Dogs are a man’s best friend and having one is truly a remarkable and joyful experience. Not only do they provide good companionship, they are also able to perform excellent and helpful tasks.Whether being a therapy dog, a messenger dog and even a guard dog, these creatures are an all-around dependable friend you are able to count on. Speaking of dependable, one of the most misunderstood and nevertheless a very loving companion is the Rottweiler.Considered to be one of the most dangerous dogs, the Rottweiler can exhibit potentially dangerous behavior resulting from irresponsible ownership, abuse, neglect and lack of proper training and socialization. Still, this false impression is not at all the dog’s fault.

Rottweiler Treatment Insurance

Even though this breed might seem durable, they are not free from any health risks, as mentioned above. Especially because Rotties are pure breeds, they will be susceptible to diseases more than others.The costs of treatment for your pet depends on what the condition is. However, nevertheless, they can still get pretty expensive, especially when the diseases happen all at once.For example, as mentioned, stomach bloat is a common condition for Rottweilers and treating it can cost as much as $7,500. There’s also Hip Dysplasia, which costs around $4,000 to $6,000. These prices can definitely be too much for many people in the United States.Thankfully, all hope is not lost due to the existence of pet insurance. Having the best dog insurance for your Rottie will allow you to get your dog treated while still being able to buy your daily necessities. What’s more, insurance doesn’t cost a lot too.Of course, the prices per month vary, depending on where you live. For example, if you live in New York, it might cost you $69 per month. On the other hand, if you live in Nashville, it will probably cost less, at around $57 per month.

What makes people love Rottweilers?

Cool and confident, the Rottweiler or “Rottie,” as fans of this breed dearly call them, is one of the most popular breeds of dogs these days. Massive and muscular with distinct color and markings, it can be a gentle giant or a scary beast, depending on its personality and owner.In general, it takes time and very careful observation before this big baby warms up to people and its surroundings. Despite being large and substantially built, this fellow is not immune to having health conditions, which ranges from mild to life-threatening if not treated immediately.Still, many people gravitate towards taking home a Rottie because of its excellent intelligence, trainability and watchdog capabilities.Now, no other dogs protect people as much as a Rottie and as a part of your family, you know you need to protect this fellow as well.You may not be as physically strong as a Rottweiler, but you are able to protect its health by insuring your pet as a preventive measure against any health conditions that it may develop along its life.

About the Breed

Originally from Germany, the Rottweiler is known in German as Rottweiler Metzgerhund, meaning “Rottweil butchers’ dogs.” The Rottweiler is one of the oldest herding breed of dogs, mainly used for herding livestock and pulling a cart full of butchered meat to the market.Named after a town in southwest Germany and were primarily used by travelling butchers during the Middle Ages, the demand for their breed declined as railroads became the main method for moving stocks.However, during World War 1 and World War 2, the revival of interest for the breed grew, as the Rottweiler assumed a new role as police dogs. During that time, they played various roles such as messenger, draught, ambulance and guard dogs.After the wars, the breed gained more popularity as an excellent obedience dog and was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1931, as the first litter was whelped in 1930 when German immigrants came to the US.Its popularity reached an all-time high in the mid-1990s, when more than 1,000,000 were registered with the AKC. Ideally, the Rottweiler is described as calm, confident and courageous.Known to observe its environment first before responding quietly, this self-assured dog does not immediately and indiscriminately form friendship.With an inherent desire to protect its family and property, this not-so-highly excitable dog is smart and adaptable, with a strong work ethic and is very loyal to its family.Generally inactive indoors, it has a mellow disposition but is extremely observant, which is perfect for any household that needs a low-key companion.Although having a tough exterior, this gentle giant does not tolerate being alone and can even suffer from separation anxiety, which brings about bad habits and overeating.By providing early socialization and a firm and consistent leadership, a Rottweiler will be able to channel its power and protectiveness to a more positive outlet when given a regular job or task to perform, as this dog loves to do work.Stocky and muscular, its size ranges from 24-27 inches for males and 22-25 inches for females. The Rottweiler’s compact and substantial build exudes agility, endurance and great strength, with its large frame and heavy bone.

Usual Health Concerns

Rotties may look tough, sturdy and powerful on the outside, but it is not exempted from having health concerns. Though generally healthy dogs, they will also need regular checkups, vaccinations and exercises to maintain good shape.Still, hereditary disorders, especially if not responsibly bred and tested, may exist and learning about them can help prepare you in case of medical emergency. In addition, you are also able to get pet insurance for your Rottie just to be on the safe side.Pet insurance will greatly benefit you and your pet, whether you are completely sure he or she has an illness or not. You might think that it’s unnecessary, but in the long run, you will be glad to have enrolled your pet while it was still young.

