Rottweiler

Published: Last updated: by Kyle J. Larson Rottweiler

The Rottweiler is best known as a working breed. They're intimidating to strangers, but when socialized are good with their family and can warm up to others..

Average size and lifespan

chihuahua silhouette
great dane silhouette
Height: 1ft 10in - 2ft 3in
Weight: 80-135lbs
Lifespan: 8 - 10 Years

Behavior

  • Affection4/5
  • Kid-Friendly3/5
  • Stranger-Friendly2/5
  • Dog-Friendly2/5
  • Barking Amount2/5

Care

  • Grooming Difficulty2/5
  • Shedding Amount3/5
  • Easy to Train3/5
  • Can Be Alone3/5
  • Exercise Need3/5

Environment

  • Cold Tolerance3/5
  • Heat Tolerance3/5
  • Apartment-Friendly2/5

Rottweiler Information

rottweiler breedThis hardworking dog loves to have a job to perform. His endurance, intelligence, and innate desire to protect make him an excellent companion, and it's no surprise that he is used as a police dog, service dog, herder, and therapy dog.

The Rottweiler's powerful appearance can be intimating, but when trained, he is a sweet, loving dog known to sit on his owner's lap like a small dog. For maintenance, his short black and tan coat needs a quick brushing now and then; for exercise, make sure he gets a good walk or two every day!

Rottweiler History

The Rottweiler is believed to have originated with Roman dogs. These dogs were used for herding cattle, along with traveling Roman armies for food. The dogs both herded and protected the cattle on their journey.

The name Rottweiler originated in southern Germany as these Roman dogs were left behind after Roman armies no longer remained in the Alps, and German farmers used the breed. The name came from a town in the area called Rottweil.

Eventually, the dog was also used for its protective abilities to guard butchers who carried bags of money tied around their necks. Once World War I & II broke out, the breed was used for military services and police dogs.

Rottweiler Training & Temperament

Rottweilers were bred to be working dogs and, as such, are highly trainable. However, it's best to socialize and train them from a young age, so they become used to strangers and other animals. They want to please their owner and spend time with them but can also be stubborn. It's also a good idea not to be too rough with them as that can encourage aggressive behavior.

They have a strong drive to protect their territory and their owner, which gives them a bad reputation when they're owned by irresponsible owners who don't properly socialize them. Cared for correctly, however, a Rottweiler is a friendly dog though they make some time to warm up to strangers.

rottweiler breed photo

Rottweiler Exercise

Rotts are a working breed that needs daily exercise. They enjoy walks and swimming. They can also be trained in various canine activities and work activities like herding, tracking, and obedience.

Rottweiler Grooming

Rottweilers have a coat that sheds some throughout the year and quite a bit a couple of times a year. Brushing weekly will help maintain their coat. They also need their nails trimmed, and teeth brushed.

Rottweiler Health

Rottweilers are a healthy breed in general. However, they can have hip issues as they age. They also are prone to obesity if over-fed or under-exercised. So it's best to watch their weight and ensure they stay healthy.

Sources: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rottweiler, https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/rottweiler/

All dogs have their own personality and unique training, causing them to differ slightly from these breed stats. Please let us know if we made an error in the stats.

Breed FAQs

Can Rottweilers be apartment dogs?

The Rottweiler needs room to run and play. That makes them difficult to keep in a small apartment.

Can Rottweilers be left alone?

While Rottweilers prefer to be around their owners, they can do fairly well when left alone if necessary.

Are Rottweilers good with kids?

Rottweilers can do fine with kids. They need some monitoring and training so they react well to unpredictable behavior.

Are Rottweilers friendly with strangers?

Rottweilers tend to be uncomfortable with strangers. They need extra socialization with people outside the family.

Do Rottweilers get along with other dogs?

Rottweilers aren't usually friendly with other dogs. They tend not to get along unless they are carefully socialized.

Do Rottweilers bark a lot?

A Rottweiler will most often bark only when alerting about something, such as a stranger or a need.

Do Rottweilers shed a lot?

Rottweilers shed a medium amount. They have seasonal shedding, but they aren't terrible to clean up after.

Do Rottweilers need a lot of grooming?

Rottweilers don't require very much grooming. Typical maintenance and baths are enough.

Do Rottweilers need a lot of exercise?

A Rottweiler needs a moderate amount of exercise. Plan some walks or a game of fetch during the day.

Are Rottweilers easy to train?

Although Rottweilers can be a challenge to train, they can learn with dedicated work or some professional help.

Can Rottweilers handle cold weather?

Although Rottweilers can handle cold weather when out with you, they may not want to stay out for long.

Can Rottweilers handle hot weather?

Although Rottweilers can tolerate hot conditions, don't expose them for too long.

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