“The Rottweiler’s ancestors were Roman drover puppies used to drive and guard farm animals’ herds as they accompanied Roman troops on long marches. At least one of these marches led to southern Germany, where some people and their puppies settled. Throughout the succeeding centuries, the puppies continued to play an essential role as cattle drovers as well as safeguard them from bears around due to which it became the town of Rottweil (that’s derived from red tile, denoting the red tile roof of the Roman baths that were unearthed there in the 8th century). These puppies are almost mixed with various Sennehund (Mountain Dog) strains.

Rottweil prospered and has become a center of cattle commerce. Their dogs drove and protected farm animals and the money earned through the cattle sales. With the advent of trains, farm animals’ driving was outlawed, so the Rottweiler discovered a brand new job. So the Rottweiler metzgerhund (butcher dog) has become an integral part of the city’s industry till the mid 19th century. The Rottweiler was also used as a draft dog; however replaced, it through donkeys. With little need for this as soon as a hardy breed, the Rottweiler fell into such decline that they were almost lost. There was only one female Rottweiler in Rottweil in 1905.

With the realization that the breed was teetering to extinction, a club was formed in 1901 and decided to revive it. Even though the club was short-lived, it did formulate a breed standard. Two clubs were formed in 1907, one of which promoted the breed as a police dog. The clubs merged in 1921. The breed continued to grow and, by 1931, had arrived in the USA and received AKC recognition. Rottweilers have been used as police, military, or even mountain rescue dogs. The Rottweiler recovered from its brush with extinction to work its manner to the second most famous breed in America by the early 1990s. Their reputation has slightly reduced, and they have found themselves in houses better suited to their needs.”

Temperement

Confident, ambitious, and alert, the Rottweiler may be a household favorite choice. As befitting their self-confident nature, Rottweilers can tend to be headstrong and stubborn. They may be reserved or guarded towards strangers. They can be overly assertive if they understand that their family is being threatened. They are a powerful breed that requires socialization, steady training, and everyday exercise.

Upkeep

The Rottweiler requires everyday physical and mental activity, in the form of long walks or jogs, or a lively game in a secure area, in addition to training lessons. They generally enjoy a cool climate and can become overheated in a hot climate. Their coat care is minimal, consisting only of occasional brushing to eliminate dead hair.

Health

“Major diagnosis: CHD, elbow dysplasia, SAS, osteosarcoma
Minor diagnosis: gastric torsion, hypothyroidism, allergies
Occasionally seen: PRA, cataract, seizures, vWD, panosteitis, entropion, ectropion
Suggested tests: hip, elbow, cardiac, eye, (vWD)
Life span: 8–11 years”

Disclaimer

Note: While the characteristics mentioned here may frequently represent this breed, dogs are individuals whose personalities and appearances will vary. Please consult the adoption organization for details on a specific pet.