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Rottweiler
Breed Stats
Coat Type:
Short, stiff and glossy coat
Grooming Needs:
Shedding:
Good With Kids:
Good With Other Animals:
Intelligence:
Easy To Train:
Energy Level:
Barking Habits:
How Do You Adopt a Rottweiler?
Possibly the most recognizable breed in the Western world, Rottweilers are the textbook definition of a guard dog. They have an incredible bite force that measures around 328 pounds per square inch (PSI). While they can be a handful both physically and mentally, Rottweilers are one of the most beloved breeds for very good reason.
Due to their popularity, it is not impossible to find purebred Rottweilers or crossbreeds at your local shelter. If you choose to go through a breeder, the price will range anywhere from $1,500 to 2,500. Bear in mind that certain show dogs or Rottweilers from prestigious pedigrees may go for quite a bit higher than what is listed.
The Rottweiler is one of the oldest breeds in the Western world, tracing their ancestry back to the days of Ancient Rome. Famous for accompanying traveling legions through rugged terrain, the Rottweiler has been man’s best friend for a millennium or two. They have served in countless positions since then, including military, police, guard, and service roles.
In the United States, the breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1931. By the 1990s, it was declared the world’s most popular dog. It has lost its lofty spot at the top since then, but the Rottweiler is a mainstay in the top 10 most sought-after breeds. If you are in the market for a Rottweiler, you are in good company.
What goes into owning a Rottweiler, though? With a dog as daunting and strong as this popular pooch, there are obvious guidelines and advice that should be adhered to before making a purchase. If you want to learn how to adopt a Rottweiler and a brief summary of what goes into caring for one, look no further!
How to Care for an Adopted Rottweiler?
Dogs are universally a reflection of their owners, whether we like it or not. If you get a Rottweiler, its personality will be what you make it. Contrarily, if you are adopting an older dog set in its ways, it will be much more difficult to get it acclimated.
Because of their propensity for destruction when left alone, minimizing separation anxiety is highly recommended to calm them and keep your furniture in one piece. We have been a bit hard on Rottweilers in this article, but they are brilliant students and can be trained very quickly once they get used to the routine.
You will need to train them. They are a large dog with a high prey drive, a protective nature, and the ability to cause tragic accidents. Get them used to other animals and enroll them in an obedience class. They should be getting roughly an hour of time outside or thirty minutes of higher-intensity exercise.
When it comes to grooming, they will need to be brushed a few times a week. They do not shed as heavily as some, but their double coat will leave trails if owners are not regularly looking after it. For nutrition, it can range widely from two to four cups of high-quality dog food daily. Speak to a local vet or the breeder for more specific information on what your dog will need.
Diets can vary depending on a dog’s age, health, exercise, and more.
Is It a Good Idea to Adopt a Rottweiler As Your First Dog?
While it is not impossible for a first-time owner, it is a challenge that can be time-consuming and potentially very dangerous. Rottweilers are powerful animals; if one decides to show off its aggressive streak, it could injure you or a loved one. Because of this, it is generally recommended that first-time owners opt for another breed unless they are willing to take on the risks.
They have a high prey drive and if not properly trained, may take your arm with them the next time they see a squirrel. The breed requires diligent training and early socialization with dogs, humans, and other pets if they will be exposed to them. Because of the size and strength of the breed, it is not wise to find out if they like other people when they are full-grown and set in their ways.
Speaking of, it is incredibly important that you meet the dog before adoption. Take note of how they act around other dogs and you, and see if they have the temperament to fit your lifestyle. Similarly, take time to find a breeder that is worthwhile and vetted. Some “breeders” get into the business for quick cash and leave a lot of dogs in intolerable living situations.
These animals deserve a good home as much as any other, though a Rottweiler in unfavorable living conditions could be a real handful for anyone, experienced or not.
To make matters worse, some Rottweilers have a destructive streak that can cause considerable issues to your home. A disdain for isolation can lead to self-soothing behaviors, such as chewing through doors, knocking over trash cans, or destroying furniture. Rottweilers are lovable heart melters, but an animal as powerful as a Rottweiler will need a knowledgeable and patient owner.
Adopt the Right Rottweiler for You
If you have some experience with larger dogs and know how to acclimate one to your home, where to find basic obedience training, and how to socialize them, you should be good. If you cannot make a Rottweiler an active part of your life, it can quickly become one of the biggest stressors in your life.
If you give them time, training, and regular exercise, there are no superior breeds, only equals. The Rottweiler is whip smart, deeply loyal, cuter than most of creation, and quietly alert. They will perform admirably as guard dogs, watchdogs, service animals, or even an oversized lap dog. Just ensure that you meet the dog before adoption, and get to see its personality.
