A Rottweiler standing beside its handler at a dog show.

A Rottweiler standing beside its handler at a dog show.

Ed Schipul, Rottweiler Conformation Showing.jpg, Wikimedia Commons. CC BY-SA 2.0. Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Rottweiler_Conformation_Showing.jpg. Licence: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0. No source-file edits; display resizing/cropping only.

Ed Schipul · CC BY-SA 2.0

Image source

Breed or variety record

Rottweiler

dog breed

Part of Dog

Explore the Rottweiler in The Ark Is Earth's educational archive.

Summary

The Rottweiler is a German working breed with a long history of cattle driving and guarding. Its strength and steadiness made it useful to drovers and butchers, and later to police, rescue, and service teams. Well-socialized Rottweilers can be confident, loyal companions who respond well to consistent training. Their familiar black coat has clearly defined rich tan markings.

Quick facts

  • Size: Males are typically 24–27 inches tall and 95–135 pounds; females are 22–25 inches and 80–100 pounds.
  • Coat: The short black coat has clearly defined tan markings.
  • Lifespan: The AKC lists a typical life expectancy of 9–10 years.
  • Working style: Confident and steady, Rottweilers benefit from early socialization and consistent training.

Sources

Species context

Dog (Canis lupus familiaris)