BreedQuestBreedsWorkingRottweiler
Rottweiler

Rottweiler

A calm, confident guardian — steady of nerve, devoted to its family.

At a glance: Descended from Roman drover dogs, the Rottweiler is powerful, intelligent and naturally protective, yet calm and affectionate with its own people. It needs early socialisation, firm kind training and a confident owner — a well-raised 'Rottie' is a steady, gentle companion.

Vital stats

SizeLarge · 56–69 cm
Weight35–60 kg
Life expectancy9–10 years
EnergyModerate-high — 60+ min/day
SheddingModerate, year-round
CoatShort double coat · black with tan markings
GroupWorking · FCI №147 / AKC

Breed traits

Friendliness

Affectionate with family
Good with children
Good with other dogs
Openness to strangers

Care

Shedding level
Grooming effort
General health
Drooling

Mind

Trainability
Energy level
Barking
Guarding instinct

Temperament

Bred to drive cattle to market and guard the proceeds home, the Rottweiler carries centuries of working judgement: watchful, self-assured and slow to startle. With its family it is affectionate to the point of clinginess; with strangers it observes first and decides later. Give it structure, work and leadership, and its steadiness is remarkable.

BreedQuest census: The butchers of Rottweil trusted their dogs so completely that they tied the day's takings in a purse around the dog's neck for the walk home.

Habits & quirks

The Rottie lean

Fifty kilos of guardian pressed warmly against your legs — an ancient droving habit turned love language.

The doorway audit

It settles where it can see every entrance; nothing crosses the threshold unlogged.

The rumbling purr

Contented Rottweilers produce a low grumble easily mistaken for growling — it's the breed's happy noise.

Velcro shadowing

Guardian breeds guard best at close range; expect an escort between rooms.

Care

TrainingBegin socialisation and obedience in puppyhood and never stop — a Rottweiler's power demands lifelong good manners.
ExerciseAn hour or more daily, plus a job: carting, obedience, tracking or nosework keep mind and muscle honest.
HealthScreen for hip and elbow dysplasia and heart conditions; keep it lean to spare the joints.
FeedingMeasure meals and grow puppies slowly — rapid weight gain stresses a heavy-boned frame.

How much should I feed a Rottweiler? →

Common questions

Are Rottweilers dangerous?

Not by nature — they're calm and steady when well bred and socialised. Like any powerful breed, temperament comes down to breeding, training and responsible ownership.

Are Rottweilers good with children?

Yes with their own family, when raised together — they're affectionate and protective. Supervise around small children given the size and strength.

How much exercise does a Rottweiler need?

At least an hour a day of walks and purposeful activity, plus mental work. A bored, under-exercised Rottweiler is a large problem in the making.

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