Rottweilers (or “Rotties,” as their fans call them) are both beloved family companions and serious guard dogs. They've earned both reputations: they can be fiercely devoted to their chosen people, and their inherent protectiveness make Rottweilers valued police, service, and therapy dogs. However, this has also made the breed a target of some local breed specific legislation and they can be more costly for homeowners to insure.
This breed needs consistent training from a young age to help her know what kind of “protection” is appropriate and what's not. It's also important to keep her mentally and physically active to avoid her finding less-desirable ways to release her energy.
Originally from Germany, this medium-sized and medium-energy ancient breed can grow to between 80-135 pounds and lives an average of 8-11 years. The breed is recognized by the American Kennel Club and classified as a member of the Working group.
| AKC Recognized | Y |
| Breed's original pastime | Guardian |
| Origin | Germany |
| Breed group | Working |
| Average lifespan | 8-10 years |
| Size | Extra large |
| Bark factor | Moderate |
| AKC Ranking | 15 |
| Family | Livestock dog |
| Date of origin | Ancient times |
| Original function | Estate guardian |
| Today's function | Companion |
| Average size of male | Height: 24-27 Weight: 85-135 |
| Average size of female | Height: 24-27 Weight: 85-135 |
| Other name | None |
| Energy level | Medium energy |
| Exercise needs | Medium |
| Playfullness | Not very playful |
| Affection level | Moderately affectionate |
| Friendliness toward other dogs | Shy |
| Friendliness toward other pets | Shy |
| Friendliness toward strangers | Shy |
| Ease of training | Moderately easy to train |
| Watchdog ability | High |
| Protection ability | Very protective |
| Grooming needs | Low maintenance |
| Cold tolerance | Medium tolerance |
| Heat tolerance | Low tolerance |
BEHAVIOR & TRAINING
WHAT IS A ROTTWEILER'S PERSONALITY LIKE?
Protective and loyal, Rottweilers are often playful and loving toward children. They might be overly protective of “their” kids around strangers, however; this is one of the reasons early and frequent socialization is so important. Given her size and sheer strength, this confident guardian will do best if supervised with kids and other dogs.
WHAT IS ROTTWEILER BEHAVIOR LIKE?
Rottweilers are alert and calm housedogs, provided they get enough exercise. “Enough” is going to involve a minimum of two daily workouts — preferably with you, since Rotties love spending time with their people.
Remember that Rottweilers are a working breed, meaning they're happiest and healthiest when they have a job to do. A bored or neglected Rottie can do a lot of damage to your furniture, yard, and clothing.
HOW EASY IS IT TO TRAIN A ROTTWEILER?
Rottweilers are fast learners who respond well to training. Some can be a bit stubborn. You won't get anywhere trying to strong-arm a Rottie. Reward good behaviors, and be patient and consistent with your pup.
She'll appreciate training for both the physical activity and the mental stimulation it provides. This breed enjoys competing in herding, obedience, and tracking events.
CARE & HEALTH
HOW MUCH DO ROTTWEILERS SHED AND WHAT ARE THEIR GROOMING NEEDS?
Their short, straight coats shed an average amount seasonally, but don't require much in the way of grooming. Plan for weekly brushings and occasional baths.
WHAT HEALTH PROBLEMS DO ROTTWEILERS HAVE?
As a breed, Rottweilers are generally healthy. Some are prone to orthopedic problems (like elbow or hip dysplasia), eye disease, heart defects, bone cancer, or bleeding disorders. Your veterinarian may want to do a few extra exams or tests to check for these.
Feeding your baby Rottweiler a growth food for large-breed puppies will slow their rate of growth but not diminish their adult stature, and may help prevent or reduce the impact of adult-onset hip dysplasia.
