Rottweiler

Breed Description

Delving into the history of such beautiful and formidable dogs as the Rottweiler brings to mind the campaigns of the Roman army in their quest to conquer new territories. Specifically, during northern expeditions, Roman legionnaires needed a large supply of food. Naturally, entire flocks of sheep accompanied the army. However, a significant downside to this “food delivery” was that the sheep needed to be guarded and herded. For this purpose, herding dogs were employed. Large dogs like mastiffs addressed this and many other tasks for the Roman soldiers. Over time, as the flocks diminished, there was no longer a need for such a significant number of four-legged shepherds, rendering some of them unnecessary.

Thus, near the largest livestock market in Rottweil, in southwestern Germany, the remaining dogs of the Roman army began to mix naturally with local shepherds. Enterprising sellers, along with the flock, offered the legionnaires the chance to buy a puppy from a kennel to guard their purchase. Of course, these “puppies” were already adult, trained dogs capable of fending off robber attacks and helping in herding, distinguished by their bravery and endurance.

These athletically developed dogs were sometimes referred to as a living wallet because they often wore a pouch with money suspended from their collars, which the dog carried on its chest, preventing outsiders from approaching the trader’s earnings.

Years passed, but the breed continued to be used solely for its original purpose. Among a multitude of other breeds, choosing a puppy in a kennel was not easy, and Rottweilers did not enjoy the same popularity as, for example, German Shepherds or Mastiffs. The demand for them came mainly from city dwellers and rural macho men looking to flaunt a rare and fierce dog. Thus, the well-developed intelligence of the Rottweiler, alongside its bravery, power, and beauty, gradually widened its audience and fanbase.

Today, they are loved not only in European countries but also across the Atlantic. At Zooinika, you can find the best selection of kennels in Russia, where reputable breeders offer purebred Rottweiler puppies starting from 45,000 to 50,000 rubles. It’s important to note that making one a family companion is only possible for an experienced dog owner. This is a very serious dog that performs law enforcement functions not only in our country, and a novice owner would be better off looking for another pet.

Appearance

According to the established standard, the modern Rottweiler is a dog of very strong build. It is powerful, massive, with a broad chest, a wide-open mouth, and short, shiny coat. Its height is significantly above average, with an adult male reaching 65 – 68 cm at the withers, while females are slightly more compact and shorter, measuring 55 – 65 cm at the withers. Their weight corresponds to this, with males weighing 48 – 53 kg and females up to 42 kg. Such body mass does not hinder their agility during work. For their fearlessness, strength, and intelligence, Rottweilers are highly valued in police work in various countries, including Russia. The average lifespan is 10 – 12 years, but with proper care, it can be extended.

Confident, brave, and active, they can make excellent family companion dogs. This requires proper training from the very first weeks of a puppy’s life.

Their natural guarding instincts do not permit inexperienced owners to keep such pets, making advertisements for selling puppies not the best place to acquire one.

Unfortunately, the appearance of the breed is often associated with bloodthirsty images from many movies and with participation in frequent dog fights, which were very popular in our country in the early to mid-90s.

Отличительные черты

Голова

Medium-sized, but very wide between the ears. The frontal part is moderately prominent, slightly rounded when viewed from the side. The back of the head, while well-developed, has a barely noticeable occipital protuberance. A distinctive feature of the head's structure is the skin, which can form slight folds.

Морда

Cheeks with clearly defined muscular cheekbones. The mouth is wide, most often held wide open. Deep, with a straight upper line, the tip of the nose is very large, with wide nostrils, only black in color. Notably, the lips are always only black, pressed tightly, but at the corners of the mouth transition into jowls.

Уши

Medium-sized and triangular in shape. In some cases, they can be copied. If such a procedure has not been done, they either hang or half-hang. In this case, they are pressed against the cheeks, with the fold going not forward, but to the sides of the cheeks. The cartilage is quite flexible and thin.

Глаза

Not large, closer to medium size, although they appear small against the overall background. The eye shape is almond-like, and the cornea should be dark brown, almost black in color. Light shades of the iris are highly undesirable. The eyelids are only black, closely fitting, and thin.

Зубы

A complete set of teeth, strong, white, with no gaps. The upper row slightly overlaps the lower teeth - a scissor bite. The hard palate is darkish, lightening towards the gums. The canines and jaws are perfectly suited for grabbing and holding large objects or during work.

Корпус

A powerful neck, broad and very deep chest, ribs are quite curved. Strong and straight back, not very long, in proportion of 9:10 (height at the withers: length of the back). Short, wide, and strong loins, with a slight slope in the croup.

Конечности

Сильные, крепкий костяк, с отведёнными назад плечами, прямые передние конечности достаточно мускулистые. Задняя часть также очень мощная: широкие средней длины мускулистые бёдра, причем нижняя часть их довольно сухая и жилистая. Скакательные суставы без преувеличения хорошие, плюсны не вертикальные, чуть под наклоном. Примечательно, что передние лапы немного короче задних. Подушечки округлые, очень твердые, ногти короткие, темные и крепкие.

