Rottweilers are one of the strongest and most powerful dogs in the world for their size. They are muscular and protective dogs known for their solid black, flat-lying coats. Although they have double coats, the under coat is very fine and not visible through the outer one which is coarse and of medium length. Their head is of medium length and the eyes are almond-shaped, medium sized and dark brown.

The ears are small, high set and wide apart, lying flat and close to the cheeks. The neck is fairly long, round, very muscular and slightly arched.

Their back is straight, strong but not too long with a broad and very slightly sloping croup. The tail is usually docked at the first joint and carried slightly above horizontal when the dog is alert.

Rottweilers are brave and are loyal to their handlers and their families. Nature of these breeds can vary; some being independent and less-friendly, others being outgoing and sociable with everyone. They may also be aggressive and, as such, are unsuitable for inconfident owners.

Average size

Rottweilers are about 22-27 inches tall at the shoulders and weigh about 41-50 kg.

Coat colour

The coat colour of Rottweilers are always black with rust-coloured markings.

Intelligence

The importance of socialisation and training from an early age cannot be overstressed. These are intelligent dogs but can be rather dominant in nature. They require firmness and consistency from an early age from an equable, calm handler.

The breed is extremely sensitive to your voice so use this to your advantage when it comes to praising the dog. Attack training is highly discouraged in case it over stimulates their already protective natures and they become uncontrollable.

Food requirements

The Rottweiler puppies should be fed according to the recommended diet sheet. As adults, they should be fed twice a day. Because of their tendency to bloat, their diet should be carefully handled.

Lifespan

They have a lifespan of 9 -15 years.

Pet grooming

Rottweilers need to be groomed once a week.

They are the easiest breeds to maintain. They should be given a good brush down regularly with a rubber glove during the moulting seasons. The shine in their coat comes from correct diet.

Country of origin: Germany

The Rottweiler was originally bred in Rottweil, Germany. It was used as a cattle guarding and herding dog. Although the Rottweiler, like all dogs, is a descendant of the wolf, the Rottweiler does not attack the animals that it was bred to herd. In the 19th century cattle-driving became illegal in Germany and the Rottweiler suffered a decline in popularity. But in 1914, these dogs were once again brought into use for the war, which proved their physical and mental abilities. The breed entered the United States in the 1930’s and was accepted into their Kennel Club in 1935 and are accepted by the British Kennel Club the following year.