Although some large dog breeds are sometimes considered difficult to handle, the Rottweiler is one of the dogs that has become popular for considering it potentially dangerous, a reputation that has deprived it of being recommended as a companion pet.
- Size: Large.
- Weight: Between 35 and 60kg.
- Hair type: Soft and woolly.
- Character: Firm, Self-confident, Devoted, Fearless, Good-natured, Alert, Obedient, Confident, Courageous, Calm.
- Health: Healthy.
- Life expectancy: From 8 to 10 years.
However, these dogs have characteristics and attributes that give them special interest as guard dogs, starting with their imposing and muscular build, up to their loyal and courageous personality.
A strong, dominant and very self-confident dog that is also capable of being affectionate, especially when it is socialized from a puppy. He is one of the oldest breeds that exist, which has earned him great popularity and recognition in different parts of the world.
Well-behaved, these dogs make excellent companions, but it is necessary to know every aspect of the breed in detail if you want to adopt a Rottweiler. The following article will be of great help if you are considering this canine to make it the new family pet.
Origin of the Rottweiler
An indisputable aspect in the history of the Rottweiler is its age. The breed dates from the time of the Roman Empire when dogs very similar to current specimens were used in herding and protection work.
Sometime later, the Rottweiler as it is known today, appears in Germany, specifically in the city of Rottweil, whose name was used to identify this breed, which was obtained by crossing molossoid and native German dogs.
Surveillance, herding, and other fieldwork continued to be the main function performed by this canine breed, due to its size and proportional dimensions, which also gave it great strength and effectiveness in these works. To such an extent that he was assigned as a police dog for his also remarkable tracking skills.
However, as the breed spread, it came to be recognized as a good companion animal, although later this function would not be so common, due to the fact that it was classified as a potentially dangerous dog.
Physical characteristics of the Rottweiler
Its dimensions are one of the most notable features of the physical appearance of the Rottweiler. Robust, strong, muscular, and well-proportioned is the appropriate way to describe this monumental animal.
The differences between females and males are usually notable. Let’s take a closer look at its physical characteristics:
Weight and height
According to the sex, the weight and height of these dogs can vary considerably. In relation to females, they can reach up to 40 kilos, and height between 50 and 60 centimeters in height at the withers.
Meanwhile, the males exceed 50 kilos and measure between 61 and 70 centimeters at the withers.
Head
At first glance, it can be seen that these dogs have a large, widened head and a fairly hard and pronounced skull. Its muzzle is also large, and square, revealing its strong scissor-shaped bite.
The nose of these dogs is black and sufficiently pronounced. Round eyes are not very big, while their ears are medium compared to their body. Rectangular pendants, high insertion.
Tail
Its tail is commonly long, and thick, and is usually not seen standing up. Although it is a practice rejected in many countries, it is common to see specimens of this breed with their tail amputated up to the second or third vertebra.
Fur
These dogs have two layers of fur, making them ideal for cold climates. The undercoat is soft and woolly, keeping him warm. While the outer coat is smooth, with fine hair, of medium length, and well planted.
The color allowed for this breed is mainly black and it has tan or reddish spots on some parts of its body, such as the chest, throat, limbs, cheeks, and under the tail.
Rottweiler character
Although they may seem imposing and instill fear due to their strong and dominant appearance, these well-bred dogs are usually affectionate and friendly. However, by nature, the Rottweiler is even-tempered.
They are excellent watchdogs, so they are always attentive and retain instincts to protect the integrity of their owners at any time necessary, especially if they feel they are in danger.
He is suspicious of strangers, and although he can remain distant, he will not hesitate to face any situation in a brave way. The same happens in the presence of other dogs, as it is a very territorial dog, and they will be aggressive if it feels invaded by another animal.
In homes with children, this pet is not recommended, due to its strength and build. The little ones can treat the dog inappropriately and unwanted accidents could occur.
It also has a dominant personality, so they are not suitable dogs for a first-time duel, they require a person of character who knows how to handle the breed in the most determined way possible.
However, it must be clarified that the temperament of the females is a little more docile than that of the males. The latter, in general, are more difficult to control and feel more dominant.
These canines require great dedication, especially when it comes to training, otherwise, if they are left to chance, they can become really aggressive and develop negative behaviors very easily.
In countries like Spain, these dogs are legally classified as dangerous, with the legal system establishing a set of requirements to be able to adopt a specimen of this breed. Among them, a license for handling dangerous animals is one of the most necessary requirements.
Rottweiler Education
A firm and constant education are what characterizes the training process of the Rottweiler. As mentioned, this breed tends to present itself as a strong and dominant animal. At all times he will feel superior to his owner, even more so if he does not show enough character to train him.
It is necessary to indicate that it does not respond to training based on shouting, mistreatment, and authoritarian orders. On the contrary, when faced with these techniques, the dog can be aggressive and respond negatively.
The most appropriate is to carry out the training using positive reinforcement. An adequate education focuses on establishing bonds of trust with the canine, in this way, it will understand the orders that are indicated and will progressively comply with them.
Starting with socialization at least three months after birth is essential. Only in this way will the calm and well-mannered character of this breed be forged and you will be able to enjoy an excellent companion animal.
Constancy in training is another aspect that cannot be overlooked, as is training in basic orders. Learning to sit or walk, among others, will help the canine to behave properly at all times.
Rottweiler Health
Like his body, the Rottweiler’s health is also strong. It is a dog full of well-being and also resistant to different conditions. However, for this reason, you should not trust and neglect it, because instead of this, consolidating its well-being with your care will be the most opportune way to extend its life expectancy, which averages between 10 and 12 years.
Although they are in very good health, obesity can appear in these dogs if they are fed excessively and even more so if they do not receive the proper amount of exercise. Likewise, gastric torsion can also surprise and affect the well-being of these canines.
However, it must be remembered that diseases are preventable if proper care and the guidance of a specialist are taken into account.
care
Although it is a strong and robust breed that does not require excessive care, the Rottweiler demands certain attention that will help to provide a better quality of life and well-being permanently. Among the essential care are:
Feeding
As in any pet with a tendency to obesity and large size, it is necessary to control the quantity and quality of the food that is supplied.
Eating a balanced diet, with quality feed that also provides the necessary nutrients to strengthen their bones and body, will be the first indication that must be taken into account.
On the other hand, avoiding excess food and treats is another necessary aspect if you want to have a healthy, healthy dog at its ideal weight.
Training
It is a dog that also requires a lot of exercises. Walks of up to three hours a day are one of the most recommended practices. They also need to have considerable space at their disposal to move around inside the house, so that they can stretch out and not lie down for long.
This will contribute to their state of health, and weight and also to stay balanced.
Rottweiler hygiene
A bath every 15 days and brushing at least three times a week will be enough to maintain adequate hygiene control in these dogs. Especially checking their ears is essential to avoid the appearance of infections due to the humidity that can accumulate in them.
Vaccines and deworming
Medical control, as well as regular vaccinations and deworming, is another aspect that cannot go unnoticed in this breed. Only then will they remain strong and healthy, with the possibility of extending their life expectancy.
conclusion
Although it is a dog considered potentially dangerous, these molosser-type dogs are also affectionate, loyal, and strong when necessary.
Education is an elemental aspect of its growth and if you dedicate enough time to it, you will enjoy the best version of your Rottweiler. A faithful companion, a hard worker, and a great protector.
Remember that there are rules to follow if you want to adopt it, otherwise, you will not be able, under any circumstances, to live with these canines.
An owner who knows about the management of the breed is the most recommended to bring adequate harmony to a pet Rottweiler.
