Rottweiler

• ExerciseModerate

  A daily walk plus some playtime hits the spot.

• GroomingWash & go

  The occasional brush and bath is plenty.

• Living spaceHouse with room

  Does best with room to move and a yard.

• Owner experienceSome experience helps

  A little know-how makes life smoother.

• Commitment9–10 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Hip dysplasia · Elbow dysplasia · Dilated cardiomyopathy

The Rottweiler is a powerful, confident guardian breed that is calm, steady and deeply devoted to its family — and surprisingly goofy and affectionate at home once it trusts you. That combination of strength, protectiveness and intelligence means it needs an experienced, consistent owner who provides early, thorough socialisation and firm but positive, reward-based training. A well-raised Rottweiler is a stable, dependable companion; a poorly socialised or under-managed one is a serious liability, so the human commitment matters as much as the dog. It needs solid daily exercise and mental work to stay balanced, and its short coat is easy, needing only a weekly brush. Health-wise, buy from a breeder who screens hips and elbows for dysplasia and hearts, since the breed is prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, heart disease (including aortic stenosis and cardiomyopathy), bloat and an above-average cancer risk. Feed measured meals to guard against bloat and obesity, keep it lean and well-exercised, keep up preventive care, and a Rottweiler will be a loyal, courageous companion for nine to ten years.

• How much exercise does a Rottweiler need?

  Moderate. A daily walk plus some playtime hits the spot.

• How much grooming does a Rottweiler need?

  Wash & go. The occasional brush and bath is plenty.

• Is a Rottweiler suited to apartment living?

  House with room. Does best with room to move and a yard.

• Is a Rottweiler a good fit for first-time owners?

  Some experience helps. A little know-how makes life smoother.

• How long do Rottweiler live?

  9–10 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Rottweiler?

  Keep an eye out for Hip dysplasia, Elbow dysplasia, Dilated cardiomyopathy. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.

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