Rottweiler dog portrait

Rottweiler

Powerful guardian, softie at home.

Working group Germany Large
Lifespan9-10 yr
Weight36-61 kg
Height56-69 cm
OriginGermany

The Rottweiler is a large, powerful working breed that is calm, confident and deeply loyal to its family. With early training and socialisation it is a steady guardian and a gentle companion at home.

Great points

  • Loyal and devoted to its family
  • Confident, calm and steady
  • Short, easy-care coat
  • A natural, capable guardian

Things to consider

  • Needs experienced, consistent training
  • Powerful, so socialising is essential
  • Large appetite and vet costs
  • Short lifespan and joint risks

The story

Descended from Roman drover dogs left behind in the German town of Rottweil, the Rottie drove cattle and guarded the butchers' money pouches. Loyal and powerful, it thrives with a confident owner and a clear purpose.

Training

Rottweilers are intelligent and eager to work, but their strength demands early socialisation and firm, fair, reward-based training from puppyhood.

Grooming

The short double coat needs only a weekly brush, with a little more during seasonal sheds. Easy upkeep overall.

Food & diet

Around 4 to 6 cups of large-breed food a day. Manage puppy growth carefully to protect the joints.

Exercise

Moderate but consistent. Daily walks and a task to do, since a bored, untrained Rottie is a real handful.

Health to watch

Hip and elbow dysplasia, heart disease (SAS), bloat and cancer. Choose health-tested parents.

Fun fact. Rottweilers were among the first guide dogs and still serve in police, search and rescue, and therapy roles.

Frequently asked questions

Are Rottweilers dangerous?
No more than any large breed when raised responsibly. A well-bred, socialised and trained Rottweiler is calm and steady, but the breed's power means good ownership matters.
Are Rottweilers good family dogs?
Yes, with the right owner. They are loyal and affectionate with their family and good with children they are raised alongside, but they need early socialisation.
Do Rottweilers need a lot of exercise?
A moderate amount, around an hour a day, plus mental work. They are calmer than many working breeds but still need a job to stay content.

Essential gear for the Rottweiler

A few breed-right basics for a new Rottweiler.

Crate

42" dog crate

Right-sized for a large dog, cozy not cramped.

View pick
Bed

Large orthopedic bed

Joint support, sized to a large frame.

View pick
Grooming

Grooming brush

Regular brushing for a healthy coat.

View pick
Food

Large-breed formula

Joint and growth support for big dogs.

View pick

These are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. It never changes what we recommend.