Breed Description

Size: (average weight and height): Males range from 24" to 27" at the shoulder and 95 to 135 pounds. Females are somewhat smaller at 22" to 25" tall and 80 to 100 pounds. Taller and shorter Rottweilers can be found but should not be considered typical to the breed standard. The Rottweiler is very strong for its size. A full grown adult can easily knock a human off its feet and for this reason is not recommended for the physically infirmed person. Obedience training is a must because of the animal's size and strength; you must be able to maintain complete mental control of your Rottweiler at all times.

Color: Rottweilers are always black (red Rottweilers are not desirable and do not meet the breed standard) with clearly defined markings ranging from rust to mahogany; the darker shades being more desirable. Markings are present on cheeks, muzzle, chest, legs and over both eyes. Pigmentation of eyes and mouth should be dark; light eyes and pink mouths are considered faults. The American Rottweiler Club (ARC) has determined that a base color other than black is not acceptable. Currently, there have been reports of Rottweiler litters with a base color classified as red. This trait should be considered a disqualifying genetic fault as set forth in the American Kennel Club (AKC) Rottweiler Breed Standard and ARC's Mandatory Practices. Red Rottweiler specimens should not be bred. A "Red Rottweiler" carries a genetic fault which inhibits the display of the characteristic black base coat color. It is a recessive gene, which when expressed, gives the appearance of a light brown or auburn base coat color with light auburn markings.
Frequently, "Red Rottweilers" also exhibit lighter colored eyes which may possibly be linked to a higher incidence of eye problems. In addition, some sources claim to have found "Red Rottweilers" to also carry a higher incidence of cardiac problems. Ethical breeders do not intentionally breed for disqualifying faults. And remember, the danger not only resides in the red-coated Rottweiler puppy from a litter but in all the littermates as well, even though the littermates may have a base color of black.
Allowing this trait to spread is a serious threat to the genetic integrity of the Rottweiler breed.

Energy Level: The Rottweiler is a working breed. He is generally not happy sitting around doing nothing all day. A large yard with a six-foot high fence is ideal. Personal commitment on the part of the owner is the most important thing. People willing to walk their dog daily will find a more personal and bonding relationship developing. Your Rottweiler will require a minimum of two good walks each day (at least 10 to 20 minutes each with frequent practice of obedience commands). Adequate exercise is necessary to maintain the good health of your Rottweiler as they have a tendency to gain weight without proper exercise which can limit their life expectancy.

Life expectancy: 10 to 12 years

Children: Children and dogs should never be left alone and unattended, even for a moment. Young children do not have proper dog etiquette and dogs do not understand a child's behavior. This can result in tragedy with any breed of dog. Rottweilers tend to love and be dedicated to their human family and can be especially fond of children. Many Rottweilers are naturally drawn to children and can be very patient and loving companions. Like children, each dog is different in personality, energy and patience levels. So, each dog and child relationship should be considered individually. Because of their large size and inherent desire to "herd," Rottweilers should always be supervised around children. A minor "bump" can cause serious injury to a small child. Also, some Rottweilers have a high degree of "prey" drive (the instinct to chase moving objects), therefore should never be left alone with children, who naturally will want to run and play.

Other animals: Rottweiler puppies adapt well to older dogs and cats in the home. Adult Rottweilers can be successfully integrated into a home with existing pets with proper obedience training and socialization. Dog-to-dog aggression is influenced by early socialization of puppies, spaying/neutering, their bloodlines and obedience training.

Abilities: Again, the Rottweiler is an extremely intelligent working breed. Some activities enjoyed by Rottweilers and their owners are hiking, herding, carting, tracking, agility, obedience and therapy work. All Rottweilers have a strong territorial instinct and will defend their family's home, car and property from intruders. The protective instinct of the breed brings with it a considerable moral and legal responsibility. Problems can arise quickly if the dog is not trained. With the help of a knowledgeable and responsible owner, the dog can learn to distinguish between a friendly greeting of a family member, or and the hostile advances of an intruder. Dogs must be carefully schooled to accept your friends into your home but physical contact should be approached carefully until the dog realizes that you belong. Strangers must never come into your yard or home unannounced, the dog does not know the difference between your brother and a burglar

Shedding/Grooming: Rottweilers shed twice a year. Usually in Spring and Fall they lose much of their coats to help them adjust to the changing seasons. For the remainder of the year there is seldom any shedding and grooming requirements are minimal. Rottweilers are prone to skin problems so regular monthly bathing with a high-quality shampoo from your veterinarian is recommended.

Health: Rottweilers are generally healthy. The more frequent health problems found in the breed are hip displaysia, rupture of cranial cruciate ligament, cancer, heart disease, and enthropia eye conditions. We recommend purchasing pet insurance for your Rottweiler.

Best with: The Rottweiler does best with an experienced owner who is extremely involved in the dog's life on a daily basis. The Rottweiler owner should be an extremely responsible person committed to the care, training and exercise of their dog while realizing the ownership of this breed brings with it many moral and ethical responsibilities. Such an owner should be knowledgeable about this breed type and its needs. The Rottweiler's future lies in the hands of current and future Rottweiler owners. If the current trends of over breeding and poor ownership practices continue, the future of this magnificent breed is dim. A Rottweiler should never be allowed to roam "free." Rottweilers should be securely contained at all times (on a leash, in a fenced yard, in a secure kennel, inside the home, etc.). The Rottweiler does best in a household where he or she will be included in everyday activities and be regarded as a member of the family. This breed should be spayed/neutered for several reasons: for the protection of the breed in general and for the safeguarding of the individual dog's health. Seattle Purebred Dog Rescue is notified of over 500 unwanted Rottweilers each year and that number is rising. Most of the 500+ unwanted Rottweilers are put to sleep. Unneutered males can become male dog aggressive, hard to manage and are predisposed to some cancers, particularly testicular cancer. Unspayed females can become moody/difficult and are predisposed to uterine problems and cancers. One of the main keys to successful Rottweiler ownership is ongoing positive obedience training and socialization. For the competent, dedicated owner, a Rottweiler can be the best of dog companions.

Not for: The Rottweiler is not for the faint-hearted owner. A confident, experienced, assertive owner is needed to lead the way for the confident Rottweiler breed. Because of the lack of available rental housing to certain breeds considered to be high risk, Rottweiler owners need to consider the possibility of any future moves that might put their dog's life at risk. Homeowners with fenced yards are ideal for this breed.

Pros: Very intelligent, easy to train, loyal, handsome, clownish, a true companion.

Cons: The Rottweiler can be stubborn and strong-willed. He requires ongoing training for life or a job that requires brain work (i.e. tracking, obedience competition, helping you outside or on-the-job, etc.). Regular exposure to various environments and experiences helps to keep the breed well-socialized. Typically, the Rottweiler is not an aggressive breed. Rottweilers should exhibit a reserved to friendly personality with strangers. Your Rottweiler should never be aggressive (unless protecting your life or his own life and this is rare). A Rottweiler who shows aggression should be evaluated by a professional trainer and behaviorist immediately.

Information Sources:

American Rottweiler Club (www.amrottclub.org)

Seattle Purebred Dog Rescue (www.spdrdogs.org)