The Rottweiler breed's history truly helps the interested and/or potential owner
fully comprehend the beauty and grace behind this striking dog. Understanding
how a breed has come to be developed, we can embrace that breed's strengths and
weaknesses with knowledge and confidence.
The Rottweiler's early origin
is thought to be descended from the Roman Molossain (the origin of many of
today's dog breeds) and more specifically the early Italian Mastiff. The Roman
Empire used this breed for its herding abilities, as it was customary for the
legions to travel with live cattle for food due to the lack of refrigeration.
One of the routes traveled by the Roman Legions passed thru the German town of
Wuberg and the small market town of Rottweil.
This region eventually
became known as an important cattle area, with a strong dependence on the
intelligence and strength of the Rottweiler for all of its herding duties.
Whether directing the cattle to butcher or to market, the breed's intense work
focus as well as its imperviousness to pain proved itself well suited to the
demands of the day. Called the Rottweiler Metzgershund (meaning Butchers Dog of
Rottweil) these dogs were not only employed to herd cattle, but were
heavily relied on to protect both the cattle and the finances of the
cattle owner as they often carried the owner's purse around their necks. They
were also quite adept at this time for tracking, hunting wild boar, guarding
livestock and property as well as an all around companion dog.
By the
1800's the breed realized a serious decline in numbers; to the point that by
1900 only one female could be found in the town of Rottweil. It is thanks in
part to the determined efforts of breeders and enthusiasts of the early 20 th
century that the breed was brought back. The impact of the first World World War
certainly added to their resurgence due to the need for a "natural weapon of
war". The Rottweiler's ability to take orders, his enormous strength and
incredible intelligence obviously well suited the breed once again for action.
From that period of time until today, the Rottweiler has its appeal with
many people. In 1935 the breed was officially recognized by the AKC. There
exists some debate as to the difference between the "German lines" verses the
"American lines" of the Rottweiler. The German lines are said to be stockier,
more compact with a blockier head. The American lines are believed to be taller,
leggier and displaying a leaner head style. The styles and standards differ
slightly between the American and the German Kennel Club's as well, with the
German requiring a much more stringent adherence to specifics.
In recent
years, the Rottweiler has received a great deal of negative publicity. This is
partially due to indiscriminate breeding practices, and more importantly due to
negligent human practices. Unscrupulous breeders have produced dogs with highly
aggressive tendencies and some owners have used a Rottweiler to boost a failing
or non-existent sense of machismo. Do not allow these sorts of viewpoints to
prejudice you against such a loving, loyal and intelligent breed.
Temperaments between Rottweiler's vary….much depending on the genetics
and care provided by the original breeder, as well as the selection of
parentage. Even within the litter itself, the temperament of the pups can vary
from the "eternal puppy" to the "big bully" to the "little work-horse". Many
Rottweilers' display almost a clown like attitude and disposition, with a great
deal of gaiety and joyfulness within their family unit. Never underestimate this
attitude however, as a Rottweiler can be just as stubborn and determined,
requiring the same gentle firmness as with any toddler or teenage human. A
common statement among Rottweiler aficionados is: "A Learning Rottweiler is a
Happy Rottweiler". Truly, a well trained and responsive Rottweiler can provide
the right owner with a lifetime of joyous companionship.
Proper
socialization is crucial from puppyhood! Rottweiler's can be the best of
family dogs if provided a broad yet supervised exposure* to outside stimuli.
Socialization with other animals and a wide assortment of people will help teach
your Rottweiler puppy not only how to behave, but more importantly: how to
react. A well socialized Rottweiler puppy will learn which situations warrant
concern and which ones are to be warmly embraced. Clear, consistent instruction
on behalf of the family will help your puppy learn what are his/her
expectations, duties and requirements.
Remember: A Rottweiler is
considered to be quite easy to train, often requiring only 10-12 repetitions and
praise to succeed at any new skill. However, in absence of any direction a
Rottweiler will provide himself with an activity or skill. This could
easily turn into destructive, irritating and even dangerous behaviors due to
their very size and intelligence. Many an owner has returned home to discover
that the family couch has been destroyed, the kitchen turned inside out, and the
refrigerator opened and emptied. A Rottweiler must always have an
activity, a job, and a duty to fulfill.
Seldom active indoors,
Rottweiler's enjoy a broad range of outdoor activities. (A real bonus for those
of you who prefer the outdoors!) Swimming, running, hiking, long walks, ball
retrieving….the list goes on. They truly enjoy as much outdoor activity as
possible. Rottweilers do not tend to leave their people or roam; however
precautions must always be taken when in the potential presence of other dogs,
strangers, and especially children. A securely fenced yard can provide your
Rottweiler a wonderful place to run free, and physically interact with you in a
game of Frisbee or catch. Remember too, that a Rottweiler will consider his
family, his yard and his home as his property. These things will be as fiercely
guarded as they are loved. When out and about in public a good leash with proper
leash skills instilled at a young age will provide both you and your Rottweiler
many proud moments of sincere affection. This breed needs a great deal of
socialization and companionship in order to be truly happy.
A Rottweiler
will thrive if embraced within the family environment. He seeks your approval
and affection, and will work with the family as a unit. As early as possible,
instructions need to be regularly provided with proper boundaries set. Care must
be taken to ensure that the instruction be dispensed with firm, positive
interaction, and all aggression or physical punishment avoided. A Rottweiler
will respect and imitate that which he/she is shown. Firmness and consistency is
a must, often required for the duration of his/her lifetime. Aggressiveness,
corporal punishment, and physical threat is never acceptable and is the leading
cause of adult Rottweiler's turned into local shelters for euthanasia. This has
become sadly the conclusion for many a Rottweiler that began life with so much
endearing potential. Due to their enormous strength a Rottweiler that shows
aggression should be evaluated by a professional trainer and behaviorist
immediately.
Many people notice quite early that a Rottweiler is
extraordinarily affectionate. He may have been bred for guard dog duties, and
indeed still excels in this category. However, the love and interaction of his
family is of primary enjoyment to any Rottweiler. Due to their attention to
duty, they can easily be taught to sit quietly by in any office or living room,
gently observing the family throughout the day. If provided with healthy outdoor
time and exercise, a Rottweiler can spend countless hours at the family side.
Simple manners taught at a young age help instill healthy respect and gentle
compatibility. A Rottweiler will often seek his owner's affection with a gentle
nudge to the elbow or hand, and many are quiet "talkers"….mellow murrs and puffs
to communicate that it is time for the daily walk or to leave for work. Although
a large breed, with strong guard dog skills, a Rottweiler can easily become an
indoor pet suited for the family, home office employee, or individual. If he/she
is provided with a healthy schedule, work duties, and physical expectations, a
Rottweiler will heartily embrace almost any living style.
Although
Rottweiler's have shown that they can be tremendous family pets, care must
always be shown with young children. Due to their size, and the tendency for
children to be unaware of their behaviors and the messages they can
inadvertently send, never leave a dog….any breed of dog….with children
unattended. This is only logical and caring for both your child(ren) and your
canine friend. Remember to teach your new puppy and your children proper
manners from day one, and you too can have a lifetime of pleasant family
memories!
*Please talk with your personal veterinarian as to proper
vaccination and immune system protection during the early weeks of
socialization.
» left by Chris from Clarion Pennsylvania (1 year 238 days ago.)
I own a Rott and i love him to death. biggest lap dog/ teddy bear your ever find. this site helped with a research paper : ) Respond to this comment
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