German Rottweiler

Share this post on:

The German Rottweiler is one of the world’s top ten most well-known dog breeds. Rottweilers, or “Rotties” for short, are large, sturdy dogs with a distinct level of confidence, intellect, and loyalty to their human companions when reared correctly.

There is some mystery around the origins of the German Rottweiler. One theory suggests that they descended from ancient Roman drover dogs. German Rottweilers are well-known as working dogs, just like the Bernese, Great Dane, Alaskan Malamute, and Mountain Dog. When given work, they take it on with great enthusiasm and energy.

German Rottweilers, as one might expect, are big canines. Their adult males are about 110–130 pounds, and their adult females are about 77–110 pounds. The maximum height for a male German Rottweiler is 27 inches, while a female may reach a maximum height of 25 inches.

A healthy German Rottweiler can live for up to 10 years. As word spreads about how great a breed the German Rottweiler is, more and more people are looking to add one to their family.

Quick Facts About German Rottweiler

• Scientific Name: Canis lupus familiaris
• Class: Mammal
• Status: Endangered
• Diet: Omnivores
• Habitation: Domestic
• Distribution: Germany

German Rottweiler Appearance

Compared to most American Rottweilers, German Rottweilers appear more remarkable due to their thicker bones, wider bodies, and “blockier” heads. This is due to the fact that their breeding practices faithfully adhere to the characteristics of traditional Rottweilers.

Their eyes are very much like those of their American cousins, and both have a black coat color. Their ears resemble those of the American Rottweiler in that they are trapezoidal and have a broad base.

When compared to American Rottweilers, German Rottweilers have a noticeably larger physique. It has a well-developed rib cage along with a muscular upper chest.

Their tail frequently appears in their natural state. One of the most notable distinctions between German Rottweilers and other dog breeds is that they do not allow tail docking (surgical removal of the tail.) They have an overcoat in addition to an undercoat. The undercoat is hidden by the medium-length and rough topcoat, which covers it completely.

Habitat and Distribution of German Rottweiler

The German Rottweiler is a large and powerful breed of dog that originated in the ancient Roman city of Rottweil in the south of Germany. They were originally bred as working dogs and used to herd cattle and protect property. The breed is highly intelligent and loyal, making them excellent guard dogs and companions.

Today, German Rottweilers are found worldwide and are popular in many countries as pets and working dogs. They are loyal and affectionate family pets but require consistent and firm training. German Rottweilers are adaptable to many different climates and environments but prefer cooler temperatures. They can live in various environments, including urban areas, rural countryside, and mountains. They need plenty of exercise and may do best in households with a large, enclosed backyard.

Diet and Food Chain of German Rottweiler

The German Rottweiler is a medium-sized breed of dog most often used as a guard dog. Their diet includes a variety of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats. These dogs are omnivores, and their food chain typically consists of small animals, plant matter, and occasional grains.

The German Rottweiler will typically eat small rodents, insects, and other small animals they can catch. They can also eat fruits, vegetables, and grains. They will also scavenge for food if no other food sources are available.

In the wild, German Rottweilers are at the top of the food chain. They are apex predators and will hunt and kill other animals for food. Thanks to their excellent senses and being agile and powerful, they skillfully hunt small prey.

The German Rottweiler is an important part of the food chain, as they provide food for other animals and help keep the balance of the ecosystem.

Mating and Life Cycle of German Rottweiler

The German Rottweiler is a large breed of domestic dog. They have a life expectancy of 8-10 years. The female’s heat cycle occurs twice a year and lasts 21 days. During the heat cycle, the female will come into contact with a male and mate if they are compatible.

The gestation period for the Rottweiler is around 63 days, during which the female will prepare a den for her puppies. The litter size can be anywhere from six to twelve puppies who are born blind and deaf. The puppies will stay with the mother until they are eight weeks old, after which they can be weaned. After about twelve weeks, the puppies can be taken away to start their new lives with their new families.

Causes of Endangerment of the German Rottweiler

Overbreeding

German Rottweilers are in danger due to irresponsible breeders focusing on quantity over quality, leading to increased inbred and unhealthy dogs.

Lack of Education

People are often unaware of the breed’s needs and mistakenly buy a German Rottweiler without properly researching the breed.

Poor Breeding Practices

German Rottweilers can suffer genetic health problems due to poor breeding practices, including inbreeding and lack of health testing.

Abandonment

German Rottweilers are sometimes abandoned when they are no longer wanted, increasing the number of stray dogs.