Orthopedic Disorders

Such as hip and elbow dysplasia, Osteochondritis Dissecan (OCD) and Panosteitis are some of the most common orthopedic disorders that the Rottweiler may have. Hip dysplasia is a genetic disorder common in large and giant dog breeds.It occurs when there is an abnormality in hip joint development, which causes severe pain and debilitation. Elbow dysplasia, on the other hand, is a malformation of the elbow joints that causes the bones and cartilages to become damaged over time.Osteochondritis Dissecan is a disease that affects bone cartilages of growing dogs, caused by hormonal imbalance, poor nutrition, genetics and rapid growth in large breed dogs.It affects multiple joints such as the shoulder and elbow, hock and knee, with symptoms similar to arthritis.Panosteitis or growing pains affect large dogs like the Rottweiler for even 18 months. It is caused by genetics, poor nutrition, or even bacteria, where the dog develops lameness typically shifting from one leg to the other.

Bloat

Rotties are also at high risk of a life threatening, gastrointestinal syndrome as any other deep-chested dog called “bloat,” where the stomach rotates and swells due to gas and fluid that cannot escape.This is characterized by excruciating pain, pacing, retching without vomiting, drooling and appearing restless, which calls for emergency medical attention.

Von Willebrand Disease

The most common hereditary blood-clotting disease somehow similar to hemophilia in humans, Von Willebrand Disease is not related to the dog’s sex, as it may affect both sexes caused by plasma protein deficiency. This lack of Von Willebrand factor or factor VIII in their blood causes excessive or spontaneous bleeding in affected dogs.

Eye Disorders

Entropion, Ectropion, Cataracts and Progressive Retinal Atrophy are some of the genetic eye disorders that the Rottweiler may inherit. Entropion is characterized by the lower lid rolling inward, while Ectropion is characterized by the lower lid rolling outward.Cataracts can affect the Rottweiler as early as six years old, which can be fixed by surgery. Progressive Retinal Atrophy is a group of eye degenerative disorders that cause blindness in both eyes. The first symptom is night blindness, which may rapidly or slowly progress.

Heart Defects

Aortic/Subaortic Stenosis is a common heart defect that is sometimes seen in Rotties, where the aorta narrows due to a structural defect and causes difficulties for the heart to pump blood. As a result, it causes the heart to work harder, which may result to fainting or even sudden death.

Cancer

Specifically, Osteosarcoma is an aggressive bone cancer that generally affects large dogs. The first sign is lameness, which can be further checked by X-rays and other tests to confirm the diagnosis.It is often treated aggressively by the amputation of the affected area, or chemotherapy.

Grooming

With the Rottweiler having a short, flat coat, it is one of the easiest dog breeds to groom. A smooth-coated dog breed like it requires a weekly routine of brushing with a rubber curry brush to remove loose hair and to distribute natural skin oil to maintain a shiny and healthy coat.An occasional bath of three to four times a year using clean water and dog soap or shampoo can also be done when needed, as the Rottweiler has low natural odor.However, regular checking and cleaning of the ears are advisable to minimize wax buildup and to prevent irritation and infection.Regularly wiping the dog’s muzzle with a towel to prevent saliva strings around your house is also preferable, as this breed has deep, thick muzzles that trap excess saliva in its loose skin under the jaw.Its teeth should also be brushed once a week to keep its gums healthy and to prevent bad breath and tartar buildup. On top of that, you need to trim its nails at least once a month.

Exercise and Nutritional Requirements

Exercise is extremely important for dogs, as it keeps them happy and healthy. Specifically, large dogs like the Rottweiler require a fair amount of daily exercise, though this particular breed is not one of the most energetic dogs.Although a particular exercise requirement varies according to your dog’s size, weight, age and temperament, an average healthy adult Rottie will need at least an hour’s walk or activity each day.As the Rottweiler was originally bred as a herding dog, its endurance is theoretically high. However, now that they are being overbred and on to the heavier type, you have to be careful not to exercise your pet excessively.Ideally, a short walk in the morning and another in the evening should be fine. Letting it run around your yard or play fetch is also a good way to work off its extra pent up energy. This will curb its behavioral problems as well when your Rottie is bored.Proper nutrition is also essential to keep your big baby healthy. Being a large dog that can weigh over 100 pounds, it is not uncommon for this breed to have a fairly aggressive appetite. While all dogs require a high-quality diet rich in protein, moderate amounts of fat and low-level amounts of carbohydrates, your Rottie needs protein more to build and maintain its healthy muscles. Choosing the right diet for your dog is not as difficult as you might think, though you have to pay attention to the food content of the dog food you buy. The first ingredient on the list should be an animal source of protein – this type of protein is the most complete and is biologically suited for your pet. The fat content should also come from animal sources such as chicken fat and salmon oil.Additionally, always make sure that carbohydrates do not make up the majority of the food you buy for your dog. To get the most nutrition without too much excess while your Rottie is still a puppy, it needs all the proteins it can get to fuel its growth and development.Now, as it turns two – as most Rottweilers mature at the age of two – and you notice that it grows too fast, change its diet to a large-breed adult formula when it is already about 75% of its adult size.Exercise and proper nutrition are the best things you are able to do for your pet’s overall health and wellness. Stick to your chosen food and routine exercise for your furry friend and be sure to contact your vet if you notice any problems regarding your pet’s behavior.

