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Rottweilers dog breed

Rottweilers are a large, loyal dog breed. Rottweilers were traditionally bred as working dogs but can thrive in a family home.

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Rottweiler dog breed information and advice

Are you wondering if a Rottweiler is the right dog for you? This dog breed guide is full of information to help you decide. We’ll cover everything from Rottweiler facts to Rottweiler traits and training. 

As a large and powerful dog, it’s best to do your research before you decide if a Rottweiler is suitable for your home and lifestyle. Read on to find out more.

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Rottweiler facts

Lifespan

8 – 10 years

How much

£600 – £1,500

Size

58 – 69 cm

Weight

34 – 60 kg

Colours

Black with markings that range from rich tan to mahogany

Grooming

Once every two to eight weeks depending on their lifestyle

Temperament

Devoted, loyal, intelligent, protective, obedient

Exercise

At least 90 minutes a day

Insurance for your Rottweiler

Whether you’re buying a Rottweiler puppy or adopting an older dog, the first thing on your ‘to do’ list should be pet insurance. Common Rottweiler health issues can happen at any age and will require treatment. 

Rottweilers are prone to developing conditions like:

  • Osteochondrosis (OCD)
  • Retinal dysplasia
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Cruciate ligament rupture
  • Osteosarcoma
  • Gastric Dilatation-volvulus

Dog insurance from Sainsbury’s Money can help with the costs of treatment.

How to care for a Rottweiler

Feeding, grooming, exercising and training all play a part in your Rottweiler's healthcare needs.

Feeding and nutrition

Rottweiler puppies have small stomachs and should be fed small amounts 3-4 times a day. Reduce to once or twice a day for an adult dog. The daily amount to feed your dog will be on the food packaging, where you’ll also find the nutrient contents. Ask your vet if you are unsure of the best diet for your Rottweiler.

Grooming

Rottweilers have a flat black and brown coat with coarse fur that requires minimal grooming. But they have a double coat that changes in thickness depending on the time of year which means that they do shed a lot. Brushing your dog regularly will help to remove the loose hairs from the undercoat.

You won’t need to bathe your Rottweiler more than once a month. Only bath your dog when they are smelly or very dirty. If you wash them too much, they will lose their natural oils.

Exercise

Rottweilers are an active breed that loves swimming, running and playing fetch. A Rottweiler’s exercise needs mean you’ll need to walk your dog for at least an hour a day but ideally more. Their love of exercise makes them excellent running buddies.

Training

Rottweilers have a quiet temperament and are very intelligent, making them an easy dog to house train. They’re quick to learn and eager to please, making them a pleasure to train. Even puppy toilet training is a breeze. However, early socialising and training are extremely important for Rottweilers as it can teach them to be calm.

Temperament and behaviour

Rottweilers are a devoted, loyal breed that forms strong attachments to their owner. They are protective of their family which can cause signs of aggression. They can sometimes have a bit of a temper and aren’t always keen on other dogs. But with training and socialisation, you can teach your dog that other dogs are friends and not a threat.

That being said, Rottweilers make good family pets. You may be surprised to find out that they can be quite playful when they want to be. Fetch is their favourite game, but they also love tug of war.

Are Rottweilers dangerous?

Rottweilers are a protective breed which is why they are often used as security dogs. If they feel under threat, or that their owner is under threat, they may become aggressive and this can lead to an attack. However, with training and socialisation, your dog will learn not to feel threatened. Properly socialised Rottweilers will have friendly and affectionate personalities. 

What’s a Rottweiler's life span?

The average lifespan of a Rottweiler is eight to ten years. Female Rottweilers tend to live a couple of years longer than males.

Do Rottweilers shed?

Despite having a short coat, Rottweilers are heavy shedders. They have a double coat which changes in thickness depending on the temperature. You can expect lots of shedding during spring and autumn when they are adjusting to the change in weather.

Is a Rottweiler a good family dog?

Rottweilers are intelligent, obedient dogs that have playful moments. These behaviours make Rottweilers good pets for children, but you should never leave a dog alone with a child. They are big, strong dogs, that can weigh up to 60kg. Accidents can happen even with the kindest of dogs.

So, is a Rottweiler right for you?

If you’re an active person looking for a devoted companion, the Rottweiler could be a perfect fit for you. Their loving personality makes them a dream to train. What more could you want from a best friend?

If you’re still unsure if this is the breed for you, read our frequently asked questions, which will hopefully answer all your concerns.

Frequently asked questions

How often should you walk a Rottweiler?

Rottweilers are energetic dogs built for an active lifestyle. This means they require lots of exercise, ideally one and a half to two hours a day. You should also find other ways to stimulate them, whether this is playtime, thinking games or interesting walks. 

Are Rottweilers legal in the UK?

Rottweilers are legal in the UK. While they are big dogs, a well-trained Rottweiler shouldn’t present much of a problem, even around strangers and other dogs. Like all dogs, you’re responsible for any harm that your pet may cause. 

Do Rottweilers like to cuddle?

Rottweilers are particularly fond of a cuddle with humans they know well and trust. However, like people, no two dogs are the same so your pet Rottweiler may have other ways of showing affection. On the whole though, Rottweilers are a very loving breed with those they’re particularly close to.