Rottweiler Puppies

Photo of Rottweiler

A sweet, devoted, and playful breed

Despite their reputation, Rottweilers are loving, affectionate, and confident family dogs. They are large, muscular, and courageous, but not overly aggressive. Early training and socialization make Rottweilers very desirable family dogs.


Rottweiler At a Glance

Photo of Rottweiler Photo of Rottweiler Photo of Rottweiler Photo of Rottweiler

Rottweiler At a Glance

  • Size: 22"-27", 85-130 lbs.
  • Lifespan: 10-11 years
  • Energy Level: medium
  • Coat: Short, smooth, and shiny
  • Shedding: moderate
  • Hypoallergenic: No
  • Dog Group: Working
  • Common Nicknames: Rottie

Rottweiler Breed Guide

Learn More About Rottweilers

  • Temperament

    The Rottweiler is a confident, alert, and self-assured breed with a very strong work ethic. Rottweilers are affectionate with family but tend to be aloof with strangers, although they should never be aggressive without cause. This is not a very excitable breed and is more calm and observant than hyperactive. Rottweilers need firm and consistent training. It's important that Rottie owners establish clear leadership early on. Otherwise, a Rottweiler may try to boss their owner around. When properly trained and socialized, Rotties do well with children, but typically only if they are raised with them during puppyhood. The same goes for other dogs and pets. With family, though, Rottweilers are affectionate, devoted, and protective.

  • Health

    As with most larger breeds, some Rottweilers can struggle with Hip Dysplasia. They also have some hereditary conditions that you should keep an eye out for, including osteosarcoma, parvovirus, and dilated cardiomyopathy.

  • Activity Level

    Rottweilers are high-energy and should receive about an hour of exercise every day to maintain their weight and happiness. They make great hiking companions, and having a place to swim is always an added bonus. Having a fenced-in yard is very beneficial so they have room to run around and play games with their family.

  • Grooming

    The Rottweiler's short coat requires minimal grooming to look its best. Weekly brushing is a great way to deal with shedding and will keep their coat looking glossy. Wiping them down with a damp towel is a great alternative to bathing, but they should be given periodic baths. They have fast-growing nails that should be trimmed regularly.

  • Shedding

    They are moderate shedders, and you can expect them to shed a little bit year-round. Regular brushing is recommended to manage regular shedding, and shedding tools are helpful during the months that they blow their undercoat.

  • Appearance

    Rottweilers are large and compact with broad chests and muscular legs. Their double coat is wiry and medium length and is usually black with mahogany accents. Their tail is usually docked, and their ears hang down close to their cheeks.

  • History

    The Rottweiler descends from mastiff-type dogs that were used to drive and guard herds of cattle alongside Roman troops during long marches. During the marches, the Roman dogs bred with local dogs across Europe, which laid the foundation for the Rottweiler. The resulting dogs were strong, muscular, and used by butchers to drive cattle to market and pull carts. However, once motorized vehicles became more prominent, there wasn't much need for Rottweilers anymore. Luckily, a breed club for Rottweilers was formed in 1901 in an attempt to revive the breed. Over time, other countries began to appreciate Rottweiler's strength and working abilities. The breed had arrived in the United States by 1931 and was recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in the same year.