Rottweiler

The Rottweiler breed is a robust and powerful dog breed that has recently received negative media attention. The much-publicized attacks on humans by Rottweilers can be blamed on unscrupulous breeders and ignorant owners.

The Rottweiler's Behavior

Source: Wikipedia.

Recommended for: guarding and working, besides being a pet

The Rottweiler dog breed is an intelligent one that thrives with attention from its owners. Rottweilers are quick learners and are eager to please. They will get creative to get any attention. This being said, they must be trained early on with socialization an important aspect. They are silent watchers and will not bark if they perceive a threat. A knowledgeable owner will recognize this and can act accordingly. They only make noise at minor disturbances like irritations.

Remember that breed only provides a general clue as to any individual dog's actual behavior. Make sure to get to know dogs well before bringing them into your home.

The Rottweiler's Physical Characteristics

Here are some of the characteristics of the Rottweiler breed as determined by the American Kennel Club's published breed standard.

* Size: males 24 - 27 inches; females 22 - 25 inches
* Coat: Double coated; Outer coat - straight, coarse, dense, mid-length, flat
* Color: Black with markings that range from rust to mahogany
* Eyes: mid-size, almond-shaped, deep-set, dark brown
* Ears: mid-size, pendant, triangular
* Muzzle: straight bridge, broad base, slight taper towards tip
* Nose: broad, black
* Tail: gives appearance of elongation of topline

The Rottweiler's Origins and History

Source: Wikipedia.

Country/Region of Origin: Germany

Original purpose: herding, guarding

Name: Named after the town of Rottweil, Wurttemburg; also known as Rottie.

Historical notes: Rottweiler dogs date back to the days of the Roman Empire when legionnaires needed dogs to help drive the cattle that was the source of food. Some dogs that settled in Germany became what are now known as Rottweilers. They proved their worth in protecting cattlemen against robbers. They faced near extinction towards the end of the 1800's but the demand in Germany for police dogs saw a great rise in interest in their breed.