A Rottweiler: Is This The Right Breed For You?

Characteristics

The American Kennel Club places the Rottweiler in the Working Group. These powerful dogs are often raised to be guard dogs. Some Rottweiler owners have, in an attempt to make them more aggressive, regrettably mistreated their dogs. Abused Rottweilers have given the breed an undeserved reputation as mean and dangerous. When bred and raised properly, Rottweilers are loving and devoted family pets.

Rottweilers weigh between 85 to 130 pounds and stand 22 to 27 inches tall at the shoulder. These muscular and powerful dogs have a sleek black and brown coat and deep, soulful brown eyes.

Since a Rottweiler has such a short coat, grooming them takes very little time. A weekly brushing will keep its coat shiny and glossy. Take the time to check his nails periodically to be sure they haven't become too long. It's a good idea to introduce him to regular dental brushing while still a puppy.

Exercise Requirements

Apartment life is not the best situation for Rottweilers. These large powerful dogs need room to run. Ideally owners should own a home with a fenced yard. If you don't have a fenced yard, be prepared to take your dog for frequent outings to run off pent up energy.

Dogs with the size and energy of a Rottweiler burn up a lot of calories. Be prepared to buy a lot of food for your puppy. It's also important to make sure that your puppy's nutritional needs are being met, since Rottweilers are prone to joint problems as they age.

The Rottweiler is an extremely intelligent dog. If you want a happy, well-behaved dog, it's best to keep him busy. Keeping pests out of your garden and so forth are good jobs for your Rottweiler.

Training

It is important to start training a Rottweiler puppy very early, as these dogs quickly grow strong and large. Puppy obedience classes are a perfect opportunity for you to socialize your Rottweiler while young. This breed enjoys learning, providing the trainer is patient and gentle. These dogs respond eagerly to new challenges. They excel in agility trials.

Because of their large size and strength, Rottweilers are not the best choice for a family with a toddler. A 6-month-old puppy won't understand his strength while he is romping around and could accidentally injure a small child. If your heart is set on a Rottweiler puppy, it would be better to wait until your child is old enough to be steady on its feet.

Is It A Match?

If the thought of 100 pounds of dog crawling into your lap horrifies you, then maybe a Rottweiler isn't the breed for you. Not everyone wants a dog with the heart of a marshmallow that looks like a killer.

If, however, you need an intelligent big dog that is devoted to you, consider buying a Rottweiler. These large dogs, bred as versatile working dogs, will guard and protect their homes and families and still act like tiny lapdogs with their owners.

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