Training: Rottweilers have been used as police and military dogs ever since the First World War. They are very intelligent and like to please. Some dogs will try to be the boss and will resist training at first; all it takes is consistency and a stern commitment to training from you, especially early in the animal’s life. With so many breeds to choose from, the police and military trainers choose Rottweilers for a reason. They are smart, capable, and take instructions well. Most of the modern training problems of the breed were actually benefits in the past: alarm barking, herding, and fierce loyalty to their pack.
Overall, the Rottweiler is a willing partner in your life, and he will work hard to learn and adapt to your environment. Early socialization and obedience training is key to be sure he has a good grounding in proper behavior around other dogs, children, and adults alike.
Barking: Excessive barking shouldn’t be a problem with proper training and socialization. Rottweilers really want to protect their devoted family, so it’s important to instruct the dog on proper behavior. The alarm bell barking was a useful trait in the breed’s past, so don’t hold it against them now. Just work with your Rottweiler to instruct them on the right time and place, and they’ll figure it out. After all, these animals want to be useful and practical to you – not a nuisance! Learning what your Rottweiler is trying to say will go a long way towards building a connection between human and dog.
Personality: When it comes to personality, the Rottweiler has it all: calm, confident, and a heart of gold. Despite the media portrayals as aggressive, the natural temperament of the breed is calm and alert. Rottweilers are very self-assured and don’t shy away from anything. They are devoted companions, and despite their size, love to cuddle and lean on your leg to be close to you
Temperament & Behavior: Despite what Hollywood would tell you, this breed is calm and happy when properly trained. Rotties are always on the lookout for danger and intrusions, but they make time to play and act goofy too. As a natural herder and drover, they want to please their owners with useful tasks and a strong work ethic. Aggressiveness and belligerence are not common to the breed (outside some irresponsible trainers), so you can expect an intelligent and attentive dog with a calm, confident disposition. They all have a strong desire to protect and nurture the family. Rottweilers might be reserved with strangers, but once you get to know them, they’re loving and friendly almost to a fault! They need interaction and suffer from loneliness if left alone for too long. This is not a breed to tie up or leave cooped up in a room alone all day.
Behavior with kids: Rottweilers are natural parents: possessive, protective, and a little goofy at times. They love their family and look to herd children away from danger.The only real issue with children is introducing strangers to your Rottweiler (kids or otherwise). Proper training and obedience go a long way, but you should never leave younger children unattended with any dog.They may try to intervene in rowdy play, preferring a serene and quiet environment.
Protection: The Ancient Romans prized their dogs for not only herding, but also protecting the cattle as guardians against poaching and predators. This natural tendency to look after the homestead can be enhanced with proper training, but almost any Rottweiler will always keep an ear and eye out for trouble lurking around the corner.
