Such a different Rottweiler: characteristics and description of the breed. Strength in motion - Rottweiler: description of the breed, characteristics of the dog, suitable nicknames Dogs of the Rottweiler breed all about the breed

The Rottweiler, from the German Rottweiler, belongs to the category of service dog breeds from the Molossian group. The large breed bred in Germany has a strong skeleton, and is also characterized by a strong and stable character.

The history of the origin of the breed

The origin of the Rottweiler can only be judged from very rare written sources. The first mention of the Rottweiler dates back to the time of the legions of Claudius Augustus.. Powerful and mastiff-like dogs accompanied and guarded the provisions of the army on long and exhausting campaigns. After the need for the use of such dogs historically disappeared, their numbers drastically decreased, and the breed was practically on the verge of extinction, therefore, at the exhibition held in Heilbronn, one and not the best representative of the Rottweiler was demonstrated.

Some time later, German breeders decided to revive the breed, and the animals obtained as a result of such work had excellent psychophysical characteristics, so they became very popular as service dogs in the police. The beginning of the twentieth century was marked by the creation of the United German Rottweiler Club in Stuttgart, which made it possible to approve the breed standards of the Rottweiler. The accepted standards periodically undergo some correction and additions.

This is interesting! The first representative of the breed was brought to the territory of our country more than a hundred years ago, and thanks to the excellent adaptation to the weather conditions of Russia, Rottweilers have become popular in certain circles, including military and departmental nurseries.

In the early seventies, for breeding work, animals were imported to the territory of our country from the GDR, and as a result of planned selection, as well as culling, it was possible to navigate the disqualifying defects of the breed. Ten years later, dogs imported from Finland and Denmark were used for breeding work. Relatively recently in Russia there was a demand for a Rottweiler with attractive appearance and non-aggressive character.

Appearance description

Rottweilers are very efficient and hardy, energetic dogs that are distinguished by devotion and have excellent protective qualities. The breed is characterized as a strong and powerful animal with a compact and proportional physique.

breed standards

By established standards, Rottweilers are powerful but not heavy dogs, with excellent stamina and the following breed characteristics:

the head is represented by a skull of medium length, with a wide area between the ears. In profile, the parallel lines of the forehead and muzzle are separated by a fairly steep drop. The occipital part is not a very protruding tubercle. The zygomatic arches are quite pronounced;
the eyes are medium in size, almond-shaped, dark brown in color, with well-fitting eyelids. Desirable eye color is any light brown tones;
large teeth have a scissor bite, and the result of a direct bite is the rapid abrasion of the teeth. The disqualifying faults are undershot and overshot;
well-pigmented gums and lips are black or dark brown, but standards allow for small light areas. The outer edge of not thin and tight-fitting lips should be covered with completely dark skin;
ears of medium size, hanging, triangular in shape, set high, with a wide spacing;
the neck is medium in length, not too short, of a muscular type, with a well-developed nape. The exit of the cervical region at an angle of 40-50 about. Animals with a "deer" neck and an Adam's apple in front are disqualified;
the chest part is wide, voluminous and deep, equal in girth to the height at the withers plus twenty centimeters. The volume of the chest is represented by true and false ribs. Seen from above, the back is slightly wider than the front;
the back smoothly passes into a straight, short, wide and slightly convex lumbar region. A slight bulge of the lumbar region is allowed, which does not sharply turn into a wide and rounded, horizontally set croup.

The defects of the body are a weakened skeleton and the absence of well-developed muscles, as well as a flat chest, a soft or hunchbacked dorsal part and a sloping croup.

Limb and tail standards

The fore and hind limbs of the Rottweiler are strong and fairly muscular.. The forelimbs are characterized by the presence of long shoulder blades, a thick and massive shoulder girdle, springy and slightly sloping pasterns. Faults are represented by a narrow set, crooked forearms, soft or pendulous pasterns, loose paws with dark-colored and short claws.

When examining the hind limbs, their straight and parallel setting, a short and very muscular femur, long legs, hocks set back at the correct angle, rounded and arched paws are revealed.

Important! Faults may be represented by saber and narrow set, closely spaced hocks, barrel set and dewclaws.

The high-set tail has a natural shape and is a natural extension of the dorsal part. In a calm state, the tail is of a hanging type. In 1998 the standards were changed and it is forbidden to perform tail docking on show animals from FCI member countries. In our country, there is currently no direct ban on cupping.

Color and wool according to the standard

The coat of the Rottweiler is represented by a guard hair and undercoat, which is a straight coat. The guard hairs are medium in length, coarse, dense and close to the body. In accordance with the standard, no undercoat should protrude from under the outer coat. The hind limbs are characterized by slightly longer hair.

The color is black, with a well-defined and pronounced reddish-brown tan that covers the cheeks, muzzle, lower neck, chest and limbs, as well as areas above the eyes and under the base of the tail.

The nature of the breed

The character traits of the Rottweiler made it possible to classify this popular breed as “not for beginner dog breeders”. Despite the insane devotion to all family members, the dog chooses only one person as the sole owner. Such a pet perfectly feels the owner’s mood changes and distinguishes intonation very well, therefore Rottweilers are considered highly intelligent and thinking dogs. The breed is characterized by the ability to almost constantly attract attention, resentment and jealousy, and as practice shows, an already adult animal brought into the house rarely gets along with other pets.

The Rottweiler is an excellent protector and shows protective qualities if the owner is in real danger. Raising a dog of this breed must be dealt with from the first days of acquisition. Only in this case it is possible to get an obedient and manageable pet with a stable psyche and the absence of unmotivated aggression. It is advisable to trust the training process to professional cynologists, which is due to the waywardness and some stubbornness of the breed.

The Rottweiler shows character and independence from the age of six months, and the dog of this breed becomes especially naughty at puberty. Not recommended start a Rottweiler as a house dog if there are very small children in the house. It is not uncommon for an improperly trained dog to show aggression and injure a child during games.

Important! This breed is not suitable for people who lead a sedentary lifestyle and have no experience in raising Rottweilers.

Rottweilers are fairly easy to care for. When kept at home, it is imperative to provide at least a general training course, which will significantly reduce the risk of getting an aggressive and naughty adult dog.

Nutrition

When feeding Rottweilers, you can use not only natural, but also well-balanced dry food suitable for feeding adult large-breed dogs. High-quality and expensive feeds are best suited, for which Royal-Canin and Eukanuba, as well as Akana, have proven themselves well. The main condition for the correct use of dry food is the constant availability of fresh and clean water within walking distance for the Rottweiler.

quality food for rottweilers – Eukanuba

The basis of the diet when using natural feeding should be represented by meat, in the form of beef, lamb and chicken, as well as high-quality offal. The basic diet of a Rottweiler must be supplemented with:

sea fish, which is given to the dog in a boiled and deboned form;
fermented milk products in the form of kefir or curdled milk;
boiled chicken and raw quail eggs;
buckwheat, rice and oatmeal.

nutrition necessarily includes mineral and vitamin supplements, as well as vegetables and fruits. It is strictly forbidden to feed the dog with sweet, smoked and fatty foods. It is also impossible to give the Rottweiler tubular bones, which can injure the animal's digestive tract and often become the cause of its death.

walks

Quite often, Rottweilers are kept in the yard.. In this case, the animal needs to provide a sufficient enclosure area for optimal physical activity, as well as a spacious booth, well protected from cold and moisture. Chain content for a breed such as a Rottweiler is categorically contraindicated.

