The Rottweiler: German Tough Guy


A powerful, medium-sized dog, the Rottweiler‘s intelligence, strength, endurance and willingness to work make him an ideal working dog. The breed excels as a police dog, herder, service dog, therapy dog, and obedience competitor. Rottweilers are also excellent guard dogs, their self-confidence and power making them an adversary few would be foolish enough to take on.
They also make excellent pets who form strong bonds with those close to them, while remaining wary and suspicious of strangers.
The Rottweiler’s ancestors were the drover dogs of Rome. When the Roman’s invaded Germania the local tribes took note of the herding and guarding instincts of these dogs, and thereafter selectively bred dogs for these traits.
When the need for drover dogs diminished, Rottweiler numbers fell alarmingly. The breed may well have become extinct, but for the intervention of a Rottweiler club formed in the early 1900′s. This club set the breed standard, and the Rottweiler, with its distinctive black with rust coloration, has remained virtually unchanged ever since.
If you are thinking about getting a Rottweiler, you’ll be getting an excellent family pet and guardian. Rotties can be laid back, even clownish, with their immediate circle but are naturally protective around strangers.
Early socialization and obedience training is a must with this breed and they also need daily exercise. Their coats are easy to maintain, with minimal grooming required.
ROTTWEILER FACT FILE |
| Group: Working Country of origin: Germany Date of origin: Ancient times Originally bred for: Herding cattle / Guarding Current function: Security / Companion Size: Large Coat length: Short Shedding: Yes Grooming requirements: Once a week Town or Country: Either Ideal home: Large house Minimum garden size: Large Exercise requirements: At least 2 hours per day Lifespan: Over 10 years |
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