Facts About Rottweilers

Looking for some quick Rottweiler dog facts? Here's a quick rundown of basics facts about Rottweilers.

Vital Stats:

Colour: Black with distinctive tan markings over cheeks, muzzle, chest and legs as well as over both eyes

Coat: straight, coarse and of medium length. Rottweilers are double coated and tend to "blow out" their undercoats twice a year.

Size: Medium-large, Males range from 95-135 lbs, Females tend to be smaller from 80-110 lbs

Types: American Rottweilers tend to be taller and slimmer through face and body whereas German Rottweilers tend to be shorter, stockier and more muscular.

History:

It is thought that the ancestors of this breed (a mastiff type dog) originated in the Roman Empire and that many of them accompanied the Roman army over the Alps as the loyal protector and drover of cattle that were used as the army's food source.

According to historians, the next appearance of this mastiff type dog was in the beautiful little town of Rottweil nestled in the southern mountainous region of Germany, where the Roman armies had left them as they continued their travels.

The Rottweiler was used by farmers to pull carts in their daily milk deliveries, as well as to help herd the cattle. Butchers used these dogs to guard their down-stairs shops during times of rest and to carry pouches of money to the banks.

The Rottweiler then grew in popularity with law enforcement agencies and eventually as guard dogs in domestic settings.

Rottweilers today excel in such sports as herding, Schutzhund, carting, agility and flyball. They are also proving to be outstanding therapy dogs and recognized as excellent service dogs for the physically challenged.

The exceptional characteristics and versatility of the Rottweiler has made it the 2nd most popular breed in America for the past two years.

The Rottweiler dog is loyal, intelligent and desires to please. They are often described by owners as 'characters', 'gentle bears' and display a fun-loving sense of humor. However they are a working dog and as such are happiest when they are busy or working on a task.

Rottweilers can also be aloof and stubborn at times. They are known to be extremely protective of their owners' possessions and property, which is why they are often used as guard dogs.

If a Rottweiler is not well-socialized and trained properly in obedience, they can become a bully and this can lead to other behavioral problems.

Health Concerns:

Hip and/or Elbow Dysplasia - a malformation of the hip and/or elbow joint which can cause serious problems for the dog and expense for the owner. Both are thought to be hereditary which is why you should ask the breeder about the history of your Rottweiler.

Bloat - stomach swells from gas, fluid or both. It becomes serious when the stomach distends and then flips over, causing torsion. This is caused by over-eating, drinking large amounts of water after eating, and/or vigorous exercise after a meal.

Help prevent bloat by feeding several small meals a day, crating the dog for several hours after eating, and monitoring water intake.

Cancer - becoming more common in Rottweilers, with bone cancer the most common type. Investigate any suspicious lumps, moles, sores or unexplained lameness IMMEDIATELY.

Heart Diseases- most common is the is sub-aortic stenosis which can be mild or result in sudden death.

Where To Find A Rottweiler/Rottweiler Puppy:

1) A Reputable Breeder: A reputable breeder will be happy to answer any questions you have about the Rottweiler line and health. They will NOT push you into buying their dogs, but will probably be more concerned to see if YOU are suitable for THEIR puppies.

They will, if possible, allow you to meet the parents and spend some time with the puppy of your choice before deciding to buy.

2) A Rottweiler Rescue: Most, if not all, Rottweiler rescues screen the rottis that they take in to make sure they are trainable and will adjust well in normal domestic settings.

A Rottweiler rescue is an excellent place to find an older Rottweiler if training a rottweiler puppy is not your preference.

This is also a chance to make a difference in the life of a Rottweiler who has probably been mistreated and abused through no fault of it's own!

If you are interested in learning more facts about Rottweilers or training tips, visit Rottweiler Training:

http://www.RottweilerTraining.homestead.com

Kathryn O'Neill is a Rottweiler lover, owner and chief editor for Rottweiler Training . For more tips and information about training your Rottweiler, check out:

http://www.RottweilerTraining.homestead.com

____________________

Advertisement: SitStayFetch Dog Training - Click Here!

