Rottweiler
The Good
- Excellent guard instincts
- Minimal grooming requirements
- Strong and enduring
- High intelligence
- Patient with children
The Real
- Requires socialisation
- Tendency to dominate
- Not suitable for constant outdoor living
- Cannot tolerate being alone
Gallery
Breed Overview
The Rottweiler is a magnificent working dog that commands respect wherever they go. Standing 56-68 cm tall and weighing between 36-61 kg, these powerful canines are descendants of the mastiffs that accompanied Roman legions. Don't let their imposing appearance fool you though - beneath that muscular exterior beats the heart of a devoted family companion.
Rotties, as they're affectionately known, are incredibly intelligent dogs with a natural protective instinct. They're the kind of mate who'll follow you around the house, content just to be near their favourite humans. Their short black coat with distinctive tan markings requires minimal fuss, making them surprisingly low-maintenance for such a substantial dog.
In Australian homes, Rottweilers adapt well to families who understand their need for mental stimulation and consistent training. They're particularly popular with experienced dog owners who appreciate their loyalty and working heritage. While they're gentle giants with proper socialisation, they do mature slowly - reaching full maturity around 18 months to 2 years.
These dogs thrive in environments where they have a job to do, whether that's protecting the family property in regional Queensland or being a devoted companion in suburban Melbourne. Their weather tolerance is excellent for most Australian climates, though they'll appreciate shade during Perth's scorching summers and might need a coat during Canberra's chilly winters.
History
History
The Rottweiler's story begins in ancient Rome, where their ancestors worked alongside legions as drover dogs, helping move cattle across the vast empire. When Roman forces conquered what is now Germany, these hardy working dogs remained behind, eventually settling in the town of Rottweil (originally "Rote Weil").
Local butchers and farmers quickly recognised the breed's value, using them to drive cattle to market and even trusting them with their day's earnings - they'd hang money pouches around the dogs' necks, knowing no thief would dare approach such a formidable guardian. The dogs were so reliable that they became known as "Rottweiler Metzgerhund" or "Rottweil butcher dogs."
As industrialisation changed farming practices and railways replaced cattle drives, the breed nearly disappeared. By the early 1900s, Rottweilers were so rare that only one female could be found in Rottweil. Fortunately, their exceptional qualities as police and military dogs sparked renewed interest.
The breed's renaissance came when a police officer successfully used his Rottweiler to control a crowd of unruly soldiers without violence - just the presence of this well-trained dog was enough. This incident highlighted their potential in law enforcement, leading to their adoption as police dogs throughout Germany.
The first Rottweiler club was established in Stuttgart in 1921, where breed standards were developed that remain largely unchanged today. The breed eventually made its way to Australia, where they've found their place as both working dogs and beloved family companions.
Traits & Characteristics
Rottweiler characteristics and temperament traits.
Caring Guide
Rottweilers are generally robust dogs, but like many large breeds, they're prone to specific health conditions that Australian owners should be aware of. Hip and elbow dysplasia are common concerns - these joint malformations can cause lameness and require ongoing management through weight control, joint supplements, and sometimes surgery.
One serious condition to watch for is gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV) or bloat. This life-threatening emergency occurs when the stomach fills with gas and twists, cutting off blood flow. Symptoms include restlessness, drooling, an enlarged abdomen, and retching without vomiting. If you notice these signs, get to your nearest emergency vet immediately - time is critical.
Rottweilers are also predisposed to osteosarcoma, an aggressive bone cancer that's unfortunately common in large breeds. Early detection is crucial, so any unexplained swelling, lameness, or pain warrants immediate veterinary attention. Heart conditions, including subaortic stenosis, can also affect the breed, making regular cardiac screenings important.
Eye problems like entropion, where eyelids curl inward causing irritation, are relatively common and typically require surgical correction. Some Rottweilers may also experience neurological conditions like epilepsy, which can be managed with medication.
