What Were Rottweilers Bred For? Original History, Jobs, and Role

Rottweilers originated from Rottweil, Germany, and are one of the oldest dog breeds, dating back to the 2nd Century. It is believed that during the peak of the Roman Empire, Rottweilers were used as herding and driving dogs. These dogs were bred purely for the use of humans, especially for herding, guarding livestock, and protecting cattlemen’s money. 

Later in history, during the First and Second World Wars, policemen used Rottweilers as a guard, messengers, draughts, and/or rescue dogs. 

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Today, Rottweilers are less commonly used as hunting dogs, as there are other more favorable breeds. Unless a Rottie is specifically trained to hunt, it will not naturally have the instinct. This is due to the fact their sense of smell is not great, and they are impatient dogs.

However, they do make good watchdogs! They are extremely loyal to their owner and because of this, they naturally will protect them.

Evolution and Origins of a Rottweiler

The Rottweiler is a breed of dog that originated in Germany. It is believed to have descended from ancient Roman herding and droving dogs, which were used to drive cattle to market. Over time, these dogs were developed and refined into the Rottweiler we know today.

The breed was named after the town of Rottweil in Germany, where they were used for a variety of tasks such as herding, guarding, and cart pulling. Rottweilers were also used as police dogs and guard dogs, due to their strength, loyalty, and intelligence.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the breed faced a decline due to the shift from cattle-based agriculture to industrialization. However, dedicated breeders worked to preserve the Rottweiler, and it has since become one of the most popular breeds in the world.

Today, Rottweilers are often used as family pets but also continue to be valued for their abilities as working dogs, including as police dogs and search and rescue dogs.

Rottweiler Introduction

Rottweilers are rather large, playful, and excitable dogs that are not recommended for first-time owners. They are a breed of working dogs, which means they are intelligent, easy to train, and very headstrong. Like most working dogs, if a Rottweiler is left untrained, he or she may become vicious or a danger to other dogs. 

Rotties appear quite large and stocky. They shed a large amount of hair in the spring and fall, and then a moderate amount the rest of the year. They have big heads, with small ears and a square muzzle. Expect a lot of drool with these dogs!

The Different Types Of Rottweilers And Rottweiler Mixes.

Types of Rottweilers

1. German Rottweiler
2. American Rottweiler
3. Roman Rottweiler

Rottweiler Mixes

1. Rottsky (Rottweiler x Siberian Husky)
2. Shepweiler (Rottweiler x German Shepard)
3. Golden Rottie (Golden Retriever x Rottweiler)
4. Rottle (Poodle x Rottweiler)
5. Weiler Dane (Rottweiler x Great Dane)
6. Rotthound (Rottweiler x Basset Hound)
7. Borderweiler (Border Collie x Rottweiler)
8. Labrottie (Labrador x Rottweiler)
9. Pitweiler (Pitbul x Rottweiler)
10. Saint Weiler (Saint Bernard x Rottweiler)
11. Rotterman (Rottweiler x Doberman)
12. French Bullweiler (French Bulldog x Rottweiler)
13. Mastweiler (Mastiff x Rottweiler)
14. Boxweiler (Boxer x Rottweiler)
15. Reagle (Beagle x Rottweiler)

Rottweiler Fun Fact!

Trains almost made Rottweilers extinct. This is because back before trains were invented, Rottweilers were the main form of transport for goods. When the train was invented, people saw no purpose for Rottweilers anymore and stopped breeding them. Thankfully people came to their senses and realized these beautiful animals had more purpose than working on farms.

3 Pros And Cons Of Owning Rottweilers.

The Best Food For A Rottweiler

Obesity is very common in Rottweilers, so it is important to feed them high-quality food without empty calories. The fewer ingredients listed, the healthier and more nutritious the food. Aim to include 22 – 26% protein in their diet, from whole protein sources such as duck, chicken, or lamb. Active adult Rotties should consume about 2,000 calories per day to maintain weight.

An active Rottie puppy should consume 800-1000 calories. If your dog is inactive, feed them ⅔ of these amounts. It is important to keep your dog fit so it can be around for a long time. Since Obesity can be an issue, it can be beneficial to feed your dog a low-fat diet as well, depending on their activity level.

That’s why we say that the best dog food for Rottweilers is Wellness CORE grain-free dry formula.

Best Holistic Food

Wellness CORE Grain-Free Original

• Made with optimal protein levels and calorie content
• Expertly balanced to produce a complete diet
• Contains omega fatty acids, antioxidants, glucosamine, and probiotics
• Non-GMO ingredients

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It includes omega fatty acids for healthy skin and coat and prebiotics and probiotics to support digestive health. Since it’s grain-free, it can also help if your dog has developed some allergies.

Disclaimer: Since 2018, the FDA has researched the link between grain-free diets in dogs and a specific type of canine heart disease called canine dilated cardiomyopathy, or DCM. The FDA named 16 brands of grain-free dog food (some of which have non-grain-free options, but specifically their grain-free options) that have been linked to DCM, the one mentioned above not included. The FDA struggles to determine what about that food causes the problem, but the links are too common to ignore. Initial glances indicate that the FDA warns about grain-free diets in general, naming those aforementioned 16 brands specifically, but stopping short of approving other brands. For more information, click here.

Size And Weight Of A Rottweiler

A Rottweiler is medium to large in size. An adult male will weigh between 90 and 135 lbs and will grow to a height of 24-27 inches. An adult female will weigh between 80 and 100 lbs and will grow to a height of 22-25 inches. Rottweilers are not fully grown until 2 – 3 years.

