The Rottweiler is often the first choice for anybody looking for a large guard dog either for protecting their property or for enhancing their macho image. While the Rottweiler is the perfect dog for either purpose, problems will quickly arise if you underestimate the moral and legal responsibility that goes with Rottweiler ownership.
Rottweilers have a very strong protective/ aggressive instinct. Although the degree varies to some degree among individual dogs, a Rottweiler will act instinctively to defend its master’s home and property from intruders; whether real or perceived. Your pet will often not be able to distinguish between a back-slapping greeting of a close friend, the bear-hug greeting of a family member or the hostile advances of an intruder. A Rottweiler who does not know the difference between your brother and a burglar can be exceedingly dangerous.
To prevent this from happening, it is important that you introduce your Rottweiler to immediate family and close friends. Rottweilers must be carefully schooled to accept your so-called inner circle. However, physical contact should be approached carefully till the dog accepts the individual without a trace of doubt. No matter how well you may know a person, ensure that NOBODY, whether known or unknown, walks into your yard unannounced if that person has not been accepted by your pet. Your pet is likely to instinctively spring up in defense of your home and property. Although Rottweilers do not typically bite without undue provocation, even being cornered by one can be unforgettably unnerving for anyone who is at the other end, whether it is the delivery man, the meter man or a neighbor passing by.
If you have to go out of town, it is vital to make sure that whoever is expected to be in contact with your dog is thoroughly familiar with your pet and is accepted by him as one of the family.
Early obedience training and socialization plays a big role in training your Rottweiler to differentiate between real danger from real intruders and a perceived threat from family and friends.
