Are you in the market for a smart, loyal and protective dog? If so, definitely consider buying a Rottweiler. Bred to be big working dogs, Rottweilers are very flexible in what they can do. The breed will faithfully guard their homes and, despite their size, consider themselves tiny lapdogs in comparison to their owners.

Rottweilers are bigger than average and are very powerfully built. Standing 22 to 27 inches tall from the shoulder, and weighing in the range of 85 to 130 pounds, the powerful Rottweiler has some serious heft. Any given Rottweiler’s coat can be sleek black or brown, and all have soft dark brown eyes. The American Kennel Club classifies Rottweilers as “working dogs.”

Because of their power and loyalty, Rottweilers are often used as guard dogs. Unfortunately, some Rottweiler owners have abused their dogs to make them more aggressive. Abused Rottweilers have earned an unwarranted label for the entire breed, a common misconception being that Rottweilers are dangerous. When properly bred and raised, Rottweilers are excellent, family-loving pets.

The Rottweiler’s impressive energy and power make him or her ill suited to apartment living. These big guys need room to run! The best situation for a Rottweiler is a big fenced yard. Don’t panic if you haven’t got a fenced yard, just be ready to try and take a daily run in the park. You need to do this to burn off excess energy. Just think, the exercise will be fantastic for not just your canine companion, but for you as well!

Rottweilers are very intelligent dogs and, just like people, are happiest when they’re occupied. Giving your Rottweiler a job, like keeping pests out of the garden for example, will make your dog very happy. It’s important to train Rottweilers as puppies, as these dogs quickly grow large and strong. Puppy obedience classes are great chances to provide your Rottweiler with social interaction at a young age. These experiences will make them more accepting of new dogs, people, and ideas later in life. Luckily, these dogs love to learn, just as long as the trainer is loving and patient. Rottweilers respond eagerly to new challenges, so play to their competitive spirit!

If yours is a family with a toddler, rethink introducing a Rottweiler to your home. Not realizing his own strength, a young puppy can accidentally injure small children while playing. Wait until your child or children are old enough to walk before buying a Rottweiler puppy.

A dog the size of a Rottweiler easily burns up quite a few calories in its daily activity. Be ready to buy a lot of food for your growing pup. Also, one needs to assure that your puppy’s nutritional needs are being met. Puppy development is important, since Rottweilers can develop joint problems with old age. Good development supported by top-drawer nutrition can eliminate aging problems altogether.

The short coat of a Rottweiler makes for quick and easy grooming. A speedy weekly groom with a slick brush will help to keep the coat’s luster. Also, take the time to check his or her nails to be sure they don’t become too long. As a puppy, get him or her used to having their teeth brushed. Dental hygiene later in life will be a breeze if learned early.

Think about a hundred pound dog climbing into your lap as if he weighed a measly ten pounds. If the idea sends a shiver through you, then a Rottweiler may not be for you. After all, not everyone wants a dog with the appearance of a beast but the heart of a dove. On the other hand, many fall in love with the breed for their loyalty and companionship.