The Rottweiler and its Fascinating Ancient Origins – The Rottweiler is one of the most robust and versatile dog breeds, known for its strength, loyalty, and intelligence. Standing tall and possessing a muscular build, these dogs are deeply protective and affectionate towards their families. Their striking black and tan or black and rust coat, coupled with a confident demeanor, make them excellent guard dogs and loving companions. Highly trainable and eager to please, Rottweilers excel in various roles, from working dogs in police and military roles to gentle therapy dogs. Their best attributes, however, lie in their unwavering loyalty and affectionate bond with their owners.
Ancient Origin
Archeological finds of the ancient Roman territories have yielded remains and artifacts that closely resemble the modern Rottweiler breed. The Romans drover dogs are thought to be descendants of the ancient Greek Mollosion breed, a powerful and versatile breed of the Greek mountain tribes. Prized for their size and strength. They were used as hunting, guard, and war dogs. They ranged in size from 100 – 200 pounds, and stood 2 – 2.2 feet tall at the shoulder. These dogs were eventually spread by the Romans as they colonized Greece and moved across Europe.
Drover Dogs
During Roman military campaigns they needed to bring their food sources with them along their journey. To accomplish this task they used large drover dogs which were well suited to herding cattle over vast distances. This vital resource needed to be protected along the way, so not only did the drover dogs herd the cattle, they also were also used to guard them from predators and theft.
Definition: A drover dog is a type of herding dog specifically used to drive livestock over long distances. Unlike some herding dogs that work closely with livestock to guide them, drover dogs are typically used to move animals from one location to another, often over great distances, like from pasture to market.
Rottweil Germany
By the 1st century The Roman Empire had established the Germanium Provinces along the Rhine River, and later in 73AD established the town of “Arae Flaviae,” which later became known as Rottweil. “Rott” referring to the color of the red roof tiles, and “weil” meaning villa.
The dog breed which the Romans brought to the area later became synonymous with the town and came to be known as the Rottweiler Metzgerhund, or “Butcher’s Dog.” Aside of their natural ability to guard and herd cattle, these loyal animals were also adept at pulling heavy carts with meat and goods, which made them an indispensable companion of the butcher.
Side note:
When I was first introduced to the breed almost 40 years ago, I remember telling my mother, who was born in Austria and later immigrated to the United States, about this wonderful dog breed that I had fallen in love with called the Rottweiler. She didn’t initially recognize the name. When I finally brought my first Rottweiler home my mother exclaimed, “Oh! You meant “The Butcher’s Dog!” She proceeded to tell me how many of the butchers in Austria and Germany had dogs like this when she was growing up as a child in the 1920’s & 30’s.
Isn’t it interesting how the traits of these ancient breeds have been passed down through history? Rottweilers continue to be a loyal, powerful, hardworking and versatile breed today!
Temperament
The temperament of a Rottweiler is the most important trait. A combination of strength, loyalty, and intelligence make the Rottweiler a beloved breed for both work or companionship. Rottweilers are bred to have a special personality suited to the work that they have performed throughout history. They should exhibit the following characteristics:
- Loyalty: Rottweilers develop a deep sense of loyalty to their families or handlers. They can be very protective (even without being trained to be that way)
- Confidence: These dogs are very self-assured and exude confidence and courage when faced with challenges.
- Intelligent: Rottweilers are highly intelligent and quick learners. This makes them excellent working dogs, capable of performing a variety of tasks, from herding to protection.
- Protective: Their protective nature makes them excellent guard dogs. They are naturally wary of strangers and will often act to protect their home and family.
- Good Natured: Despite their imposing appearance, Rottweilers can be very gentle and loving with their families. They are known to be affectionate and enjoy spending time with their loved ones.
- Strong Work Ethic: Historically used as working dogs, Rottweilers have a strong drive to work and excel in roles that require physical and mental activity.
- Steady and Calm: They are generally calm and composed, not prone to excessive barking or hyperactivity. This makes them reliable and stable companions.
Physical Traits and Breed Standards
Organizations that recognize the Rottweiler breed have slightly differing philosophies on breeding and standards. The AKC (American Kennel Club) generally has a stronger focus on show and suitability as a companion dog.
The ADRK (Allgemeiner Deutscher Rottweiler-Klub, English translation: General German Rottweiler Club) has a stronger focus on working desire and ability as well as health. This is probably the main reason why so many people desire a so-called “German Rottweiler.” Pure bred Rottweilers are a German breed, regardless of where they are bred, but those bred to meet ADRK standards hold the breeder to more exacting aesthetic, performance and health requirements.
Please refer to the specific organization’s websites for the complete breed standards. You can follow the links provided below or refer to our resources page for other useful information.
Stature
Height: Males range from 24 – 27″ Females 22 – 25″
Proportion: the body should not be more than 15% longer than the height at the withers.
Head: The head should be strong and powerful with a broad skull and dry forehead (not a lot of wrinkles)
Markings: Black and rust, or black and tan with defined markings.
Temperament: Self-confident and strong willingness to work. (The AKC also describes the breed as good natured, and fearless.)
Refer to the actual breed standards for more details.
Some considerations before owning a Rottweiler
- Training: The Rottweiler is a great breed and can be a fantastic guardian, work dog, or family companion. But they are not for everyone! This is a powerful and intelligent breed, if the animal is not socialized and doesn’t learn it’s boundaries through proper training it can become a disaster waiting to happen! Do yourself and your Rottweiler a favor and train your dog, or seek professional help to do so. Socialization and training is a MUST!
- Grooming & Care: Rottweilers are relatively easy to care for but they can be moderate shedders. A healthy diet combined with regular brushing will help keep the house clean and have them looking good too!
They have dark nails which can present an issue since you cannot see the quick. Many Rotties are very sensitive about have their feet worked touched so get them used to clipping early. I’ve found that if you can get them used to the Dremel it does a great job and can be safer. One of our big boys that didn’t like having his nails touched was persuaded with a team effort and a supply of treats. He eventually became so fond of the practice that he would roll over on the floor when he saw the Dremel come out! - Health Concerns: There are several diseases associated with this breed. It’s recommended that breeders screen for the following:
- Hip Dysplasia
- DNA Test for Juvenile Laryngeal Paralysis & Polyneuropathy (JLPP)
- Cardiac Exam
- Elbow Exam
- Ophthalmological Evaluation
- Activities: Being such an intelligent and highly trainable dog, the Rottweiler loves to be challenged and learn new skills. They want to please their owners but at times can be a little stubborn. This breed excels at obedience training, tracking, protection and guard work. For that reason they are one of the breeds that is well suited to compete in obedience competitions, or Schutzhund Trials. Schutzhund is a dog sport which tests competitors on their obedience, tracking, and protection ability. Dogs that perform well in Schutzhund Trials are well suited to the rigors of police, military, obedience and disaster work. Checkout: https://americanschutzhund.org/ for more info.
Another sport suited to the strength and size and temperament of this breed is drafting, also known as carting. You can search for information online bout getting into the sport or finding carting competitions. It’s highly recommended that basic obedience be mastered before trying to introduce this new activity.
If you’ve found this information interesting or helpful, or have something to add, please leave a comment below! Thanks for reading!
