
One of the oldest hunting breeds, Rottweilers have a rich heritage behind them. It is only now that their reputation has taken a slight beating, no thanks to the humans who have maligned it. Here’s more on this adorable breed of dogs.
The mention of Rottweilers, or the fact that you own one often elicits varied responses, ranging from a very heartfelt “Awww…“, to a genuinely concerned “Oh!“.
Rottweilers, quite like the Pit Bulls, have unfairly garnered a reputation that couldn’t be more unlike them. Their formidable looks, intimidating gait, and hunting dog legacy has made them a favorite target of people who train them for dog fighting. Regular owners of Rottweilers have also been accused of training these dogs to be unrestrained with their aggression, causing these dogs to be in the news for all the wrong reasons.
So, let’s leave all the bias behind, and reintroduce ourselves to this gem of a pet, who is so goofy and lovable, that you’d go out and bring one home right away.
Interesting Facts About Rottweilers
Their Origins
Rottweilers, or Rotties, as they are fondly called, are originally from Germany. Their name comes from a small German town called Rottweil. The breed’s history dates back to the times of the Roman Empire.
Their Appearance and Size
Appearance-wise, Rottweilers are usually black in color with distinct tan markings on the cheeks, muzzle, over the eyes, chest, and legs. Their coat is short, straight, and of medium length. Male Rotties weigh around 90 to 130 lbs while a female’s weight is between 80 and 110 lbs.
Their Personality
Rotties are playful and goofy dogs, quite contrary to the various opinions doing the rounds. As they belong to a hunting breed, a sense of protectiveness comes naturally to them. It is this very trait that causes their undoing, but only if they are not properly socialized right since a young age.
Being working dogs, they are happiest when they are working, which is why Rotties make excellent additions to police teams, search and rescue operations, and even as therapy dogs.
Their Litter Size and Life Expectancy
On an average, the litter includes 8 to 12 puppies, but note that larger litters have also been recorded. Rottweilers live up to the age of around 8 to 10 years.
Other Facts
Owners of Rottweilers often say that their beloved pet is extremely playful and loves to cuddle. In fact, there have been several first-hand experiences of owners who say that their Rottie is something of a clown.
Despite their size and weight, Rotties tend to think of themselves as lap dogs, and actually tend to plonk their heavy selves on to their owner’s laps whenever they get all lovey-dovey.
Also, they are prone to a peculiar problem of gas.
They are also big on drooling, which happens due to the way their jaw is set.
Rotties are inherently loving and loyal. Provided they are correctly trained, they are extremely safe to have around babies, young children, specially-abled, and elderly as well.
Domination comes naturally to Rotties. It is therefore important to have complete knowledge about the training tactics used to discipline them.
Rottweilers do shed hair, so potential owners should not be fooled by their short coat. Grooming them and regularly brushing their coat will keep this issue in check.
German Rottweilers are actually stockier and muscular as compared to their American counterparts.
Throughout history, our faithful and dependable Rotties have guarded shops, herded cattle, pulled supplies carts, and ferried money to the banks.
Its “reputation” notwithstanding, Rottweilers remain one of the most popular dog breeds in America.
There is a well-documented story about Jake, a two-year-old Rottie in England, who heroically rescued a woman from an assailant who was molesting her. Jake’s bravado earned him recognition from the RSPCA.
It is heartbreaking to see how human laxity in training Rottweilers results in their aggressive behavior, and ends up soiling the image of these animals. Where on the one hand we have legislations banning Rottweilers, we also have heroes like Jake and many other Rotties who exemplify all that we need in a good pet.
Isn’t it time we give the respect and love that is due to this wonderful breed? Considering how much love the Rottweilers have to offer us, it would certainly be a tiny gesture of kindness on our part.