Meet the Rottweiler E-Book

American Kennel Club

• Herausgeber: CompanionHouse Books
• Kategorie: Lebensstil
• Serie: AKC Meet the Breed Series
• Sprache: Englisch

Seitenzahl: 208

Veröffentlichungsjahr: 2014

Beschreibung

The American Kennel Club's Meet the Rottweiler, an official publication of the American Kennel Club (AKC), serves as go-to resource for new and experienced owners of this impressive working dog. With its characteristic black and mahogany coloration, the robust Rottweiler cuts a unique silhouette and has attracted thousands of admirers in the United States and around the world. Meet the Rottweiler begins with a discussion about the decision to own this powerful, large guard dog, and the responsibilities that accompany this decision. Equally important is the selection of the right breeder, a topic covered in a chapter on puppy selection that includes a list of questions to ask the breeder and the answers new owners are looking for. The book addresses the health of the Rottweiler and alerts new owners to potential problems in the breed. The chapter on health discusses the importance of finding the right veterinarian for this breed as well as how to embark on a preventive-healthcare regimen with your vet. New owners will profit from the chapters dedicated to selecting the right merchandise for a new puppy and how to make the home and yard safe for the active and agile Rottie puppy. House-training and obedience training are presented in individual chapters, and the AKC's stance on positive training methods shines through as owners are enlightened to the power of praise and rewards. The book doesn't stint on information about grooming, exercise, dental health, and feeding, all vital topics for the dog owner. The final chapter includes a dozen ways to get your Rottweiler active in dog sports and the community—from participating in AKC performance events like dog shows, obedience and agility trials to becoming certified as a therapy dog and visiting nursing homes and retirement homes with your well-trained Rottie. The chapters also offer advice on how to pursue the AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy and the Canine Good Citizen programs, both ideal for young dogs getting their start in organized dog events and therapy. The Resources section of the book includes excellent recommendations for websites, periodicals, books, and programs that Rottweiler owners will find informative and helpful.

Leseprobe

Brought to you by the American Kennel Club and the American Rottweiler Club

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Copyright © 2014 The American Kennel Club and i-5 Publishing, LLC™

Photography: American Kennel Club, 119; Degtyaryov Andrey/Shutterstock, 1, 18, 80–81; BLDUMMY/Flickr, 4, 110–111; Brenda Carson/ Shutterstock, 85; Mario Castro/Flickr, 67; caspermoller/Flickr, 104; Caylor Photography/Flickr, 72 (bottom); Stephen Coburn/Shutterstock, 31; cpphotoimages/Shutterstock, 46; Linn Currie/Shutterstock, 30; cynoclub/Shutterstock, 4, 10, 12, 26, 27, 28–29, 34, 59, 68, 79, 82, 89, 90–91, 93, 102, 109, 114, 116, 117, 118; dezi/Shutterstock, 4, 57, 60–61, 70–71, 76; Dreamy Girl/Shutterstock, 36; Ersler Dmitry/Shutterstock, 13, 75; Eschipul Rottie/Flickr, 112; Tom Feist/Shutterstock, 121; Isabelle Francais/i5 Publications, 63; Tami Freed/Shutterstock, 100–101; GoDog Photo/Shutterstock, 105; Denise Grimm, 72 (top); hempuli/Shutterstock, 4, 6–7; Ammit Jack/Shutterstock, 16–17, 20, 69, 77, 84, 106; Rita Kochmarjova/Shutterstock, 9; Lilya Kulianionak/Shutterstock, 37; Erik Lam/Shutterstock, 48, 66, 124; Erik Mandre/Shutterstock, 98; Tatiana Makotra/Shutterstock, 25, 58; MotoWebMistress/Flickr, 40, 95; mooney/Flickr, 78; otsphoto/Flickr, 83, 87, 97; pixshots/Shutterstock, 53; Anastasija Popova/Shutterstock, 52; Paul Rich Studio/Shutterstock, 38–39; rybin/Shutterstock, 3; Toloubaev Stanislav/Shutterstock, 19; tony4urban/Shutterstock, 22; trenaren/Flickr, 44, 47, 92; Cameron Watson/Shutterstock, 14; West Midlands Police/Flickr, 113; Wollertz/ Shutterstock, 55; Roman Zhuraviev/Shutterstock, 50–51, 65; Vera Zinkova/Shutterstock, 94; Zuzule/Shutterstock, 24, 42, 49.

