Different Dog breeds

ROTTWEILER.

by Dennis Fisher.

This article is one of a great many articles written by Dennis Fisher about a very wide variety of subjects concerning different  dogs, such as obedience training, breeding, showing, health matters, training problems and other subjects.  All these articles appear on Dennis Fisher's websites.   Visit  http://www.allaboutgermanshepherddogs.com the site that has been set up specifically for German Shepherd Dog enthusiasts, or http://www.freedogadvice.com  if you interested in a breed   other than German Shepherd Dogs

The Rottweiler was named after the village Rottweil in Wurttemberg,  Southern Germany and is a descendant of a breed of mastiff type dog  that first appeared  in the Southern German region more than 2,000 years ago.

These were dogs that followed the Roman armies in their conquering marches through southern Germany and  used to herd the sheep and cattle the armies needed for food.

The Rottweiler developed from a mixture of these ancient  dogs and other herding dogs common in the area.  Breeders, particularly in Stuttgart, in the 1800’s recognized the potential of these dogs as guard and herding dog and the dog became popular in this region of Germany.   But it was only in early 20^th Century that the breed became really popular and spread to the rest of Europe.

The Rottweiler was subsequently exported to enthusiastic breeders in various parts of the world, including the United States and Great Britain where it’s excellent qualities as a guard dog were recognized.

Because of his size – males from 27” to as much as 30” -  physical strength and protective qualities, the dog can be an formidable  guard dog.   However, it is essential for the dog to be trained.  Training should begin very early when the pup is quite young. 

When the Rottweiler is well trained,  it can be a loyal and trustworthy family dog and very good with children.   But the dog can be very self-willed and firm handling is necessary.

The dog also has a tendency to be aggressive with other animals.  For this reason early socialization with other animal in training classes is necessary.

The color is black with tan markings very much the same as the coloring of the Doberman Pincher. Because of his short coat very little grooming is necessary.  The head is broad with a definite  stop.  The muzzle deep and powerful.

The short back of the Rottweiler is straight and the hindquarters well muscled.

In movement the Rottweiler should be able to gait for long periods without tiring.  In  spite of its bulk the movement is harmonious.

It  is an intelligent  dog that responds very well to training. Rottweilers frequently do well in Obedience test and tracking.

If you are prepared to give a dog of this breed, the love, attention and the  firm training necessary to develop his  excellent natural attributes, you will have a marvelous companion and wonderful guard.