Is a Rottweiler the right dog for you?

Rottweilers are a strong breed that stands tall at up to 27 inches and weigh up to 130 pounds. They often get a bad rep in the media because of some isolated incidents. Well, we are here to provide you all the details you need to know about this breed so that you can decide if a Rottweiler is the right dog for you.

If you need a companion that is loyal to you and gives you all the love you need, Rottweilers are the choice for you. They have a lifespan of 8 to 10 years, and they are loyal to the core.

General temperament

Rottweilers are as obedient and good-natured as they are strong and powerful. This breed was designed to guard herds, and are still used as guard dogs by many. This means that Rottweilers are not only strong but they also are courageous, like no other dog. This breed has a rustic look and is naturally fearless. Don’t make this description fool you. Rottweilers are lovable to their human parents.

They are the best of both worlds. If you want to go camping or any other adventure, they will follow you eagerly as they are naturally eager and adaptable. But if you just want to stay home and cuddle with them, they will be happy doing that too. They have a calm and self-confident temperament.

Train your Rottweiler

It’s all about nurturing your four-pawed baby. You can discipline them and teach them to follow your rules. Just because you love them doesn’t mean you can’t show them tough-love.

Every dog is different, and that is why different breeds need different techniques to train them.

First of all, you need to remember that you can’t make the sessions long and tedious. At least at first, try to make the training seasons as fun as possible. And most importantly, speak to your dog.

Secondly, reward your Rottweiler for good behavior. Positive reinforcement does work. Whenever you see your Rottie do something that you want to maintain, just give him a treat.

Thirdly, keep it simple. Use clear commands. So, your commands need to be one word, or at the most, two words. Commands like sit, no, come, go, quiet, come, stop, or down are all examples of useful commands. If your Rottweiler can understand what you are saying, there’s no way they won’t obey you. Rottweilers are lovable and absolutely love pleasing their human parents.

One thing that you should always keep in mind is that you should never hit your pet. If you nurture them properly, you will be able to mold them into what you like. It’s all in your hands.

Grooming

Rottweilers are easy to care for. Since they have short and shiny fur, it can be brushed easily.

You can give your pet three or four baths a year. If they love playing in the mud, that’s a whole other story. Nicely lather them with a dog shampoo, let it soak, and then clean them thoroughly. Don’t forget to dry them.

You should trim their nails about once a month. The tip of the nails can be trimmed as you hold your pet close.

Your Rottweiler’s teeth should be brushed daily. Gently raise their lips and brush. If this is not something that you think is necessary, then that’s up to you. What you should do though is, clean your Rottweiler’s muzzle. It often tends to store a lot of saliva in it. And, as your Rottie goes around the house, he can leave a trail of saliva everywhere.

Remember that if they resist, you should talk to them, comfort them with a hug, and give them little treats. They will come around soon.

While they are strong and even look tough, they can be quite sensitive. Many Rottweilers suffer from various eye problems. Elbow and hip dysplasia are also common to them. Another unfortunate issue that they can suffer from is separation anxiety. All the physical and emotional issues that these pets have can be extremely painful. Look out for any signs and take them to a vet immediately if you spot one.

Adopt a Rottweiler 

Many rescue centers can help you get in touch with a dog that needs a loving home. You can foster, or better, adopt them. Some of the non-profit Rottweiler rescue organizations are Rottweiler Rescue and REAL Rottweiler Rescue.

Now, a real word of advice. If you are planning to buy or adopt a Rottweiler, first know all the implications of having a Rottie in your life. They are a large breed and can get bothersome if you’re not ready for it. Don’t just look at a puppy and adopt them for their cuteness. Once you get a dog, you need to commit.

So, ask yourself if you are ready for them. And if you are, only then get one. Just remember that this newest member of your family will love you and have your back no matter what.

Jimmie O’Chutt is an experienced cat owner who can’t imagine his life without his black feline friend Ronnie. Jimmie is CEO of CatPet.club, an online magazine that provides high-quality guides and tips about cat nutrition and wellbeing. 

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