Ideally, it is desirable to keep the animal in an apartment or private house, giving the dog sufficient personal space. With an apartment content, walks should be regular and long. Walking is recommended to be carried out on specially equipped sites, a couple of times a day.

Hygiene

A molting animal needs to be combed out regularly with special hard brushes. The breed needs regular cleaning of the outer ear and dental care, as well as timely nail clipping. Ears should be cleaned very carefully with cotton swabs lightly moistened with hydrogen peroxide.

Important! Water procedures are carried out rarely, only as needed.

Vaccination

in the fourth or fifth week - DP-pappi;
deworming ten days after the first vaccination;
twenty days after the first vaccination - DHPPI+L
deworming one month after vaccination;
six months vaccination with DHPPI +L;
a couple of months after the last vaccination, a rabies vaccination is performed;
at twelve months - DHPPI+L.

Dog handlers and breeders of Rottweilers, in most cases, are characterized as a fairly hardy and rarely sick breed. If the choice fell on the acquisition of this particular breed, it is important to remember the predisposition of Rottweilers to the following diseases:

diabetes;
hip dysplasia;
osteochondrosis;
osteosarcoma and cataract;
increased gas formation and bloating;
retinal dysplasia;
skin diseases.

This is interesting! With the right choice of a puppy and compliance with all recommendations for keeping and caring for a Rottweiler, animal health problems are extremely rare.

The average cost of a purebred Rottweiler puppy suitable for participation in exhibitions and breeding starts at fifty thousand rubles, but such a dog can only be purchased in specialized, well-established kennels. You can buy an animal from your hands quite cheaply, and puppies vary in price more significantly:

"Pat" - about $ 200-300.
"Brid" - in the range of $ 500-800.
"Show" - from $ 700-1000 and above.

Rottweiler males, as a rule, have an independent and rather complex leader character, and bitches of this breed are often more obedient, balanced and calm, therefore they are more suitable for inexperienced dog breeders.

Large and powerful - Rottweilers not without reason cause respect, and their fighting appearance often inspires fear. However, throughout the history of the breed, these dogs were next to the man, helped him and lived side by side. This helped them gain a balanced character and develop their already good physical qualities. Today, the Rottweiler is an excellent companion, guard and service dog, but the dog needs compulsory education and socialization.

There are a number of sources confirming that the ancestors of the Rottweilers were the dogs of the Roman legionnaires. They guarded the cattle of the warriors, which were used for food and followed the troops. The dogs of that time outwardly resembled today's Rottweilers and Neapolitan Mastiffs, which are considered their close relatives.

The history of the breed itself is connected with the German city of Rottweil, thanks to which it got its name. The most famous cattle fairs were held in this city, and dogs were bred to help farmers in this difficult task.

Pets drove cattle into herds, watched for stragglers, knocked down arrogance from overly aggressive bulls and carried money in a special department in a collar. However, when cattle began to be transported by railroad, drovers lost their relevance. But the police placed their bets on these hardy, intelligent dogs, and the next round of popularity of the Rottweiler breed began.

Description of the Rottweiler breed

The Rottweiler has a medium, balanced constitution - neither overweight nor lean. Height males is 61-68 cm, females are slightly lower - 56-63 cm. Weight yat dogs within 42-50 kg. The standard prescribes the following appearance of the pet:

Head medium size, with a well-defined occiput, the ears are set wide apart. The muzzle is slightly narrowed, ending in a broad lobe with wide round nostrils. The color of the earlobe, lips and eye rims is black. Pedigree representatives have clearly defined cheekbones, emphasized by color.
Ears medium size, triangular shape, most often they stop. If not, then they hang down, reaching the middle of the cheekbones.
Neck Rottweilers are muscular and strong. Back straight line, passing into a well-defined lumbar belt. Croup extended, medium length.
Tail thick, long, hanging down in a calm state, but, according to the breed characteristics, .
Front and rear limbs set wide and straight, they form a strong base. The elbows are pressed against the body, the pasterns are well developed, the paws are tightly assembled.

Coat and color

There is only one color of Rottweilers - black wool with red tan. Tan spots are located on the cheekbones, eyes, throat, paws and crotch, they should be symmetrical. The standard does not allow even small white spots.

The coat of dogs is coarse, the undercoat is dense and thick. Such protection allows you to keep them on the street, the pet does not freeze in the winter. According to the standard, the coat should be of medium length, lying evenly, the undercoat should not be visible.

Character traits

Due to the fact that Rottweilers have always lived in the environment of people, they boast a good ability to adapt. Such pets fit well into the life rhythm of the owner, quickly remember his habits and are sensitive to the emotional state. The Rottweiler is a serious, balanced dog, and physical development allows him to be confident and calm in any situation.

If the dog is brought up correctly, then he will not waste his own resources on unreasonable aggression. But he is ready 24 hours a day to protect his own family, housing and surrounding area. Given the innate protective instinct, it is necessary to teach the pet to see the differences between real danger and everyday situations as early as possible. In this case, early socialization is of great importance.

If a Rottweiler is started by a person who has no experience, or he does not raise his four-legged friend, then the dog can grow up aggressive, rude and be dangerous to others and his own family. The Rottweiler is devoted to the owner and love, and a good attitude always reciprocates.

Since the breed was bred to help people, these dogs are used to being always there and helping when needed. They do not tolerate loneliness and are very worried if they are not paid attention. A well-bred Rottweiler can be a real member of the family, he does not tolerate quarrels and abuse, therefore he acts as a mediator.

Dogs of this breed get along well with children, especially if they are together. They are also loyal to new members, but still you should be careful with small children. This dog is strong and temperamental, so it is not always possible to distinguish between deliberate rudeness and inept play in a timely manner. Owners should not leave small children and the dog alone and should always monitor their communication. The Rottweiler makes a cheerful companion dog, but he is not suitable as a nanny.

Also, the pet’s communication with strangers, whether they are guests or people passing by on the street, requires attention. Rottweilers are not aggressors, especially if they are properly educated and socialized, they will not rush people for no reason. But it is still recommended to put a muzzle on your pet before visiting crowded places.

How is the training

Since representatives of this breed are distinguished by masculinity and self-confidence, they need a master with the same qualities. A person without experience is unlikely to be able to cope with the temperament of a pet, and the dog will dominate in this relationship. The owner of a Rottweiler must be persistent and strict.

It is necessary to teach a pet to discipline from the first days of its appearance in the house. But in no case should you be rude with a dog, as such an attitude will make it aggressive.

Rottweilers have a good food response, and experts recommend using this feature during education and training. Any success should be rewarded with a small bite of goodies or concise praise. Don't be overly enthusiastic, the main thing is to speak sincerely.

Often, purebred dogs show a special affection for one person in the family who is more involved and caring for them. To fix this, you should distribute the care of care among all family members by setting a schedule for the order of walking, feeding and other activities. Such an approach will let the pet understand that everyone loves and appreciates it, and it will facilitate the process of raising and socializing the pet for the owners.

dog care

The Rottweiler does not require special conditions of detention. In the apartment, the pet must be equipped, away from heating appliances and drafts. On the street, he needs a booth lined with straw or other suitable material.

Rottweilers tolerate cold very well, which cannot be said about heat, so it is recommended to take this into account when equipping a territory for him in the courtyard. Caring for your pet's teeth is to regularly treat his large marrow bone. This will help protect your dog from bad mouth odors.

During teething in a puppy, you should pay attention to the position of your pet's ears. They can hang out or form an unwanted crease. If this happens, you should consult a veterinarian, he will tell you what to do in this case.

