The Roman Army needed food and lots of it. Herds of cattle would follow them, being driven and protected by their massive war dogs, the Neapolitan Mastiff and Cane Corso. Needless to say, a few got left behind here and there. The ones left in Rottweil, Germany soon found a new job. Cross bred with local breeds, the descendants of those aloof, yet courageous war dogs became known as The Butcher's Dog.
During the Middle Ages, the Butcher's Dog was used to guard, then herd cattle to slaughter and to haul carts of meat. As the need for this type of animal decreased, the Rottweiler almost neared extinction. However, during WWI, the Germans realized the potential they offered their military. The descendants of the Roman Army were conscripted once again into service, this time as messenger, guard and cart dogs.
Today, the Rottie, as they are endearingly called, is not only a popular companion and family pet; you will still find them working! They are found working with the military, police and customs; as well as serving loyally and lovingly as service and therapy dogs.
Perhaps that is why the Rottweiler is still found in the Working group!
Basically good-natured, calm, clownish, obedient, willing to learn, easy to train, and instinctively protective, they make fantastic family pets. Loyal, devoted and protective of their family, most are wary of strangers. Positive reinforcement Puppy Kindergarten and follow-up obedience training and socialization at an early age is a must! Because of their sheer size, they must never be left unsupervised around children and elderly, especially those they do not know.
Usually inactive when indoors, this medium to large breed must be exercised regularly, to prevent obesity. They love walking and swimming, so exercise and fun will be easy.
On the average, a Rottie can tip the scale between 85 and 130 pounds.
In general, the Rottweiler is a fairly healthy breed. Some of the health issues that are most common are: elbow and hip dysplasia, Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL - knee ligament), entropion (narrowing of slits between eyelids and cancer. They can be prone to obesity, which can lead to other health issues. One other problem which is still a veterinary mystery, is why they are more prone than other breeds, especially as a puppy or young dog, to be susceptible to the parvovirus.
The normal lifespan of a Rottweiler is between 9-12 years.
Average shedders, with their short coat, they are easy to groom.
Bottom line: Do your homework. As they are so popular, avoid flea markets, backyard breeders and pet shops. They only perpetuate dreadful puppy mills that are grinding out inferior quality dogs. Find a responsible, trustworthy breeder. Shelters and rescues often have Rottweilers. Being a large dog, they are more often surrendered because of economic circumstances than behavior problems. Who knows, perhaps your new best friend may be patiently waiting for you there.
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