Regular veterinary check-ups are essential for early detection of these conditions. Many Australian Rottweiler owners find pet insurance worthwhile given the breed's potential health expenses. Maintaining a healthy weight through proper diet and exercise is one of the best preventive measures you can take - obesity exacerbates many health problems and puts additional strain on joints and organs.
Feeding a Rottweiler properly is crucial for their health and longevity, especially given their propensity for weight gain and bloat. These dogs are notorious for their hearty appetites, so portion control is absolutely essential. Choose a high-quality commercial dog food appropriate for their life stage - puppy formulas until 12 months, then transition to adult food.
Rottweiler puppies should eat three to four smaller meals daily to prevent hypoglycemia and support their rapid growth. Adults do well on two meals per day, which also helps reduce the risk of bloat compared to one large meal. Always measure portions according to your dog's weight, age, and activity level - your vet can help determine the right amount.
To prevent life-threatening bloat, avoid elevated food bowls and don't exercise your Rottie immediately before or after meals. If your dog gobbles their food too quickly, consider a slow-feeder bowl to encourage more leisurely eating habits.
In Australia's varied climate, fresh water should always be available, especially during hot weather in places like Darwin or Perth. During summer months, you might notice your Rottweiler drinking more - this is normal, but sudden changes in appetite or water consumption warrant a vet visit.
Some Australian owners find omega-3 supplements beneficial for coat health and joint support, particularly as their dogs age. Joint supplements containing glucosamine and chondroitin may also help prevent arthritis, though these should only be introduced under veterinary guidance. Remember, if you're feeding a complete commercial diet, additional vitamins are usually unnecessary and can sometimes be harmful.
Here's some good news - Rottweilers are surprisingly low-maintenance when it comes to grooming! Their short, double coat might fool you into thinking they don't shed much, but trust me on this one - you'll want to invest in a good vacuum cleaner. They shed consistently year-round with heavier periods typically in spring and autumn.
Weekly brushing with a firm bristle brush or rubber grooming mitt will help manage the hair around your home and keep their coat healthy. During shedding seasons, daily brushing becomes your best friend. The good news is that their coat naturally repels dirt, so they only need baths when they're genuinely dirty - like after a muddy adventure in the Blue Mountains or a swim at your local beach.
Pay special attention to their ears, which can trap moisture and debris due to their folded shape. Clean them weekly with a veterinary-approved solution to prevent infections - this is particularly important in humid areas like Brisbane or Darwin. Their nails grow quickly and need trimming every 2-3 weeks; a grinding tool works well for these substantial claws.
Dental care is crucial - brush their teeth at least three times weekly with dog-specific toothpaste. Never use human toothpaste, as it's toxic to dogs. Many Australian vets recommend annual dental cleanings under anaesthesia once your Rottie reaches 2-3 years old.
During your grooming sessions, check for any unusual lumps, bumps, or skin irritation. Rottweilers aren't particularly prone to skin problems, but early detection of any issues is always best. In Australia's sunny climate, dogs with darker coats like Rotties are less prone to sun damage, but they can still overheat, so always provide shade during grooming sessions outdoors.
Rottweilers are intelligent, eager-to-please dogs that absolutely thrive with consistent training and adequate exercise. These aren't couch potatoes - they need at least 60 minutes of activity daily to stay mentally and physically satisfied. In Australian homes, this might mean morning beach walks along the Gold Coast, afternoon hikes in the Adelaide Hills, or energetic play sessions in your backyard.
Start training early and be consistent - these dogs mature slowly and can be quite stubborn if you let them get away with bad behaviour. Positive reinforcement works beautifully with Rotties; they're sensitive to your tone and respond much better to praise and treats than harsh corrections. Socialisation is absolutely critical - expose your puppy to different people, places, and situations from day one.
Due to their protective nature and size, proper leash training is essential, especially in busy areas like Sydney's Inner West or Melbourne's CBD. They're naturally reserved with strangers, which makes them excellent watchdogs, but this trait needs careful management to prevent overprotectiveness.
