What you should know about the Rottweiler
The Rottweiler is a large-sized domestic dog. These canines were referred to as Roitweil butcher dogs because they were commonly used to herd cattle and pull carts full of butchered meat to the market. Though this canine is ideal for herding livestock under any condition it is currently used for many purpose due to its versatility. The history of this breed goes back to the ancient Roman Empire. Actually most people believe that the dog is a descendant of ancient Roman drover dogs that were rugged, dependable and very intelligent.
These Roman canines were basically used to keep large herds of cattle together as the Romans travelled around the world in their quest to conquer Europe.Rotteillers have a black coat with clearly defined markings. It has a medium-sized skull that broadens between the ears. The forehead line is mildly arched without being highly conspicuous. This canine has a well developed nose that is broader than round with relatively large nostrils that are always black. The ears are pendant, triangular, wide apart and set high on the head. Since the ears tend to lay forward close to the head the canine often seems to have a broadened head.
The Rottweiler is mild-mannered, very biddable, devoted and eager to work. It has a natural and rustic appearance with a self-assured, steady and fearless disposition. Rottweillers respond to their surroundings with great alertness.
It rarely lends itself to immediate and general friendships. These canines usually adopt a wait-and-see attitude to influence its environment. It has an inborn desire to protect home and family which makes it an ideal companion. Though the dog is average in aggressiveness it is also highly territorial and rarely allows strangers it its territory.
Rottweillers are basically a disease-free healthy breed; however just like most large canines they are likely to develop hip dysplasia. As a result these dogs should be taken for x-ray testing regularly. The canines are also affected by osteochondritis dissecans, a condition that affects the shoulder and joints due to the rapid growth of the breed. Rottweilers are highly prone to cancer which is often the cause of their early death, at the same time for unknown reasons these dogs tend to be more susceptible to parvovirus which normally affects them when they are young.
A Rottweiler should be well exercised and not overfed in order to avoid obesity. Running in open country or in the woods is considered ideal for this canine since it rarely strays away. Basically you can never give these canines too much work or exercise as they thrive on it. If the dog is well socialized, it will accept other pets such as cats or other dogs. It can also make a good playmate for the children.