Rottweiler E-Book

Elaine Waldorf Gewirtz

• Herausgeber: CompanionHouse Books
• Kategorie: Lebensstil
• Serie: Smart Owner's Guide
• Sprache: Englisch
• Veröffentlichungsjahr: 2012

Seitenzahl: 253

Beschreibung

Dedicated to the noble and versatile Rottweiler, a breed esteemed for its strength, agility, and friendly demeanor, this Smart Owner's Guide, created by the editors at Dog Fancy magazine, offers the most up-to-date and accurate information every dog owner needs to become a well-informed caregiver for his dog. Illustrated with color photographs of adorable puppies and handsome adults, this easy-to-read primer is designed in a modern, lively manner that readers will find user-friendly and entertaining.Each Smart Owner's Guide offers a description of the breed's character and physical conformation, historical overview, and its attributes as a companion dog. The reader will find informative chapters on everything he or she needs to know about acquiring, raising, and training this remarkable purebred dog, including: finding a breeder and selecting a healthy, sound puppy; preparing for the puppy's homecoming, shopping for supplies, and puppy-proofing the home; house-training; veterinary and home health maintenance; feeding and nutrition; and grooming. Obedience training for basic cues (sit, stay, heel, come, etc.) and solving potential problem behaviors (barking, chewing, aggression, jumping up, etc.) are addressed in separate chapters, as are activities to enjoy with the dog, including showing, agility, therapy work, and more.Entertaining tidbits and smart advice fill up colorful sidebars in every chapter, which the editors call "It's a Fact," "Smart Tip," "Notable & Quotable," and "Did You Know?" Real-life heroes and rescue stories are retold in full-page features called "Pop Pups" and "True Tails." Recipes, training, and care tips are highlighted in the "Try This" feature pages.The Smart Owner's Guide series is the only series that offers readers an online component in which dog owners can join a breed-specific online club hosted by dogchannel.com. At Club Rottie, owners of the breed can find forums, blogs, and profiles to connect with other breed owners, as well as charts and checklists that can be downloaded. More than just 20,000 pages of solid information, there's a host of fun to be had at the club in the form of downloadable breed-specific e-cards, screensavers, games, and quizzes.The Resources section of the book includes contact information for breed-related organizations and rescues, as well as practical guidance on traveling with dogs, identification, and locating qualified professionals to assist the dog owner, such as pet sitters, trainers, and boarding facilities. This information-packed Smart Owner's Guide is fully indexed.

Leseprobe

CONTENTS

K9 Expert Education

By Allan Reznik, Editor-at-Large, DOG FANCY magazine

Protector and Pal

Meet the Rottweiler—a handsome black and tan working dog who can protect livestock, watch over home and hearth, and be one of dogdom’s most loyal companions.

The Rottie Rundown

Our simple two-page guide gives you all the necessary information about the Rottweiler—in 300 words or less!

A Working Heritage

From military dogs of the ancient Romans to butchers’ dogs who drove the cattle to market to police dogs in Germany, the Rottweiler has a long and impressive history of loyalty and service to humans.

A Rottie in the Family

Find out how to choose a reputable breeder and pick a healthy puppy or how to work with a shelter or rescue organization to adopt a dog. Either way, there are plenty of Rottweilers out there waiting for homes.

Ready for Your Rottie

You need to puppy-proof (or Rottie-proof) your house, as well as make sure that you have what your new dog needs to be comfortable, such as bedding, toys, and much more.

House-Train Your Rottie

Your first job is getting your Rottweiler to do the doo where you want him to. Using a crate—a.k.a. a modern-day den—will expedite the process.

Get to Know Your Vet

Selecting a veterinarian means doing some research and planning your Rottie’s first vet visit. Also, learn what to do when everyday bumps and bruises occur.

Rottweiler Health

Learn how to deal with external and internal parasites, skin problems, and medical and behavioral conditions common to the breed.

Feeding for Life

With proper knowledge and know-how, you can feed your Rottweiler a sound diet for optimal health and condition at all life stages.

A Beauty in Black

From brushing and bathing basics to nail-clipping instructions, we’ll have your Rottweiler looking his natural best.

Time to Train

Every dog needs basic training to become a well-mannered companion, and additional training advice will help you teach your dog to obey without hassle.

