rottweilers

Rottweilers were originally bred to be hard-working, protective dogs. They are smart and easily trainable. They are goofy, happy dogs who are loyal and affectionate parts of the family. They are great with kids and make good family watchdogs. They tend to weigh around 100 pounds and like exercise so prefer a larger living space.

The Rottweiler is a large and muscular canine that has the potential to reach up to 135 pounds. As with many of the larger breeds like the Rottweiler, they do have a shorter-than-average life expectancy of 9-10 years. There are also certain health conditions the breed is susceptible to and routine vet examinations are an important step in their care. It is important to know what they are and to contact a veterinarian when observing any physical or behavioral changes that are of concern.

Potential Health Conditions:
• Elbow Dysplasia (ED)
• Canine Hip Dysplasia (CHD)
• Bloat, Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV)
• Bone Cancer, Osteosarcoma (OSA)
• Heart Murmur 

• Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
• Von Willebrand's Disease (VWD)

• Overweight, Obesity

• Cranial Cranial Cruciate Ligament Rupture
• Allergies
•  Inward Turned Eyelids, Entropion
• Arthritis

Suggested Screenings
• Eye Exam
• Hip & Elbow X-rays
• Cardiac Exam
• Juvenile Laryngeal Paralysis & Polyneuropathy (JLPP)- Optional

Routine Care
• Weight management
• Neuter or Spay
• Regular Dental Exams

Rottweilers are a double-coated breed with dense medium-length fur. They are moderate shedders but will have a heavier shed cycle twice a year when the seasons change. Brushing a Rottweiler weekly will help reduce unwanted fur in the house.

Like many large breeds, the Rottweiler does require lots of exercise and room to move about. While it is important to provide them with an active lifestyle it is also important to keep them on a good diet. Rottweilers are often food-driven and can easily gain excess weight if not careful.

While Rottweilers are often eager to please and typically easy to train, they might not be the best choice for first-time dog owners. They're a sweet and protective breed that requires proper socialization and someone who can handle a very strong dog.