It is also required to regularly inspect the auricles for plaque and inflammation, using a cotton swab. The eyes also require attention, but they only need to be examined, and with any, even a slight change (redness, increased tearing, etc.), it is worth contacting a specialist.

The coat of Rottweilers is quite easy to care for. To make the coat shiny and look good, it is enough to comb it once or twice a week with a special brush - a rubber glove, a comb or a metal comb will do. It is advisable to accustom a pet to such a procedure from puppyhood, and then he will not only not resist, but also enjoy manipulation. During the shedding season, the coat will need to be combed daily.

If you do not pay due attention to the coat, the dog may appear, especially when it sheds heavily. Rottweilers do not need frequent washing, you can do this a couple of times a year and with heavy pollution.

In dogs, often found on hard ground, the claws grind down naturally, in other cases. Since Rottweilers are not big fans of pedicures, they can be aggressive about such a procedure. In this case, you may need to seek professional services from a veterinarian. You can avoid this if you file or cut them carefully when the pet is still a puppy and after the procedure it is good to encourage him.

How to feed a Rottweiler

Dog owners have two options on how to feed their pet - natural food or industrial feed. But whatever the owner chooses, the food must be complete and of high quality. In the first case, the diet should consist mostly of meat and offal. Be sure to include boiled eggs, low-fat sea fish, cheese, dairy products - cottage cheese, yogurt, kefir in the dog's menu. These are essential ingredients that are sources of protein.

Carbohydrates pet should receive from cereals. Rice and buckwheat porridge cooked in water or vegetable and meat broths is ideal. But it is better to refuse barley, as the dog’s body does not absorb it well. Fiber is another necessary component, its sources are vegetables. They are recommended to be given raw to the dog, but they should make up no more than a quarter of the daily diet.

There are a number of foods that are undesirable for a Rottweiler. This list includes the following:

Milk - can cause indigestion and disorders of the digestive system.
Legumes are a heavy food for dogs. To digest them, the gastrointestinal tract spends a lot of juices and time. Can lead to bloating and flatulence.
Potatoes are a source of starchy substances that are undesirable for the dog's body.
Sweets - sugar, first of all, hits the eyesight of the animal.
Tubular bones - the stomach of the animal cannot digest, in addition, they can cause damage to the walls of the stomach and intestines.

If the owner prefers dry diets, then it should be food rich in useful substances necessary for the active life of the dog and good health. Naturally, this option saves time on cooking, which is important for busy people.

But it should be borne in mind that high-quality feed is not cheap, and budget rations do not meet the requirements for a balanced diet. To feed a large dog with food waste, which, in essence, is cheap food, is not only not humane, but even criminal. This is depriving the dog of a long and healthy life.

Since Rottweilers rarely suffer from food allergies, food selection is easy. It is worth taking into account the diets of premium and super-premium classes suitable for large breeds.

Photo of Rottweiler

Video about Rottweiler

What is the cost of puppies

This breed, despite the fact that it has become less popular in recent years, is still not rare. Therefore, buying a puppy is not difficult. But before purchasing, you should decide on the purpose of the pet and choose it from the appropriate class:

Pet class. This is a guard dog, as they say, "for the soul." Representatives of this class have minor deviations that do not allow them to be used in breeding and exhibitions. However, they do not affect the working qualities of the animal. The cost of puppies in this category varies from 12,000 to 18,000 rubles.
Brid class. Puppies of this class are usually purchased for future breeding. The initial price of such a pet is 20,000 rubles, but it can be much higher if the baby's parents have high exhibition marks. Offspring from titled dogs costs from 60,000 to 90,000 rubles.
Show class. These are puppies with excellent characteristics, future show stars and enviable sires. Naturally, their price is much higher - from 150,000 to 600,000 rubles.

As with other large breeds, experts do not recommend purchasing a puppy from random sellers who have no idea about proper breeding and culling of offspring. In this case, there is a risk of getting not only a mestizo or a puppy with health problems, but also a mentally unstable individual, such a pet can create significant problems.

The Rottweiler is an ideal guard, able to protect the owner at any time. He is jealous of the protected area, and intruders have no chance to get past. But, having such a powerful and serious pet, first of all, you should think about its upbringing and socialization so that the dog becomes a member of the family, and not its threat.

Rottweiler kennels

Moscow http://www.olburd.ru
St. Petersburg http://akslen.ru
Kyiv https://bestlegasy.jimdo.com
Minsk http://www.rottweiler.by

Rottweilers are known for their intelligence, loyalty, trainability, and non-aggressive demeanor. But all these advantages are inherent only in animals that meet international breed standards. To choose and raise the right guard and companion for the whole family, study the detailed description of the Rottweiler breed.

Over the centuries of development, representatives of the Rottweiler dog breed have become real "universal soldiers", ready to accompany a person in work and in war, to be devoted friends and accommodating companions. The breed is used in the service of law enforcement agencies, but a Rottweiler can be kept in a private house or apartment. These dogs can be trained and, with the proper efforts of the owner, can become exemplary pets.

Rottweiler: breed description

Rottweilers are large dogs with a massive body and powerful muscles. Males are much larger and heavier than females. The head is of medium length, the forehead line is moderately high, the cheekbones are pronounced. The ears are triangular, semi-erect, forming a straight line with the top of the skull. The eyes are almond-shaped, dark brown. The coat is short and harsh, the undercoat should not be visible. The tail in its natural form extends the line of the back. According to the international classification, the breed standards are as follows.

Weight . For males - about 50 kg, for bitches - 40-42 kg.
Growth at the withers. 61-68 cm for a male, 56-63 cm for a female.
Color. Black with tan on muzzle, chest and limbs. The color of tan can be brown in different shades (from red and gold to red-brown). Other colors, indistinct manifestation of tan marks or, on the contrary, their too large area are considered a defect. Also, a purebred Rottweiler cannot be long-haired, have no undercoat, or have a short but soft or wavy coat.
Lifespan. The Rottweiler lives, unfortunately, not for long - 8-12 years.
Character . Bold, determined, open, but stubborn and independent. Rottweilers do not show aggression without a reason. These are loyal and fearless defenders of the owner and his family. But in order to raise a Rottweiler, the owner will have to win the respect of the dog, otherwise the dog will rely on his own opinion more than on the requirements of a person. It is curious that timidity and cowardice, incredulous, angry and nervous behavior are directly indicated in the standards as disqualifying vices.
Intelligence. Dog handlers highly appreciate the mental abilities of Rottweilers. These dogs have been bred for centuries for utilitarian purposes, are highly trainable, have a good memory and are able to adapt to changing environments.
Security and guard potential. The breed is used in many countries of the world as a service dog. It is used by law enforcement and law enforcement agencies for guard, escort and security services, patrolling, searching for explosives and drugs.

The Rottweiler is a working dog with a fighting background. Such a pet will require time, energy and patience from the owner. The following table will help you decide if this breed is right for you.

