Although there is no specific, documented history regarding the origin of the Rottweiler, it is commonly accepted that the breed originated with the drover dogs of ancient Rome. The Roman army used drover dogs to herd cattle along their route as they proceeded to conquer most of Europe. The city of Rottweil, having been influenced by the Romans, continued to use drover dogs to herd their cattle even after the armies had receded. In the early 1900s, Rottweilers began to be known for their skills as police dogs, replacing their prior standing as cattle dogs. In 1921, the Allegmeier Deutscher Rottweiler Klub (ADRK) was established and took over the registration efforts for purebred Rottweilers. The club remains in existence to this day.

Purebred Rottweilers are black with tan markings on their face, chest, and legs. They are muscular dogs and require extensive physical exercise. Once fully grown, they are usually quite large and powerful. Male dogs can range in size from 95 to 135 pounds, with the females a slightly smaller 80 to 110 pounds. Rottweilers can be strong-willed and aggressive, so choosing the right puppy through careful research and ensuring that puppy receives proper obedience training at an early age are keys to a successful, long-term relationship. Owners will want to establish proper training well before their dogs reach the bulk of their full-grown size and become harder to control. Owners of Rottweilers should also be prepared for shedding, gassiness, slobbering and drooling – all common traits within the breed.

Rottweilers are extremely loyal and intelligent dogs. Rottweiler dogs should be vaccinated and receive annual booster shots to retain their immunities. In addition, they should be checked for fleas and be given anti-worm medication every three months. Their nails should be trimmed every few weeks or as needed. Bathing and brushing should also only be done when necessary. Rottweilers, like any dog, should be fed a high quality dog food and treated to regular exercise. When properly cared for, Rottweilers can be expected to reach an average life expectancy of 10 to 12 years.

Rottweilers are susceptible to some health problems. Hip dysplasia is one common malady. Symptoms of hip dysplasia include trouble walking or standing and lameness. Hip dysplasia is normally a genetic trait, but the condition can be exacerbated by the dog being overweight. Elbow dysplasia is similar to hip dysplasia in that it is most often a genetic disorder, however this problem develops in the dog’s elbow joint. Other health disorders that have been known to occur within the Rottweiler breed include Osteochondrosis Dissecans – a bone disorder causing arthritis and lameness, Paneosteitis – also commonly called “growing pains”, Von Willebrand’s Disease – a bleeding disorder much like hemophilia, bloat, heart disease, allergies, eye diseases, epilepsy, hyppthyroidism, and cancer.

Rottweilers have received some bad press in recent years and may not be the right fit for everyone, but people interested in dogs who are loyal companions, intelligent, protective, good with children, active, and require little to no grooming should consider the breed.

This article was provided by Adriene Whare from Pet-Super-Store.com, a place where you can find great dog products like pet fences and pet doors.