Problem-Solving Tips

A well-behaved dog isn’t just born that way. When problems arise, prompt and appropriate training will turn bad habits into good behavior.

Rotties in Action

Your Rottweiler has great potential in many sports and activities, whether for competition or just for fun. Harness his energy and build your bond as you train and play together.

Resources

Rottweiler, a Smart Owner’s Guide®

part of the Kennel Club Books® Interactive Series®

ISBN: 978-1-593787-81-3 ©2012

eISBN: 978-1-593787-98-1

Kennel Club Books, An Imprint of I-5 Press™, A Division of I-5 Publishing, LLC™, 3 Burroughs, Irvine, CA 92618. Printed in China.

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced in any form,by Photostat, scanner, microfilm, xerography, or any other means, or incorporatedinto any information retrieval system, electronic or mechanical, without the written permission of the copyright owner.

photographers include Isabelle Francais/I-5 Publishing, LLC™; Tara Darling/I-5 Publishing, LLC™;Gina Cioli/I-5 Publishing, LLC™; Shutterstock.com

LIBRARY OF CONGRESS CATALOGING-IN-PUBLICATION DATA

Gewirtz, Elaine Waldorf.

Rottweiler / by Elaine Waldorf Gewirtz

p. cm. -- (Smart owner’s guide)

ISBN 978-1-59378-781-3

1. Rottweiler dog.

SF429.R7G49 2012

636.73--dc23

2011031139

FOREWORD

K9 EXPERT EDUCATION

If you are bringing a Rottweiler into your home from a responsible breeder or a rescue group, congratulations! You have chosen a strong, loyal, discerning breed that is loved and admired throughout the world. Ironically, the Rottweiler is also one of the most misunderstood and maligned breeds. Rottweilers serve as a perfect example of the damage that can be done to a fine breed’s reputation when inappropriate owners are drawn to the wrong dog, neglect his socialization and training, then dispose of the dog when he becomes a burden. Confident, well-behaved Rottweilers in the company of their proud, responsible owners demonstrate to the world what a great breed this can be in the right hands.

It is believed that the Rottweiler descends from the drover dogs of ancient Rome. The dogs traveled with the armies, keeping the herds of cattle intact to feed the troops during their long marches. At night, the dogs guarded the supplies. By the middle of the twelfth century, increased commerce in cattle meant that butchers required dogs to drive the herds to and from market. Rottweilers performed this role admirably until the middle of the nineteenth century, at which time cattle driving was outlawed. This had a profound effect on the breed, and the number of Rottweilers diminished significantly. By 1901, the Rottie had found a new calling as a police dog in Germany.

The Rottweiler has plenty of herding instinct and ability for working with livestock.

The same versatility that the breed demonstrated then impresses us today. Rottweilers are at home in both country and city settings, protecting children, pulling carts, herding stock for farmers, and assisting police. To do this, however, the Rottweiler must be calm, brave, and confident without being unnecessarily aggressive. The American Kennel Club breed standard states that the Rottweiler should respond “quietly and with a wait-and-see attitude to influences in his environment.” Adaptability is important in the breed.

Unlike glamorous breeds with abundant coats to groom and style, the Rottweiler has a classic look. The breed is medium-large in size, robust, and powerful. The Rottie’s coat is straight, coarse, dense, and always black in color, with markings in rust to mahogany. The head is broad; the expression is “noble, alert, and self-assured.” The neck is moderately long and well muscled; the chest is broad and deep. The Rottweiler trots with strong reach in front and powerful drive in the rear.

The Rottweiler standard does not penalize an aloof or reserved dog, as this reflects the character of the breed, nor does the standard fault an aggressive or belligerent attitude toward other dogs, something of which pet owners need to be aware. This is not a breed that lends itself to immediate friendships; however, a shy Rottweiler or one who appears unwilling to be approached must be excused from the show ring. The standard illustrates the ideal temperament of the breed. The Rottweiler is a hard, dominant dog, but he must be calm and dependable. Edginess and fearfulness are not appropriate traits for the breed.