Table - Pros and cons of the Rottweiler breed

pros	Minuses
- Smart, trainable dog; - the size of an adult Rottweiler allows you to keep it at home; - in a temperate climate, two-layer wool provides the dog with comfortable living outside in an aviary even in winter; - sheds lightly and does not require special care for the coat; - picky about food	- Potentially dangerous; - with improper upbringing, it can be aggressive; - can dominate an inexperienced trainer (needs a "strong hand"); - does not tolerate violence (cannot be kept on a chain); - requires long walking and intensive loads; - prone to obesity; - does not tolerate heat well

History of origin and interesting facts

The modern Rottweiler is considered a German dog, but the roots of its origin go much deeper than the ancient Germanic tribes. Even in ancient Egypt, Assyria and Babylon, people used Great Dane and Molossian (by the name of one of the tribes) dogs, from which Rottweilers are believed to have originated. They were involved in the protection and grazing of herds, in wars. The dogs not only accompanied the armies and led the animals taken as provisions, but also directly participated in the battles. Bas-reliefs and frescoes depicting dogs opposing enemy infantry have survived to this day. For several hundred years, thanks to trade and military campaigns, dogs have spread in the Mediterranean region. Julius Caesar himself, who fought in Britain, mentions that local troops used ferocious fighting dogs against his legions.

The Roman Empire, the militant superpower of that time, also could not get past the "universal weapon" - a shepherd dog and a warrior dog at the same time. Approximately from the 1st century BC. e. these dogs participate in gladiator fights and defeat much larger predators. Hundreds of hardy, strong dogs with well-developed muscles and powerful jaws accompany the Romans on campaigns and spread their own habitat to all the possessions of the empire.

One of the key places in the future history of the Rottweiler breed was the Roman-built trading city of Rottweil. Food was traded here: meat and cattle, grain and flour. Warehouses, herds, barns and trade caravans needed protection and escort, for which those very fighting dogs, bred in Rottweil into a separate breed - Rottweilers, were ideally suited.

There were two types of Rottweilers in the Middle Ages.

Very large and massive. It was used directly for the protection of dwellings and warehouses, as well as for the transportation of certain goods as a draft force. Due to its outstanding size, the dog was less hardy and could not graze cattle over long distances. Moreover, her bite could seriously injure a cow, goat or sheep.
Smaller type. Differed from heavyweights in mobility and endurance. It was these dogs that worked as cattle drivers and herd guards on pastures.

Over the years, through the efforts of the breeder, the breed has become what we know it today: harmoniously built, combining strength and endurance with intelligence and devotion.

Due to belonging to the workshop of meat merchants, the breed was called so - "Rottweiler butcher's dog". Although, it would be fair at the same time to call her the "butcher's accountant", because, as one of the historical legends says, Rottweil merchants had a habit of hanging their own wallet around the dog's neck. Thus, no matter how abundantly the owner celebrated a profitable deal, the principal amount remained completely safe from thieves and dishonest partners.

Spreading

Rottweilers received wide distribution and well-deserved recognition in other countries a hundred years ago. First of all, as working dogs, the merits of which were highly appreciated by the First German Police Dog Association in 1910. Over the next 20 years, the breed became popular not only at home, but also in Austria, Switzerland and the United States.

It is noteworthy that in these decades of the rapid spread of the breed, the standards, that is, the requirements for breeding dogs, were much softer than they are now. So, until 1923, it was considered acceptable if the color of the dog was pure red, dark gray with black, or with black stripes on an ash-gray background. In addition, some elongation of the wool was allowed.

Rottweilers first came to Russia in 1914, but these were single specimens brought by private individuals. Mass importation was already organized by the Soviet authorities in 1924. Then departmental breeders tried to create their own security breed - the black terrier, the ancestors of which were supposed to be Airedale Terriers, Giant Schnauzers and Rottweilers.

In the post-war years, Rottweilers were bred in departmental kennels as service dogs, but some puppies already fell into the hands of amateur dog breeders. As the first private breeders later noted, the Soviet Rottweiler of that period was significantly different from its European counterparts. These dogs were larger, had a much more ferocious disposition, often found in a lighter color or elongated coat.

In the 70s, the import of dogs for breeding work was established, and by the end of the 80s, relative order had been established in the breed: planned selection and culling made it possible to eliminate a number of defects introduced into the population.

It is the departmental breeding of aggressive service dogs in the Soviet period that still negatively affects the image of the breed. There are plenty of stories that vividly describe the vicious and indomitable temper of these dogs, capable of attacking the owner, child, or neighbor grandmother. Not all of them are supported by facts. But it is impossible to forget that by purchasing a Rottweiler, you are practically acquiring a weapon.

Experts warn: even today, when selection in the breed is aimed at breeding dogs with a balanced psyche and non-aggressive character, only high-quality training can guarantee the correct behavior of the dog. A Rottweiler puppy should be taken exclusively in breeding kennels and from professional breeders who monitor the purity of the line and guarantee, among other things, the mental health of the dog.

Varieties

As such, there are no species or subtypes in the Rottweiler breed. But the breed is distributed all over the world, which could not but bring local flavor to national standards. The main ones are as follows.

German standard. This is the classic exemplary Rottweiler. German standardization formed the basis for the standards of the International Cynological Federation.
English standard. Also based on German. The distinguished difference lies in the fact that the breeders of England have concentrated even more on the character of the pet, achieving true English equanimity while maintaining proper protective qualities.
american standard. Something in common with the Soviet experience in the selection of Rottweilers for guard duty. American breeders have also given preference to the size and vicious nature of the pets, as a result of which their dogs are larger than European standards and have a far from friendly disposition.

Some external differences between dogs of this breed depend on the breeding line. For example, representatives of the Finnish line have a more elongated muzzle. "Austrians" are slightly lower and drier than the classic German Rottweilers, as they are bred exclusively as working dogs that need mobility and mobility. The Norwegian line, on the contrary, is higher than relatives. But the standards, although they have a backlash in height and weight, still predetermine the breed as a large one.

As in other breeds, there are cases of small puppies being born that fall short of the standards. But the dwarf rottweiler is not a separate subtype, but a consequence of a genetic failure, which is associated with selection errors, diseases of the parents. Often, such animals have a number of concomitant diseases, they may have an unstable psyche.

Selection, maintenance and nutrition requirements

Before choosing a Rottweiler puppy, you should decide on a breeder or nursery. It is important that your future pet has a good heredity: parents must clearly fit the description of the breed and be distinguished by the qualities that you want to see in the baby.

Please note that the character of a male Rottweiler will always be more difficult. A male dog may try to dominate a person and requires a lot of effort in education and training.

Girls are more obedient, more attached to the owner and less prone to aggression. In addition, if you are going to engage in breeding, then it is wiser to take a show- or breed-class female. This is due to the fact that the choice of males for mating is often wider, and, accordingly, the competition between males is higher.

In this case, please note that the first estrus in a dog should begin by the year, and the first mating is recommended after two years (after the third estrus). Pregnancy in Rottweilers lasts about 60 days, but sometimes childbirth begins a little earlier, or vice versa, they are late for up to a week.

If you dream of a family friend and home guard without show pretensions, it may be worth considering pet-class puppies of both sexes, which will cost less, and are inferior to the aforementioned only participation in breeding breeding. In any case, it is very important to get all possible information about the puppy and his parents from the Rottweiler kennel.

A small Rottweiler should be curious and active, not avoid playing with other puppies, not show passivity and timidity. When examining a puppy, pay attention to the condition of the skin, eyes and ears. They should be clean and free of rashes, sores, or discharge. The skin on the abdomen is pink, the rest of the body is gray. The tail, if it is not docked, without kinks.

Cupping

There is a serious discussion in cynological circles about the need for stopping as such and the humanity of such operations in relation to four-legged animals. Already in a number of countries clipping is prohibited, and dogs that have undergone such interventions cannot participate in exhibitions and breeding. There is no legal prohibition in Russia, and the decision to dock the tail and dock the ears is taken directly by the breeder or the future owner.

