Rottweiler

Drs. Foster & Smith Educational Staff


	The Rottweiler, or "Rottie," is a medium-large, sturdy dog that combines strength, agility and endurance, characteristics of a true working dog. According to the American Rottweiler Club (ARC), "Rottweiler temperaments vary from natural clowns, to the very reserved one person dog."

The Rottweiler was bred to think for himself to some degree. The Rottie's outward demeanor is calm and confident with an aloofness that may be seen as unpredictability. The ARC cautions, that owning a Rottweiler "brings with it a considerable moral and legal responsibility."

History
The Rottweiler is said to be descended from mastiff-type dogs that accompanied Romans. In a southern German town called Rottweil, a dog called Metzgerhund (butcher dog) sprang up, who herded cattle to market and returned with payment. This is said to be the start of the Rottweiler breed. In the United States it wasn't until the 1980s that the Rottie became the popular breed he is today.

Living with your Rottie
A Rottweiler is not for everyone. This breed requires structured but fair obedience training from puppyhood on.

The Rottie is a working breed and, as such, is happiest with a "job" to do, not just sitting around waiting for his owner. Although some Rotties may adapt to apartment living with a couple of good long walks each day, the ideal situation is a 6-foot fenced-in yard.

Interesting Breed Facts:
Popularity:	15th in 2007, with 14,211 registered with the American Kennel Club (AKC).
First recognized as a breed:	1921, in Germany. Became AKC-recognized in 1931.
AKC Grouping:	Working
Size:	Males, 24"-27" at the shoulders, 95-135 lbs.; Females, 22"-25" at the shoulders, 80-100 lbs.
Appearance:	Black, medium coarse outer coat that lies flat. Rust to mahogany markings. Head is broad between the ears with moderately arched forehead, eyes are almond-shaped with tight fitting lids, and ears are pendant triangles.
#1 preventable health problem:	Unruly behavior caused by inconsistent discipline. This breed needs firm but fair obedience training from puppyhood on.
Preferences:	The Rottie is a working breed and, as such, is happiest with a "job" to do, not just sitting around waiting for his owner. Although some Rotties may adapt to apartment living with a couple of good long walks each day, the ideal situation is a 6-foot high fenced-in yard.
Best features:	Loyalty, strong willingness to work and to please owner.
Biggest challenge to owners:	Responsibility of ownership. Remember that despite what the real cause of a problem may be, the biggest dog in the neighborhood (or in the altercation) is always the one that's blamed.