To look at a rottweiler (figure A), it's hard to imagine that such a massive animal -- used in the past to drive cattle, pull carts, and serve as both a guard and a police dog -- really just wants to be the world's biggest lapdog! This breed has a strong need for human companionship. Characteristics - Highly intelligent
- Self-confident
- Determined
- Good-natured
- Tolerant
- Naturally protective but not naturally aggressive.
Rotties, as they're called by their legion of fans, are the second most popular registered breed in the U. S., but despite that fact, they're mistakenly considered to be dangerous, unstable animals that will attack humans without warning. This couldn't be further from the truth, however: they don't appear on the top-10 list of dogs that have bitten humans in the past year, and rotties that have saved lives outnumber those that have caused injury. Like any breed, rottweilers must be socialized and treated with kindness, and they will respond by becoming loving members of the family (figure B). In fact, they can make fine helper dogs for the blind and the deaf as well as excellent therapy dogs for nursing homes and rehabilitation centers. Tips on Choosing and Care Before getting a rottweiler, you must be absolutely certain that this is the breed for you: their large size makes it imperative that they be kept under control. Too often a rottie ends up in rescue simply because he was the wrong dog for the wrong person and was never properly and lovingly disciplined. If you do decide that you have the right stuff, be sure to find a reputable breeder, one who is knowledgeable about rottweilers and who breeds for temperament. Remember: These dogs can live as long as a dozen years, and it's up to every rottie's human to make sure that those years are happy ones for everyone concerned. Web site resources for Rottweilers: American Kennel Club Information on Rottweilers United States Rottweiler Club Web Page
RESOURCES :
The Complete Idiot's Guide to Choosing, Training and Raising a Dog
Author: Sarah Hodgson
Unfortunately, this book is currently out of print. Please check your local library or used bookstore for a copy.
Macmillan / Alpha Books
Website: www.macmillan.com
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