without adult supervision.

DOMINANT BUT DISCIPLINED DOG

The Rottweiler is a very dominant dog and, although it has a very disciplined character and ready for training, it needs a firm and demanding hand that educates it. If you have a Rottweiler at home, you must train it in perfect obedience, showing unwavering authority and knowing how to master it in any circumstance. However, it is not appropriate to educate him too harshly, since of course he also needs displays of affection and some flexibility.

Above all, never forget that the Rottweiler is a dog that, due to its physical characteristics, can knock down an adult man without biting him; that is, in the wrong hands, it can become a deadly weapon capable of wreaking havoc.

POTENTIALLY DANGEROUS DOG

Current legislation - the Potentially Dangerous Animal Ownership Act, passed in 1999 - considers the Rottewiler a potentially dangerous breed. This implies that if you have one, you must process an administrative license that is valid for 5 years, for which the following conditions are required:

Be of age.

Have no criminal record.

Have proven physical and psychological ability to own one of these dogs.

Have underwritten civil liability insurance for damage to third parties.

In addition, the law requires that a copy of the dog's administrative license and registration be kept on the potentially dangerous dog registry. When taking it for a walk in public places, it is mandatory that you wear a muzzle and a leash of less than two meters, not extendable. It is very important that a person walks a single dog. That is, if you have a Rottweiler and another dog considered potentially dangerous, you will not be able to walk them together by yourself. If you want to know more about the legal obligations that a dog considered of dangerous breed requires, click here.

On the other hand, if you live in an urbanized area, you must raise a high fence that borders the perimeter of your house so that it does not escape. This perimeter must consist of bars that prevent the passage of a hand through the bars; or, have the dog permanently tied.

THE HEALTH OF THE ROTTWEILER

The Rottweiler is extremely tough and long-suffering, capable of withstanding very harsh weather conditions such as rain, snow, wind, ice or low temperatures. Even so, it is convenient to dry it when it has got wet due to the rain; especially if it's cold. He will be as resistant and strong as you want, but he is your companion, your faithful friend, and he needs your love and care as much as if he were a Pekinese.

CLEANLINESS AND CARE

The Rottweiler is an easy dog to keep for how big it is. He tends to obesity if he doesn't get enough exercise, so don't be shy about taking walks or entrusting him with tasks.

The care of your Rottweiler's hair will not especially take away your sleep. A weekly cleaning will be more than enough; although you will appreciate brushing more often. Males tend to drool more than females since they have drooping lips.

Rottweiler dog

The Rottweiler is one of the most popular breeds in the world. His appearance is unique, as is his expressive gaze and his great skills as a guardian. Despite an undeserved reputation for violence, they are loving and calm at home.

Furthermore, due to their sensitivity and obedience, they can be trained as police or assistance dogs. Let's see in detail what are the characteristics of this beautiful breed and what care is required.

Rottweiler Features

These dogs have an imposing body, very robust and athletic. They are neither too heavy nor too light, demonstrating great vigor and power out of the ordinary. The neck is muscular, somewhat arched and without dewlap. The loin is strong and deep, while its chest is broad and well developed.

The legs end in round feet, with tight toes. The tail, thick and quite long, can exceed the level of the hock. There are two lines with different textures. The American variety is taller and more stylized; they are also heavier specimens. The European line has less height and a more compact body.

On the other hand, they have a wide and short skull. In alert position wrinkles usually appear on his forehead. The muzzle is straight and rather short. The truffle is wide and not very rounded, while its jaws are powerful. The eyes are almond shaped and dark brown in color. The ears are triangular and drooping on either side of the head.

Rottweiler hair is double-layered, fine on the innermost and very thick and tight on the surface. In the hind limbs the coat is more profuse. The typical color of the breed is black with tan markings on the cheeks, muzzle, chest, legs and tail. Another standardized feature of the breed is a brown spot on the brow.

How is the temperament of a Rottweiler?

When well educated, Rottweilers are reliable companions and very attached to their family. It is common for them to follow their favorite person throughout the house. A female is the best option for households with children, since they integrate more easily and tend to be more affectionate.

In any case, they will get along better with older children. Despite this, you should always monitor their games and interactions. In this breed it is essential to control its innate tendency to push, a behavior that derives from the way in which they handled cattle in their origins.

Their protective temperament causes them to be suspicious of strangers. If they are well socialized, they are stable in new situations or people. They are also great guard dogs that will defend their family at all costs.

You need to limit your territorial instincts from day one. Rottweilers require strong leadership, consistency in education, and firm but nonviolent treatment. Never mistreat a Rottweiler, as you will lose their respect. What's more, you can try to become the leader of the pack, which will enhance your aggressiveness.

Also, do not leave them isolated in a patio for long periods of time, as these dogs need to be in contact with their family. If they are alone they can become shy or sullen, something to avoid. If they get bored, they can show destructive behaviors.

When you live with an adult Rottweiler, there will be no problem adopting a second dog as long as they are both properly socialized. It is recommended, however, that they are not of the same sex.

The care that every Rottweiler needs

Raised as working dogs, Rottweilers need lots of daily activity. Establishing an exercise and game routine will help them stay healthy and balanced. Despite its energy, taking a daily 20-minute walk will be enough for your well-being and the dog will be calmer at home.

They are used to being with people, so sharing games or playing sports is a good way to strengthen this relationship. The most recommended sports for these big guys are Agility, Obedience, Tracking and swimming.

During the trips abroad you must always carry them well tied and muzzled, because in Spain they are considered a potentially dangerous breed (PPP). Also supervises interactions with strange dogs; they should be done very tactfully, especially if they are male.

Brushing should be weekly. Do it firmly to distribute the natural fat of your hair well. In the molting season (twice a year) it will be necessary to intensify this maintenance to avoid the accumulation of hairs in the home. Bathrooms are only indicated when they are really dirty.

Breed history

The ancestors of the first Rottweilers traveled with the Roman legions and were in charge of taking care of the cattle that fed the troops. In this way, the variety spread throughout Europe. In Rottweil, southern Germany, it was mixed with indigenous specimens to give rise to the Rottweiler.

In the Middle Ages these dogs were the right hand of the butchers. Due to their vigor, they were perfect for keeping livestock at bay or pulling carts. They were also good guard dogs. In an age when travel was fraught with danger, it was a good deterrent to assailants. In the early 20th century they became the favorites of the security forces.

Rottweiler dog trivia

The look of the Rottweiler has always inspired respect and trust. In the Middle Ages, merchants traveling with a Rottweiler tied the bag with the money raised during the markets at the neck of these dogs, as it was considered to be the safest place.

His courage and audacity did not go unnoticed in the First and Second World Wars either. In addition to caring for the camps and pulling carts with wounded, they were used to infiltrate enemy territory.

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