Breed Specific: Rottweilers, a True Family Dog

Rottweilers, aka Rotties, are gentle giants, originally bred to be family protectors.

Personality and General Features: Rotties can be aloof and self-assured with the outside world, however, with their loved ones, they are playful and silly, considering themselves a lap dog. Train them early and well to direct their territorial instincts in a positive way. You don’t want a dog this big and muscular that’s not under control!

Males – Height: 24-27 inches              Weight: 95-135 pounds

Females – Height: 22-25 inches          Weight: 80-100 pounds

Feeding/Treats/Weight: Discuss an appropriate diet with your veterinarian. As with most breeds, some dogs are prone to weight gain, so watch calorie consumption. Treats can be an effective training aid, but too many can cause obesity. Learn which foods are safe for dogs and which are not. Clean, fresh water should be available at all times.

Grooming: Rottweilers have a straight, coarse, medium-length coat with an undercoat on the neck and thighs. He should be brushed weekly and bathed regularly, brushing more often in spring and fall when shedding increases. Nails should be trimmed regularly, grinding with a Dremel if possible, to avoid leg and foot issues. Brushing teeth weekly with a canine toothpaste is recommended.

Exercise: Rotties love swimming, walking and trotting, especially with their people. This muscular athletic dog needs daily exercise. Mental and physical stimulation through herding, tracking and obedience are ideal.

Training: Start early to channel the muscular energy of this large dog. Socialization and basic training classes while living in the owner’s home are key to raising a well-mannered Rottweiler. These dogs love their humans, so are best when not isolated or left alone for long periods. The breed is highly intelligent, trainable and wants to please, though they can be stubborn. Being firmly consistent with training without being rough is very important. Roughhousing with a rottie may encourage aggression and should be avoided. Finding a sport you can do together can be a great bonding tool. Thank you to the AKC Rottweiler webpage for much of this information.

BASIC FACTS: Over the Rottweiler’s 9-10 expected years, you and your vet will create a health plan to evaluate and catch any conditions that may arise.

MEDICAL CONCERNS

• Hip Evaluation
• Elbow issues
• Cardiac issues
• Eye issues
• Cancer

Pikes Peak Vet has the goal of healthy longevity for your Rottweiler.

Wellness Exams and Vaccinations

• Every 6-12 months, as advised by your veterinarian,until age 6, including a full physical exam and routine bloodwork
• Pets age faster than us and tend to hide symptoms. At age 6, we recommend routine exams and bloodwork every 6 months to catch anything unexpected before it gets too firm a hold.

Other Exams and Screenings

• Joint x-rays
• Chest x-ray
• Regular eye exams
• Dr. Waters has discovered that cancer and longevity are linked to a careful vaccination regimen; strengthening the immune systemand keeping males and females intact until at least six years of age are advised.

Reach out for more information by phone or text at 719-475-1747, or through our Pikes Peak Vet app!