Unethical Practices

Some unethical breeders and pet shops sell puppies without proper health testing and proper care.

Ways to Help

Adopt a German Rottweiler

Adopting a German Rottweiler is one of the most direct ways to help. Taking in a German Rottweiler will provide a loving home and help reduce the number of dogs that would otherwise be in shelters or on the streets.

Donate to German Rottweiler rescue organizations

Several organizations are dedicated to rescuing German Rottweilers from shelters or dire situations. Donating money or other resources to these organizations can help them to continue their mission and save the lives of more German Rottweilers.

Educate yourself and others

Understanding the history and needs of the German Rottweiler breed is key to helping this endangered species. Educating yourself and others about the breed will help to create more knowledgeable and responsible owners.

Spay/neuter your dog

Spaying and neutering your German Rottweiler is one of the most effective ways to help reduce overpopulation and prevent more animals from ending up in shelters or on the streets.

Spread the word

Sharing the plight of the German Rottweiler on social media or with your friends and family.

Interesting features of the German Rottweiler

#1 Intelligence

Yes, they are intelligent, often outsmarting their human caretakers. Rottweilers, which hail from Germany, are intelligent canines. They’re perceptive; therefore, they’ll analyze a predicament thoroughly before taking action. 

As a result, you’ll find the phrases “German Rottweilers are not for everyone” or “German Rottweilers are not appropriate for first-time dog owners” in virtually every resource devoted to the breed. Trainers have found that these dogs are highly intelligent and pick up new skills more quickly than their owners, making it difficult to keep up.

#2 Requires physical and mental activity

Every day, your German Rottweiler should exercise for a brisk stroll, jog, or game of fetch in a secure area. It’s a cold-weather creature that could overheat in warmer climates. As long as it has a safe place to retreat from the elements, it can spend its days outside in mild to cold climates. But to properly bond with its human family, it must spend a lot of time indoors. Only dead hair needs to be brushed out of the coat on occasion.

#3 The town of Rottweil inspired the name Rottweiler

Around 73 or 74 AD, Roman soldiers and the herder dogs who accompanied them camped near the Neckar River in Germany. Throughout the Middle Ages, large, robust dogs were used as herders and on hunting expeditions for bears. This area eventually led to a small town known as “dies Rote Wil,” which was renamed Rottweil. The city of Rottweil is where the Rottweiler breed originated, and the breed is named after the city.

#4 In ancient Rome Rottweilers served as drover dogs

Rottweilers are believed to be derived from the drover dogs used in ancient Rome. These dogs were Roman cattle hounds that accompanied Roman armies and their herds as they moved across Switzerland and southern Germany.

During the middle ages, Rottweilers were frequently used as herding and hunting dogs for bears. They were able to prevent animals from roaming and kept a watchful check on the flock even during the night.

#5 The breed was refined in Germany

The Roman troops marching through Germany on their way to conquering Europe brought the ancestors of the Rottweiler with them. Because there were no refrigerators back then, the soldiers brought their pets along on the mission rather than butchering the cows for their meat before setting out. Naturally, they required assistance in controlling the behavior of their cattle.

The ancestors of the Rottweiler were working dogs par excellence because of their dogged determination and formidable power. The dogs were used throughout the expeditions for various purposes, including guarding, transporting supplies, and other duties.

Around 73 AD, the army stopped moving and camped in the Wurtemberg area of Germany, where red-tiled roofed villas dotted the neighborhoods. Because of its attractive red tiles, the town was dubbed “Das Rote Wil.” Eventually, the town’s name was changed to Rottweil. Roman dogs did particularly well in roles such as herding and guarding. They later interbred with native dogs, giving rise to the modern Rottweiler.

#6 German Rottweiler can be stubborn

Willful is a phrase that is frequently utilized in relation to the German Rottweiler. These are the kinds of dogs that have to be socialized and given training. It isn’t too difficult to train them, but you should avoid doing too many repetitions, or their response time will get progressively slower.

#7 German Rottweilers are incredibly devoted pets

They are trustworthy and have an unwavering commitment to the people who care for them. Rottweilers have a reputation for being threatening and aggressive since they are natural guard dogs and can be defensive of their home and family. However, they enjoy attention and interaction with their people, and the longer time they spend with their family, the happier they will be.

#8 German Rottweilers are becoming extinct

Transportation methods for animals started to change during the middle of the nineteenth century (the 1800s) when paved roads and railroads became more common. German Rottweilers lost their jobs since they were no longer needed as herding dogs when transporting cattle. The number of German Rottweiler clubs also continued to decline. Consequently, the breed was nearly lost, but a dedicated band of breeders battled to keep it alive. This breed found a new home in the armed forces in the twentieth century.

