Rottweiler
Summary
The Rottweiler is one of the most versatile and recognised working dogs in the world, descended from the cattle dogs of the Roman legionaries who accompanied the legions in their expansion across Europe. Over the centuries, it developed in the German town of Rottweil, where it was used to drive cattle to market and pull butchers' carts — hence its old name "Metzgerhund" (butcher's dog). Today it is widely used as a police dog, protection dog, and family companion.
Physical Characteristics
- Size
- Large
- Height (male)
- 61–69 cm
- Height (female)
- 56–63 cm
- Weight (male)
- 50–60 kg
- Weight (female)
- 35–48 kg
- Life Expectancy
- 9–10 years
- Coat
- Short, dense, smooth, and hard; with undercoat
- Common Colors
- Black with well-defined rust markings on the muzzle, cheeks, chest, legs, and above the eyes
Temperament & Personality
A well-socialised Rottweiler is a calm, confident, and devoted dog. It is very attached to its family, tolerant of children, and capable of surprising tenderness with its loved ones. With strangers, it is naturally reserved but should never be aggressive without cause. It needs consistent training and an owner who establishes clear rules from the start — its muscular mass and determination can make it difficult to control if not properly educated.
Activity & Exercise
- Energy Level
- High
- Recommended Daily Exercise
- 90–120 minutes
Grooming & Care
- Grooming Needs
- Low
- Shedding
- Moderate to heavy
- Bathing Frequency
- Every 6–8 weeks
Health
- Common Health Issues
- Certain types of cancer (osteosarcoma, lymphoma)
- Gastric dilatation/torsion
- Heart disease
- Hip and elbow dysplasia
- Osteochondrosis
- Recommended Health Tests
- Cardiac examination
- Eye examination
- Hip and elbow X-rays
Compatibility
- With Children
- Good
- For First-Time Owners
- Not recommended
