Rottweiler
- Powerful
- Loyal
- Athletic
- Calm
- Brave
Rottweiler History
The exact history of the Rottweiler is not documented. The most commonly accepted belief is that they are a descendent of a large mastiff-type herding dog used in Ancient Rome as drover dogs.
During the Roman invasion of Germany these dogs accompanied them as they were excellent for herding and protecting cattle and were extremely loyal. Thereafter theywere bred in the German town of Rottweiler in Wurttemberg, hence the name Rottweiler.
Rottweiler Characteristics
They are a large breed, muscular and powerful dog with a short thick coat. They have distinctive colouring mostlyblack with tan markings on the cheeks, muzzle, paws and legs.
These versatile dogs are used in a variety of disciplines including herding, guarding, search and rescue, guide dogs for the blind, police work, carting and competitive obedience.
Rottweiler Health Issues
Rottweiler’s have an average life span of 10 -12 years.
Common Illnesses include;
- Cancer – The leading cause of non-accidental death in Rottweiler’s today. Osteosarcoma, cancer of the bones is the most common.
- Hip/Elbow Dysplasia – Genetic conditions that cause abnormal development of the elbow and hip joints in young dogs. This can lead to early onset degenerative joint disease
- Heart Disease – Sub Aortic Stenosis, a genetic defect resulting in narrowing of one of the outflow vessels of the heart.
- Osteochondrosis Dissecans (OCD) – A condition resulting in abnormal cartilage or bone development. It will cause early onset osteoarthritis if not treated.
- Cruciate Disease - Rupture of the cruciate ligament in the knee causing lameness.
- Entropion - Excess eyelid tissue causing the eyelashes to turn inward and rub against the surface of the eye resulting in corneal ulceration.
- Ectropion – Condition in which one or both lower eyelids roll outwards. As a consequence the eyelids do not provide sufficient protection to the eyes and eye infections occur.
- Prone to obesity and obesity related diseases.