German Rottweiler Health Problems

Hip Dysplasia

Genetic orthopedic disorders are common in extra-large breeds. When the ball and socket of the hip are no longer securely linked to the surface of the pelvis, it can lead to excruciating pain and incapacitation. A dog’s hips can be graded as excellent, fair, good, borderline, mild, moderate, or severe dysplasia, and a diagnosis is made accordingly.

Elbow Dysplasia

A deformity of the elbow joint can cause dysplasia of the elbow. The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) can grant certification to dogs regardless of whether or not they passed the elbow dysplasia test.

Osteochondrosis Dissecans (OCD)

Bone cartilage damage in developing dogs can cause symptoms similar to arthritis. It might emerge from factors like diet, genetics, development, and hormone imbalance.

Von Willebrand Disease

This disorder is genetic and shares features with hemophilia in humans. The symptoms include heavy and protracted bleeding after little trauma, and they are not tied to either sex.

Subaortic Stenosis

The hereditary condition has the potential to develop difficulties with the heart. It is caused by the presence of excess tissue in the heart, which limits the pumping of blood. As a result, the blood must exert additional pressure or effort to pump the blood. This condition is known as hypertension.

German Rottweiler Training

Obedience training is the first step toward making a German Rottweiler a good family pet. Pick easy, basic instructions to teach your Rottie at first, and ensure everyone in the family uses the same ones.

Remember that German Rottweilers are perceptive enough to pick up on a shift in your voice tone and immediately comprehend your intentions. For this reason, severe measures of discipline are unnecessary. Alternatively, you should begin with reward-based focused training and adjust your voice quality as needed to encourage or prohibit behaviors.

Professional dog trainers agree that parent training is the best way to mold even the most obstinate Rottie into a well-behaved pet. You also shouldn’t wait for your puppy to mature before beginning obedience and agility training with them; they’ll be ready at seven weeks old.

FAQ

Are German Rottweilers Bigger than other Rottweilers?

No, the size of Rottweilers bred in Germany is not significantly larger than the size of Rottweilers bred in other nations. Even though some Rottweilers reach exceptionally large sizes as adults, the Rottweiler breed standards universally consider excessive size an undesirable quality. Because the Rottweiler is a breed bred specifically for working, a Rottweiler that is too big will be unable to carry out the expected functions.

How do they do around children?

Different breeds of dogs have different levels of tolerance for youngsters. On the one hand, Rottweilers have a reputation for being hostile to children. However, you shouldn’t have any issues as long as your German Rottweiler has been properly socialized and trained. These puppies need to learn early on what is and is not allowed among humans and other animals. The same is true for young people. When socializing with a dog of that size, they need constant supervision.

You need to instruct them on proper and improper dog behavior. Again, we stress the importance of considering whether or not your environment is suitable for this breed due to its big size, innate urge to “herd,” and a high degree of “prey” drive. Children, by their very nature, are restless and eager to get moving and have fun. Your dog’s attention will be drawn to this – not always in a good way.

How much food do the consume?

German Rottweiler dietary needs vary widely, depending on factors such as age, activity level, whether or not the dog is nursing or pregnant, and many others. The standard of the diet being used will also play a role. If you want to keep your dog at a healthy weight, it’s worth spending a little extra on a high-quality diet (whether raw or kibble) because you won’t need to feed as much of it. 

In their peak growth period, large, active males may require as much as seven to eight cups of dry kibble per day, while adult females may only need one cup of kibble per day. Instead of kibble, you can feed your pet a raw food diet or make tasty treats. Do not ever let your German Rottweiler get too heavy. Consult your vet if you’re worried that your dog could be overweight.

Should I get a German Rottweiler?

Your new rottie will be a big, strong dog that will benefit much from early and consistent socializing. Obedience training is essential for this dog breed due to its size and power. “People dogs” best describe the German Rottweiler. In an ideal world, they would spend time with their masters in the great outdoors every day.

Conclusion

The German Rottweiler is renowned for its strength, loyalty, and protective nature. Their protective demeanor has made them famous. The German Rottweiler is multi-talented – serving as a police dog, assistance dog, herder, and competitor. It always does everything we ask of it, and even when we have yet to specifically ask for anything to be done, it finds something to do and does it.

Thank you for reading this article! We have many more articles for all the doggo-lovers out there, take a look at The Goberian or the Russian Bear Dog.

Share this post on: