ROTTWEILER FAQ
Table of Contents
Preface
The Rottweiler is an outstanding companion and guard, but ownership of
a Rottweiler carries much greater than average legal and moral responsibilities,
due to traits possessed by this breed, their size and strength. The information
in this FAQ is offered as a guide to prospective Rottweiler buyers who
may or may not be aware of all the special qualities possessed by this
breed, both positive and negative, so that they can make an accurate estimate
of their needs in relation to the demands of Rottweiler ownership. The
Rottweiler IS NOT a breed that fits into every home.
Your first consideration in buying a Rottweiler should be the knowledge
that for the next ten or more years that dog will be a part of your household.
Unlike your automobile, you can not trade in your Rottweiler for a new
model. As a companion to your whole family, your Rottweiler will reflect
the love and affection you show him. He will represent an emotional investment,
not just a financial investment. Therefore, choose him carefully. Know
as much as possible about the breed and his breeder before you buy. Deal
only with a reputable breeder!
History
The Rottweiler is said to be descended from the drover dogs of ancient
Rome. These mastiff-type dogs accompanied the Roman Legions across the
Alps herding their cattle and guarding their camps. One such camp, on
the banks of the Neckar River in what is now southern Germany, was the
origin of the town of Rottweil (named for the red tile roofs of the villas
built by the Romans). Through the mid-1800's, the cattle trade flourished
in Rottweil, as did the Rottweiler Metzgerhund (butcher dog), who drove
the cattle to market and returned with the filled purses of their masters
around their necks. As rail transportation became the primary means of
bringing cattle to market, the dogs were used less frequently. Legend
has it that by 1905 there was but one Rottweiler left in the town of Rottweil.
By the early 1900's though, the Rottweiler gained popularity as a police
dog. Several Clubs were formed, and in 1921 united as the Allgemeiner
Deutscher Rottweiler Klub (ADRK). In 1931, the first Rottweiler was admitted
to the AKC Stud Book. Through the 1970's, the Rottweiler was a fairly
uncommon dog in the United States, ranking in the middle of AKC registered
breeds in terms of number of dogs registered. In the early 1980's the
Rottweiler began a meteoric rise in popularity, and has been the second
most popular AKC breed since 1992.
Standard
The AKC Breed Standard describes the physical appearance and other desired
qualities of the breed otherwise known as "Type". The Standard
describes an ideal representative of the breed. No individual dog is perfect,
but the Standard provides an ideal for breeders to strive towards.
A copy of the AKC Standard can be found here.
Characteristics
and Temperament
The Rottweiler is a medium-large, powerful dog. His compact and substantial
build denotes great strength, agility and endurance. On average, males
will range from 95 to 135 lbs and 24" to 27" at the shoulder.
They are more massive throughout with larger frame and heavier bone than
bitches. Bitches will range from 80 to 100 lbs and from 22" to 25"
at the shoulder. Animals can be found which are taller or shorter than
these measurements, however, they are not considered typical by the breed
standard. The Rottweiler is ALWAYS black, with clearly defined markings
on cheeks, muzzle, chest and legs as well as over both eyes, that range
from tan to deep mahogany. His coat is straight, coarse and of medium
length, with an undercoat varying in degree based on climatic conditions.
The Rottweiler is a calm and self-confident dog, who has an inherent desire
to protect home and family. Personality may range from highly affectionate
to extremely aloof. He is not shy nor highly excitable. He is an intelligent
and highly trainable dog. He is also very much a companion, often following
their family members from room to room in the home. Because of his size
and strength, it is imperative that he receive proper socialization and
obedience training from an early age. Nervous, shy, excitable or hyperactive
individuals are exhibiting traits which are undesirable in an animal the
size and strength of the Rottweiler and should be avoided.
Aggressiveness/Protective
Instinct
These traits vary with the individual dog to some degree, although all
have a strong territorial instinct and will defend their master's home,
car and property from intruders. Rottweilers have also been known to bully
or bluff their owners or other people, a trait that is most disconcerting.
This problem is easily prevented through early obedience training and
the development of a mutually rewarding working relationship.
Many families have purchased a Rottweiler for its protectiveness, only
to discover that it brings with it a considerable moral and legal responsibility.
Problems arise quickly; the dog may not be able to distinguish between
a bear-hug greeting of a family member, or a cherished friend, and the
hostile advances of an intruder, particularly if the greetings between
parties includes loud shouts, laughter or screams. Dogs must be carefully
schooled to accept your friends into your home but physical contact should
be approached carefully until the dog realizes that you belong. Strangers
must never come into your yard unannounced, the dog doesn't know the difference
between your brother and a burglar. Although the Rottweiler does not usually
bite without provocation, even being cornered and held by one of these
dogs is a very unnerving experience for meter men, delivery persons or
neighbors wandering into the yard while the owner is absent. People expected
to be in contact with the dog while the owners are absent should be thoroughly
familiar with the dog.
Health Concerns
Hip Dysplasia
Hip Dysplasia (HD) is a developmental disease in which there is a malformation
of the hip joint(s). It is a genetic disease which may also be influenced
by environmental factors. It is a common problem in most large breeds,
and depending on severity, can cause serious pain and/or debilitation.
HD is almost never detectable in animals younger than six months, and
then in only the most severe cases. Two years is generally considered
the minimum age for accurate diagnosis.
The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA)maintains a Hip Dysplasia
Registry, which functions as a diagnostic service and a registry of hip
status for dogs of all breeds. X-rays are evaluated by three veterinary
radiologists, and are assigned a hip status of Excellent, Good, Fair,
Borderline, Mild Dysplasia, Moderate Dysplasia or Severe Dysplasia. Dogs
receiving evaluations of Excellent, Good or Fair are assigned an OFA Breed
Registry Number. Only dogs that are at least 24 months of age are eligible
for an OFA Number.
In an effort to reduce the incidence of HD, responsible Rottweiler breeders
will not breed dogs which have not received OFA clearance. Puppies should
only be purchased after careful evaluation of the hip dysplasia status
of the parents and the grandparents. The breeder of the puppies should
be able to provide copies of the OFA certificates (on official stationery
from the OFA). This is not a guarantee that your puppy will not develop
HD later on; research has documented the fact that normal parents can
produce litters with one third or more of the puppies dysplastic as adults.
Genetics may be the cause of dysplasia but environmental factors such
as over-feeding, over exercise and injury of young animals may also contribute
to this disease.
Elbow Dysplasia
Like hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia is a hereditary disease. It is a malformation
of the elbow joint(s). OFA certifies elbows on a pass/fail basis. As with
hip dysplasia, your breeder should be able to show you reports from the
OFA defining the conformation of both parent's elbows.
Osteochondrosis Dissecans (OCD)
OCD is a disease of bone formation that leads to lameness and arthritis.
It results from a disturbance of the process by which cartilage is turned
into bone during the growth process. Abnormally thickened cartilage forms
in areas of the joints that are subject to stress and, hence, prone to
damage. Cracks form, and the cartilage can tear, forming a flap. This
flap may remain attached to the bone, or it may tear away and float freely
in the joint. The cracks, flap or free cartilage piece lead to inflammation
of the joint (arthritis), pain and lameness. More than one joint is often
affected simultaneously. In dogs, a the most commonly affected joint is
the shoulder, followed by the elbow, hock and knee.
Paneosteitis
Sometimes referred to as "growing pains" or "pano",
panosteitis occurs as a rotating lameness, usually in puppies about four
months of age. There are tests for pano which should be done to rule out
more serious problems. Sometimes crate rest is all a puppy needs for complete
recovery.
Von Willebrand's Disease (VWD)
VWD is a hereditary a bleeding disorder similar to hemophilia. Dogs affected
with VWD may have symptoms ranging from prolonged bleeding of toenails
cut short to hemorrhaging during minor surgical procedures. Dogs may be
carriers while exhibiting no outward symptoms. VWD is diagnosed through
blood screening.
Bloat
Bloat is a common condition in which the stomach swells from gas, fluid
or both. Bloat becomes a medical emergency when the stomach distends and
then flips over, causing torsion. Bloat and torsion may be caused by over-eating,
drinking large amounts of water after eating, and/or vigorous exercise
after a meal. Efforts to prevent bloat may include feeding several small
meals a day, crating the dog for several hours after eating, and monitoring
water intake.
Heart Diseases
The most common heart problem seen in Rottweilers is Sub-Aortic Stenosis.
This disorder can be very mild or so serious that it results in sudden
death. Reputable breeders, working with canine cardiologists, hope to
identify the mode of inheritance of this and other heart problems.
Allergies
Some Rottweilers are prone to flea and/or food allergies. Symptoms and
severity of the allergies vary from dog to dog.
Eye Diseases
Entropian (eyelids rolling inward) and Ectropian (Eyelids rolling outward)
are inherited conditions which require surgical correction. Both of these
conditions disqualify a dog from being shown in AKC conformation competition.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), Central Progressive Retinal Atrophy
(CPRA) and certain types of Cataracts are inherited conditions. Dogs used
for breeding should be examined annually by a Board-certified Veterinary
ophthalmologist, until at least eight years of age, as hereditary eye
problems may not present themselves until later in life. Dogs examined
by a Board-certified Veterinary Ophthalmologist and found to be free of
hereditary eye disease may be registered annually with the Canine Eye
Registry Foundation (CERF).
Epilepsy
Epilepsy may result from injury to the head or from bacterial infections
of the brain. If no such cause is found, it is regarded to be congenital.
Congenital epilepsy can be an inherited trait, and has been observed in
many breeds. The term epilepsy refers to recurring episodic seizures/convulsions.
The episodes can be triggered by fatigue, excitement, anxiety, noise or
in females, by estrus. It may be controlled with medication. Obviously,
breeding is not recommended.
Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism refers to insufficient output of the thyroid hormone by
the thyroid gland. It may slow down the whole body functions; the dog
may become lethargic, mentally slow, without much energy. Its coat may
become dull, thin and fall out easily. In males it can lower the sperm
count and reduce sexual activity. In females it may cause irregular heat
cycles. The signs may develop very slowly, and the condition can be detected
with a blood test. Usually, it is a permanent condition, and is treated
with thyroid hormones. Hypothyroid is generally considered to be an inherited
trait.
Cancer
Cancer is becoming a very common condition in the Rottweiler breed, with
bone cancer being the most frequent type. Any suspicious lumps, moles,
sores or unexplained lameness should be investigated by your veterinarian.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Rottweiler the right dog for
me?
The Rottweiler is the current "fad" guard/macho dog of the moment.
For four years running, it has been the second most-popular AKC registered
breed. Don't be swept up by the hype, or the fact that you neighbor, aunt,
sister, or best friend has one. The Rottweiler is a large, powerful dog
and along with ownership comes much responsibility. Rottweilers require
extensive socialization from an early age. Are you willing to carry your
puppy for several months, (he shouldn't be walking in public places until
he is fully immunized at around 16-20 weeks), exposing him to the sights,
sounds and people he will encounter as an adult? Because of their size
and strength, obedience training for your Rottweiler is a must. Weekly
group classes for 6 to 12 months is generally considered a minimum. Rottweilers
are "people" dogs.
They want to be with their masters. As a working breed, the Rottweiler
requires daily exercise, a good romp twice a day at least. Left alone
or with inadequate exercise for long periods they may become unruly and
destructive.
How are they with children?
A properly bred Rottweiler who receives adequate socialization and training
will generally get along fine with children, but tolerance will vary from
dog to dog. He must be taught early on what is acceptable behavior and
what is not, as should the child. Because of their large size and inherent
desire to "herd", Rottweilers should always be supervised around
children. A minor "bump" can cause serious injury to a small
child. Also, some Rottweilers have a high degree of "prey" drive
(the instinct to chase moving objects), therefore should never be left
alone with children, who naturally will want to run and play. Some breeders
recommend waiting until the children are at least school age before introducing
a Rottweiler into the home. The amount of space in your home, the age
of your children and the amount of time the dog will be in contact with
the children should be part of your decision.
