GROUP 6 - UTILITY

Brief History
The Rottweiler is considered one of the oldest breeds, whose origins date back to Roman times. The dogs herded cattle over the Alps for the Roman legion, and finally settled in a region called Rottweil Germany, where they herded and guarded cattle and protected their masters and their property. They became known as the “Rottweil butcher’s dog”, as they pulled carts of meat to the market for the butchers to sell. At the beginning of the twentieth century the Rottweiler was tested for suitability as a police dog. In 1910 they became a recognised police dog.

Average Life Span
When considering a dog, please realise that you are taking it on for its lifetime.

The average life span is 10 to 12 years.

Temperament
Self-assured, fearless, very devoted, obedient, intelligent and eager to work.

General Breed Description
The Rottweiler is a medium to large, strong, active breed. The breed should be socialised with other animals and people from an early age. Obedience training is highly recommended for their lifetime because they are an active, working breed, who become destructive when bored. They have a double coat, the colour is black with clearly defined rich tan markings on the cheeks, muzzle, throat, chest and legs, as well as over both eyes and under the base of the tail.

Coat and Care Requirements
The Rottweiler has a coat that consists of a topcoat and an undercoat. The topcoat is of medium length, coarse, dense, and flat. The undercoat is finer and shorter. A brush and comb once a week, with bathing as required is recommended. Their coat is shed twice a year and will require grooming more often during this stage.

Size
Height: Males: 61 to 68cms, Females 56 to 63cms.

Weight: Males 50kgs, Females 42kgs.

Health
All breeds have individual health issues. When speaking to breeders it is recommended you enquire about breed’s health and what health testing the breeder does. The Rottweiler is generally a healthy breed, however health conditions do occur occasionally. These may include Hip Dysplasia (HD), Elbow Dysplasia (ED) and Juvenile Laryngeal Paralysis & Polyneuropathy (JLPP).

Suitability
Suitable family pet for someone who wants an active dog that loves the company of people. The Rottweiler is a strong breed, both physically and mentally, and requires an owner who is consistent, confident, and fair with discipline and praise.

In Conclusion
Now you know a little more about this breed. If you have decided this is the dog for you and wish to investigate further, please contact the Breed Club or Dogs Victoria. They will be able to give you information about available puppies and also suggest dog events where you can see the breed and speak to breeders. In this way you will gain a better perspective of the breed and its needs. With any breed of dog, it is important to research and determine suitability for your lifestyle before committing to a puppy which will be a part of your family for many years to come.

Whilst many breeds are recommended for families, it is imperative that when children are with dogs they are supervised at all times. Basic obedience training is a vital part of dog ownership.

Dogs Victoria is about the responsible ownership of all dogs and in particular the preservation of pure breeds.

Link to Dogs Australia Breed Standard: https://dogsaustralia.org.au/breed/detail/185