Conscientious breeders socialize their Rottweilers from puppyhood on to be stable companions. Breed rescue groups must monitor the Rotties in their care, particularly the adult dogs, to ensure that they can cope with the rigors of life in active new households. The rescue group from whom you adopt your Rottie should be able to tell you if a particular dog is trustworthy around children, men, women, and other pets.

Allan ReznikEditor-at-Large, DOG FANCY

With this Smart Owner’s Guide®, you are well on your way to earning your Rottweiler diploma. But your Rottie education doesn’t end here. You are invited to join Club Rottie™ (DogChannel.com/Club-Rottie), a FREE online site with lots of fun and instructive features, such as:

 forums, blogs, and profiles where you can connect with other Rottweiler owners

 downloadable charts and checklists to help you be a smart and loving dog owner

 access to Rottweiler e-cards and wallpapers

 interactive games

 canine quizzes

The Smart Owner’s Guide series and Club Rottie are backed by the experts at DOG FANCY® magazine and DogChannel.com—who have been providing trusted and up-to-date information about dogs and dog people for more than forty years. Log on and join the club today!

CHAPTER 1

PROTECTOR AND PAL

When a robust black dog appears on the scene, people take notice. Majestic, strong, and medium-large in size, the Rottweiler cuts an impressive figure. The courageous nature of a Rottweiler implies unquestionable protection. From the breed’s roots as a noble guardian with a sweet temperament to its status as one of the most popular breeds in America, it’s no surprise that you are interested in adding this black-and-rust beauty to your life.

Eager to protect those he loves, the Rottweiler has a solid-gold heart and a calm confidence. Add to that his dark brown eyes and self-assured gaze that stares into your soul, and it’s no wonder that admirers fall fast for him. Underneath the breed’s handsome good looks lies a loyal dog who can both act the clown and stand by his family without batting an almond-shaped eye.

A Rottweiler with good hips can easily leap over a 6-foot fence, but he won’t make the leap without having a good reason. Boredom and something enticing on the other side are the usual motivators. Reputable Rottweiler breeders and rescue groups will not place a dog in a household that does not have a secure yard enclosure of at least 6 feet in height.

This versatile working breed is highly intelligent, strong-willed, and noble. He serves society in a variety of roles by assisting in search and rescue operations, working alongside patrol and drug-detection officials, and providing comfort as a therapy and assistance dog. When ethical breeders value good health, temperament, working ability, and conformation above all else, this trustworthy companion is one of dogdom’s best-kept secrets.

Well-bred Rotties are not nervous or hyper. They are powerful dogs meant for endurance; thus they need a job to do and rules to follow. When they’re not given basic training or occupied with activities, such as competitive sports, herding, or therapy work, Rottweilers can become big bullies rather than the guardians they were bred to be. Think of a two-year-old whose parents allow him to run amok with no discipline and without teaching him how to behave politely. Dogs who have not received proper training from their owners are probably the reason behind the breed’s bad-boy reputation. While every dog needs training and a responsible owner, this is especially critical for Rottweilers, because the breed is often the target of breed-specific legislation.

With this in mind, Rotties may not be the best choice for first-time dog owners. They deserve to live in homes with people who understand the challenges of the breed and will commit to training and socializing their dogs the right way.

At the end of the day, a Rottweiler is all about companionship. From couch potato to athlete to protector, this breed is ready, willing, and able to be your best friend.

WHO SHOULD OWN A ROTTWEILER?

The right owners for a Rottie are those who will give their dog the opportunity to fulfill his impressive heritage. Consider the following types of Rottie owners to help you find out if you and the breed are a good match.

Up-for-a-challenge trainers: Rottweilers are brainiacs. There is little they can’t learn, so their minds must be stimulated. When it comes to sizing up a situation or understanding what their owners are saying, Rotties stand at the top of the canine intelligence chart. Capable of recognizing hundreds of words and following dozens of commands, a Rottweiler thrives when he has a chance to use his noodle.

Can you stand to live with a dog who may outsmart you from time to time? A Rottweiler requires an owner who values his dog’s sharp mind and enjoys the challenges of training.

Let’s say that your dog becomes obsessed with a toy, and you decide to take it away and put it on top of a counter. Leave it to a Rottie to jump up and retrieve it or figure out how to climb onto a nearby chair for a boost. Not everyone appreciates a problem-solving dog, so give this some thought before acquiring a Rottie. Living with a Rottweiler may be challenging at times, but it will always be interesting.