Are they vicious?
A properly bred, socialized and trained Rottweiler is not inherently vicious.
The rapid rise in popularity of the breed has attracted many irresponsible
breeders who are only interested in making a profit, and don't care what
damage is done to the breed in the process.
Are they good with other pets?
Problems should be minimal when a Rottweiler is raised from puppyhood
with other pets. Introducing a new pet when there is an adult Rottweiler
in the household should be done slowly and with care. Dog to dog aggression
is influenced by the early socialization of puppies, their bloodlines
and sex; males are less tolerant of other males than they are of females.
Bitches may also be intolerant of other dogs. The Rottweiler is highly
intelligent and trainable, and with perserverence, should be able to learn
to co-exist peacefully with any pet you wish to introduce.
What kind of training do they require?
The Rottweiler has been developed for its working ability and often blooms
when given a chance to work with its master, although there are occasional
exceptions. It is very necessary to establish your control of the animal
and obedience training is often the easiest and most rewarding way to
do so. Your breeder should be able to provide you with guidance in the
selection of a training class, however, avoid the very rough trainer,
no matter how highly recommended. Rottweilers can often be controlled
using verbal reprimands alone, and while they occasionally require strong
physical corrections, some trainers tend to be much rougher on Rottweilers
than is necessary. Women have been very successful with the dogs in obedience
training. Physical mastery of the dog is generally less important than
sensitive, patient and positive training methods. Patience is an important
factor in training a Rottweiler.
What about discipline?
The Rottweiler is a sensitive, intelligent and loyal animal and usually
wants to please its owner. Occasionally, it can be quite stubborn though,
and requires more attention. It is imperative that discipline is consistent
and firm without being overly rough. A harsh word will often suffice,
although sharper corrections are sometimes necessary. Ownership isn't
for the timid or very busy person who cannot or is not inclined towards
careful supervision of his/her pet.
Do they require much exercise?
The Rottweiler is a working breed. He is generally not happy sitting around
doing nothing all day. A large yard with a six-foot high fence is ideal,
but adult Rottweilers have been kept successfully in large apartments.
The yard is essential if a puppy or young dog is being acquired; it will
help to keep the dog exercised and reduce boredom which in turn may prevent
destructive behavior. If you don't have the space, consider a smaller
or less active breed. Personal commitment on the part of the owner is
the most important thing. People willing to walk their dog on a regular
basis will find a more personal and bonding relationship developing than
just letting them run by themselves in the yard. Your Rottweiler will
require a minimum of two good walks each day (10 to 20 minutes each).
Adequate exercise is necessary to maintain the good health of your Rottweiler,
as they have a tendency to gain weight without proper exercise.
Do they shed?
The Rottweiler is a double-coated breed, with a medium length outer coat
and a soft downy undercoat. They do shed, more than one would think by
looking at their appearance. The amount of shedding will vary with climatic
conditions. They generally tend to "blow out" their undercoats
twice a year, in spring and fall.
Are they noisy?
Rottweilers will bark to announce the arrival of people on the property,
and at animals and birds in the yard, but they generally don't bark without
reason.
Which sex makes the best pet?
Opinions vary on this topic. Most breeders would generally recommend a
female, especially for first-time owners. Females are smaller and easier
to control, somewhat less dominant and usually more affectionate. Males
are stronger, more powerful and dominant, and therefore somewhat harder
to train and control.
Where should I buy my Rottweiler puppy?
There are various places where you may acquire a Rottweiler puppy, but
only ONE place where you should - from a responsible breeder. Pet shops
acquire their puppies from puppy mills, brokers and back-yard breeders.
Their puppies are separated from their dams and litters at too early and
age, they are not properly socialized and may well develop serious health
problems.
