They are big, macho and intimidating, and for over four years now they have been one of the most popular registered breeds according to the American Kennel Club. They are the Rottweilers; large, strong and to be honest, pretty complicated as far as pets go.
Do Rottweilers lack social skills?
If they do, it is because you haven’t done your job as their owner. The Rottweiler requires a great deal of socialization and obedience training as early in life as possible. Their dominant nature and aggressive tendencies must be tempered at a young age if you are to keep them from becoming out of control, destructive and dangerous.
The good news is that the Rottweiler reacts well to obedience training and when it is offered, socialization comes easily to them. Training sessions are a comfortable environment for them because it means they are allowed to spend quality time with their owners, something that the Rottweiler enjoys very much.
The most important thing – in fact it is the first thing – you must do with your new Rottweiler is to establish yourself as the dominant or ‘Alpha’, because if you don’t do so your dog is more than happy to take on the role for itself.
Aren’t Rottweilers vicious?
Despite the number of negative reports in the media with regards to Rottweilers, they are not a vicious breed so long as they are properly trained and socialized. While they do have a bad reputation due in no small part to their aggressive nature when provoked, their attitude is a direct result of their environment and the conditions under which they were bred.
For that reason, it is imperative that you purchase your registered Rottweiler only from a reputable breeder who follows safe and responsible breeding standards.
Are Rottweilers okay to be around my children?
It depends. If you bring a Rottweiler puppy into your home and it receives adequate socialization and training, it will most likely see itself as one of the children and there will be no problems. The tolerance levels will vary though, as each dog has its own distinct and individual personality.
Regardless of their training, Rottweilers should always be watched when they are around small children as their natural herding traits may cause them to inadvertently bump or push your child causing potential injury, however unintentional.
I have other pets. Will a Rottweiler work for me?
It may not be a good idea to introduce an adult Rottweiler into a home with existing animals, but a properly raised Rottweiler that was brought in as a puppy should not have many problems. It may be best to introduce the animals outdoors in a neutral territory to first gauge their responses.
What about Rottweiler health?
While Rottweilers are a hearty breed, they are genetically predisposed to several health problems. If you acquire your Rottweiler from a reputable breeder, they will be able to provide you with the medical history of your new pup’s parents. Regardless, you should always visit your veterinarian regularly to ensure the continued health and wellbeing of your Rottweiler.
Are Rottweilers noisy?
For the most part, Rottweilers are observers, taking in everything they hear and see quietly. They can and will bark, but usually only when annoyed or startled. In that way they aren’t all that different from people, are they?
