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RottenNews & Updates

Article posted Wednesday January 14th, 2004

"A reality check for those that think they want a Rottweiler for their next pet"
 

I am finding that more and more these days, people are buying or adopting Rottweilers with out really having a clue what they are getting themselves in to. So, on that note, I though it wise to re-iterate the issues that the "would be" Rottweiler owner should be very aware of.

First, don't get the dog and then decide to do the research. This is a common mistake that all too often results in the dog being released, abandoned, or turned back into a shelter or rescue. A responsible rescue or breeder will not allow you to own a Rottweiler until they feel that you are well aware of what you are getting into and fully understand the possible ramifications.

Health, Training, and Socialization are just the tip of the iceberg in terms of time and money that you WILL need to be prepared to spend with your new companion. The Rottweiler IS NOT A YARD DOG!!! This breed prefers to be at their owners side at all times. This is the dogs genetic program, to protect it's care giver.

Below are a few questions you MUST ask yourself and give an HONEST answer...

Ask yourself these questions prior to getting your first Rottweiler:

• Can you spend a minimum of 1 hour of every day with your Rottweiler?

• Do you have the patience to handle a large sometimes "Willful" child?

• Do you have the patience to handle an intelligent, powerful, sometimes stubborn, animal that will test you patience at times.

• Can you afford the top quality dog meal for a very large breed?

• Can you afford the Vet bills that sometimes accompany a poorly breed Rottweiler?

• Are you assertive enough (not timid) to establish yourself as the Alpha male/female of your household?

• Can you provide the appropriate yard space for your Rottweiler to run and use it’s great stamina to be playful and get it's daily dose of exorcise?

• Do you have a vehicle capable of transporting a Large Breed dog?

• Do you have other pets in the household that do not take well to other dominant animals.

• Are you willing to give up taking Vacations (unless you Rott goes with you).

• Are you prepared to have you Homeowner's Insurance policy canceled?

• Have you ever tried to wash a 110 lbs + dog in your tub?

Temperament Summery according to the American Kennel Club:

The Rottweiler is basically a calm, confident and courageous dog with a self-assured aloofness that does not lend itself to immediate and indiscriminate friendships. A Rottweiler is self-confident and responds quietly and with a wait-and-see attitude to influences in his environment. He has an inherent desire to protect home and family, and is an intelligent dog of extreme hardness and adaptability with a strong willingness to work, making him especially suited as a companion, guardian and general all-purpose dog.

The behavior of the Rottweiler in the show ring should be controlled, willing and adaptable, trained to submit to examination of mouth, testicles, etc. An aloof or reserved dog should not be penalized, as this reflects the accepted character of the breed. An aggressive or belligerent attitude towards other dogs should not be faulted.

Personality and the Rottweiler:

If you are a timid, non-assertive personality, Do not get a Rottweiler. Though Rottweilers like humans all have their own distinctive personalities, they almost all follow a similar basic programming, to protect their caregiver, to work, and is some cases, try to establish themselves as the leader of the pack or (the alpha). If you had trouble rearing a young child due to being short tempered, do not get a Rottweiler! I like to use this explanation; If you love the look and size of the Rottweiler, that is not enough to justify purchasing one for yourself. What I tell folks is "We recommend that you spend time with a friend or relative's Rottweiler, not just a little visit here and there. Rotty sit their dog for a week or two. This will give you a taste of what it's like to own one of these regal dogs and the maintenance they require".

If you like to spend a great deal of time away from the house doing what you want to do, don't get a Rottweiler. Unless you are ready to take your dog every where you go, don't get a Rottweiler. If you honestly and completely understand the above mentioned risks and burdens and are the "Outdoorsy" type that loves to hike or see natures wonders, and enjoy the idea of sharing your life with a large breed that will happily place itself in harms way for you, by all means, Get a Rottweiler! :o) The love and loyalty you will receive from this breed is unmatched in the canine world. And Finally, report anyone who neglects, mistreats or abuses a Rottweiler, after all, they are the one's making it to harder for the true Rottweiler lovers to have the right to own one! We can change the public perception of our beloved rottys.

Mark Payne - webmaster