Johnson County Animal Clinic

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Breed of the Month
May Dog: Rottweiler

The Rottweiler is believed to be a descendant of the drover dogs of ancient Rome. As the Roman Legions advanced into Central Europe they were accompanied by herds of sheep and cattle. During this time period for an army to move it had to bring it's own food and supplies. Butchers, wheel-wrights, blacksmiths, carpenters, many people of every trade and skill were necessary to equip and maintain this city on the move. The mastiff-type drover dogs served as escorts to the herds and guardians of the camp. One of the Legion's campsites was on the banks of the Neckar River at a place which became known as Rottweil. The encampment at Rottweil lasted a particularly long time. In fact, the village derived it's name from the red tile roofs that were built by the Romans. As a legacy of their presence, the Roman Legions left their impact not only on the name of the village, but established a cattle industry in the area - as well as the drover dogs to accompany these herds.

Throughout the mid-1800's the cattle trading market flourished in Rottweil. The Rottweiler Metzgerhund (butcher dog) had the capabilities to drive the cattle to market and to guard their owner (and his purse) on his way home. Between the growth of villages into cities and the development of railway systems - the massive cattle drives to city markets ceased to exist. The Rottweiler (as he became known) suffered a major decline in popularity.

Early in the 1900's this breed experienced a rebirth of popularity, when Rottweilers were found to be more than adequate as police dogs and family guardians. In 1931 Rottweiler were admitted to the AKC Stud Book, and gained full recognition by the AKC in 1935.

CHARACTERISTICS AND TEMPERAMENT
The Rottweiler is a medium-large, powerful dog. His compact and substantial build denotes great strength, agility and endurance. On average, males will range from 95 to 135 lbs and 24" to 27" at the shoulder. They are more massive throughout with larger frame and heavier bone than bitches. Bitches will range from 80 to 100 lbs and from 22" to 25" at the shoulder. Animals can be found which are taller or shorter than these measurements, however, they are not considered typical by the breed standard.

The Rottweiler is ALWAYS black, with clearly defined markings on cheeks, muzzle, chest and legs as well as over both eyes, that range from tan to deep mahogany. His coat is straight, coarse and of medium length, with an undercoat varying in degree based on climatic conditions. Please note, Red, Blue, White, Liver are NOT RARE Rottweiler colors; they are unacceptable colors and most likely the result of interbreeding Rottweilers with other breeds of dogs.

The Rottweiler is a calm and self-confident dog, who has an inherent desire to protect home and family. Personality may range from highly affectionate to extremely aloof. He is not shy nor highly excitable. He is an intelligent and highly trainable dog. He is also very much a companion, often following their family members from room to room in the home. Because of his size and strength, it is imperative that he receive proper socialization and obedience training from an early age. Nervous, shy, excitable or hyperactive individuals are exhibiting traits which are undesirable in an animal the size and strength of the Rottweiler and should be avoided.

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