WHY DO YOU WANT A ROTTWEILER?

"The dark guardian of the family" was used, many years ago, to describe the Rottweiler and this is just as apt today.

It is, therefore, no surprise that you are interested in the Rottweiler.

It is also of concern that you understand the long-term responsibility you will undertake if you decide that the Rottweiler is right for you (and the breeder decides that you are right for it).

It is very easy to be captivated by an engaging litter of black and tan bundles of fun, but puppies, like children, grow up all too quickly.

When mature, the Rottweiler is a strong, somewhat arrogant animal, with a highly developed guarding instinct. It is essential that 100 lbs. plus of muscle and sinew has been trained, from an early age, to be under control.

This breed needs firm, sympathetic handling, is quick to learn, and so will learn bad behavior unless corrected kindly but consistently. It is all too easy for the inexperienced to try and make a Rottweiler "guard" but this is neither necessary or advisable.

The family environment is ideal for a Rottweiler, who needs human contact and is not happy left alone for long periods. Children must be taught never to tease a puppy and any play must be supervised at all times.

The Rottweiler puppy is, and will continue to be for the first twelve months of his life, expensive to rear.

Reputable breeders will insist on satisfying themselves that you are able to feed and house such a large breed - and so you must not mind being put through the "third degree".

If you decide, after much soul searching and interrogation, that you still feel up to responsibly of owning a Rottweiler, then The Rottweiler Club will welcome you and do its best to help you.

DOG OR BITCH

The male Rottweiler is bigger, heavier, stronger and more arrogant. He is sexually aware 365 days of a year, though this is not an oversexed breed. He needs a firmer hand than the female and is not suitable for those inexperienced with dogs of strong character. Many breeders will NOT sell a male to first time dog owners or those who have not owned large breeds.

Females are more amenable and are maternal with the younger members of the family without losing their essential guarding qualities. They come "on heat" once or twice a year.

SELECTION OF A BREEDER

A good deal of the success you will have with your dog depends upon what happened before it came to you; socialization, genetic background and early conditioning are the results of the breeder's efforts. Due to increased popularity, often some breeders who advertise have had little experience with the breed. Carefully investigate breeders before you buy a puppy; the conscientious have nothing to fear and will be happy to answer your questions.
Not all private breeders are conscientious, but commercial establishments such as pet shops or dealers' kennels seldom give the individual attention needed by puppies and new owners. First-time owners of Rottweilers may need considerable help and advice with their puppy or adult, and another point to consider is that you should select a breeder with whom you feel at ease and who generates confidence in you.

You should make sure you have a complete back-up service by the breeder after the purchase of your puppy, and that the breeder has the expertise to help with any problems which may arise. Reputable breeders are available at all times to help and advise. You should be given at least a four generation pedigree, KC registration at the time or a promise to send when received by the breeder. A diet sheet and some food. Written advice on nutrition and correct rearing. Record of wormings and any vaccinations. Also a Contract of Sale which will include any registration endorsements and conditions for their removal. This should be signed.

Make sure the sire and dam have been x-rayed through the KC/BVA Hip Scoring scheme. Many breeders are now x-raying through the KC/BVA Elbow Scoring scheme as well as Heart Testing Reputable breeders will be happy to show proof of these tests.