Fascinating Facts

The Rottweiler breed is already fascinating as it is, but as they are depicted in movies and television series, this breed is still misunderstood. In fact, its mere presence strikes fear due to misconceptions in the media and some indiscriminate pet owners and breeders.Now, to bridge the gap and bring more love to this lovely companion, here are some fascinating facts about the Rottweiler.

• The Rottweiler descended from Molossus, a Roman Mastiff-type dog.

• This breed was originally used by Romans, as they began to settle in what is now Germany.

• A club for the Rottweiler was founded in 1901 and the breed standard was written. That said, it has little to no change over the years.

• The Rottie can weigh from 85 to over 130 pounds and can live up to 11 years of age.

• Rottweilers slobber no less than a bulldog – slobbering before and after meals and even during travel.

• Rottweilers need a determined owner and is not for first time dog owners. They can be stubborn and imposing if not properly handled, which is why they need someone to establish leadership and to dominate them.

• Rottweilers are known to have one of the greatest bite force in all canine world. In fact, they are famous for having very strong jaws and bite force.

• The Rottweiler has a good running speed and can run up to 25mph and more.

• The breed is always black with tan markings on the chest, cheeks, muzzle, eyebrows, markings on legs and a black pencil mark on each toe.

• The Rottweiler’s coat consists of a waterproof undercoat and a coarse topcoat.

• The Rottie has a wait-and-see attitude, which makes it aloof to new people and environments.

• The personality of this breed is affected by genetics, training and socialization, or the lack thereof.

• Rottweilers are an affectionate dog breed; they even believe they are lap dogs and will want to sit on your lap and cuddle, despite their large size.

• Rottweilers shed heavily twice a year, specifically during spring and fall.

• A Rottie has powerful jaws, so you have to invest in some tough, indestructible toys for your pet to play with.

• Rotties are among the top ten smartest dog breeds.

• Rottweilers rank 17th among the 155 most popular breeds and varieties by AKC.

• The Rottweiler’s energy level swings from couch potato to whirlwind, so choose the pup that best suits your energy level when picking from a litter.

• Rottweilers have an instinct to herd, so they have a habit of “bumping” into people, animals and things when they want them to fall in. Make sure to keep them away from fragile things or train them well while they are young.

• Training is a must when it comes to owning a Rottweiler, especially at a very young age, as it is a very powerful dog that does not easily stand down to anyone.

• American Rottweilers are different from German ones, as the former has a docked tail and the latter has long tails and are generally stockier and muscular.

Rottweilers are sensitive, so they need proper care and attention. They can easily become stressed when left alone for long intervals, which may cause health disorders.

Rotties are among the top ten smartest dog breeds.

Rottweilers rank 17th among the 155 most popular breeds and varieties by AKC.The Rottweiler’s energy level swings from couch potato to whirlwind, so choose the pup that best suits your energy level when picking from a litter.Rottweilers have an instinct to herd, so they have a habit of “bumping” into people, animals and things when they want them to fall in. Make sure to keep them away from fragile things or train them well while they are young.Training is a must when it comes to owning a Rottweiler, especially at a very young age, as it is a very powerful dog that does not easily stand down to anyone.American Rottweilers are different from German ones, as the former has a docked tail and the latter has long tails and are generally stockier and muscular.Rottweilers are sensitive, so they need proper care and attention. They can easily become stressed when left alone for long intervals, which may cause health disorders.Looking for the best interactive dog toys?

Conclusion

The Rottweiler is a loyal, intelligent and confident breed of dog that requires responsible owners to train and look after it. Despite its bad reputation, this big fellow with an equally big heart can be easily guided and trained at a very young age.Naturally, having any kind of pet in general requires great care and responsibility, but the Rottie needs more from you, as it is also prone to health conditions that costs highly.Though generally healthy and fit, it is necessary to ensure that your beloved pet Rottie is well-trained and taken care of by purchasing preventive and wellness pet insurance to cover your veterinary bills.Saving you money in the long run while keeping your pet healthy are some of the benefits that a pet insurance policy can bring into you and your pet’s life.Bringing you peace of mind and more years to spend with your dog, a pet insurance policy that suits your budget and your dog’s needs will certainly help you keep your Rottie’s overall wellness taken care of.

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