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without the prior written permission of i5 Press™, except for the inclusion of brief quotations in an acknowledged review.

Library of Congress Cataloging-in-Publication Data

The American Kennel Club’s meet the Rottweiler : the responsible dog owner’s handbook.

pages cm. -- (AKC’s meet the breeds series)

Includes index.

Print ISBN 978-1-62008-097-9eISBN: 978-1-62187-094-4

1. Rottweiler dog. I. American Kennel Club. II. Title: Meet the Rottweiler.

SF429.R7A44 2014

636.73--dc23

2013043615

This book has been published with the intent to provide accurate and authoritative information in regard to the subject matter within. While every precaution has been taken in the preparation of this book, the author and publisher expressly disclaim any responsibility for any errors, omissions, or adverse effects arising from the use or application of the information contained herein. The techniques and suggestions are used at the reader’s discretion and are not to be considered a substitute for veterinary care or professional advice from a dog trainer. If you suspect a medical or behavior problem, consult a professional.

i-5 Publishing, LLC™

3 Burroughs, Irvine, CA 92618

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www.i5publishing.com

A NOTE FROM THE AKC

From Dennis B. Sprung AKC President and CEO

Meet Your New Dog

Welcome to Meet the Rottweiler. Whether you’re a long-time Rottweiler owner or you’ve just gotten your first puppy, we wish you a lifetime of happiness and enjoyment with your new pet.

In this book, you’ll learn about the history of the breed, receive tips on feeding, grooming, and training, and learn about all the fun you can have with your dog. The American Kennel Club and i5 Press hope that this book serves as a useful guide on the lifelong journey you’ll take with your canine companion.

Owned and cherished by hundreds of thousands across America, Rottweilers make wonderful companions and also enjoy taking part in a variety of dog sports, including conformation (dog shows), obedience, agility, tracking, and carting.

Thousands of Rottweilers have also earned the AKC Canine Good Citizen® certification by demonstrating their good manners at home and in the community. We hope that you and your Rottweiler will become involved in AKC events, too! Learn how to get involved at www.akc.org/ events or find a training club in your area at www.akc.org/events/trainingclubs.cfm.

We encourage you to connect with other Rottweiler owners on the AKC website (www.akc.org), Facebook (www.facebook.com/americankennelclub), and Twitter (@akcdoglovers). Also visit the website of the American Rottweiler Club (www.amrottclub.org), the national parent club for the Rottweiler, to learn about the breed from reputable exhibitors and breeders.

Enjoy Meet the Rottweiler!

Sincerely,

Dennis B. Sprung

AKC President and CEO

Contents

1THE ROTTWEILER COMMITMENT

2MAKING THE BLACK AND TAN

3THE SEARCH FOR A PUPPY

4PUPPY COMES HOME

5THE ROTTIE IN SOCIETY

6HOUSE-TRAINING YOUR ROTTWEILER

7ROTTWEILER U

8FEEDING AND NUTRITION

9COAT CARE AND MORE

10A LONG, HEALTHY LIFE

11ROTTIES DO IT ALL!

RESOURCES

CHAPTER ONE

The Rottweiler Commitment

Robust, powerful, and loyal, the Rottweiler has strong protective instincts that have been used in modern times to serve humankind in various capacities. Due to the breed’s size, strength, and instincts, owning a Rottweiler is a tremendous responsibility that must be assumed with seriousness. The national parent club, the American Rottweiler Club, warns new owners, “For us, it is the best breed in the world, but it is not a dog for everyone.” A Rottweiler who has been properly bred, trained, and socialized can become a beloved, trusted companion.

Without socialization and physical and mental activity, however, the bored Rottweiler can be a real challenge.

