Rottweiler Dog Breed Profile

by Luke Blaise

AKC Group: Working Group

The Rottweiler dog is most commonly recognized today as a guard or police dog. They have gained a poor recognition lately because of an increased incidence of dog fighting. But overall, when properly trained, the Rottweiler makes a great companion.

History

The Rottweiler dog was originally used a herding dogs when the Romans invaded Europe. In Germany they were appreciated for their herding ability and their strength, and where used by farmers and merchants to pull wagons. The breed almost became extinct, but thanks to a few breeders, the Rottweiler dog is still in existence today.

Physical Features

The perfect Rottweiler is a moderate large, powerful and robust dog. Black with obviously outlined rust markings. His substantial and compact build symbolizes agility, endurance and great strength. Dogs are characteristically more substantial all over with bigger body and weightier bone than bitches. Bitches are clearly feminine, but with no weak point of structure or substance.

Dogs vary in height from 24 to 27 inches, with females slightly shorter at 22 to 25 inches.

The external coat is dense, coarse, and straight, lying flat with medium length. Undercoat must be present on thighs and neck; however the amount is affected by climatic states. Always black with rust to mahogany patches. The demarcation involving black and rust shall be clearly defined.

Personality

The Rottweiler is actually a quiet, assured and brave dog having a self-assured aloofness that doesn't provide itself to indiscriminate and immediate friendships. The breed is self-assured and reacts quietly with a wait-and-see manner.

A reserved and aloof dog shouldn't be penalized, because this reflects the recognized personality of the dog. A hostile or tense attitude to other dogs shouldn't be faulted either.

Common Health Problems

Rottweiler puppies are famous for getting parvovirus. Adults are prone to hip dysplasia, ectropion, and entropion as well.

Return to: Complete AKC Dog Breed List

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