Rottweilers

Appearance:

Body: Large, broad, lean and muscular, with a large chest, sloping shoulders, well-sprung ribs, and well-developed sternum.

Coat: Straight, coarse, dense, and flat with a fine undercoat.

Color: Black with tan markings.

Ears: Small, triangular-shaped, high set, wide apart, and hang close to the head.

Eyes: Deep set, almond-shaped, dark and expressive.

Feet: Round and compact with hard pads, well-arched toes, and short, strong nails. Hind feet are slightly longer than forefeet.

Head: Large, moderately long, broad skull, good width between the ears, arched forehead, deep muzzle with powerful jaws and wide, black nose.

Legs: Forelegs are straight and well-developed with tight elbows. Hindquarters are wide and muscular, legs long and powerful, stifles well-bent and hocks angulated.

Neck: Strong, moderately long, slightly arched and well-muscled.

Size:
Weight: 90 - 110 pounds
Height: 22 - 27 inches

Tail: Short, strong, and carried outward. Usually docked.

Behavior

Recommended for experienced dog handlers
Very protective of his family
Can be aggressive with other dogs of the same sexual gender

There are few people who aren't aware of the infamous Rottweiler. He is a very large and very powerful dog with a fearless personality. What most people may not realize is that he is generally a calm and quiet dog unless provoked. He's a working dog not suited for being left alone on a chain for extended periods of time.

AKC Standard says, "This strong-willed, powerful breed is not for everyone, but with proper breeding, socializing, and training Rottweilers are very gentle and totally devoted to their families."

He is alert, athletic, intelligent, quick to learn, and a formidable guard dog. Early obedience training and socialization is important to ensure his ability to behave as expected once he becomes an adult. He has an exceptional memory and will retain everything he is taught, good or bad.

He's a lot of dog to handle and is best owned by an experienced dog handler capable of handling a strong-willed and powerful dog with assertive leadership, positive reinforcement of commands, and rewards, such as treats and praise, for a job well done.

Breed Type

AKC Group: Working Group

Used to herd and guard cattle, as a companion, to guard buildings, and as police dogs.

Care and Grooming

Exercise: Requires considerable exercise including both mental and physical stimulation.

Grooming: Brush well one to two times weekly; daily during shedding seaseon.

Health

Life Expectancy: 11 - 12 Years

Possible Problems:
Bloat
Cancer
Hip or Elbow Dysplasia - dislocation of the joint
Kidney disease
Low Thyroid

Recommended Certificates:
CERF - for the eyes
OFA - for the hips and elbows

Country of Origin

Germany - 1820s