The ARC

Established in 1971, the American Rottweiler Club is the national breed club of the Rottweiler, a Member Club of the American Kennel Club. Its purpose is “to encourage and promote the quality breeding of purebred Rottweilers and to protect and advance the interests of the breed.” While the members of the ARC engage in various pursuits with their dogs, from showing and therapy to Schutzhund and carting, they are all united in their love and respect of the breed. For more information about the ARC, visit www.amrottclub.org or the club’s Facebook page.

NOT FOR EVERYONE

During the 1990s, the Rottweiler breed soared to the number-two position in American Kennel Club registrations, an alarming statistic when one considers that the Rottweiler is not the kind of dog most dog owners can handle, train, and accommodate. The Rottweiler quite simply is not the breed for everyone. Rottweilers require an experienced dog owner to handle, train, and accommodate the breed’s size, strength, and intelligence.

No one will deny that a well-bred Rottweiler is a loyal and loving companion, but he is also a large, powerful dog, whose natural instincts are to protect his home and family. Although the Rottweiler isn’t one of the largest guard dogs—the Mastiff, Neapolitan Mastiff, and Great Dane are giants in comparison—he is solid muscle and determination. With little effort, a Rottweiler can knock over a full-grown adult; with no effort, a child or senior.

Given the breed’s impressive physical stature and its intense focus, the question arises, “Are Rottweilers aggressive?” The answer is, they certainly can be, and their strong territorial instincts can lead them to defend their properties and owners. A Rottweiler will not hesitate to stand up to an intruder when the need arises. Owners must commit to properly socializing the young puppy in order to be in control of their dog. Bursting with confidence and bravura, a Rottweiler can bully his owner, so early training must instill in the puppy what the pecking order of the house will be. Rottweiler ownership is not for those inexperienced with guardian breeds. This is a serious and powerful dog who demands an owner who is committed to caring for, training, and controlling his or her dog for life. Serious training and socialization are necessary components of Rottweiler ownership.

According to the breed standard, “The Rottweiler is basically a calm, confident, and courageous dog with a self-assured aloofness that does not lend itself to immediate and indiscriminate friendships.” Those qualities well describe a reliable sentry, someone you’d like to hire to protect you day and night. Rottweilers don’t make friends quickly, so strangers should not enter the Rottweiler’s house unannounced. An unknown person, even one familiar with the breed or other guardian breeds, should be told that a Rottweiler in his home environment is on duty 24 hours a day. Once a Rottweiler accepts you as a friend, you are assured a friend for life. Rottweilers have long memories and don’t forget friends, even if they’re infrequent visitors.

Rottweilers live for fun, and this athletic dog enjoys active sports with his favorite humans. Introduce the puppy to low-contact games that do not involve jumping or galloping. Owners must also resist the urge to play rough with their Rottweilers, as such roughhousing can encourage aggression in any breed. It is not advisable to let a Rottweiler overcome his owner even in play.

ROTTWEILERS AND LITTLE PEOPLE

Toddlers and small children are not a good match for the exuberant Rottweiler. Even a Rottweiler puppy can be too much dog, and the puppy’s bursts of energy can easily topple a small child. Young children tend to be more erratic in their movement and frequently screech and squeal in play and distress. Such behavior and noise-making can stimulate the puppy’s bite instinct, which can be upsetting to the child or even painful. School-age children, no younger than eight or nine years old, however, are more dependable with the Rottweiler. The American Rottweiler Club believes that the Rottweiler is an outstanding family dog who is good with children, “a combination protector and playmate.” No dog as large as the Rottweiler can be left unsupervised with children. The dog is meant to be a protector and companion, but not a nanny. Supervision by a responsible adult is a must.

Ready for action, Rottweilers are vigorous and powerful dogs who can be more than average dog owners can handle. Are you cut out to be a Rottie person?

Remember that in addition to being a protector the Rottweiler is also a herding dog, and it’s not uncommon for Rottweilers to regard children as their charges (aka stock!). When working on a farm or ranch, Rottweilers nip at the heels of recalcitrant sheep and cattle in order to move them; once the stock is moving along, the dog stays close and does not continue to nip. A Rottweiler in herding mode—attempting to block, bump, and circle—can be dangerous for children who think the dog is playing games. Early training will discourage the Rottweiler from treating your kids as goats (or ducks or sheep).

