Rottweiler

The breed’s ancestors were the mastiff-like, cattle-herding dogs of the ancient Romans who accompanied their armies as they swept across Europe. Some of these dogs were left behind when the army moved on, and in Germany, they bred with local sheepdogs and produced the Rottweiler dog breed. The Rottweiler was originally known as the Rottweiler Metzerhund — which translates as the Butcher’s Dog from Rottweil (a market town in South-West Germany).

The breed would mostly help move cattle on the way to slaughter but also worked as a livestock guardian and a property guard. They would also protect their owner who, after selling his wares, would be a target for thieves and bandits who would try to rob him. The Rottweiler made sure they didn’t! 

When the industrial revolution came along and cattle were moved by train, the breed declined and it was only with the outbreak of the First World War that the breed once again found a role, this time in the service of the German army where they excelled as guard dogs. In 1930 they were first imported to Britain and were recognised by the Kennel Club in 1966. 

Ideal Rottie owners will understand that beneath that somewhat ‘hench’ exterior, the Rottie is a sensitive softie who needs patience and thoughtful handling and training. Rotties are often misunderstood by those who want to rough-house and handle them harshly, and this never ends well. If you’re into rigorous walks, lots of training and games and consider 45kg ideal ‘lap dog’ size, the Rottweiler will make a capable, loveable, affectionate and fun friend. Best for owners who are at home most of the time and either child-free or with older sensible children.

Rottweilers need both exercise and training — and plenty of it to keep them happy and healthy. They enjoy long walks in the countryside, and a well-trained and socialised Rottweiler will usually stay very close to their owner. Ensure your Rottweiler is well-socialised and friendly with other dogs before letting them off the lead — and supervise all interactions with other dogs. Some Rottweilers can be problematic with other dogs and may need to be kept on lead around others. 

For an adult, two hours of daily exercise is required to include training and brain games. 

This is a large, active dog, who needs plenty of indoor and outdoor space, and a well-fenced garden. As he can guard territory from visitors, dog-free access to your front door or letter box for deliveries is important. 

Large breed dogs, as well as having large appetites, benefit from a different balance of nutrients including minerals and vitamins compared to smaller-breed dogs. The Rottweiler dog breed is also prone to bloating and stomach problems. Smaller, more frequent meals can help minimise this risk. When they’re provided with proper care and nutrition, the Rottweiler lifespan can extend to 10 years. 

This is one of the easiest breeds to maintain. Give your Rottweiler a good brush down with a rubber glove every now and then — and more regularly during the moulting seasons — and this will suffice. 

The Rottweiler dog breed is a powerful, active working dog and as such he needs an experienced, firm but fair, owner to make sure he gets all the socialisation and training he needs to be a safe and friendly member of society. 

With the right owner, they can be trained to a very high standard, excel in canine sports or blossom with a job to do — in other words, be an unbeatable dog. But the amount of work needed to keep them mentally and physically stimulated, and adequately socialised, makes them high maintenance dogs for expert owners. 

Not an ideal family dog as while he is usually devoted to his own children, he can easily mistake the intentions of their friends. Plus, with Rottweiler size and in his clumsiness, he can knock over small children. With training and socialisation, the Rottweiler may be able to live with older sensible children. 

While many dogs are traditionally thought of as being good with children, all dogs and children need to be taught to get on with and respect each other, and be safe together. Even so, dogs and young children should never be left alone together and adults should supervise all interactions between them.