Pros and Cons of Rottweilers

If you're considering adding a Rottweiler to your family, you may be thinking: What are the pros and cons of owning this breed? Rottweilers, affectionately known as 'Rotties', make wonderful, loyal companions, especially if matched with the right owner and home environment. However, as is the case with any breed, there are some potential challenges to be aware of. 

In this guide, we'll cover some of the most important upsides and downsides of owning a Rottie, so that you can make an informed decision about whether a Rottweiler is the right fit for your lifestyle.

Pros of Rottweilers

1. Exceptional Loyalty & Protection 

When it comes to protection, Rottweilers are second to none. As a Rottweiler owner, you will find yourself with a fierce protector who will do everything in their power to ensure the safety of your loved ones. Coupling this protective instinct with proper training and socialization can lead to a vigilant and diligent watchdog who safeguards your home around the clock - making an excellent choice for those seeking some extra security! 

2. Superior Intelligence 

Rottweilers have an astonishing ability to understand and follow instructions. It's no surprise then that they rank 9th out of 138 breeds in Stanley Coren's brightest dog breed rankings. 

Their sharp intelligence makes them easy to train and highly adaptable to various tasks, from complex tricks to life-saving duties. Rottweilers took part in search and rescue operations during the world wars, a tradition that they uphold today within police forces. They're also frequent picks for service and assistance dogs for the visually impaired. 

3. Deep-rooted Affection for Family 

Beneath the rugged, muscular exterior of a Rottweiler lies a heart brimming with love and affection. These dogs are ardent family companions, and once they form bonds with their humans, their devotion is unmatchable. Your Rottweiler will shower your family with affection and forge bonds that are both fulfilling and lasting. 

The protective nature of Rottweilers, coupled with their patient nature, makes them excellent playmates for older children. Their interaction with younger children, however, should be supervised due to their size and strength. When introduced correctly, they can form inseparable bonds with the entire family. 

4. Confidence and Calm 

The calm and confident demeanor of Rottweilers makes them an excellent option for those seeking a composed yet assertive companion. They carry themselves with an admirable assurance, emanating a sense of security and tranquility. Rottweilers can be trusted to stay calm in tense situations, reacting only when necessary.

Balanced, even-tempered Rottweilers can make great therapeutic or comfort animals, thanks to their natural empathy and intuitiveness. 

5. Enormous Love for Play and Exercise

Rottweilers are naturally energetic and playful dogs, and require a healthy dose of physical activity to keep them in top shape. This attribute makes them excellent companions for outdoorsy, active owners who love walks, hikes, or even play sessions in the backyard.

Rottweilers excel in various dog sports like obedience, tracking, and herding. This provides a great opportunity for owners to engage in fun activities with their dog. These activities act as a bonding experience while also positively channeling the energy of your Rottweiler.  

6. Bond Closely with Their Owners 

The Rottweiler's loyalty manifests in the deep bond they form with their owners. This bonding makes them special companions for individuals who are looking for a dog always by their side. However, it's crucial to adopt socialization practices to ensure that your Rottie don't become overly protective or aggressive towards others.

7. Impressive Physical Strength

Rottweilers are one of the strongest dog breeds in the world. Historically bred as working dogs who carried heavey weights, these dogs possess incredible powers, making them unmatched in physically demanding roles.

Be it herding or participating in strength-oriented dog sports, this breed is truly built to perform. What's more, their muscular physique, shiny black coat, and noble aura has striking appearance that complements this physical strength! 

8. Renowned for their Courage

The courage of the Rottweiler is legendary. Fearless in the face of danger, they consistently show bravery which can be a real asset in various situations, from protecting your family and territory, to taking on difficult search and rescue missions. 

9. They Age Well, Retaining Their Energy 

Rottweilers are one of those breeds which retain their playful energy and robustness well into their middle and old age. As long as they receive proper diet and exercise, they tend to stay active and spry, giving their owners years of companionship.

10. Rottweilers Show Great Discipline 

Rottweilers are beasts of burden by nature. Historically used as cattle driving and guard dogs, Rottweilers love having a job to do. This breed finds fulfilment in tasks big and small, be it fetching the mail, therapy work, or participating in advanced agility trianing courses. 

A properly trained Rottweiler is a model of obedience. Their eagerness to please their owners makes them prone to following orders and discipline. They are also quick to correct their mistakes, learning boundaries and rules quickly. 

11. They Can Be Great Service Dogs 

While not as commonly seen in service roles as other breeds, Rottweilers' intelligence, trainability, and eagerness to work can make them suitable for service or therapy dog roles. With appropriate training, they can be of great assistance to those with physical or psychiatric disabilities, providing not just companionship but valuable practical help as well. 

12. Adaptive to Diverse Environments 

Rottweilers exhibit a commendable level of adaptability. Whether you’re living in a city apartment or a country farm, these dogs can adjust well provided they have enough physical exercise and mental stimulation. Their versatile nature is definitely a plus for urban dwellers and country folks alike. 

13. Extensive Community Support 

Due to their enduring popularity, Rottweilers benefit from an extensive community of owners, breeders, and enthusiasts. There's a myriad of online forums, social groups, and local clubs dedicated to this breed, so you'll never be short of advice, help, or camaraderie when raising your Rottweiler.

Cons of Rottweilers

1. Require Management of Dominant Behavior 

One of the challenges with owning a Rottweiler is their inherent nature to assert dominance. If not properly managed from a young age, this could lead to aggressive behaviours. This can be even more difficult for first-time dog owners to manage, as it requires a firm, consistent approach to training and socialization. Failure to establish yourself as the 'alpha' can result in your Rottweiler becoming overly protective and potentially difficult to control. 