Again, adult supervision and common sense rule the day. Be an alert parent for your kids and your dog. Children must never be allowed to harass the Rottie, even though the breed is more durable than most breeds. Too often dog owners forget that their dogs are dogs, and a dog that is hurt will feel that he has to protect himself. As tough as Rotties are, they are not built for teasing and tugging (no animal is). It’s just instinct.

Did You Know?

The Rottweiler in the United States enjoyed moderate popularity in the 1970s but began the rise in the 1980s. By the 1990s, the breed reached the apex of its popularity, number two in the country, according to AKC statistics.

A well-bred, well-socialized Rottweiler can be a loving and protective companion for a family with school-age children.

Likewise, Rottweilers should not be permitted to jump on or knock over children. Rotties love to play and their exuberance is too much for small children to handle. Keep in mind, too, that dogs and kids play with very similar toys, and stuffed animals and balls can lead to avoidable exchanges.

The truth of the matter is that all Rottweilers are unique, and some dogs adapt better to children than others. Early socialization with children helps the Rottweiler to accept and respect little people, and most dogs learn to endure rough play; some dogs, however, have no patience with children’s grabbing and pulling. Always carefully monitor any interactions between kids and your Rottweiler.

DISCIPLINE AND TRAINING

Training a dog as large and powerful animal as the Rottweiler is not optional: it is mandatory. If you are seeking out an easycare pet that doesn’t demand training, then you are better off getting a couple of cats: the Rottweiler is not for you. If, however, you admire the strength and nobility of this breed, then you must commit to training your puppy, beginning the day he comes to your home.

Not every dog owner has the inclination to train a dog. Oftentimes owners of smaller breeds opt not to obedience train their dogs, which can lead to spoiled dogs who yip and nip with no regard to the humans around them. While any dog bite can do damage—even that of a Pomeranian or Chihuahua—a larger dog can do more harm, thereby making the training and control of such a dog mandatory.

We cannot overemphasize how serious is the owner’s obligation for training the Rottweiler. Here’s a wake-up call for most of us: in all likelihood, your Rottweiler will grow up to be stronger than you are. Making a strong impression on your puppy (before he weighs 100 pounds) that you are the one in charge is the best idea you’re going to take away from this book.

German Parent Club

The Allgemeiner Deutscher Rottweiler-Klub (ADRK) was formed in 1907 by the members of three existing German clubs, the Deutscher Rottweiler-Klub, the International Rottweiler Klub, and the South German Rottweiler Club. By the time the ADRK had formed, there were 3,400 Rottweilers registered in Germany.

Words like “discipline” and “reprimand” may be frowned upon in certain training-school circles, but the American Rottweiler Club doesn’t shy away from saying that “it is very important to establish control over your dog.” The club believes that any large, protective dog requires some form of structured training on a day-to-day basis. By no means does that advocate rough handling of the dog, and most Rottweilers can be controlled through verbal cues only. The dog must understand that there are limits on his behavior, and that you (the one in charge) is to be respected and heeded. Positive training, using lots of praise and rewards, is the key to bonding with and training your dog. While physical corrections are occasionally warranted for some strong-willed dogs, physical control does not require overly tough methods. Harsh training methods can impair a dog’s trust in his owner, and that trust is crucial to training the Rottweiler. It is best to work with an experienced trainer to learn effective training methods and appropriate techniques for discipline if necessary.

Fortunately, the Rottweiler has a strong desire to please his owner, and once he understands the meaning of a command, he will obey it without hesitation. According to the ARC, discipline, which may be required on very stubborn dog, must always be “consistent, fair, and firm, without being rough.” Rottweilers are very sensitive and perceptive, and they require confident and kind owners who have the time to train them properly.

