DOGBREEDS

Rottweiler: An often misunderstood and loving dog breed

Rottweilers are large and versatile family dogs with a natural guard and protection instinct. They are popular around the world and are used as service dogs by the police, as rescue dogs, guard dogs, and therapy dogs. They are also excellent family dogs, but they require an experienced owner due to their strength and energy levels.

Feel free to share

Last updated 2023-04-12

A versitale, friendly and hard working dog breed

Rottweilers are one of the most versatile dog breeds in the world, popularly known as "rottis." They are friendly, devoted, eager to learn, attentive, confident, with a stable mind, and love to work. These qualities make them excellent service dogs, and they are commonly used by the police and other law enforcement agencies worldwide.

Rottweilers are also known for their versatility in various roles, such as rescue dogs, guard dogs, therapy dogs, and sled dogs. Moreover, they are great family pets that form strong bonds with their owners and are especially fond of children. However, it's crucial to remember that they are energetic and powerful dogs that require an experienced owner. Therefore, they are not recommended for first-time dog owners.

A commonly misunderstood breed

Rottweilers are often portrayed as aggressive, dangerous, and unpredictable dogs. They have been labeled as a "bully breed" and are often associated with dog fighting and attacks. However, this breed is widely misunderstood, and the negative perception is mostly based on myths and misconceptions.

The truth is, Rottweilers are loyal, intelligent, and loving dogs. They were originally bred as herding dogs, and later became guard dogs, and police dogs due to their protective nature and intelligence. Rottweilers are not naturally aggressive, and with proper socialization and training, they can make excellent family pets and service dogs.

Unfortunately, many people fail to understand the importance of socialization and training in shaping a dog's behavior. If Rottweilers are not socialized properly, they may become overly protective or aggressive towards strangers and other animals. However, this is not unique to Rottweilers, as any breed of dog can become aggressive if not trained and socialized properly.

Another factor contributing to the misunderstanding of Rottweilers is the media's tendency to sensationalize dog attacks. When a dog attack occurs, especially if it involves a Rottweiler, it gets a lot of media attention. This can create a skewed perception of the breed and perpetuate the myth that they are naturally aggressive.

In reality, most dog bites and attacks are caused by a combination of factors, including improper training and socialization, lack of supervision, and human error. It is unfair to blame a particular breed for these incidents, as any dog can bite if provoked or put in a stressful situation.

Moreover, many Rottweiler owners can attest to the breed's loyalty and affectionate nature. Rottweilers are known to be great family pets, and they are often gentle and patient with children. They also have a strong protective instinct, and will fiercely defend their owners if they perceive a threat.

They are not naturally aggressive, and with proper socialization and training, they can be loving, loyal, and well-behaved dogs. It is important to educate ourselves about the breed and challenge the negative stereotypes surrounding them. By doing so, we can help create a more positive image of Rottweilers and other "bully breeds," and ensure that they are treated with the love and respect they deserve.

Requires little but some grooming

Brushing

Rottweilers have a double coat consisting of a thick, woolly undercoat and a sleek, coarse outer coat. This double coat provides insulation and protection from the elements, but it also requires regular brushing to prevent matting and shedding. We recommend using a slicker brush and a stainless steel comb to brush your Rottweiler's coat once or twice a week.

Bathing

Rottweilers do not need frequent bathing unless they get into something dirty or smelly. Bathing them too often can strip their coat of natural oils and cause dryness and irritation. When you do bathe your Rottweiler, use a dog-specific shampoo and conditioner and rinse thoroughly. Avoid getting water or soap in their eyes or ears.

Nail Trimming

Long nails can cause discomfort and even pain for your Rottweiler. Regular nail trimming is essential for their comfort and health. We recommend trimming their nails every 3-4 weeks or as needed. Use sharp, high-quality dog nail clippers and be careful not to trim the quick (the blood vessel inside the nail).

Teeth Cleaning

Just like humans, dogs can suffer from dental issues, such as tartar buildup, gum disease, and tooth decay. Brushing your Rottweiler's teeth regularly can help prevent these problems and keep their breath fresh. We recommend using a dog-specific toothbrush and toothpaste and brushing their teeth at least once a week.

Ears and Eyes

Rottweilers are prone to ear infections due to their floppy ears, so it's important to keep their ears clean and dry. Use a cotton ball or soft cloth to wipe the inside of their ears once a week, and check for signs of redness, swelling, or discharge. Similarly, keep their eyes clean and free of discharge by wiping them with a damp cloth as needed.

In conclusion, grooming is an essential part of caring for your Rottweiler. Regular brushing, bathing, nail trimming, teeth cleaning, and ear and eye care can help maintain their overall health and appearance. With proper grooming and care, your Rottweiler will be a healthy and happy companion for years to come.

Common health issues

It's worth noting that Rottweilers are prone to certain health issues that potential owners should be aware of. Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and osteochondrosis are some of the common orthopedic problems that affect Rottweilers. They are also prone to eye disorders, such as cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy. Regular visits to the vet can help detect and treat these health issues early.

Not for first time owners

Furthermore, it's important to understand that Rottweilers can have a high prey drive, which means they may be inclined to chase and potentially harm smaller animals like cats or small dogs. Therefore, it's essential to supervise them when around other animals and to teach them proper socialization skills.

Lastly, like any other dog breed, Rottweilers require a nutritious diet that meets their nutritional needs. Consultation with a vet can help determine the best diet for your Rottweiler's health and well-being.

Overall, Rottweilers are a breed with unique characteristics that require careful consideration before bringing one into your home. With the right care and training, they can make excellent companions and service dogs.

Frequently asked questions:

Are Rottweilers aggressive?

This breed has a reputation for being aggressive, but it's not entirely accurate. They can be protective and territorial, but they are not naturally aggressive towards humans. Proper socialization and training from a young age can prevent aggression.

Are Rottweilers good with children?

Yes, they can be great family dogs and are generally good with children. However, as with any large dog breed, adult supervision is always recommended.

How much exercise do Rottweilers need?

They are active dogs that require daily exercise and mental stimulation. A minimum of one hour of exercise per day is recommended, but they can handle more if given the opportunity.

Do Rottweilers shed a lot?

Rottweilers have a double coat that sheds moderately throughout the year. However, they do shed more during seasonal changes and require regular brushing to maintain their coat.

Are Rottweilers good guard dogs?

Yes, the breed can make excellent guard dogs due to their protective nature and strong instinct to protect their family. However, proper training and socialization are necessary to ensure they don't become overly aggressive.

Do Rottweilers have health problems?

Like all dog breeds, this breed can be prone to certain health issues, such as hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and bloat. It's important to buy from a reputable breeder who screens their dogs for these conditions. Regular veterinary checkups are also recommended to maintain good health.