2. Prone to Certain Health Conditions 

Rottweilers unfortunately have a lifespan of only 9-10 years , on the lower end for dog breeds. They are also prone to certain conditions including hip dysplasia and osteochondritis dissecans, which affect the joints and can lead to discomfort and mobility issues.

Rottweilers are also prone to obesity, which can further exacerbate their joint issues. In fact a study in the UK found that 40% of Rottweilers are overweight or obese. Prospective owners will need to be prepared for possible vet bills and the emotional toll of caring for a dog with health issues.

3. High Exercise and Mental Stimulation Needs 

Rottweilers' working history means they require significant amounts of physical exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. Without this, they are prone to becoming bored and destructive. If you're considering a Rottweiler, you'll need to ensure your lifestyle can accommodate daily walks or runs, play, and mental stimulation such as training or puzzle toys. 

4. Stubborn Tendencies 

While their intelligence is a boon, it also manifests itself in a certain level of stubbornness. Rottweilers are known to have independent minds and will sometimes make choices that contradict their training. This trait can make some owners feel challenged, especially new owners or those not familiar with the breed. 

5. Can Be Overwhelming for Some Families 

Due to their protective nature, physical strength, size, and energy, Rottweilers can be overwhelming for families with young children or for the elderly. While they can be gentle and affectionate, their size and strength can become an issue especially if they're not trained from a young age to manage these qualities. It's important to consider your family's ability to handle such a large and powerful dog before deciding to get a Rottweiler.

6. Potential for Aggressive Behavior 

Rottweilers, if not trained and socialized properly, can display aggressive behaviors. Their size and strength often magnify the impact of these behaviors, which, if mismanaged, could lead to unfortunate incidents. 

7. Massive Appetites 

Rottweilers have massive appetites. This means that feeding a Rottweiler requires careful research and planning, and might cost more than an average dog. Also, it's critical to keep their portion sizes in check to prevent obesity and related health issues.  

8. Not Ideal for Small Living Spaces 

Rottweilers are a large breed and they require ample space to move around. This makes them unsuitable for small apartments or homes with no yard. If you lack the space, it may lead to issues with the dog's comfort, well-being, and behavior. 

9. They Shed a Lot 

Though Rottweilers have short coats, they do shed a lot (and are not hypoallergenic). This is due to their double coats. To keep shedding levels under control, you need to brush their fur frequently, especially during shedding season. A weekly grooming routine is recommended to keep your Rottie's coat clean and healthy, and to minimize the shedding. 

10. Training Cost & Commitment 

The Rottweiler's stubbornness and natural protective instincts necessitate thorough and consistent training from a young age. This often requires investment in professional training courses, which could be considerable. Moreover, you'll need to set aside significant time to ensure your Rottweiler is well-socialized well-mannered. 

11. High Insurance Costs 

Due to the breed's reputation and potential health issues, insuring a Rottweiler can be more expensive compared to other breeds. Remember to factor in this additional cost if you're considering bringing a Rottweiler home. 

12. They Can be Noisy 

Rottweilers have a deep, loud bark, often used to alert their owners of any perceived threats. But they can also bark a lot simply when a stranger or deliveryman approaches your home. While this can be managed with training, in some living environments—like apartments or densely populated neighborhoods—this may become a nuisance.

13. Intolerance to Extreme Heat 

Rottweilers, with their thick, double coats, bear well in cool climates but can struggle with excessive heat. They are prone to overheating and need special care during hot summer months. This means you'll need to adjust their exercise schedules, find cool, indoor activities, or invest in cooling devices during hot periods. 

14. Rottweilers Can Struggle with Separation Anxiety 

Given their deep bond with their owners, Rottweilers can develop separation anxiety if left alone for long periods. Symptoms can range from destructive behaviors to barking and whining. This breed thrives in an environment where someone is consistently home, ensuring a sense of security and companionship. 

15. They Can Be Hard on Toys and Furniture 

Rottweilers are strong and vigorous dogs who love to chew, especially during their teething phase. This could mean damages to your valuables, furniture, and even some specially designed dog toys. It's recommended for owners to invest in durable toys and provide appropriate outlets for their chewing habits. 

Is a Rottweiler Right for You? 

Deciding if a Rottweiler is the right fit for you ultimately depends on your lifestyle, personal preferences, and ability to meet the needs and demands of this breed. Here are a few things to consider: 

• Willingness to Train: Are you ready to invest significant time and effort in their training, right from a young age?
• Active Lifestyle: Do you and your family enjoy being active? Rottweilers thrive in homes where regular physical activity is a part of the daily routine.
• Space: Rottweilers are large dogs that need ample space. They might not be the best fit if you live in a small apartment or lack a yard for them to play in.
• Children in the House: Rottweilers are family-oriented. Yet, their size and strength may pose a risk for smaller children unless properly trained and supervised.
• Financial Ability: Are you prepared to handle the costs associated with their high-quality food, healthcare, and possible insurance needs?
• Tolerance for Noise and Shedding: Can you tolerate a certain level of noise and a lot of shedding? These are some features that Rottweilers come with.
  
  

Conclusion

We hope this outline of the pros and cons of Rottweilers has been helpful for you. Choosing the right dog breed is a significant decision, and armed with the right knowledge, you can be better equipped to decide if a Rottweiler is the right addition for your family. 

Remember, every breed has its joys and challenges. A Rottweiler's loyalty, intelligence and affection can be immensely rewarding, but these traits also come with responsibilities that should not be taken lightly.

If you're set on bringing a Rottie home, you can explore available Rottweiler puppies form our network of vetted, top-quality breeders.