Rottweiler Common Health Issues

Generally, Rottweilers are a healthy breed, however, like most dogs, especially purebred dogs, they have several health issues. These issues include:

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

Eye issues are very common in Rotties, especially PRA. PRA is when the photoreceptors in the back of the eye begin to fail and eventually result in complete blindness. First, your Rottie will struggle with their night vision, and then they will struggle to see in the daylight, and eventually be blind. Unfortunately, there is currently no successful preventative or treatment for PRA in dogs.

Hip Dysplasia

Hip Dysplasia is very common in large, heavy dogs. It is when the hip joint and thigh bone become separated and does not sit flush with each other. Signs your Rottie is suffering from hip dysplasia include reduced mobility, tenderness, and discomfort when walking. To prevent hip dysplasia, ensure your dog is at a healthy weight and include supplements in their diet such as antioxidant vitamins C and E, as well as minerals.

Aortic Stenosis

Aortic stenosis is when the left ventricle of the heart has difficulty pumping blood through the aorta (which pumps blood all around the body), and this results in the heart having to work twice as hard, exhausting the organ.

There are no symptoms of aortic stenosis, which means your dog could have a heart attack and you were completely unaware of their conditions. However, some tests can be carried out such as an EKG and chest x-ray which can help catch the issue in time. It is recommended you get one of these tests performed on your Rottweiler yearly.

Cataracts

Cataracts are another common eye issue in Rottweilers. This is when a dog’s eyes turn a cloudy color, which prevents light from reaching the retina and results in blindness. Cataracts can be hereditary or caused by diabetes. 

Rottweiler Temperament

People misjudge Rottweilers and assume they have vicious and unfriendly personalities. Like every dog, if trained to be dangerous, they of course will be. But in general, they express gentle and kind-natured traits. They are very intelligent dogs, and because of this, they can be easily trained and disciplined. However, if left untrained or unsocialized, Rotties will adopt their own habits and rules, which may lead to aggressive behavior with other dogs. 

Rottweilers have extremely loyal personalities, which is important to keep in mind. It is important to introduce them to children and other dogs when they are puppies so that they will adapt and become used to them.

Rottweilers require a lot of time and attention. They cannot be left alone for too long or they will suffer from separation anxiety. They are also ‘leaners’, which means when they greet you, they will most likely lean their body against you hoping for some attention.

How To Take Care Of A Rottweiler

Rottweilers are not a breed for first-time dog owners. They require a lot of maintenance and training.

Maintenance and Grooming.

Rotties have a short, shiny coat that requires some attention to maintain that shiny, healthy look. It is recommended to brush your Rottweiler once a day with a rubber curry brush, as this type of brush gently removes and collects any loose hairs that are shedding. You should bathe your Rottie 4-6 times a year (depending on how muddy your dog is) with a specific dog shampoo. And finally, you should brush their teeth once a week to prevent any dental issues.

Training

Rottweilers require extensive training from a young age to ensure they will be safe and trustworthy around other animals and people. Due to their extreme intelligence, it isn’t too difficult to train them, however, it still requires time and dedication. Rotties do have a slight stubbornness to them, so it is important to nip this in the bud as a puppy!

Exercise

Rotties are full of energy, and to expel some of this energy, they must be given up to two hours of exercise daily. All forms of exercise are great for rottweilers, but especially when playing fetch, as they can be continuously running, and you get to relax while they do so! If you have a large backyard, this is perfect for a Rottie, as they are free to run and tire themself out. It is not recommended you adopt one of these energetic breeds if you live in an apartment.

Rottweiler Puppies

On average, a Rottweiler litter can have between 6 and 12 puppies. These puppies will have bursts of energy, and then need some rest to reboot their batteries! Two or three 20-minute walks each day are enough for a Rottweiler puppy.

It is important to begin training these puppies from a young age. Encourage good behavior with rewards.

Rottweilers And Children

Rottweilers are excellent family pets, especially with children. They are very protective, and also gentle which makes them ideal for a household with kids. They are very patient animals, which is an important trait for a dog to have around young children.

Dog Breeds Similar To Rottweilers

Some breeds that are similar to Rottweilers include the Doberman Pinscher, Cane Corso, and Bullmastiff.

Doberman Pinscher 

The Doberman Pinscher is similar to a Rottweiler in looks and personality. They are the same height and color, but a lot leaner than a Rottie. They are also full of energy and are a great family dog.

Cane Corso

The Cane Corso is an extremely loyal guard dog. He will protect his family at any cost! They have the same size and frame as a Rottie and are just as intelligent as one.

Bullmastiff

A Bullmastiff is an excellent alternative to a Rottweiler if you do not have as much free time to exercise them. Bullmastiffs are an extremely lazy breed, however, they are also very protective of their family.

Popular Names For Rottweilers

• Bear
• Rocky
• Thor
• Millie
• Titan
• Freya
• Riley
• Teddy
• Roxy
• Duke

Famous Rottweilers

Rotties are a very popular breed in the US due to their gentle nature and protective traits. Here are some famous Rottweilers that appeared on TV or are owned by celebrities:

1. An unnamed Rottweiler appears in the movie, Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, towards the end of the movie when Ferris’ principal attempts to break into his house, but is greeted by an overprotective Rottie.
2. The movie ‘The Omen’ which was released in 1976, is a horror movie that features many Rottweilers. In this movie, the devil gives a young boy a Rottweiler for protection.
3. Geronimo – owned by Bruno Mars
4. Indo, Tyson, Zhaki, and Gracie – four Rotties owned by Will Smith

The photo featured at the top of this post is © nicolas.fontana/Shutterstock.com