Good disciplinarians: All dogs need rules and someone to take charge. This is especially true for Rottweilers, who can grow to weigh around 100 pounds and who may try to bully their owners if not taught right from wrong. The breed requires consistent day-to-day discipline. It’s vital to obedience-train and socialize your Rottie at a young age and to learn how to handle his behavior while he is still small and you can remain in physical control.

Providing authoritative training doesn’t mean exerting extreme or forceful behavior; rather, it means giving your dog fair and firm discipline and establishing steady leadership with patience and positive reinforcement. Once your dog accepts your position as the pack leader, he will respect you and your surroundings and will come to your aid when you need it. If you are fearful or timid around dogs, then owning this breed is not for you.

Many Rottweiler owners go beyond basic training and participate with their dogs in organized sports, such as competitive obedience.

Meet other Rottweiler owners just like you. On our Rottweiler forums, you can chat about your dog and ask other owners for advice about training, health issues, and anything else about your favorite breed. Log on to DogChannel.com/Club-Rottie for details!

Active accomplices: On the day you bring your Rottie home, prepare to lace up your athletic shoes and burn some calories. Puppies and older dogs alike will need multiple short walks each day, but adult Rotties also require regular daily outings to get some real exercise. Swimming, walking, hiking, and jogging help keep your dog mentally and physically fit. If you prefer organized canine sports, such as agility, obedience, herding, tracking, or carting, your dog will benefit from the training and activity involved.

A tired Rottweiler is a well-behaved Rottweiler. If your dog expends some energy with you when you’re home, he’ll gladly sleep the time away when you’re gone. Include your dog in your life as much as you can to stave off boredom and keep him from turning to unacceptable activities such as digging, barking, and chewing.

Don’t let bad weather throw off your exercise routine. This is a double-coated breed—the Rottweiler has a soft undercoat and a coarse top coat. From his ancestral days spent living outdoors guarding cattle, the Rottweiler developed a protective outer coat to help insulate him in rain and snow. The coat dries quickly when wet, which is good because the typical Rottie likes water and thinks that getting wet is a lot of fun.

During their first year, Rottweiler puppies are happy-go-lucky and eager to please their new owners. From around fourteen to eighteen months to two years of age, they become more active and may assert some independence and develop same-sex aggression.

The Rottweiler isn’t a breed that you can let loose while on a walk or at a dog beach or dog park. In these situations, the Rottie’s protective nature and high prey instinct kicks into overdrive, and the dog can become possessive of the territory around him. Rotties are not afraid of cars or traffic either, and will think nothing of running into the street or going to explore a few blocks away.

Calm, cool companions: Although the Rottweiler requires exercise and activities, he also needs quiet time with his owner. While you must keep your Rottie active, don’t think that wrestling, playing tug-of-war, or encouraging your dog to chase you is a good idea. These rambunctious play activities will only incite your Rottie to use his strength to overpower you and possibly even play-bite.

Well-bred Rotties are stable and mellow. Reputable breeders have dedicated their efforts to producing even-tempered dogs, and your interactions with your Rottweiler should match his energy level.

Don’t expect a watchdog, either, even though the breed’s size alone will discourage intruders. Rotties are noisy only when they need to be. They are generally quiet if someone comes to the door or shows up on your property, yet they’re intelligent enough to sense if someone shouldn’t be there—that’s when their natural guarding instinct to protect those they feel a bond with will prompt them to sound an alarm and make a fuss.

Stable. That’s the one word that best describes the Rottweiler’s temperament. The dog isn’t overtly friendly or overtly aggressive with strangers. He should have an even-keel, stable temperament and, when bred correctly, is definitely not an aggressive dog. He’s loyal to his family and so versatile. A Rottweiler can learn whatever his owners want to teach him.

—Jeff Shaver, president of the American Rottweiler Club, from Magnolia, Texas

When training your puppy, use consistent and firm discipline.Sensitive, patient, and positive training methods work better than verbal reprimands. Physical mastery is not the goal—establishing a bond of mutual trust and respect is what’s important.

