Origin
Rottweilers have been a popular choice as family pets and companion dogs for decades both here in the UK and elsewhere in the world. They are powerful and impressive looking dogs that boast sleek black and tan coats. Although the Rottie boasts having a natural instinct to protect and guard, they are not known to be aggressive by nature. They are however, extremely loyal which means when needed, a Rottweiler will stand their ground if they feel they have to with no hesitation at all.
These imposing dogs are not the best choice for first time owners even though they are known to be easy to train. The reason being that Rotties must be handled and trained by people who are familiar with the needs of these large, intelligent and powerful dogs. They are a great choice for people who have the time and dedication it takes to train them in which case a Rottie becomes a valued member of a family and household.
The actual origin of the Rottweiler remains a little hazy, although it is thought the dogs the Romans bought with them on their invasion across the Alps and Europe where they were crossed with native breeds such as the Entelbucher, Greater Swiss Mountain Dog and others, all of which are believed to be descendants of these same Roman dogs.
They were often found in southern Germany and Switzerland and because so many of them were left in Rottweil, a livestock trading town, the breed got their name. These large, impressive dogs became popular with butchers and were often seen pulling carts. At the time they were known as Rottweiler Metzgerhunds which translated means Rottweil Butcher's Dog.
What is known is that by the 19th century Germany outlawed cattle driving which meant the need for Rotties declined and it was only in 1914 that they again started to be valued for their work as war dogs. The breed was accepted by the Kennel Club here in the UK in 1936 and a breed standard was established. Today, the Rottie remains a popular choice not only for their guarding abilities, but for their impressive yet kind and loyal natures which has seen them find a place in the hearts and homes of many people the world over.
