Rottweiler
Country/Date of Origin: Germany/1800s
Rottweilers marched with the Roman legions. The beefy mastiffs were drovers and stock guards, watching over the cattle the army needed for provisions. Butchers around the town of Rottweil in Germany refined the dog in the Middle Ages until it was so good at its job that cattle could be taken to and from the stockyards without a human attendant. About 1900 the Rottweiler found favor as a police dog and a German Stud Book was established. The first Rottweiler was admitted to the American Kennel Club Stud Book in 1931 but it wasn't until 1948 that a championship title was awarded. A sign of the times, the Rottweiler with its size and guarding instincts is the second most popular dog in America.
Other Names Body Type Personality Coat Health Concerns
Back to TopMetzgerhund (butcher's dog)
AKC Group: Working
Breed Club: American Rottweiler Club
Rescue Club: Gwen Chaney, ejchaneyjr@aol.com
Back to TopBody Type:
- Looks like a heavier version of the Doberman Pinscher
- Height: 23-27 inches (at shoulder)
- Weight: 90-110 pounds
- The tail is short, set level with the back and carried horizontally. Must be docked if it is not naturally short
- The ears are relatively small and hang close to the head. They are not altered
Personality:
- Dignified and slow to anger
- Natural guarding instincts coupled with great courage
- Obedient and moderately intelligent
- Trustworthy around children if raised with them
Coat:
- Short, flat, coarse with a softer undercoat on the neck and thighs
- Permissible colors are black with tan markings on the cheeks, muzzle, chest, and legs and over both eyes
- Minimal grooming required
Health Concerns:
- Subject to hip dysplasia
- Prone to bloat
- Possible eye problems
- Progressive spinal cord disorder
- Breed sensitive to Parvo virus
Tasty Tidbits:
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