Rottweiler
Also called rottie.
The markings are the identification — black with sharply defined rust points in a consistent pattern. The build is heavy and square rather than long.
- Group
- Working
- Weight
- 35–60 kg
- Coat
- short
- Ears
- drop
- Muzzle
- medium
- Build
- Heavy
- Origin
- Germany
What it looks like
Powerfully built and compact with a short coarse black coat and clearly defined rust markings over the eyes, on the cheeks, chest and legs.
The characters that confirm it
- Black with clearly defined rust markings above the eyes, on the muzzle, chest and legs.
- A broad head with a well-developed stop and a medium muzzle.
- Heavy, compact and slightly longer than tall.
- Triangular drop ears set high and carried forward.
Temperament
Confident and calm when well bred and well raised; a large powerful dog that needs early socialisation and consistent handling.
Health
Hip and elbow dysplasia, osteosarcoma at elevated rates, and subaortic stenosis. Restricted by breed-specific legislation and insurance in some jurisdictions.
Confused with
Much leaner and leggier, with a longer narrower muzzle and a lighter frame.
Black-and-tan mixes are labelled Rottweiler on colour alone. The pattern of the markings and the heavy build are the checks.
Questions about this breed
How do you recognise a Rottweiler?
Black with clearly defined rust markings above the eyes, on the muzzle, chest and legs. A broad head with a well-developed stop and a medium muzzle.
What is a Rottweiler like to live with?
Confident and calm when well bred and well raised; a large powerful dog that needs early socialisation and consistent handling.
What health problems do Rottweilers have?
Hip and elbow dysplasia, osteosarcoma at elevated rates, and subaortic stenosis. Restricted by breed-specific legislation and insurance in some jurisdictions.