Learn About the Powerful, Confident, and Courageous Rottweiler – American Kennel Club
If you are looking for a calm, confident, and courageous guardian, then look no further than the Rottweiler. These robust dogs are powerful and loyal companions that have strong protective instincts. They can quiet, well-behaved housedogs, yet are powerful enough to ward off burglars. Their personality can vary from dog to dog, with some being natural clowns that love everybody and others being very reserved one-person dogs.
According to the breed standard, the Rottweiler’s build is compact, yet substantial, and signifies great strength, agility, and endurance. They have a noble, self-assured, and alert expression and are black in color with clearly defined rust-to-mahogany markings. The medium-length outer coat lies flat and is straight, dense, and coarse. Expect heavy shedding twice a year, usually in the spring and fall, but the rest of the year there should be little problem, especially with regular brushing.
These are medium-large, powerful dogs with appetites to match. Depending on the age and activity level of your dog, he will eat between 5 and 10 pounds of high-quality kibble a week. Males stand between 24 and 27 inches at the top of the shoulder and are characteristically more massive than females, with heavier bones and a larger frame. Females stand between 22 and 25 inches and are distinctly feminine, but without weakness of structure.
Rottweilers are strong for their size, and with a heritage of herding cattle, it’s only natural for them to bump into and attempt to herd their humans. Be careful if you have small children or elderly family members because they can be easily knocked over by your dog without his meaning to cause injury.
These dogs have a strong instinct to protect their loved ones. Rottweilers are natural, confident guardians. Potential intruders may be frightened off by your dog’s bark and large size, but if that’s not enough, then expect your dog to fiercely defend you and your home. The flip side to the safety your dog will provide is the need for caution when strangers come into your home or yard unexpectedly.
Rottweilers have a wait-and-see attitude toward changes in their environment and a self-assured aloof temperament. They are unlikely to form friendships quickly or indiscriminately. That, coupled with their innate desire to protect their home and family, makes socialization and training essential. They benefit from calm, firm, and stable leadership. Be sure to start obedience training as soon as possible to assure your dog understands what is expected of him before he grows up to be stronger than you. Patience, time, and positive methods will go a long way with this smart and occasionally stubborn breed.
These intelligent and adaptable members of the Working Group have a strong willingness to work, making them well-suited to jobs such as police work or therapy dog. They also make great partners for many dog sports, including Schutzhund training, agility, carting, herding, and obedience. Participation in these kinds of activities will provide the exercise and mental stimulation your Rottweiler needs.
Interested in adding one of these confident, protective and intelligent dogs to your family? Check out the AKC Marketplace for Rottweiler pups. And if you’re looking for some adorable Rottweiler products, the AKC Shop has Rottie-specific items and more!
