About the Breed:

The Rottweiler is a robust working breed of great strength descended from the mastiffs of the Roman legions. A gentle playmate and protector within the family circle, Rottie observes the outside world with a self-assured aloofness. A well-bred and properly raised Rottie will be calm and confident, courageous but not unduly aggressive. The aloof demeanor these world-class guardians present to outsiders belies the playfulness and downright silliness that endear Rotties to their loved ones. Early training and socialization will harness Rottie's territorial instincts in a positive way.

Exercise:

Rottweilers love swimming, walking, and trotting, especially with their people. The breed is muscular and athletic and should have the opportunity to exercise daily. 

Training:

Rottweilers must be trained at an early age. Leadership, puppy socialization, basic training classes, and living in the owner's home are key to raising a well-mannered Rottweiler. Rottweilers are 'people dogs' who do not do well, isolated from humans and life experiences. The breed is intelligent, highly trainable, and wants to please, although some may be stubborn. It is very important that discipline be consistent, fair, and not overly harsh.

Brief History of the Breed:

When conquering Roman legions marched to the different corners of the world, they brought their herds with them as food on the hoof. The army required tough, durable dogs to move and guard the herd. Utilizing Asian mastiff types as breeding stock, the Romans developed the distant ancestor of today's Rottweiler. The dogs the Romans brought to these areas became foundation stock for many German breeds. In the centuries after the empire's collapse, the Roman drover dogs found work in the cattle town of Rottweil. It was here, moving herds from pasture to market and protecting all concerned from bandits and rustlers along the way, that they earned the name Rottweiler Metzgerhund or Butcher's Dog of Rottweil.