According to dog breeders, while docked dogs are more familiar to the public. On the other hand, the myths about the benefits of cupping have also long been debunked.

Dogs that have not had their tail docked are fine with this part of the body, even if hundreds of generations of their ancestors were deprived of it. And cutting the ears does not reduce the risk of getting otitis media or another similar disease. So the operation is purely cosmetic, and it's up to you to do it or not.

Vaccinations

The first vaccinations for a puppy are often done by the breeder, at one and a half to two months. Up to five months, with an interval of three weeks, revaccination is carried out (repeated injection of the vaccine to maintain immunity). From the age of 12 months, the dog is vaccinated annually. Rottweiler puppies are vaccinated against:

adenovirus;
rabies;
parainfluenza virus;
parvovirus enteritis;
leptospirosis.

The schedule of vaccinations is best done in conjunction with a veterinarian. 10-14 days before each vaccination, the animal must be treated for worms.

diet

You can feed a Rottweiler at home with ready-made food (both dry and in the form of canned food) or natural food. Both power schemes have their advantages, as can be seen from the table.

Table - Comparison of the benefits of factory-made food and "homemade" food for Rottweiler dogs

If you cook yourself, then be sure to include in the menu:

meat;
offal;
eggs;
cottage cheese;
cereals (buckwheat, rice, cells);
vegetables and fruits;
vitamin supplements as recommended by a veterinarian.

Puppies can be given milk. But do not be surprised if the dog refuses it with age - many animals develop lactose intolerance.

The disadvantage of "home" food is that it takes time to cook. If you do not have one and decide to buy food, then it is better to opt for well-known manufacturers and purchase premium quality products.

Whichever way you choose to feed, bones and cartilage will always be a pleasant addition to the dog's main diet.

Hair care

The Rottweiler is quite unpretentious in everyday life. If the dog lives in an apartment, after a walk, she needs to wash her paws, and in case of rain, wipe the entire dog with a dry towel. Otherwise, hair care is very simple:

bathe - three to four times a year;
comb - once or twice a week with a special brush (daily during the shedding period).

While combing, pay attention to the condition of the ears and teeth. The ears should be wiped with a damp cloth (not cotton swabs). To brush your teeth, use special sticks or paste and a brush (sold in pet stores).

Questions of training

Although Rottweilers were bred as working dogs and trainability is built into them at the genetic level, it is believed that these dogs are not for beginners. Therefore, if you decide to train a Rottweiler at home, try to take at least a few lessons from professionals. The best thing to do is to go through a training course with your dog. So your pet will learn the necessary commands, and you will learn the correct interaction with the dog.

By virtue of an independent, self-confident character, the Rottweiler is ready to accept restrictions and norms only from a person he respects. Once in the house, the puppy chooses the owner, and if he becomes a leader for him, he will obey in everything. The rest of the family members are objects of guardianship, but not authorities for the animal. Rottweilers get along well with children, but still, their contacts with a very young child should be monitored, because due to their size, the dog can push the baby without intent or knock him down.

If the owner fails to achieve recognition of the status of the head of the family and the leader of the pack in the eyes of the Rottweiler, the result can be disastrous. At best, it will be just a spoiled dog that allows itself to sleep in your bed. At worst, it is better not to go outside with an uncontrollable Rottweiler.

The basic rules for living together with a Rottweiler are established from the first day of a puppy in a new home and remain unshakable. The only temporary exception to the rule is the period until the puppy learns to go to the toilet outside. To make this happen faster, it is recommended to take the dog for a walk immediately after eating and in every possible way encourage him to relieve himself outside the house.

When all vaccinations are done, and the baby can go outside, try to give the dog as much time as possible, walking, playing and talking with him. Already from the first weeks, start developing the simplest skills - call the puppy by name and the command: “Come to me” several times during a walk. Praise the dog every time and treat it when the command is done correctly.

The command is necessary not only to call the dog, but also to control the pet from a distance. Its correct execution will save passersby from a heart attack, it can save the life of a gaping cat or the dog himself, if he suddenly runs in the direction of the highway.

At home, before feeding, you can begin to practice the command: “Sit”. When the puppy, resorting to a bowl, begins to sit down in front of it, working off can be transferred to walks.

For the education of the Rottweiler, the “Fu” command is very important - that is, the cancellation of any action performed by the dog. Analogues "It is impossible" and "Drop". The latter is especially true for dogs who like to profit from what they find on the street.

Dog handlers note that Rottweilers have a somewhat slow reaction. They need a little more time to understand the command and transition to execution than other breeds. Therefore, do not rush, especially at first, and do not give a number of commands at once - this will only confuse the dog. It is also not recommended to proceed to the study of the next command without having achieved full mastery of the previous one. Thanks to a good memory, Rottweilers do not forget what they have learned, and after fixing the basic course, they easily master other skills.

Rottweilers do not tolerate violence against themselves. A puppy spanked for eating slippers can get morally traumatized almost for life. Whatever the fault, Rottweilers cannot be punished physically, so it’s better to find the right tone and reason with your pet verbally.

Diseases and treatment

Like most large breeds, Rottweilers can suffer from joint dysplasia (elbow or hip). The disease often develops with age, but may be congenital. It is diagnosed no earlier than seven to eight months after the end of the formation of the skeleton. The causes of acquired dysplasia can be:

malnutrition;
obesity;
excessive physical activity;
trauma;
sedentary lifestyle.

Dysplasia is treated with medication or surgery. Pay attention to your pet's movements. If the dog begins to limp, places its paws incorrectly while running, often requires rest while walking or active games, contact your veterinarian.

This breed is prone to a number of skin conditions, which are often caused by hormonal or metabolic disorders in the body:

seborrhea - increased sebum secretion;
dermatitis - inflammation of the skin caused by contact with a chemical or other irritant;
eczema - acute or chronic inflammation of the skin with rash, itching and burning;
acne is an inflammatory skin disease caused by pathological processes in the sebaceous glands and hair follicles.

Various allergic reactions are also possible. Rottweilers are also prone to a number of ophthalmic diseases:

cataract;
glaucoma;
inversion of the century;
conjunctivitis.

Diseases of the gastrointestinal tract in Rottweilers are often acquired. Infections can be prevented by vaccinations. The reason for the rest (bloating, volvulus) is malnutrition or the carelessness of the owner on a walk, which allowed the pet to eat something wrong. Due to poor nutrition in age, the dog may also have problems with the genitourinary system.

TOP nickname

A puppy receives a “generic” name upon examination for compliance with breed standards, and you cannot influence his choice. But the passport nickname often remains only in the passport, and in everyday life the name is a reflection of the character of the dog and the preferences of the owner. Rottweilers are often given short sonorous names associated with the history of the origin of the breed, mythology or pop culture.

You can call a Rottweiler "boy":

Lord;
Prince;
Diesel;
Archie;
Hercules;
Charlie;
Hugo;
Oscar;
Bart;
Kaiser.

You can call a Rottweiler a “girl”:

Gretel;
beauty;
Adele;
Buffy;
Daisy;
Gera;
Grace;
Athena;
Sabrina;
Wendy.

Remember, the name of the pet should not be consonant with the names of teams, resemble the names of people popular in your area and carry a potential insult to others.

Photo review

Photos of puppies and dogs of the Rottweiler breed cannot but draw attention to the power, intelligence and charm of these dogs.

