Rottweiler: Dog Breed Profile

The Rottweiler is a strong, very athletic, and versatile working dog. In general, he is considered to be calm, friendly, and peaceful. With its pronounced protective behavior and great physical strength, however, the Rottweiler belongs in the hands of a connoisseur.

Origin and history

The Rottweiler is a descendant of the so-called Saupacker, a dog that specialized in hunting and setting (packing) wild boar. Over time, Rottweilers were bred specifically for vigor and endurance, becoming indispensable helpers for butchers and cattle dealers. The dogs needed these to guard and herd the animals for slaughter.

This dog breed owes its name to the town of Rottweil – which was a central livestock market in the 19th century. By the early 20th century, the Rottweiler was recognized as a police and military dog. Today, the robust working dog is also used as a rescue dog or guide dog for the blind and is still a popular and widespread family companion dog.

Appearance

The Rottweiler is a medium to the large-sized, stocky dog. It has a strong, muscular body with a broad, deep, and well-developed chest. Its skull is strong and broad. The eyes are medium-sized, the ears hanging, set high, and triangular. The neck is muscular with a slightly arched nape line. The tail is naturally long and is carried horizontally as an extension of the line of the back – also hanging down when at rest.

The coat color is black with well-defined reddish-brown markings (brand) on the cheeks, muzzle, underside of the neck, chest, and lower legs, as well as over the eyes and under the base of the tail. Rottweilers have a short, dense coat with an undercoat. The fur is easy to care for.

Nature

Rottweilers are peaceful, friendly, and strong-nerved dogs, but they can react very impulsively in the event of imminent danger and are ready to defend themselves. Due to this temperament – paired with pronounced muscular strength – these dogs also belong in the hands of experts.

Born guardians and protectors, Rottweilers are always alert and very territorial. Male dogs in particular tend to be dominant and like to try to get their way. Puppies must therefore be introduced to other people, strange environments, and other dogs at an early age. From an early age, they need a competent, consistent, and sensitive upbringing and close contact with the family.

Rottweilers are very affectionate, willing to work, and versatile, but they also need meaningful employment and lots of exercises. They are ideal companions for dog-experienced, sporty people who have at least two hours a day to give their dog the necessary exercise – for example, when jogging, cycling, cross-country skiing, or mountain hiking. As a pure family companion dog, the Rottweiler is underutilized.