CAVE CANEM

Perhaps the Rottweiler’s far-off ancestors in Rome once slept under a sign that said “Cave canem” (the Latin phrase for “Beware the dog”). The Rottweiler is a formidable guard dog, and it is the breed’s muscle and heart that continually attract newcomers to the breed. When a Rottweiler voices a warning (“property guarded by a Rottweiler who means business”), smart intruders retreat. A full-throated, resonant Rottweiler bark is spine-chilling and all the “guard work” most Rotties will ever have to do. The Rottweiler has the “metal” needed to back up his bark, and he will defend his property and family with determination if necessary. The stronger you bond with your Rottweiler, the more ardently he will protect you. Experienced trainers will agree that owners should become trusted masters and earn their Rottweiler’s love; trainers who use harsh methods to make their dogs fear them are only destroying their relationship with their dogs. No lasting relationship can be based on fear.

Get to Know the AKC

The world’s leading canine organization, the American Kennel Club is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to the betterment and promotion of purebred dogs as family companions. The AKC is the largest dog registry in the United States and was founded in 1884 with the mission of promoting the sport of purebred dogs and breeding for type and function. Supporting everything from health and wellness to fun activities for the whole family, the AKC is committed to advancing the understanding, benefits, and care of all dogs. Help continue the legacy by registering your purebred Rottweiler with the AKC. It’s as simple as filling out the Dog Registration Application you received when you bought your puppy and mailing it in or register online at www.akc.org/dogreg.

Obedience should be a lifetime commitment for responsbile Rottweiler owners. Consider joining an obedience club in your area to brush up your dog’s command repertory.

Meet the Rottweiler

AKC Meet the Breeds®, hosted by the American Kennel Club, is a great place to see Rottweilers, as well as more than one hundred and fifty other dog breeds. Not only can you see dogs and puppies of all sizes, you can also talk to experts in each of the breeds. Meet the Breeds features demonstration rings to watch events for law-enforcement K9s, grooming, agility, and obedience. You also can browse the more than one hundred vendor booths for every imaginable product for you and your pet.

It’s great fun for the whole family. AKC Meet the Breeds takes place in the fall in New York City. For more information, check out www.meetthebreeds.com.

The Rottweiler naturally perceives danger and can often instinctively distinguish between friend and foe. He will remember your friends and greet them with enthusiasm. Strangers are well advised to announce themselves before attempting to enter a home that is inhabited by a Rottweiler. Owners should post signage (in English!) to warn visitors, delivery people, and in-laws that a large dog resides here!

When well socialized and properly introduced, a Rottweiler can share his home with a family cat or an older dog. It is more of a challenge to introduce a Rottweiler who has been an “only dog” to new pets. Generally, male Rotties get along better with females and are less tolerant of other boys. Females can be welcoming of either sex, though some females will not accept other female dogs in their households.

A True Multi-Purpose Dog

Over the years, the Rottweiler has served humankind in many capacities. The breed has long been prized as a companion and all-around working dog. In Germany the dog was originally used as a cattle drover but also served as a cart puller for farmers and butchers. In modern times, while the Rottweiler works as a military and police dog, he also serves mankind as a search and rescue dog, an arson-detection dog, a therapy dog, a service dog, and, of course, a competition dog for shows and trials.

A MEMBER OF THE FAMILY

Adding a dog to your home in essence is expanding your family, and the Rottweiler puppy will want to become an integral part of yours. Rotties love time spent with their humans and crave attention. This breed should be as affectionate and loyal as it is courageous and confident. Every member of your family should be in favor of the choice of a Rottweiler. The puppy will want to count everyone in the household as his own, young and old, male and female.

As seriously as the Rottweiler accepts his duty as a sentinel for his home and family, he cannot be left alone outside for hours on end. Like any companion animal, the Rottweiler becomes lonely and bored and may feel dejected. When allowed into the home to spend time with the family, the Rottweiler blossoms into a fun-loving, entertaining dog who is a joy to have around. A Rottweiler without stimulation and regular attention can become a black and tan nightmare. They must be house dogs.

Rottweilers enjoy spending time outdoors as much as any vigorous working breed, so be sure to provide him with a securely fenced yard. A six-foot fence is necessary to contain this athletic canine. It is highly inadvisable to chain a dog outdoors, even for short periods. Rottweiler owners should never allow their dogs to run loose. Such a large dog can easily frighten neighbors or do damage to their property. The Rottweiler’s lack of fear extends to automobiles, so it’s critical to keep an unrestrained dog away from roadways and parking lots.

