Rottweiler

Rottweilers are classed as "working dogs" by most kennel clubs. Despite the utilitarian name of that group, all but a minority are kept as pets (companion dogs) nowadays. Some still find employment in guard and rescue work, and as cart-pullers, and cattle herders. All well-bred specimens, however, retain the qualities that made them suitable for the traditional work that Rottweilers were selectively bred to perform.

History of the breed

This breed was probably originally bred to herd cattle. The usual legend told of the origin of the Rottweiler is that the ancestors of the breed were the Roman legion's cattle drovers- in particular dogs that were left in what was the Roman Provinces in Germany, in about 200 AD. Since canine genes bestowing the physical appearance of the Rottweiler can be procurred from the right mix of other dogs, whether or not these German dogs that so resemble some of the art work depicting dogs in Ancient Rome are direct descendents or not is not proven. However, there is no doubt that this breed was found in , and that in the town of , extensive Roman ruins have been unearthed.

The dog was bred in Germany in the early part of the 20th Century, but even there it was not as established as the German Shepherd Dog (called also the Alsatian) or Doberman Pinscher, especially for police work. In the USA, the American Kennel Club (AKA) first registered the breed in 1931.

Robust and muscular, these dogs are not squat. They are large, but not giant. Rottweilers show what is called sexual dimorphism, there are “two forms”, one each sex (or gender). Male Rottweilers are not only generally taller and heavier, but there is a difference in the facial features. Female Rottweilers are not delicate, but do have a more feminine appearance than males.

A black coat with red-brown markings in a characteristic mask is a hallmark of the breed. There are three accepted shades of the reddish contrasting color: Mahogany, Rust, and Tan.

Field Tests

Although Rottweilers are not classed as herding dogs, they are often able to be trained to be good herd dogs, and are eligible for field competition in livestock herding by the AKC.

A dangerous dog?

Rottweilers are very strong animals that can easily knock a resisting person, even a full-grown and muscular man, to the ground. This strength, in combination with a protective and territorial temperment, combine to make the dog an excellent watchdog, as well as rescue dog – with the right training.

However, Rottweillers appeal to some people who enjoy a macho image, and irresponsible owners have even been known to encourage menacing behavior in their dogs. A good and typical specimen of the breed has the physical power of body and limb to bring down a human being, a lacerating bite, and an instinctual capability of attacking large prey in a lethal manner, Rottweillers pose a danger that such dogs as small terriers and Labrador Retrievers do not.

External Links

• American Kennel Club: Rottweiler Breed Standard
• American Rottweiler club