Rottweiler: The Complete Breed Guide — Temperament, Training, Health
The Rottweiler is a strong, loyal, and intelligent dog — not the aggressive monster the media sometimes portrays. Find out what this breed truly needs and whether it is the right fit for you.
TL;DR: The Rottweiler (FCI no. 147, Group 2) weighs 42–60 kg, lives 8–10 years, and requires an experienced owner with time for training and socialisation. A properly raised Rottweiler is a calm, loyal family dog — not a dangerous animal.
What is the Rottweiler's true temperament?
The Rottweiler carries an undeserved bad reputation — the media often portrays it as an aggressive, dangerous animal, but the reality is quite different. The FCI standard describes the Rottweiler as a self-assured, calm, and courageous dog with a natural protective instinct. The Rottweiler is an intelligent working dog that was historically used for cattle driving, protecting merchants, and later in police work. Aggressive behaviour is almost always the result of poor breeding, insufficient socialisation, or inappropriate handling — not an inherent breed trait. A properly raised Rottweiler is calm in the home, loving towards children, and dignified rather than aggressive.
View the complete Rottweiler breed profile on Dog Breed Pedia including FCI parameters.
What are the health risks of the Rottweiler?
The Rottweiler is predisposed to several serious hereditary conditions. The most common is hip and elbow dysplasia — health X-rays (OFA or IEWG protocol) for both parents are an absolute requirement before purchasing a puppy. Another serious concern is osteosarcoma (bone cancer) — the Rottweiler has one of the highest rates of this tumour among all breeds, particularly in males neutered before 12 months of age. Rottweilers are also prone to gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV), cardiac disease (subaortic stenosis), and exocrine pancreatic insufficiency. Average annual veterinary costs: €1,200–2,000. The average lifespan of 8–10 years is shorter than that of smaller breeds.
How much exercise does a Rottweiler need?
The Rottweiler needs 1.5–2 hours of physical activity per day. As a powerful working breed it needs more than just walking — it needs genuine physical and mental workload. Ideal activities: obedience training, protection work (IGP/IPO), canicross, nosework, or swimming. A Rottweiler in good physical condition is calmer and more balanced at home. Intensive physical exercise is not recommended for puppies under 18 months — the skeletal system of large breeds matures slowly. The Rottweiler is not suitable for a small apartment without a garden — it needs space and regular contact with its family. Long hours alone lead to destructive behaviour.
How do you train a Rottweiler?
Training must begin on the first day the puppy arrives home. The Rottweiler is intelligent and a quick learner, but it is also self-assured — without clear guidance it will quickly take the initiative. Key principles: consistency (every family member uses the same commands), positive reinforcement (never physical punishment), and socialisation with both dogs and people from 8 weeks onward. The first obedience course is recommended before 4 months of age. The Rottweiler requires an experienced owner — for first-time owners without the support of an experienced trainer, this breed carries real risk. Schutzhund / IGP training is ideal for the Rottweiler's psychological needs and simultaneously strengthens the dog-owner bond.
Is the Rottweiler good with children?
A properly raised Rottweiler that has grown up alongside children is an excellent companion for them — patient, protective, and loyal. The key is that the dog grows up with children from puppyhood and that children are taught how to interact with a dog respectfully. Never leave small children unsupervised with any large breed. The Rottweiler has a strong herding instinct and may try to "round up" children when they run. This natural instinct must be directed through training from the start. The Rottweiler is devoted to its family and cautious towards strangers — this is part of its protective nature, not aggression.
What do you need to know before buying a Rottweiler puppy?
A Rottweiler puppy from an FCI breeder costs between €1,200 and €3,000. Before buying, verify: the breeder's FCI registration, X-ray results for both parents (hips and elbows), health certificates (cardiac evaluation, eyes), and the parents' show or working trial titles. Avoid offers below €800 — puppies from puppy mills come without health guarantees. A Rottweiler with a pedigree from a reputable FCI line is a lifelong investment in a healthy, psychologically stable dog.
Find verified Rottweiler breeders on Dog Breed Pedia.