The “butcher’s dog,” as the breed was once known, has a natural affinity for making bovine acquaintances.

If you do not have a fenced-in yard, or live in the city, you will have to commit to taking your Rottweiler on daily walks a few times a day. The length of your walks will increase as your puppy grows, but don’t overdo it at first. Puppies aren’t built for mile-long jogs. Walking is ideal time to reinforce basic training and to bond more closely with your dog.

ROTTWEILERS ON THE FARM

Although the image of the Rottweiler as a police dog is commonplace today, the breed was once admired as a multi-purpose farm dog. Well documented, too, is the Rottweiler’s role as a butcher’s dog, driving cattle to market. The dog’s ability to drive cattle translated easily to herding work on the farm, and the Rottweiler could be used to herd a variety of stock, from cattle to ducks.

Owners today find that Rottweilers adapt easily to a life in the country, and the breed excels at many farm tasks, according to the editors of Hobby Farms magazine. The breed is easier to train than many large working dog types and is more familyoriented. In addition to herding livestock, the Rottweiler can also be a terrific flock guardian. It’s all in the training.

Rottweiler puppies raised on farms must be acclimated to the livestock daily. It takes time and daily reinforcement to focus the Rottweiler to the desired task at hand. Apparently nothing is more fun for a Rottie pup than chasing chickens, which is entertaining for everyone except the chickens. With persistence and treats (not chicken flavored), this behavior can be discouraged.

INSURANCE

Anti-Rottweiler policies have hurt lovers of this breed for many years now, and owners sometimes have found it difficult to secure insurance on their homes, condos, and apartments. Many insurance companies refuse to offer Rottweiler owners homeowner or rental insurance, which usually includes dog-bite coverage. Some insurance companies require owners of certain breeds to provide documentation from a vet or trainer to vouch for the dog’s good behavior.

The Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT), comprised entirely of dog professionals, believes that insurance companies’ designating “certain breeds as inherently dangerous implies to the public that behavior is not effectively influenced, positively or negatively, by training.” Of course, training by responsible owners is the only way to prevent unwanted behavior in dogs.

Like the parent club, the AKC continually fights against breed-specific laws and “believes that insurance companies should determine coverage of a dog-owning household based on a dog’s deeds, not a dog’s breed.” The APDT echoes this sentiment: “Singling out and publicly demonizing certain breeds as dangerous is unfair, discriminatory, and does an immense disservice to those breeds and the people who care about them.”

The more responsible every Rottweiler owner is, the less likely further breed-specific legislation will arise. Become the model good dog owner. Be informed of laws in your community, including leash and pooper-scooper, and be sure to keep your dog’s license and rabies vaccination up to date. Attend obedience classes with your Rottweiler and earn the AKC Canine Good Citizen award.

“In fact,” AKC sums it up, “insurance companies should consider a dog an asset, a natural alarm system whose bark may deter intruders and prevent potential theft.” And a well-trained Rottweiler in a home is a major asset!

If you are seriously considering the Rottweiler, a good first step is to join the American Rottweiler Club. The national parent club is for everyone who cares about this breed, and you will learn everything you need to know about the breed, its characteristics, standard, as well as how to find a breeder and select a puppy. The ARC also offers advice on where to obtain insurance.

At a Glance …

“The best breed in the world” isn’t the dog for everyone. Only experienced dog owners who are willing and able to socialize, train, and control their dogs deserve to call themselves Rottweiler owners.

An adaptable working dog, the Rottweiler counts fans and friends around the world who prize the breed for its loyalty, protective instincts, and intelligence. He’s also a handsome, funny, and affectionate companion.

The Rottie is not the ideal dog for a family with young children; though for older children who respect the dog, the breed is a highly valued “protector and playmate.”

The Rottweiler is a versatile working dog, whose background began as a farm dog, butcher’s dog, and cart puller. Today his résumé includes police dog, military dog, home companion and guard, show dog, therapy dog, and competition dog. You name it, the Rottie can do it!