Хвост

If earlier docking was mandatory, now it is not required. Docked: shortened to the first joint. Strong, set not too low. In a calm state, it is directed horizontally, but when the dog is excited, it rises vertically. Undocked: thickness and length are proportional to the size of the dog. Set not too high and not too low. Carried horizontally in a calm state, but when ready, it rises upwards in a saber shape. Bends and knots are undesirable.

Шерсть

Two-layered. The upper layer is tightly pressed against the body, of medium length, and quite coarse to the touch. The lower layer is the undercoat, which is denser in the neck and thigh areas. However, it should not be visible through the upper layer. Excessively long or wavy fur is extremely undesirable.

Окрас

Основной цвет черный. Явно выражены отметины над глазами, на щеках, а также полосы по бокам морды и на горле. Также треугольники на груди и полосы от груди вниз по лапам (внутренняя их часть) к пальцам. Также должна быть отметина в области под хвостом. Эти отметки максимально насыщенного коричневого цвета. Но общее количество коричневого не превышает 10% от общего.

Character

First of all, this breed of dog is associated with strength, self-confidence, and a protective instinct. However, behind this powerful exterior lies a unique and quite complex character. According to numerous reviews from Rottweiler owners, these “butchers” are truly remarkable dogs, and their temperament deserves admiration.

Representatives of this breed are widely known for their loyalty and love for their family. Many owners note that their Rottweilers are reliable companions and friends. They can show astonishing tenderness and care for children, guarding their home and family with unparalleled devotion while remaining calm. Even in extreme situations, one can be amazed at how composed a Rottweiler can be. With a fearsome appearance and the innocence of a child, they can embody both traits. However, achieving this requires proper upbringing and (preferably) consultation with a professional dog trainer.

In addition to other merits, they also possess a strong protective instinct. This trait can sometimes negatively impact their interactions, as they may exhibit aggression toward unfamiliar strangers. Therefore, socialization and training under the guidance of an experienced trainer are extremely beneficial for the dog’s psyche. Proper socialization and training will help them distinguish potential threats from ordinary situations, allowing them to display their best qualities without endangering others.

The uniqueness of a Rottweiler’s character lies in its sense of humor. Moreover, it is very subtle, almost like that of a human. Owners of such dogs note that their pets sometimes pull off funny tricks that bring joy and laughter to the whole family. Along with this, they can be affectionate and gentle one moment but immediately turn fierce and powerful when necessary. These characteristics make Rottweilers a truly unique breed.

Another remarkable feature is their intelligence. Many owners point out that Rottweilers possess outstanding intellectual abilities and quickly learn commands. This makes them ideal candidates for various types of training, from basic commands to complex tricks. If you’re considering buying a Rottweiler puppy, pay attention to the fact that ZooNika offers the best selection of kennels in Russia. This is a serious decision, but the breed is worth it.

Care and Maintenance

The Rottweiler is a large dog breed, so they require ample space to live. They feel best in a country house with a yard where the dog can run freely. An adult Rottweiler will feel cramped in a small apartment, so it’s important to consider this before deciding to adopt a puppy from a kennel. However, if the dog lives in a spacious apartment, it will still need regular outdoor walks.

Caring for a Rottweiler includes grooming and brushing its short, dense coat. This should ideally be done daily using a special grooming glove. Regular grooming helps prevent excessive shedding. Don’t forget about the hygiene of their ears, eyes, and teeth. Be sure to clean the corners of their eyes with a cotton pad and monitor for any cloudy or excessive discharge. Teeth should be brushed at least once a week using a special toothbrush or a dental chew, which effectively removes plaque and prevents tartar buildup. Bathing a Rottweiler should be done as needed using dog-specific shampoo. Of course, there’s no need for bathing in winter; however, in the fall, spring, and during summer days, water procedures will be quite beneficial.

To keep your dog healthy and happy, provide regular physical activity. Walks, running, and playing will help keep the dog active. Remember that Rottweilers require long walks since they are a physically developed breed. Training plays a key role in their care. These dogs are very intelligent, so it’s essential to provide enough exercise for their mental development. Activities like toy searching, hide-and-seek, and agility will strengthen the bond between you and your pet and help them showcase their talents.

Special attention should be paid to their diet. High-quality balanced dog food or natural food is the best choice. The Rottweiler’s diet should include proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. It’s important to ensure the dog gets enough nutrients without overeating.

Regarding their daily routine, the dog’s psychological and physical development will be optimal with a schedule of walks, activities, and rest. Regular walks, mental stimulation, adequate sleep, and relaxation will help your formidable pet feel comfortable and happy, safe, and secure. Walks should last at least 60-90 minutes a day.

