Large Dog Breeds: The Rottweiler

The dog breed known as the Rottweiler has developed a bad reputation in recent years. It is ironic because the descendants of this large and noble breed were useful and respectable dogs for almost two thousand years. The exact history of the Rottweiler is unknown, but the breed is thought to have developed in ancient Rome around 74 A.D. These mastiff-type dogs helped Roman armies conquer much of Europe. They were used by the military to herd cattle and to protect cattle and men. The breed fell out of favor in the 1800s due to no longer being needed to herd due to advances in technology and farming. Rottweilers began to be used by the military in World War I and II as police and guard dogs. Unfortunately, many also were trained to be hostile and aggressive to dogs and people. The present day Rottweiler dog is named for Rottweil, Germany where the breed again gained support and favor.

The Rottweiler was once the most popular family dog in America. Currently, they are in the top five but reports of bad behavior have made many potential owners wary of the breed. Tales of aggressive and even violent behavior are due in large part to bad owners, not bad dogs. Rottweilers have inherent personality traits that can manifest in negative behavior if they do not receive proper care and training from an early age.

Surprisingly, the American Kennel Club, which judges purebred dogs on not just physical traits but also behavioral characteristics, defines the breed standard for Rottweilers as calm, confident, and courageous. Rottweilers are actually known more for their laid-back nature than aggression. Problems in behavior may stem from Rottweiler dogs' natural tendency to protect their owners and families. These dogs can become aggressive with other dogs and that is also recognized in the breed standard. However, aggression becomes violence when Rottweilers feel that they or their families are being threatened. Potential for violence is enhanced if their owners either early in life or as adults mistreat dogs and also when no training has been completed.

It is important to clarify that the natural temperament of the Rottweiler dog breed leans more toward calm than aggression. A potential Rottweiler buyer should research the breed and make sure he can handle a large, active dog before buying. However, a buyer should not be more afraid to buy a Rottweiler than any other dog breed. Steps a buyer can take to ensure he purchases a physically and emotionally healthy Rottweiler include researching the breed first and know what breed standard traits to look for, research breeders to find an ethical breeder of purebred Rottweilers, visit the breeder kennel to see how Rottweiler puppies are raised, obtain pedigree information to determine lineage, obtain health information to ensure the Rottweiler has been evaluated for genetic problems, ask the breeder to provide Rottweiler information, specifically on training and discipline, and lastly make sure the buyer's household is appropriate to meet the Rottweiler's social and activity needs

With many dog breeds, an alternative to buying from a breeder is buying a purebred from a rescue center. Because of Rottweilers' tendency toward aggression if they have suffered maltreatment, buying from a rescue center may not be a good option with this breed.

Sharon Davies is now a fan of the Rottweiler dog after researching its history and temperament. A Rottweiler dog is known for personality traits such as loyalty, confidence and aloofness. However, when mistreated, a Rottweiler's inherent protective nature can manifest in aggressive and violent behavior. Rottweiler information and history is provided in this article. The Rottweiler dog's physical and behavioral traits are also described.