The Breed
The Rottweiler Breed Standard
Understanding the standard is the fastest way to understand why Rottweiler people stay Rottweiler people.
How to say it
Rottweiler is pronounced Rawt-vi-ler or Rott-wy-ler — never "Rott-wheel-a".
A brief history
The breed traces back to the drover dogs of the Roman legions, which moved with the armies through what is now southern Germany. In the town of Rottweil these dogs were used to drive cattle and guard the butchers' money — earning the name Rottweiler Metzgerhund, the butcher's dog of Rottweil. Later they became among the first breeds used in police and service work, and the ADRK, formed in 1921, remains the breed's parent club.
The standard in brief
General appearance
Above medium size, robust and powerful, with a compact and substantial build. Correct proportion of height to length gives the impression of great strength, agility and endurance rather than bulk.
Characteristics & temperament
Good natured, placid in basic disposition, devoted, obedient and eager to work. Self-assured and fearless, with a calm response to its surroundings. Sharpness, shyness and nervousness are serious faults.
Head & expression
Medium length, broad between the ears, with a moderate stop and well-developed cheeks. Eyes almond shaped, dark brown, with a good-humoured, confident expression. Ears small, triangular and set high.
Body & movement
Straight, strong topline with broad, deep chest and short, strong loin. Movement is a trot — powerful, harmonious, with strong drive from the rear and good reach in front.
Coat & colour
Medium length, coarse, dense and flat outer coat with undercoat. Black with clearly defined rich tan markings on cheeks, muzzle, throat, chest, legs and over both eyes.
This is a plain-language summary. For the full official wording, refer to the ANKC breed standard and the ADRK history of the Rottweiler.