Cost and where to buy

Rottweilers are an expensive breed both to keep and to acquire. Depending on the nursery, class and pedigree, a Rottweiler puppy costs from 15,000 rubles (data as of December 2017). It is difficult to outline the upper limit of prices, since the best puppies from breed champions are of interest not only to ordinary dog breeders, but also to breeders.

The cost may vary depending on the region. In addition, dogs with an imperfect pedigree, without the required documents or with breed defects are often sold much cheaper. But there is no guarantee that a dog bought from non-professional breeders will be mentally and physically healthy.

breeding nurseries

Kennels of the Rottweiler dog breed are quite widespread, there are in most regions of Russia and neighboring countries. Here are some examples.

"Royal flock" (Moscow)- http://www.rottweiler-rkf.com;
Akslen (St. Petersburg)- http://akslen.ru;
Rottweiler and East European Shepherd Dog Kennel Grand Animals (Armavir)- http://zilberwasserfall.com;
Schwarzer Held (Minsk) - http://www.rottweiler.by;
KLENSMEN KLIRI (Zaporozhye)- https://shakiradog.jimdo.com.

Analyzing the characteristics of the Rottweiler breed, please note that this dog is not suitable for everyone. To decide whether you have enough patience and strength to educate her, the reviews of the owners will help.

The Rottweiler (German and English Rottweiler) is a large breed of service dog bred in Germany for various jobs. The first representatives of the breed were cattle dogs, but modern Rottweilers are used as guard dogs and companion dogs.

This breed is popular for its loyalty, willingness to work, athleticism and power, practical legendary guard qualities.

Unfortunately, she also has a negative reputation, as a result of which they are even banned in some countries. They cannot be called simple in nature, but for the most part, all the negativity is associated with the inexperience or unwillingness of the owners to manage their dog. With the right upbringing, they are loving, devoted, reliable friends.

A large, powerful dog and it is in the interests of the owner to properly educate it. Early socialization and training course are a must.

Even if your dog does not hurt a fly, be prepared for a negative reaction, fear and aggression towards him. People are afraid and for good reason.

They love people and want to be close to them. Alone, without proper activity, they can become destructive.

If a child grew up in front of a dog, then she will protect and protect him. Without socialization and understanding of what children are, the reaction can be anything. But, even the most gentle dogs can offend a child. They control cattle by pushing them and may do the same to a child. In general, these dogs are not recommended for families with children under 6 years of age.

Introducing new animals should be done with care. They can be aggressive towards other dogs, especially those of the same sex.

They are intelligent and very trainable if the owner is dominant and consistent.

Be prepared for daily walks, at least an hour.

Coat with undercoat, sheds profusely in spring and autumn, moderately at other times.

If you do not follow the activity and nutrition, most are prone to obesity.

Do not buy a puppy from hands, without documents. Choose a good cattery and a responsible breeder so you don't regret it in the future.

History of the breed

Rottweilers are one of the oldest cattle dogs, the ancestors of the breed served even the ancient Romans. It was created at a time when even more significant events did not get into books, not like dogs. As a result, we can only guess about its appearance, without hard facts.

It is known for sure that they first appeared in the German city of Rottweil, where they served as cattle, shepherd, hunting dogs and guarded property. This unique breed, unlike any modern one, except perhaps with.

Although they are standardly assigned to the Molossian group, this classification is controversial and some place them in the Pinscher or other groups.

Despite the fact that no sources have been preserved, it is believed that Rottweilers originated from dogs brought by the ancient Romans. In the 1st century, the Romans owned a huge empire, but its borders were unsettled. To make it easier to control them, in the north the border was laid along the Danube River.

But Rome was not only an invader, construction was going on in the conquered territories, so the city of Flavius Land or Arae Flaviae arose, on the site of which modern Rottweil is located.

The Romans used many dog breeds, but the two most famous are the Molossians and the short-haired shepherd dogs. The difference between them is unclear and some researchers believe that this is one breed, but with different functions.

Molossians were the fighting dogs of the Roman army, dogs inherited from the ancient Greeks and Illyrian tribes. Short-haired shepherds also accompanied the army, but performed a different task - managing the herds of cattle that served as food for the legions.

Both of these breeds came to the territory of modern Germany, where they continued to be used for their intended purpose, although they crossed with native species.

In 260, the Romans were driven out of these lands by the Aleman (Swabian) tribes living near the Danube. The Alemanni razed Arae Flaviae to the ground, but later a church and a city were rebuilt on this site. Like many other cities in southern Germany, it carried a bit of Roman heritage - Vil, from the Roman word for Villa.

Since a lot of red tiles were found during the construction, it was called Rott (German - red) Vil, and eventually Rottweil. For many centuries, the lands of present-day Germany were separate counties, kingdoms, free cities, and Rottweil was an independent city, although close to the Swiss Confederation.

Rottweil has become a major market for cows and beef. In those days, the only way to bring cattle to market was to drive them, often across the country. German butchers and shepherds used the descendants of the Roman Molossians for these purposes.

They were called Rottweiler butcher dogs (German: Rottweiler Metzgerhund) because the breed did an excellent job.

In neighboring Switzerland, they were used for the same purposes, and most likely they had a significant impact on future Rottweilers.

Cattle drivers and butchers needed dogs that were smart and manageable, able to make decisions on their own and lead the herd.

Where English shepherds preferred small dogs like corgis that the bulls could not reach, German shepherds preferred large and strong dogs capable of giving tasks.

Over time, they learned to work not only with cows and bulls, but also with sheep, pigs and poultry. Since the maintenance of large dogs was an expensive pleasure, the question arose of what to do with them when there was no work. Peasants and butchers began to use them as sled dogs to transport goods.

In addition, they guarded livestock, property, and often the owners themselves from dashing guests. Dogs with developed guarding instincts were even given preference, gradually replacing cattle dogs.

There are even written sources saying that they were also used for hunting, however, they are not convincing enough.

One of the paintings by Peter Paul Rubens (created in 1600) shows a dog practically identical to a modern Rottweiler attacking a wolf. So, if they were used for hunting, then only for predators and large animals, and not as a greyhound or a hound.

For more than a thousand years, their ancestors served the Germans faithfully. However, the industrial revolution and changes in morality brought them to the brink of extinction. With the advent of railways, cattle began to be transported along them, and the need for cattle dogs disappeared.

Industrialization and firearms are critically reducing the population of predators, and the law prohibits the use of dogs as draft animals. Although with the advent of cars, it is no longer necessary to prohibit.

The population of German Rottweilers is falling and they are on the verge of extinction as many other ancient breeds.

In 1905, only one dog was found in their hometown of Rottweil! Fortunately, a large number of dogs were kept in villages, where the owners retained traditions and habits and did not get rid of true friends. Moreover, their protective qualities did not disappear anywhere and became valuable at that time.

Urbanization has given rise to high crime, and the German police have conducted a study to find out which of the breeds can help them in their work. We agreed that Rottweilers are perfectly adapted.

They are smart, trainable, loyal, strong, massive and their aggression is controlled. By the start of World War I, the breed had regained popularity through police service.

In those days, they were not yet a standardized breed and differed significantly from each other. They were slightly smaller and more graceful than modern dogs, and their coat and skull shape were different.

But most of all they differed in colors. Red, fawn, gray plus a few different masks and spots. Since it was a working breed, there was no concern about its standardization until the early 19th century.

