Frequently Asked Questions

1: How do I know if the Rottweiler is the right dog for me?
2: Are Rottweilers good with children?
3: What kind of temperament does a Rottweiler have?
4: How are they with other pets?
5: Do they require special training?
6: How much exercise do they require?
7: How much do they shed?
8: Are Rottweilers noisy?
9: What gender makes the best pet?
10:Where is the best place to purchase a Rottweiler puppy?
11:Where do Rottweilers originate from?
12:What are the laws regarding tail docking?
13:What are the pros and cons about vaccinations?
14:What is pet quality vs. show quality?
15:How much can I expect to pay for a Rottweiler puppy from a reputable breeder?
16:What kind of nutrition and diet do they require?

How do I know if the Rottweiler is the right dog for me?
The first thing to ask your self is, “what type of lifestyle do I have”? Are you an active outdoor person or more of a computer, tv type of person? The Rottweiler is a “Working Dog” and can develop behavioural issues if not exercised lots on a daily basis. How long will the dog be left alone and what type of housing or kennel do you have for your rottie when away? The rotties live to be with their master. They can become bored and depressed if denied attention from their master, especially if they do not have another dog to play with. An unattended rottie can develop destructive behaviours. Are you willing to socialize and train your Rottweiler? This breed is typically not for the inexperienced dog owner. Early socializing and obedience training is an absolute must. It is imperative to be the pack leader.

Are Rottweilers good with children?

A well socialized and trained rottweiler are good with children. To what extend they are good with children depends on their temperament. Some rotties love children while others will tolerate them. Regardless of what temperament your rottie has, children should never be left unattended with a large dog – rottweiler or not. Pack Leader training is must when small children are in the house.

What kind of temperament does a Rottweiler have?
The Canadian Kennel Club standard for the Rottweiler is …expression should be fearless with a self-assured aloofness that does not lend itself to immediate and indiscriminate friendships. He has a strong willingness to work. In examining a Rottweiler, one should bear in mind that this dog reacts with alertness to his master and his surroundings, and in performing his function in life, the Rottweiler is not expected to submit to excessive handling by strangers. However, the judge shall dismiss from the ring any shy or vicious Rottweiler. A dog shall be judged fundamentally shy if, refusing to stand for examination it shrinks away from the judge; if it fears an unexpected approach from the rear; if it shies at sudden or unusual noises to a marked degree. A dog that attacks or attempts to attack, without provocation, either the judge, or its handler is definitely vicious. An aggressive or belligerent attitude towards other dogs shall not be deemed viciousness

How are they with other pets?

Early socializing with other pets is a must. In most cases, a rottweiler puppy will get along with other pets if introduced at a young age. An older rottie who has never been raised with cats and then introduced to them, may want to chase them, etc.

Do they require special training?

Early training is a must but not considered special training. In addition to training, the master must establish herself / himself as pack leader. We highly recommend Cesar Milan’s methods.

How much exercise do they require?

The Rottweiler is a working dog and they require lots of exercise. Running loose in the backyard is not considered exercise. Do not get a rottie if you cannot provide this basic requirement.

How much do they shed?

They are a short hair (double coated) dog and yes, they do shed. They generally blow their coat twice a year.

Are Rottweilers Noisy?

They typically do not bark without cause, but they will let you know when someone or something is about.

What gender makes the best pet?

Both make excellent pets. The female is smaller and typically less dominant so some will say the female makes the better pet.

Where is the best place to purchase a Rottweiler puppy?

The most dedicated and knowledgeable people about Rottweilers are typically members of a recognized Rottweiler Club. They dedicate time and resources to better the breed. These breeders abide by a Code of Ethics and undertake health clearances on their dogs before they breed them. If you are thinking about buying a puppy from a pet shop, a person posing as a reputable breeder or a puppy mill, it is buyer beware. Check with the national clubs to see if the breeder is a member and if not ask lots of questions. In Canada it is the Rottweiler Club of Canada and in the USA it is the American Rottweiler Club.

Where do Rottweilers originate from?

Many people believe rottweilers are related to the Roman Dover dogs, but recent DNA projects challenge this long held believe. Their ancient history is shrouded in mystery and folk lore. Regardless of their ancestry, it is the Germans we have to thank for preserving and resurrection this fabulous breed. The Rottweiler is named after the German town of Rottweil.

What are the laws regarding tail docking?
Many European jurisdictions now have laws banning the practise of tail docking. In North America the practise is generally still acceptable, but this could possibly change in years to come.

What are the pros and cons about vaccinations?
Your probably won’t find a more controversial topic. In the past annual booster vaccinations were promoted by many traditional Veterinarians. They now generally recommend boosters every three years. Then there is the holistic Veterinarian and they have a different approach altogether. If they do give vaccinations, they give them in single dosages and not by way of a multi-vaccination. Holistic Veterinarians also use titer testing to determine a dog’s immune level and whether or not a dog requires a booster shot.

What is pet quality vs. show quality?

The term often refers to Non-breeding VS Breeding rights. A reputable breeder will often hold back a puppy for themselves for show and to further their breeding program. A pet will often go to a family who is not interested in showing nor breeding so the dog is sold on a non-breeding contract. A show dog is often sold with extra guarantees against any disqualifying faults in the show ring. This could include too much white or an overbite and a variety of other criteria. Dogs sold as pets sell for less than a show dog.

How much can I expect to pay for a Rottweiler puppy from a reputable breeder?
Prices vary from region to region. An average price of $1800.00 on a non-breeding contract is about average.

What kind of nutrition and diet do they require?
Rotties require good nutrition and a quality dog food. A poor diet makes them more prone to hot spots. Your breeder should give you some guidance in this area. We always try to use natural-dog-remedies when are dogs are in need.