Puppy mills, brokers and back-yard breeders have only one priority -
to make a profit. They are not interested in the welfare of the puppies
they breed. Beware of petshops that advertise "we get our puppies
from private breeders." No responsible breeder would ever broker
puppies to a pet shop. Don't perpetuate the puppy mill problem - steer
clear of pet shops.
What is a "Responsible"
breeder?
This is a difficult category to define, but there are certain minimum
standards that are accepted as "responsible" by most who are
active in the dog fancy. Following are some of the things a responsible
breeder will be doing:
- All breeding stock will be certified free of Hip Dysplasia by the
Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA). Elbows may also be certified
as free of Elbow Dysplasia; this is a relatively new trend and some
older dogs/bitches may not be certified. The breeder will be willing
to supply you with copies of the OFA certificates. No bitch or dog will
be bred before the age of two, (the minimum age for OFA certification).
OFA does issue preliminary evaluations of hips and elbows, but actual
certification will not be done before two years.
- Breeding stock will be certified free of inherited eye disease annually
by a Board certified Veterinary Ophthalmologist; the certificate is
issued by the Canine Eye Registry Foundation (CERF).
- Bitches and dogs used for breeding will have achieved certain competitive
titles such as AKC Champion or an advanced obedience title (CDX, UD).
Responsible breeders will usually not breed dogs and bitches whose quality
has not been proven in competition, although under certain circumstances
(injuries which prevent competition) they may.
- The Breeder will belong to one or more Rottweiler Clubs which require
adherence to a "Code of Ethics" from all members (adherence
to a certain level of responsibility in ownership and breeding). The
largest of these clubs include the American Rottweiler Club, The Colonial
Rottweiler Club, The Medallion Rottweiler Club and the Gold Coast Rottweiler
Club. There are numerous local Rottweiler clubs, some are "Code"
clubs and some are not - ask. Code of Ethics clubs do not permit members
to advertise puppy prices.
- The Breeder will be active in the sport of dogs, competing in conformation,
obedience, tracking or herding events.
- A responsible breeder will not give you a "hard-sell" routine
when you call to inquire about his/her dogs. Usually he/she will be
trying everything they can to discourage you from buying a Rottweiler.
A reputable breeder's number one concern is that his/her puppies are
placed in responsible homes where they will receive the same kind of
care and training he/she gives his/her own dogs. Expect to be interviewed
at length as to why you want to own a Rottweiler, and what your family
and lifestyle is like. The reputable breeder will ask more questions
of you than you will of him/her.
- A responsible breeder will try to steer you clear of rushing to buy
a puppy this week or this month, but he/she will also not expect you
to wait an unreasonable amount of time to buy one of his/her puppies.
If he has no puppies available and has no breeding planned in the near
future, he will recommend other breeders whose standards are as high
as his own.
- A responsible breeder will be happy to have you meet the parents of
the litter (at least the dam; frequently the sire will not belong to
the breeder), as well as his/her other dogs. The dogs and puppies will
be kept in a clean and healthy environment.
- A responsible breeder will only sell puppies with a signed, written
contract. He/she will pass on accurate health, breeding and registration
records and pedigree records of at least three generations. They will
require that any puppy not purchased as show and breeding stock be made
incapable of reproducing, and require that limited registration "blue
slips" be provided, or that registration papers be withheld until
a veterinarians certificate is received as proof of sterilization.
What is the difference between pet
and show quality?
"Show Quality" is a term that is often misunderstood and misused.
It can mean something as simple as a puppy with no disqualifying faults
(as listed in the breed standard) at the time of sale. The serious buyer
looking for a potential winner or breeding stock had best spend time going
to dog shows and talking to exhibitors as well as studying the standard
for the breed. Serious and disqualifying faults to avoid include overshot
or undershot bites, missing teeth, long or curly coats, light eyes, hip
dysplasia and unstable temperaments. All lines carry one or more of these
traits, and a responsible breeder will be able to give you a candid description
of what is in your animal's genetic background. Be aware that the nicest
puppy in the litter can mature into a very mediocre adult. Be prepared
to critically evaluate your dog, because even if you paid a good price
you may still end up with a pet.