The first attempt to create a club was in 1899, when the International Club and Rottweilers was created. It quickly broke up, but in 1907 two clubs were created in the city of Heidelberg at once: the German Rottweiler Club and the Southern German Rottweiler Club. After a series of changes and re-piping, these clubs issued a breed standard.

The breed is known in Europe, but the real popularity comes to it after these dogs get to the USA. This happens around 1920, and already in 1931 the American Kennel Club (AKC) registers it. The same English United Kennel Club will do it only in 1950.

Despite official recognition, the popularity of the breed grows slowly, but only until 1980. In 1973, the American Rottweiler Club (ARC) was created, which promotes and develops the breed in America.

And from 80 to 90 she becomes famous, the dog that everyone wants. In 1992, Rottweilers are the second largest number of dogs registered with the AKC, for many years this number exceeds 70,000.

Due to out-of-control breeding and poor upbringing, they earn one of the most infamous reputations among dogs. Especially after a series of reports describing the attacks of dogs on people.

Such glory is undeserved, because for every attack there were dozens of cases when dogs heroically defended their owners or saved people.

They were often described as fighting dogs, although this is not at all true. This led to a large number of refusals of owners, euthanasia. By the end of the 90s, the popularity of the breed had dropped significantly. Not only fame, but also the emergence of other, more fashionable breeds played a role.

But despite this, in 2010 the breed ranked 11th in popularity among all breeds in the United States. Not only there, but also in other countries, they are used in the police, rescue and search services, security, customs and other government services.

Description of the breed

Despite the fact that Rottweilers cannot be attributed to giant breeds, they are still quite large.

Males at the withers are 61-68 cm, and weigh 50-55 kg. Females 56-63 cm, weigh 42-45 kg. But since this breed tends to gain weight easily, many dogs are substantially heavier and larger.

This is a powerful, heavily built dog. In good shape, she is not squat, but strong, with a broad chest and heavy, massive bones. The tail is traditionally docked even in such a progressive country as America.

However, in some European countries it goes out of fashion and is even prohibited by law. The natural tail is rather thick, of medium length, curved.

The head is located on a thick and powerful neck, it is of medium length, but very broad, so that it looks square. The muzzle, although short, is not the same as that of or.

It is wide and deep, which gives the Rottweiler a large bite area. The lips hang down a little, but do not form a fly. At the end of the muzzle is a wide black nose.

Eyes almond-shaped, deep-set, should be only dark in color. The ears are medium in size, triangular in shape, set high on the head and set wide apart.

They are of medium length, hanging, triangular, sometimes lying forward. In general, the impression of the breed is highly dependent on the mood of the dog. One and also in a different mood can look either threatening and serious, or playful and mischievous.

The coat is double, with a short and soft undercoat and a harsh, straight outer coat. The coat is about the same length, may be slightly longer on the tail and shorter on the muzzle, ears and paws.

Only one color is allowed: black and tan red-brown: on the cheeks, muzzle, lower neck, chest and limbs, as well as under the eyes and below at the base of the tail.

Tans must be clearly distinguishable and as bright and rich in color as possible. Sometimes puppies of other colors are born and some breeders pass them off as rare. Remember that most organizations will never allow such a puppy to be registered and entered into a show.

Character

Rottweilers have earned a bad reputation and are often considered harsh, even dangerous dogs. Yes, their fame is not as loud as that of or, but still.

But they received this fame thanks to the efforts of people, or rather a certain stratum of society. This stratum existed both in the USA and in the territory of the former USSR. People who wanted a serious, powerful and scary dog. Typical representatives of the 90s (by the way, this is the time of the highest popularity of the breed in the CIS).

In fact, this glory is undeserved. It is difficult to describe the character of the Rottweiler, as many irresponsible owners have seriously spoiled it.

Chaotic breeding, the pursuit of fashion, the unwillingness and inability to raise a dog led to the fact that many puppies appeared with an uncontrollable character.

Add to this a developed guarding instinct and you get the idea of a dog with a bad temper.

In my memory, when one such dog appeared, grandmothers disappeared near the bench at the entrance, because when she went out for a walk (on a leash and with the owner), it was simply dangerous to sit there.

But, most of these dogs have become victims of the inability and stupidity of people. Rottweilers are loyal, intelligent protectors, no more dangerous than other breeds of their size. Behind every aggressive dog, there are dozens or even hundreds of smart and loyal defenders. Just a well-bred dog is invisible, does not scare, and there is nothing to write about it in the newspapers.

Much to the surprise of many detractors of the breed, they are incredibly people loving and family oriented. The owners know how fun and playful they are, even goofy sometimes. And their loyalty is boundless, for the family they will give their lives without the slightest hesitation.

All they want is to be close to their loved ones and protect them. Even the most aggressive or territorial members of the breed are incredibly gentle with family members.

Sometimes this is a problem, as they believe they can easily fit on their laps.

Imagine a 50 kg dog lying on your feet or just jumping on your chest. Another advantage of the breed is that they are able to endure loneliness, although they prefer to be with people.

Most often, owners have to deal with aggression towards strangers. The fact is that Rottweilers have a developed protective instinct and they are naturally distrustful of strangers. With the right upbringing, they are polite and tolerant, but still keep aloof with those they do not know.

Remember that even the most well-mannered will not tolerate strangers on their territory when the owner is not at home. And it doesn't matter if it's a relative or a robber.

Training and socialization is not just important, but it is the cornerstone of content. Without it, it will show aggression towards almost everyone whom it does not know well enough.

This is not a dog that quickly makes friends in the way that it is naturally very suspicious. However, most dogs gradually get used to new family members (spouses, roommates, etc.) and gradually become closer to them.

They are excellent watchdogs, they will not allow anyone to enter their territory while they are alive. Moreover, the glory of the breed is such that the very presence on the territory is a serious deterrent. This is one of the best guard and guard breeds, combining loyalty and territoriality.

Moreover, they first try to drive away and frighten the stranger, using violence only as the last argument. However, this argument is applied without hesitation when other means have ended.

How a Rottweiler will treat children depends largely on the character and upbringing. If they grew up with him, then this is their guardian and protector, a true shadow. But those dogs that do not know children may perceive them as a threat. In addition, they are very different in tolerance. Some allow to ride on themselves and endure when they are dragged by the ears, others do not tolerate the slightest rudeness. But even the softest dog can inadvertently hurt a child during play because of its strength. As a rule, it is not recommended to get these dogs in families where children are not yet 6 years old.

They also have problems with other animals. In general, they are not too aggressive towards other dogs, but some are exceptions.

This is especially true for males that cannot tolerate other males. But a dog that invades their territory will not be tolerated by any Rottweilers. If they grew up with another dog, they are friendly and calm.

With other animals, they are unpredictable. Most will chase and kill cats and other small creatures (squirrels, hamsters, ferrets).

Although their hunting instinct is not as developed as that of the Akita Inu, an unenviable fate awaits the animal that meets on the way. As for domestic cats, most of them calmly perceive them if they grew up together.

Combine the mind and the ability to train. Canine Intelligence Research Places Rottweiler in Top 10 Smartest Breeds, and often even in the 5-ke. In addition, they live to please the owner. If you do not take some specific tasks (search for a blood trail, for example), then there is nothing that he could not learn.

They are smart, obedient, catch on the fly and many trainers are happy to work with these dogs. Success in training rests on two pillars. Firstly, only those whom he respects will obey. The owner must be in a dominant position at all times.

Secondly, you need to spend a lot of time and effort on socialization. Then the dog will be calm, confident, obedient and strangers, smells, animals will not embarrass her.

