Facts about Rottweilers

It is thought that the ancestors of this breed (a mastiff type dog) originated in the Roman Empire and that many of them accompanied the Roman army over the Alps as loyal protectors and drovers of cattle which were used as the army's food source. According to historians, the next recorded appearance of this mastiff type dog was in the quaint town of Rottweil, in the southern mountainous region of Germany. It is presumed that they were left here by the Roman armies.

The following are some interesting facts about rottweilers:

Physical Appearance
They are generally black in color with distinct tan markings on the cheeks, muzzle, over the eyes, chest and legs. Their coat is short, straight and of medium length. Rottweilers are known to shed their coats twice a year. Size wise they can be categorized as large - medium dogs. Males weigh around 90-130 lbs while the female is between 80 to 110 lbs. The German Rottweiler is slightly shorter, stockier and more muscular in built.

Character Traits
Rottweilers are loyal and always on the lookout for ways in which they can please their owners. This often results in behavior that earns them the moniker of ‘characters’ from their owners. However, one cannot put aloofness and stubbornness past this intelligent dog. If Rottweilers are not well trained and socialized, they become bullies, taking advantage of their size and this can often lead to other problems, particularly when out in the park. Nonetheless, they are also known to be very gentle with children; they love the company of children and make excellent house pets.

Capabilities
Rottweilers are happiest when they are busy or working on a task. In the past, they have been used by farmers to pull carts while delivering milk as well as to herd cattle. Because of their loyalty to their master and his property, they make good guard dogs. There was a time when they were utilized to carry pouches of money to the bank. They excel in sports such as herding, carting, agility games and fly-ball. They have also proven to be good therapy dogs and excellent service dogs for the physically challenged.

Training
The Rottweiler is a very special dog breed that has many incredible characteristics and personality traits; therefore it is imperative to fully understand your dog before you start training. They need proximity to the family and are likely to forge a close bond to one particular member within the family. It is this person who must be most actively involved in training the dog. Their inbuilt desire to please makes them easy to train. However, their natural dominance can make them very aggressive, a trait that can be controlled and channeled through proper training. They can be put in place (never by force) by an assertive owner. For this reason, the breed is not recommended for timid individuals. Because of their inherent protective nature, if not trained properly, they can become aggressive and wary of any people other than family, who visit the home or may be encountered on walks. Consequently, it is very important that this breed be properly socialized at a young age, by being exposed to public settings often. It is also advisable to socialize your Rottweiler amongst your guests in your home from infancy. Like any other breed of dog, it needs to undergo training specific to its breed, to ensure that it grows up to be a great family pet and well mannered dog.

Health Concerns
Hip and/or elbow dysplasia, a malformation of the hip and/or elbow joint can cause serious problems for the dog. Both are thought to be hereditary, which is why it is important that you ask the breeder about the history of your dog. Rottweilers at times overeat or drink more water than necessary, which coupled with vigorous exercise after a meal, can cause the stomach to bloat from gas and cause colic. To prevent this tendency, several small meals a day, resting the dog for a few hours after eating and monitoring water intake is recommended. Canine cancer is becoming more common in Rottweilers, with bone cancer being the most common type.

The above are some interesting facts about Rottweilers which may help you understand the breed better and can also help you come to decision as to whether the breed is right for you. Contrary to their intimidating appearance, they are extremely interesting and perhaps one of the most misunderstood breed of dogs. They really do make fantastic pets, so long as you train them properly.