Origin
Germany
Lifespan
8–10 years
Weight
35–60 kg
Height
56–69 cm
Personality
Colors & Patterns
Black and Tan · Black and Mahogany · Black and Rust
Rottweiler
About This Breed
The Rottweiler is a breed of domestic dog, regarded as medium-to-large or large. The dogs were known in German as Rottweiler Metzgerhund, meaning Rottweil butchers' dog, because their main use was to herd livestock and pull carts laden with butchered meat to market. Rottweilers are now used as search and rescue dogs, guide dogs for the blind, guard dogs, police dogs, and other roles. With proper training and socialization, they are loyal, loving family pets.
Characteristics
Scores describe general breed tendencies, not an individual animal. A higher score means more of the named trait or need; it does not always mean better.
Life with a Rottweiler
Origin
| Origin | Germany |
| Group | Working |
For the breed’s history, see the reference sources and Wikipedia link below.
Size and coat
| Weight | 35–60 kg |
| Lifespan | 8–10 years |
| Height | 56–69 cm |
| Colors & Patterns | Black and Tan · Black and Mahogany · Black and Rust |
These are approximate adult ranges. Individual animals may be smaller or larger.
Temperament
| Personality | Steady · Self-assured · Alert · Loyal · Fearless |
Usually active. Make time for play, exercise, and activities that keep it interested.
Often seeks company and attention. Allow time together and help it get used to short periods alone.
Coat care
Usually needs relatively little coat care. Brush as needed for its coat and shedding.
Some shedding is expected, and it may change with the season.
Living together
A familiar routine can help it settle in.
Often gets along with children, but an adult should still supervise their time together.
Introduce other pets gradually and watch how each animal responds.
Training and activities
May learn quickly. Keep sessions varied and practice calmly around distractions.
Choose walks, sniffing games, and play to suit the dog’s age and health. Allow rest as well.
A lifespan range is not a prediction for an individual animal. Breed scores cannot diagnose illness or replace a veterinary assessment.
More from breed and care sources
Excerpts from the linked sources. Read the original for full details.
Breed Overview
Rottweilers are a large dog breed with a broad head, short fur, and wide-set eyes. Members of the working group, Rottweilers are thought to be descendants from mastiffs of ancient Rome. Today, they’re one of the most popular dog breeds in the U.S. This breed stands 22–27 inches tall and weigh 80–135 pounds. Female Rottweilers are typically smaller than males. The typical Rottweiler lifespan is 9–10 years with proper care. Caring for a Rottweiler Caring for a Rottweiler requires knowledge about their grooming, dietary, exercise, and mental health care requirements, as well as their potential for health problems.
Care Guide
Caring for a Rottweiler requires knowledge about their grooming, dietary, exercise, and mental health care requirements, as well as their potential for health problems.