Rottweiler
Published on 19 May 2021
Confident, obedient and protective, the Rottweiler is a dog for an experienced dog person, but with the right family makes a loyal and loving companion.
With origins in Germany, the Rottweiler (Rottie) was originally a herding dog, with another rather interesting role in pulling carts loaded with butchered meat.
Their large size and strength made them well suited to this activity, with a height of up to 69 cm and weight up to 60 kgs. The females are usually a little bit smaller than males. This size and strength mean that that early training is vitally important to ensure your Rottie is well mannered.
Dog Breed Facts & Characteristics
Origin | Germany |
Bred for | Herding livestock, pulling carts of butchered meat |
Size | Up to 60 kgs and up to 69 cm high |
Weight range | Up to 60 kgs |
Colours | Black and Tan |
Life expectancy | 8 to 10 years |
Coat | Thick, short double coat that sheds |
Temperament | Confident, alert, protective |
Exercise requirements | High |
Best suited for | Active households, experienced dog people |
Apartment friendly | No |
Personality
Rottweilers are described as confident, alert and protective. These qualities combined with their physical strength means they are best suited to a household of experienced dog people.
They have an intimidating appearance and can become territorial, so it is very important that they are well socialised and trained from a very early age to avoid problematic behaviour developing.
Socialising means positive interaction other dogs, people and animals so that they become used to different experiences as they get older. Enrolling in a reputable puppy pre-school and obedience school is a useful way to train your Rottie.
Their natural herding instincts means they are well suited to active households and sports such as agility may be a good way to channel their energy.
Apartment living is not ideal for the Rottweiler whose style may be cramped in a small apartment.
Grooming
The trademark black and tan coat of the Rottweiler is thick, coarse and sheds all year round. Brushing every couple of days will help remove loose hair. Make sure your Rottie is on flea and tick control all year round.
Feeding
When choosing a food for your Rottweiler, select a premium large breed specific food appropriate to your dog’s age. Follow the recommended feeding guides on the food appropriate to your pet's size.
A joint protecting supplement may be a great addition to your Rottie’s diet as they get older, as they are prone to developing arthritis. Make sure your dog always has a supply of fresh, clean water available.
Common health concerns
The five most common reasons for a Rottweiler to visit the vet (excluding routine care visits) according to PetSure data (from 2019) include:
| Rank | Condition | Average cost for single treatment (average pet insurance claim amount) | Highest cost for single treatment (highest pet insurance claim seen for this condition) |
| 1 | Ear condition (infections) | $208 | $3,963 |
| 2 | Cruciate ligament disease | $976 | $7,508 |
| 3 | Musculoskeletal problems such as lameness, stiffness and spinal pain | $294 | $4,500 |
| 4 | Cancers (including lymphoma, osteosarcoma) | $519 | $7,197 |
| 5 | Arthritis | $238 | $3,264 |
Disclaimer: Reimbursement for these claims would be subject to limits, such as annual benefit limits or sub-limits, benefit percentage, applicable waiting periods and any applicable excess. Cover is subject to the policy terms and conditions. You should consider the relevant Product Disclosure Statement or policy wording available from the relevant provider.
Ear infections are the most common condition in the Rottweiler according to PetSure claims data 2019
Their large size does make them susceptible to musculoskeletal complaints including lameness, spinal pain and stiffness.
Arthritis and cruciate ligament disease are also common in the Rottweiler. Obesity can also worsen these problems, so keeping your Rottie fit and lean throughout their life.
Most popular Rottweiler names
Most popular names
- Bear
- Luna
- Duke
- Odin
- Rocky
- Willow
- Zeus
- Bella
- Bronx
- Diesel
Most popular female names
- Luna
- Willow
- Bella
- Zara
- Roxy
- Bonnie
- Coco
- Daisy
- Lexi
- Mia
Most popular male names
- Bear
- Duke
- Odin
- Rocky
- Zeus
- Bronx
- Diesel
- Max
- Tyson
- Jax
Did you know?
Rottweilers are often portrayed negatively in film and television, but these handsome pups don’t deserve the bad press. They have served humans dutifully in herding, pulling carts and in various service roles such as ambulance and messenger dogs. Rottweilers were some of the first dogs on the scene during 9/11 in search and rescue. In the right household with appropriate socialisation, training and love, Rottweilers truly do make wonderful companions.
Where can I get a Rottweiler?
If you’re looking for a Rottweiler, check out your local Rottweiler specific rescue organisation. Also be sure to check your local pet rescue shelters where you might just find your new best friend!
References
- American Kennel Club, Rottweiler, accessed on 05/11/20
- Wikipedia, Rottweiler, accessed on 05/11/20
- 9 Fun Facts You Probably Didn’t Know About Rottweilers, accessed on 05/11/20
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