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Characteristics, History, and Health
Rottweiler
The Rottweiler's origins can be traced back to the Roman Empire, where they were bred to herd livestock and pull carts laden with butchered meat to markets. They were also depended upon to protect their soldiers' food as they traveled around. Following the Romans' footsteps, Rottweilers migrated into what is now Germany. In the town of Rottweil, from which they received their name, these robust canines continued their work in herding livestock and pulling butcher's carts. They were known as Rottweil Metzgerhunds, or ""butchers' dogs."" After rail transport replaced cattle drives, the breed's popularity declined. However, Rottweilers saw a resurgence in the early 20th century due to their utility in police and military roles, as well as search and rescue missions.
Main Info
- Origin
- Germany
- Alternate Names
- Rottweil Metzgerhund (meaning "butcher's dog" in German), Rottie
- Life Expectancy
- 9-10 years
- Average Male Height
- 24-27 inches
- Average Female Height
- 22-25 inches
- Average Male Weight
- 95-135 pounds
- Average Female Weight
- 80-100 pounds
- Coat Length
- Short
- Coat Type
- Smooth
- Coat Colors
- Black & Tan, Black & Rust, Black & Mahogany
- Coat Pattern
- None
Genetic Predispositions and Health
Rottweilers can suffer from hip dysplasia, gastric torsion, elbow dysplasia, subaortic stenosis, progressive retinal atrophy, seizures, von Willebrand Disease, ectropion, entropion, cataracts, panosteitis, degenerative myelopathy, juvenile laryngeal paralysis and polyneuropathy, leukoencephalomyelopathy, myotubular myopathy 1, and neuroaxonal dystrophy. Cancer, particularly bone cancer, is more common in Rottweilers than in many other breeds.
Personality and Behavior
Rottweilers are often described as confident, calm, and courageous, with a self-assured aloofness. They are protective of their families and can be reserved around strangers. Despite their protective nature, they are often very gentle and affectionate with their families. Rottweilers are intelligent and highly trainable, but require a firm, calm, consistent handler. Early socialization and positive reinforcement training are crucial for this breed.
Fun Facts
The Rottweiler is the 8th most popular breed in the U.S. according to the AKC's 2021 rankings.
A Rottweiler named Duke is a character in the movie "The Secret Life of Pets" and its sequel.
Rottweilers have been used as search and rescue dogs, guide dogs for the blind, and police dog.
References
https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/rottweiler/
https://www.ukcdogs.com/Rottweiler
https://www.fci.be/en/nomenclature/ROTTWEILER-147.html
https://www.petmd.com/dog/breeds/c_dg_rottweiler
https://www.pawprintgenetics.com/products/breeds/193/
https://rottweilerhealth.org/
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