Pet Quality: many time breeders will offer puppies with serious faults
for lower prices than show quality. These faults are generally cosmetic
(bad bites, white spots on the chest or belly, missing teeth, etc.) and
will not affect the health or temperament of the dog. These animals are
not for breeding because these are serious genetic faults. A responsible
breeder will require that the animal be spayed, neutered or vasectomized
before releasing the AKC registration papers. Breeders may now sell their
puppies on the new AKC Limited Registration Certificate, which allows
the dog AKC privileges of obedience activities but will not allow showing
in the conformation ring or use for breeding purposes. These dogs make
good companions and often their faults are not detectable to any but the
most experienced eyes.
How much can I expect to pay for a Rottweiler
puppy?
Show quality puppies will generally sell for $800 to $1500, with pet prices
approximately half the show price.
Resources
Books
The
Complete Rottweiler, by Muriel Freeman ;
Published by Howell Book House. (Out of Print)
The
Proper Care of Rottweiler, by Joan Klem and Susan Rademacher;
Published by TFH
The
World of Rottweilers, by Anna Katherine Nicholas;
published by TFH (Out of Print)
For more DRCMA book recommendations, click here.
Magazines
The Rottweiler Quarterly is a highly informative magazine devoted to all
phases of Rottweiler ownership. For subscription information contact GRQ
Publications; PO Box 900, Aromas, CA 95004.
ARK is the quarterly newsletter of the American
Rottweiler Club. Keeps membership up to date on Rottweiler happenings
across the U.S. Contact Marilyn Piusz, 339 County Highway 106, Johnstown,
NY 12095.
The
AKC Gazette is a must for all purebred dog owners. Covers care, training,
health and showing. "Events Calendar" gives important dates
of all AKC events (conformation,obedience, tracking, herding, etc.). Subscription
information is available from the AKC at 5580 Centerview Dr., Raleigh,
NC 27606, (800) 533-7323
Videos
American
Kennel Club Rottweiler video is helpful in visualizing the breed standard.
Available from the AKC,
5580 Centerview Dr., Raleigh, NC 27606, Phone: (919) 233-9767
Let's
Talk About Rottweilers by Joan Klem, 1219 Golf Lane, Wheaton, IL 60187,
(630) 665-0044, RodsdenRot@aol.com
In
The Ribbons - The Rottweiler by Canine
Training Systems, 434 Neptune Court, Littleton, CO 80124, Phone: (720)
873-0900, Fax: (720) 873-0901, info@caninetrainingsystems.com
Breed Clubs
National Breed Club
American
Rottweiler Club, an AKC Member Club
Diane Garnett - Secretary
E-Mail Address: garnetts@att.net
Regional and Local Breed Clubs
A list of
Regional and Local Breed Clubs can be found on the American Rottweiler
Club website. Dogwood Rottweiler Club is a regional breed club and a
member club of the American Rottweiler Club and the AKC.
Author
Please e-mail comments and suggestions regarding this FAQ to webmaster@amrottclub.org
The American Rottweiler Club Website can be found at http://www.amrottclub.org.
Copyright © 1996 American Rottweiler Club, Inc., all rights reserved.
This document includes original material as well as material compiled
from various publications of the American Rottweiler Club including "Introducing
The Rottweiler", "Rottweiler Ownership" and "Your
New Rottweiler". Thanks to the Public Education Committee of the
American Rottweiler Club (Mary Anne Roberts, Maureen Bourgeois, Rose Marie
Hogan and Janice Rowland, as well as the many other members who had input
into these publications).
You are encouraged to copy and distribute this document for non-commercial
use with the following restrictions: You may not modify this document
in any way. You must include the entire document, including the copyright
notice. This document may not be sold for profit nor incorporated into
commercial documents without the express permission of the American Rottweiler
Club.
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