Working Dog Group - Rottweiler

An ancient breed, which in the past worked as a draught dog delivering meat, a hunter of wild boar, and a trusted cattle dog. The Rottweiler is believed by some to be a descendant of the early German Shepherd Dog, while others consider that its ancestor was similar to the Tibetan Mastiff. More recently, the Rottweiler has proved itself to be an intelligent police dog and guard.

Coat: Medium length, coarse, and lying flat, with undercoat on neck and thighs.

Color: Black with clearly defined tan or deep brown markings.

Features: Head broad between the cars; medium-size, almond-shape eyes, cars small in proportion to head; powerful, arched neck; broad, deep chest; tail docked at first joint and usually carried horizontally.

Size: Height at shoulders: dogs 24 27 in, bitches 22-25 in. Weight: 90-110 lb.

Care: Needs space and plenty of exercise; needs daily grooming with a bristle brush or hound glove and comb.

Character: The Rottweiler is a large, courageous dog that makes an excellent companion-guard and responds to kindly but firm handling, but it should only be handled by experienced owners.