Moreover, it’s important to consider their relationships with other pets. Rottweilers generally have a friendly disposition, especially if raised in a loving and calm environment. However, due to their large size, it’s advisable to introduce Rottweilers to other animals from a young age, undertake training with professional dog trainers, and socialize them to reduce the risk of conflicts or aggressive behavior in the future.Despite their serious and rugged appearance, these dogs often bond with cats when raised together from a young age. Birds and rodents are not typically a problem for them. Conflicts may arise with dogs of other breeds, especially among same-sex individuals. These conflicts can intensify during the spring.Relationships with children are usually good. However, it’s not recommended to leave newborns or children under 13-14 years alone with such a large dog, as the dog’s bulkiness may accidentally harm them. Additionally, only a physically strong owner should walk the dog, as children may struggle to control such a powerful animal in an emergency situation.

Training and Education

Rottweilers are a breed of dogs often referred to as “butlers” due to their resilience, mental endurance, and loyalty to their owner. They are very strong and powerful dogs capable of facing any opponent. Because of this trait, they require a special approach in training and upbringing. Before purchasing a puppy from a kennel, it is advisable to familiarize oneself with the rules for keeping such dogs.

The first thing to focus on when training a Rottweiler is socialization. These “butchers” have a strong instinct for protection ingrained in their genetics, and if approached incorrectly, they may display aggression towards unfamiliar people and animals. Socialization should begin at a very early age. It is important to expose the puppy to different people, animals, new places, and situations, so he can learn the appropriate behaviors and react calmly and without aggression.

The owner needs to establish a trusting relationship with their dog. Although the breed is known for its loyalty, these affectionate dogs still require clear rules and boundaries. Training should include establishing the owner’s authority so that the Rottweiler understands its place and follows commands without objection.

An extremely important aspect of training is positive reinforcement. They are very intelligent and respond well to praise, affection, and treats after successfully completing a command. It is crucial to remember that punishment or cruelty will only provoke unpredictable behavior and aggression in Rottweilers – the owner must understand this before choosing a puppy from a kennel, which is why training should be based on encouragement and a positive approach.

It is also essential to pay attention to providing sufficient physical exercise and mental stimulation for the pet. Regular walks, games, and sports help dissipate accumulated energy and relieve stress. Activities in the fresh air positively affect the dog’s psyche and help maintain its physical health.

An important aspect of raising a Rottweiler is teaching basic commands. First and foremost, they should learn commands such as “sit,” “down,” “fetch,” “no,” and “place” for control and safety in the surroundings.Finally, the Rottweiler is a family dog that needs love, attention, and care. At Zooinika, you can find the best choice of kennels in Russia that offer well-trained and socialized Rottweilers. Breeders with a proven reputation also provide post-sale consultations to help turn your puppy into a reliable companion and devoted friend, ready to protect its family in difficult times. At Zooinika, the best options for puppies with pedigree are gathered.

How to Choose a Puppy

When choosing a Rottweiler puppy in our country, it is important to pay attention to the reputation of the kennel and the care of the animals. Make sure that the puppy’s parents have great temperament and health, and that the puppies have undergone all necessary veterinary procedures. During a personal visit to the breeder, carefully observe the behavior and physical condition of all the puppies, selecting only the one that meets the breed standard and appears healthy and active. Be sure to discuss the conditions of keeping, care recommendations, and training for the future pet with the breeder. Note that Zooinika offers the best selection of kennels in Russia, where purebred Rottweiler puppies are available, along with ongoing support in difficult situations.

Healthy Rottweiler puppies are active and love to play. Their coat should be shiny, their eyes clear and lively, and their ears clean without signs of inflammation. They should have a balanced and proportionate body, strong legs, and a proud posture. It is also important to pay attention to the puppy’s curiosity, as this indicates its intellectual development. Passive, timid, aggressive, or overly noisy puppies can cause numerous problems as they grow, as these behaviors will become even more pronounced.

When purchasing a Rottweiler puppy, it is essential to obtain documents confirming its lineage and health. These include a veterinary passport with notes on vaccinations and parasite treatments, as well as a pedigree proving the puppy is from purebred parents. Be prepared to ask the breeder for these documents and verify their authenticity before acquiring the puppy. Additionally, it makes sense to obtain test results for genetic diseases and to review the veterinary passport of working dogs. Don’t forget to draft a sales contract, which will serve as protection for both you and the seller. Zooinika offers advantageous deals depending on the breed and pedigree.

Health and Diseases

The health of Rottweilers can be considered robust if the dog has healthy genetics. To ensure strong “roots,” check the genetic disease test results before choosing a puppy from a kennel.

The most common issues include hip dysplasia. In the UK, there is even a comprehensive program aimed at identifying this condition.

The second most frequently diagnosed issue is elbow dysplasia, which is most commonly found in large breeds such as Rottweilers, Basset Hounds, Newfoundlands, and Labradors.

Following that, eye diseases rank among the most common genetic conditions and can involve not only issues with the eyeball but also various inflammations of the tear ducts, eyelids, or lens. Ophthalmological examinations are typically conducted before purchasing a puppy, again in adulthood, and later in senior dogs.

For dog owners, it is important not to neglect regular veterinary check-ups, to adhere to vaccination schedules, and to conduct regular deworming with alternating medications.

Of course, the presence of such health issues can be minimized by following all recommendations from veterinarians and breeders.