Rottweilers

The Rottweiler is a slow maturing dog that develops into a very smart, loyal companion that is very powerful. This is not a dog for everyone and is generally recommended for those who are experienced owners.

 

Brief Historical Summary

 

The Rottweiler is considered to be one of the oldest breeds of dog.

Its origin goes back to Roman times when these dogs were kept as herder or driving dogs. They marched over the Alps with the Roman legions, protecting the humans and driving their cattle.

At the beginning of the 20th Century, various breeds were needed for police service and the Rottweiler was recognised as one of the breeds that could satisfy the requirements of police work.

General Appearance

The Rottweiler is a medium to large size, stalwart dog, neither heavy nor light and neither leggy or weedy. The Rottweiler is a compact and powerful dog that has great strength, agility and endurance.

Characteristics

Rottweiler breeders aim to breed dogs of abundant strength, black coated with clearly defined rich tan markings, whose powerful appearance does not lack nobility and which is exceptionally well suited to being a companion, service and working dog.

Temperament

Behaviour and character. Being good natured, placid in basic disposition and fond of children, the Rottweiler is devoted, obedient and eager to work. The Rottweiler's appearance is natural and rustic, his behaviour is self assured, steady and fearless. The Rottweiler reacts to its surroundings with great alertness.

Faults

Any departure from the breed standard is a fault.

However, the most serious faults are these:

• Distinct reversal of sexual type, ie. female dogs or masculine bitches;
• Anxious, shy, cowardly, gun-shy, vicious, excessively suspicious, nervous animals;
• Different coloured eyes, entropian (eye lid to large), ectropian , yellow eyes;
• Overshot or undershot bite, missing incisors, canines, premolars or molars;
• Long or wavy coat;
• Dogs that do not show the typical Rottweiler colour markings or black and tan (ie. white); and
• Dogs that suffer from hip displasia or poor movement.