The Rottweiler arrived in Germany with the invading Roman armies.  They were used to guard and drive the livestock that formed the armies food supplies, and as the cattle herds were eaten, so the dogs were left behind.  Many reached Southern Germany and it is around the town of Rottweil that the Rottweiler flourished and developed into the dog we recognise today.  The town was for 1,800 years a centre for livestock trading and he became used as a butcher's dog, drover and draught dog in addition to his guarding skills being made use of.

Reasonably tall at 27", the Rottweiler is a compact and powerful looking dog, standing solidly and fearlessly.  He should be clam and self-assured, never nervous and although his guarding instincts are strong he should not seek confrontation, but if forced to will hold his own against any opponent.

His image has suffered in recent years because of his role as a fashion accessory to enhance a macho image.  The true Rottweiler nature is a long way from the dog of popular tabloid stories, but he is not a dog for the novice owner.  He needs firm handling to focus his instincts and ensure he knows his place in the family, and also the opportunity to use his considerable intelligence.  Popular as a police and security dog throughout Europe the Rottweiler is highly trainable and responds enthusiastically to obedience training.

A very simple coat to keep; always black and tan, the shortish coat can be kept fresh with a regular brush with a good quality bristle brush, and finished off with a polish from a chamois leather.  A dessertspoon of boiled linseed oil in his feed will make his colouring really gleam.  The Rottweiler is a great dog in the right home.

Click here to read the Rottweiler Breed Standard.

Rottweiler Breed Clubs

• BRITISH ROTTWEILER ASSOC
• LONDON & SOUTH EAST ROTTWEILER CLUB
• MIDLAND ROTTWEILER CLUB
• ROTTWEILER CLUB 
• SCOTTISH ROTTWEILER CLUB

Rottweiler Rescue

Contact a Breed Club. They should all be able to give you information about dogs requiring homes and procedures for re-homing; if you are in the unfortunate position of having to re-home your own pet, please go through breed rescue. They will not be judgmental and are best able to find the right permanent home for your dog.

Rottweiler Breeders

• Trudos 
• Tysar 
• Wharface
• Zorgs 
• Devonelite
• Dogneo
• Inkabijou 
• Monterrez 
• Tiggertoo 
• Tomain