Although barely known anywhere in the world a century ago, the Rottweiler has become Australia’s second most popular breed. Popularity comes at a price though and many are concerned about where the breed is now headed. However, a well bred Rottie in the right hands is a perfect companion.

Origin

The Rottweiler’s forefathers were mastiff-types brought into Europe by the Romans. The German town of Rottweil became a major European centre for livestock commerce 1800 years ago and it was there that the “butcher’s pal” was created. Butchers travelled the area with large herds of cattle and even larger amounts of money — relying on the Rottweiler as a cattledog and protector.

This continued for centuries until rail became the preferred method of cattle transport in the late 1800s. The breed virtually died out except for a few police dogs. The German Rottweiler Club was formed in 1907 and 19 years later there were 40 regional clubs as well as groups in several other European countries.

General Appearance

Rottweilers have only one colour combination — black and tan (although the tan may range from rich tan to mahogany). They are a medium to large sized dog, neither heavy nor light, leggy nor weedy. It is a solid, powerful breed, giving the impression of great strength and manoeuvrability. Its outer coat is straight, coarse and dense. Undercoat may be present on the neck and thighs but not visible anywhere else. The Rottweiler is a trotting dog and its movement is harmonious and steady. The tail is usually docked.

Temperament

Much is said about the Rottweiler’s temperament. Ideally, it is good natured, placid and fond of children. Often described as a canine Peter Pan — never losing its puppy playfulness — the Rottweiler loves to swim and must always be kept busy. As a boisterous animal, it can knock over an adult in play so it is not suited to the elderly or infirm. Equally it is best to raise puppy and child together.

Undisciplined breeding and unsuitable owners have created temperament problems in the breed, however, in the right hands it is a fine animal.

Care and Grooming

The Rottweiler’s coat needs little care. Bred for a life outdoors, it needs a lot of room in which to run and while it must receive an adequate diet, care must be taken not to overfeed.

It is not a shy dog so take care to choose an extroverted puppy from the litter. Because of its strength it must be trained from puppyhood — firm discipline is a must. It has been claimed the Rottweiler has “bad hips” but hip dysplasia screening has improved this situation dramatically. Owners should take care not to overfeed.