Rottweilers excel at various activities - many Australian owners enjoy agility training, tracking sports, or even carting. These activities tap into their working heritage and provide excellent mental stimulation. Swimming is fantastic exercise, particularly during hot Australian summers, and most Rotties take to water readily.
Remember, a bored Rottweiler can become destructive. Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise. Puzzle toys, training sessions, and having a job to do (even if it's just carrying the newspaper) will keep your Rottie happy and well-behaved. In suburban neighbourhoods, ensure your fencing is secure - these powerful dogs can easily push through weak barriers if motivated.
Who is an ideal owner?
Rottweilers aren't the right fit for everyone, and that's perfectly okay. These magnificent dogs need owners who understand their unique requirements and can provide consistent leadership. If you're considering a Rottweiler as your first dog, I'd honestly suggest gaining experience with smaller, less demanding breeds first.
The ideal Rottweiler owner is someone with a strong, calm personality who can establish themselves as a fair but firm leader. These dogs test boundaries, especially during adolescence, so you need patience and consistency. Experience with large, working breeds is invaluable - Rottweilers require a different approach than your average family pet.
You'll need adequate space - while they can adapt to apartment living in places like Sydney or Melbourne with sufficient exercise, they're much happier with a secure backyard where they can patrol and play. Time is another crucial factor; Rottweilers are "people dogs" who don't cope well with long periods of isolation. If you work long hours or travel frequently, this isn't the breed for you.
Financially, you need to be prepared for potential health expenses. These dogs can require costly treatments for joint problems, bloat, or other conditions. Many Australian owners find pet insurance essential. You'll also need to budget for quality food - large dogs eat substantial amounts, and Rottweilers do best on premium diets.
Active individuals or families who enjoy hiking, camping, or beach activities will find Rottweilers excellent companions. They're particularly well-suited to rural properties where they can fulfill their guardian instincts. Families with older children often do well with Rotties, though proper supervision and training are always necessary around any large, powerful dog.
Interesting facts about the Rottweiler
Interesting Fact
Rottweilers were nearly extinct by the early 1900s - at one point, only one female could be found in their hometown of Rottweil
Interesting Fact
Medieval butchers trusted these dogs so completely that they hung money pouches around their necks for safekeeping while travelling to markets
Interesting Fact
A single police officer with a well-trained Rottweiler once successfully dispersed a crowd of unruly soldiers without any violence, leading to the breed's adoption in law enforcement
Interesting Fact
The breed played a crucial role in developing Russia's legendary Black Russian Terrier during the Soviet era
FAQ
Absolutely! Rottweilers make excellent family dogs when properly trained and socialised from an early age. They're naturally gentle with children and incredibly loyal to their families. Just remember they need consistent leadership and aren't suitable for households that can't provide adequate training and exercise.
Rottweilers need at least 60 minutes of exercise daily, but they'll happily take more. This should include both physical activity like walks or swimming and mental stimulation through training or puzzle games. A tired Rottie is a well-behaved Rottie!
Yes, they do shed quite a bit despite their short coat. Weekly brushing helps manage the hair around your home, with daily brushing needed during seasonal shedding periods in spring and autumn. They're definitely not hypoallergenic dogs.
While possible with dedicated owners, Rottweilers are much happier with yard space. If you're in an apartment, you'll need to provide extensive daily exercise and mental stimulation. They're large, powerful dogs that benefit from having room to move and patrol.
Rottweilers handle Australia's varied climate reasonably well. Their dark coat means they can overheat in extreme heat, so provide plenty of shade and water during hot summers in places like Perth or Darwin. They may need a coat during cooler winters in Melbourne or Canberra.
Beyond the initial purchase price, budget for quality food ($80-120 monthly), regular vet care, potential health issues, and pet insurance. Large breeds like Rottweilers can have expensive medical needs, so many owners find comprehensive pet insurance worthwhile.