Deserves Training

By Budd Riddle

A Rottweiler is a large, robust, powerful dog, possessing a high level of self-confidence. Superior intelligence provides them with a strong sense of loyalty to family and property.

It is not uncommon for a full-grown male Rottweiler to weigh 120-130 pounds and stand 27" tall. I have seen grown male Rottweilers approach 150 pounds and stand over 29" tall.

Considering the size, weight, and temperament of a Rottweiler, obedience training and socialization should start at a very early age. Channeling the Rottweiler's attitude and social behavior is a must. This is the only way he can be an active family member. Allowing the Rotty to grow and develop on his own, with too much freedom or lack of correction, will result in a highly tenacious, independent animal. This independence, coupled with size and power, makes this animal a force to be reckoned with. Few owners have the strength, or desire to properly deal with a Rottweiler "gone bad".

With proper guidance, owner education and a regimented obedience program, and a control course later in protection work, your Rottweiler will mature into a well-behaved, dependable, controllable dog. The Rottweiler's respect and willingness to please will display the owner's reward for money, time and effort.

Statistics show that the number of Rotty's in the Baton Rouge area has been on the incline. Along with the increasing numbers of these dogs come the owners. Uninformed, unconcerned, and unable to control the "dog in the yard", who "sure will bite ya, though". These dogs (and owners) constitute a threat to our families, our community, and our future rights as dog owners.

So, what should we do? Don't wait! Procrastination of training efforts will produce marginal results at best. A Rotty's aggression levels develop more rapidly than in other "protection breeds". Combined with a high metabolism, a nine-month-old Rottweiler is ready and able to control the "Master".

The training approach to a Rottweiler is different than most other breeds. If total control is not exacted in the program, or if the owner is not in total command and unable to maintain the respect of his animal, the Rottweiler can and will, take advantage of the situation.

Being a professional trainer and owner of two Rotty's, I find the breed to be extremely responsive, with a very high desire to learn and a willingness to work. They are extremely adaptable, very dependable with children, and make a fine addition to family life.