---

The Geriatric (Older) Dog

Dogs mature and age at much different rates, usually according to size and breed. It is commonly held that dogs live 7 years for every year that... Read More

Choosing the Right Dog Breeder

When looking to purchase a purebred dog, you need to search for a breeder from which to purchase the creature. This can typically be as simple as... Read More

The Artful Dog Shopper

I am a dog lover by nature. I have just always loved the little four legged fur balls.Another thing I have always loved is animal art. It... Read More

The Case AGAINST Raw Frozen Pet Foods

For some 25 years I have alerted the public to the dangers of exclusively feeding heat processed foods. Companion animal feeding has progressed ? actually digressed ?... Read More

Heartworm Treatment for Cats and Dogs

The treatment for heartworms is different for cats and dogs. Do not ever give medicine intended for a cat to your dog or vice versa.Once your pet... Read More

Is There Taurine In Your Dogs Food?

Taurine, a water-soluble amino acid, has recently become the topic of conversation when referring to the nutritional composition that makes up the human and animal physical structure.... Read More

How to Maintain Your Love Affair With Your Dog: Part One - Training

Training Tips for a Happy and Healthy Relationship with Your Canine CompanionWhen I first laid eyes on my little ball of black fluff at an adoption fair,... Read More

Boston Terrier - The Costs Of Owning A Boston Terrier

Having a dog is a little like having a baby. Before you rush out to the nearest breeder or shelter you must consider the costs of ensuring... Read More

Five Cat Food Factors That Discourage Feline UTD

One of the most common causes of Feline Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD) is what your cat eats. A feline diet that is too high in carbohydrates and... Read More

Breeding Piranhas

Piranhas are unique creatures that have gained popularity not just because of their appearance, but also due to the many myths that are told about them. Unfortunately... Read More

Got Fleas?

Author of Keep Fleas OffStill using all the chemicals you can find to combat those fleas? Have you done everything outside of trying to shoot the fleas... Read More

Crate Training Your Puppy or Dog

Introducing your puppy to the crate should be an easy and fun process. First, start by putting the crate somewhere the puppy enjoys being. Try the family... Read More

Housetraining Tips for Your Dog or Puppy

Puppies need to go to the bathroom after they play, chew, drink, eat or sleep. Start by putting them on a leash and tethering them to you.... Read More

Weaning Puppies Is Only Natural

Weaning puppies is a perfectly natural process. Mamma dogs have been doing it successfully for ages, so how hard can it be, right?But humans, not being dogs,... Read More

Buying a Custom Bird Cage

Many of us dream of having a beautiful, exotic bird perched on our shoulder, accompanying us around town. At the end of the day, though, our feathered... Read More

The Background and Use of Clicker Training For Dogs

Presently, and throughout the 1990s a phenomena swept through the dog-lover's community. It was called "Clicker Training," and was implemented to teach dogs (along with horses and... Read More

Animal Deathing

What happens when we die? In our society, death is often hidden away. Rarely are we present for the passing of a loved one, a major exception... Read More

Goldfish Tips - Choosing The Right One

Tips to getting the right GoldfishGoldfish are a temperate breed that can be found in cool streams, lakes, and ponds throughout Asia and part of Eastern Europe.... Read More

Starting a Home-Based Pet Related Business

If you're contemplating the idea of starting a home-based business here are some facts you should know:·According to the Small Business Administration, home-based businesses account for over... Read More

How to Increase Your Fishkeeping Fun

Do you really get the fullest amount of enjoyment out of your fish?, or is it hampered by little worries and anxieties?Do you sometimes worry that you... Read More

Healthy Diet for Your Parrot

Is your bird a seed only eater? Did you know in that wild seeds form only a small portion of the natural diet? While seeds are an... Read More

Terrorizing Your Cat with iRobot Vacuum System

Do you have a home robotic vacuum cleaner? They are all the new rage and quite innovative indeed. If you do not have one you eventually will... Read More

Dog Grooming and Dog Care

Dog grooming is relatively simple for most dogs. I have a greyhound and spend about 5 minutes per day on dog grooming. For dogs that have short... Read More

What You Need To Know To Keep Your Dog Safe In Your Car

Man's Best Friend is a great companion around the home, but Rover will love joining you on road trips - short or long - as well. If... Read More

General Information, Caring For & Breeding Silkworms

BackgroundSilkworms are the larva of a moth (Bombyx mori) native to Asia that spins a cocoon of fine, strong, lustrous fiber that is the source of commercial... Read More

How to Build a Dog House for Your Puppy

So you'd like to know how to build a dog house? Well, that means we're talking to less than 50% of all dog owners. Why? Because current... Read More