Uncovering the Truth About Rottweiler Temperament
There are many misconceptions about the Rottweiler temperament. Call them stereotypes, call them unfair and prejudice; just don’t call them the truth about all Rotties.
It’s important to note that in dogs, just as in people, there will always be those that are aggressive, poorly behaved and just plain hard to get along with. While that may be true in certain Rottweilers (and people), it is not the common Rottweiler temperament.
What a Rottweiler is Not
Rottweilers are strong and confident. They will not back down in a conflict and are very hard workers. That doesn’t make them automatically aggressive, violent or scary – as many people think. Although a Rottweiler is an excellent guard dog, it’s not because they are vicious or prone to attack.
Have you ever been startled or concerned about the growling coming from a relatively calm Rottweiler? Chances are that was not growling at all, but a grumbling sound they make when content, similar to purring in a cat. If you hear growling from a Rottweiler (or any dog) that is accompanied by curled lips, baring of teeth and an aggressive stance, be warned. But if those other signs are not present, enjoy the verbal communication between the Rottie and yourself.
Rottweiler temperament includes a fierce loyalty and protectiveness similar to many other dog breeds. That can be seen as vicious when the Rottie overreacts or is not trained properly for social situations. People may also contribute to the misconception by judging a Rottweiler’s protective nature while not looking at their own behavior. Examine how the dog sees you before judging how he is reacting to you.
What a Well Trained Rottweiler Temperament Looks Like
Rottweilers are confident. They are also calm and well mannered when properly trained, especially with children. Rotties are loving and love to play! Sometimes that means their drooling increases with excitement, but they are not generally a “slobbery” dog, as some would say. Given their size, it’s surprising to know that they love to cuddle. Be ready for a Rottie to snuggle up if you’re laying or sitting down.
They want to be near their owners, involved in the action and enjoy being put to work alongside human companions. Rottweilers will be obedient and listen well when trained. They will come at your call and do your bidding happily.
Rottweilers are intelligent and will pick up training fairly quickly. Take the time to train your Rottweiler pup and you will have an incredibly loving, smart and hard working companion for life. They may appear to be dominant as a natural trait, but with calm, consistent authority exercised your Rottweiler will listen to you.
Rottweiler Puppies
In their youth, Rottweilers are usually clumsy and over-exuberant (like almost any dog). It’s important to love your Rottie from the moment they come into your family, forgiving her the occasional trip, bump and stumble. She’ll want to be with you and that likely means she is always underfoot.
Good training begins as a puppy and ends with a mature, well behaved Rottweiler. Remember to be consistent and calm. Don’t mistreat the dog in any way, or you do risk ending up with an aggressive, vicious dog that is also highly intelligent and strong. It is the same risk with any large dog breed. Proper care, lots of love and good, solid training methods will ensure your puppy becomes an obedient and composed adult dog.
Rottweiler temperament can fit the stereotype without good training, but remember that is not the norm and it is not the natural way of Rotties. They are excellent family dogs, working dogs and companions for all ages. With a loving, dedicated owner, a Rottweiler is a joy to be around.