But remember that even the friendliest can change their behavior greatly when the owner is not around! It is an instinct and cannot be defeated. It is best to keep them on a leash when walking, even in quiet and safe places.

This is an energetic breed, it needs a lot of exercise and activity. Owners should be prepared to provide at least an hour of active exercise daily, but more is better.

Rottweilers are able to work at full strength for hours, as long as the owner needs it. They need to find a way out of energy, otherwise they will find it themselves.

Destructiveness, aggressiveness, barking and other negative behaviors are often the result of boredom and excess energy. However, their load requirements are quite feasible and cannot be compared with breeds such as or.

An ordinary, urban family is quite capable of coping with them. An important condition is that it is better to load them physically and mentally, they are especially happy if there is a job. Remember, these are cattle dogs and they love work and activity.

Working qualities

According to the American Kennel Club, dogs of this breed naturally have a strong cattle drive and a strong desire to control. They have an attentive look, they are strong and efficient. Do not be afraid to use force and intimidation, barking.

This is especially noticeable when working with sheep, which they push and shove. You need to be careful when working with cattle, as dogs can get hurt with this behavior.

When the Rottweiler works with the herd, he looks for the dominant animal and takes control of it. Thus, he controls the whole herd. Farmers have noticed that they are especially successful with stubborn animals that simply ignore dogs like or. Rottweilers do not hesitate to use force to move the stubborn. They literally push or bite them.

They work very successfully with sheep, which are collected with ease and guided. If the dog works with the herd for a long time, then he gets used to it and does not resort to force until the herd obeys him.

In some cases, they are able to work even without prior training.

Care

Like all service dogs, it needs minimal grooming. No professional grooming, just weekly brushing.

Otherwise, the same things as for other breeds. The only thing is that all types of care need to be taught from a young age. Otherwise, you run the risk of getting a dog that hates having its nails cut. And it weighs 55 kg.

Otherwise, you run the risk of getting a dog that hates having its nails cut. And it weighs 55 kg.

Health

It is extremely difficult to describe the general health of the breed and life expectancy, as much depends on the breeder. Responsible breeders follow the recommendations of the organizations and conduct a serious selection.

In such kennels, dogs are healthy and do not have serious genetic diseases. But in general they are considered a healthy, strong breed.

Life expectancy is 8–10 years, but often 13–14. But this is only in healthy dogs, if they are with poor genetics, then the duration drops to 7 - 6 years.

Most often they suffer from problems with the musculoskeletal system. Dysplasia is the scourge of the breed, which is successfully fought abroad by conducting tests. By itself, dysplasia is not fatal, but leads to changes in the joints, pain and discomfort.

There are genetic tests that detect a dog's susceptibility to this disease, and in good kennels they are carried out, weeding out potentially affected dogs.

Mortality has not been studied, but it is believed that a high percentage of dogs die from cancer. Canine cancer is similar to human cancer and is characterized by the rapid development and growth of abnormal cells.

Its treatment depends on the type, location and degree of neglect, but in any case it is difficult and expensive. Among the common types of cancer in Rottweilers are bone cancer and lymphoma.

A less tragic but more common health problem is obesity. However, its consequences can be serious: problems with the heart, joints, diabetes, decreased immunity. Among the causes of obesity are always insufficient activity and excessive feeding. Remember that this breed is hard workers, able to tirelessly work for hours.

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The dog of the Rottweiler breed belongs to service breeds, it is distinguished by endurance, balanced temperament, and excellent working capacity. In addition, Rottweilers are excellent guards and defenders, they have a pronounced watchdog instinct. Feeling that his beloved owner or family members are in danger, the Rottweiler will fearlessly rush to the defense without hesitation for a second. Dogs of this breed have strong muscles, developed bones, good health, and can be trained and trained. With proper upbringing and properly organized training, which must begin at an early age, the Rottweiler will grow up as an obedient, manageable, full-fledged member of the family.

History of the Rottweiler breed

The history of the breed originates in Germany, where the first purebred representatives were bred. The breed was formed by crossing the ancient mastiffs, who took part in the hunt for wild animals, with local breeds of dogs. Some cynologists believe that Rottweilers are descended from Molossian Great Danes and Bavarian Herd Dogs. The name of the breed comes from the name of a small southern town in Germany - Rottweil. In those distant times, representatives of the breed were used for grazing cattle, but since dogs were distinguished by physical strength and endurance, they were used to transport goods over long distances. Rottweilers were later used as watchdogs and guard dogs. At the same time, the owners trusted and were so confident in the guarding abilities of their pets that they often hung a bag of jewelry around their necks when leaving home. The Rottweiler breed was formed in the second half of the 20th century and was officially registered in 1935.

Features of the Rottweiler breed

The color of Rottweilers is black and black, with pronounced red or fiery marks on the chest, legs, and under the neck. Also, in a Rottweiler, the tan should form two triangles - under the tail and on the chest. Tan must be at least 10% of the total color of the skin. The coat of Rottweilers is thick, rather hard, elastic. The undercoat is thick and rather soft. The coat is shorter on the head and legs, and there are featherings on the thighs.

The head of the Rottweilers is massive, with a convex forehead and a wide distance between the ears. The muzzle is broad, the back of the nose is straight, well-defined cheekbones. The nose is black. The ears are set high, hanging, of medium length, triangular in shape. The eyes are large, beautiful almond-shaped, dark brown or amber in color. The back is massive, the croup is slightly rounded or sloping. Rottweilers are medium or above average dog breeds.

Features of the character of the Rottweiler

The character of the Rottweiler is quite interesting, but at the same time has its own characteristics. Dogs of this breed are insanely devoted to all members of their family, but only one person is chosen as the owner, who is completely trusted. Rottweilers feel the change in the mood of the owners, they distinguish intonation well. These are highly intelligent, thinking dogs. They constantly try to attract attention to themselves, are touchy and sometimes jealous if the owner begins to show sympathy for other pets or animals.

Rottweilers are great protectors, but that doesn't mean no one can get close to you. Dogs show protective qualities if they feel that the owner is in real danger or only on command. But in order to raise an obedient and manageable dog from the first days of the appearance of a funny baby in your home, give proper education to your pet. If you think that you do not have enough knowledge and experience in training, entrust this process to professional cynologists, as dogs of this breed are quite capricious and sometimes stubborn. It is quite difficult to re-educate or wean a Rottweiler from bad habits, so you need to immediately make it clear to the Rottweiler who is the boss in the house and not allow the puppy to do what will be forbidden to him at an older age. This breed needs a firm hand and an authoritative upbringing.

Small Rottweilers begin to show their character and independence already at the age of 5-6 months and become especially naughty during puberty, so before this moment, do not miss the favorable moment for education. Rottweilers are good with children, but they may growl or show discontent if the child shows increased interest in the dog, especially at times when the Rottweiler decided to take a break. If you have small children, it is better to have a different breed of dog as a pet, besides, during the game, a large dog can accidentally injure the child.

To summarize the above, a Rottweiler is not suitable for people who lead a sedentary lifestyle or for those who do not have experience in communicating and raising dogs. Rottweilers are resolute, courageous dogs, however, not feeling authority from the side of the owner, they can be disobedient, and in case of improper upbringing or training, they become uncontrollable and dangerous. The price of purebred Rottweiler puppies is from 800 to 1200 dollars, while they can only be purchased in specialized nurseries. The Rottweiler male has a more independent and complex character, tries to show his leadership, but the Rottweiler girls are more obedient, balanced and calm.

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