Bump-proof adults: Rottweiler owners should feel sturdy on their feet. A legacy from their cattle-herding days, Rottweilers have a natural tendency to herd those they love, which could result in someone accidentally being knocked over; children and frail adults are especially at risk.

So-so housekeepers: It’s a fact. The Rottweiler, like many breeds, sheds his straight, medium-length coat twice a year. The rest of the time, it’s not unusual to find straggler hairs scattered around the house. If black hairs collecting at the baseboards of your floors, showing up on your light-colored clothing, and floating onto your bedspreads and couch pillows don’t annoy you, consider a Rottweiler.

Shedding or not, you will need to maintain your Rottie’s overall condition with regular grooming. Brush your Rottie once a week—more often during times of shedding. Regularly brushing out the dead hair minimizes shedding by keeping the hair from falling out on its own inside the house. To keep his coat in good condition and free of odor, bathe your dog once a month.

Your Rottie’s teeth should be brushed once a day to prevent dental disease. Nails grow quickly and should be trimmed weekly. Develop the habit of looking in your dog’s ears every few days to make sure that they are clean and odor-free.

Establishing these spruce-up tasks as part of your routine gives you a good chance to bond with your dog. While you’re at it, check him over for any scratches or lumps that may need medical attention.

BREED ATTITUDES

Like people, Rottweilers can have a range of temperaments, but conscientious breeders who care about the dogs that they produce always aim for calm, gentle, and stable Rottie puppies. A Rottweiler with the correct temperament is a confident and courageous dog. He tends to remain aloof with people he doesn’t know, but aloof does not mean fearful. A Rottie with the correct temperament is reserved, proud, and independent but will accept what his owner wants, whether or not he enjoys it.

The Rottie’s reserved nature doesn’t translate to forming an immediate friendship with someone he meets for the first time. When introduced to a stranger, a Rottweiler will observe the person and respond with a wait-and-see attitude. Once he feels comfortable and not threatened by a newcomer, trust a Rottie to become a good-natured clown and, in time, to deliver some wet, sloppy kisses.

A well-trained, stable Rottweiler serves as an excellent ambassador for the breed. Once people have lived with a good Rottweiler, they seldom choose another breed the next time around.

HOME REQUIREMENTS

You don’t need to live on a cattle ranch to own a Rottweiler, although what dog wouldn’t love to spend his days exploring and running free-range and his evenings relaxing in the home with you? A big working dog such as a Rottweiler does need a home with room to roam. As mentioned, a Rottie can weigh around 100 pounds; large males can weigh even more. Cramped quarters become even smaller once you add a dog of this size. There’s also the herding factor to consider. Accustomed to working cattle, a Rottweiler can unintentionally nudge you into the wall without meaning to cause harm. It’s just his way.

Whatever the size of your property, a Rottie needs room to run.

A Rottie pup or adolescent needs a good-sized fenced yard to accommodate his exercise requirements and to facilitate house-training. For an adult Rottweiler, a yard comes in handy in between formal activity sessions as a place to expend some excess energy, stretch his legs, or keep tabs on the property. A safe, enclosed space is ideal for ball-retrieving games or just relaxing. Spending some time in the fresh air also helps reduce boredom, which prevents destructive behavior indoors.

Your dog should never be left alone for long periods, no matter how secure or ideal the space may seem. There’s no such thing as an “outside dog.” All dogs, especially Rottweilers, are companion animals, and they crave human affection and attention. Rotties have an inherent need to be with and protect the ones they love. When they’re relegated to a yard day in and day out, they become noisy, destructive, and aggressive. If your dog is hyperactive in the house or isn’t house-trained, take the time to exercise him and train him. A Rottie is smart and will learn how to behave properly when given the opportunity.

When you own a large-breed dog, you should forget about maintaining a beautifully landscaped yard with manicured grass and flowers. Rottweilers are active, and they need a place to run and play, and they may even indulge in a little digging.

A fence that stands at least 6 feet high is a must, as Rotties can easily jump or climb over anything lower. Putting down a layer of cement beneath the fence line helps deter Rotties from using their paws to dig out underneath. Gates should have secure locks that prevent your dog from learning how to open them. If a Rottie wants to get out of the yard badly enough, he’ll try and figure out a way to do it, so you must make your yard as escape-proof as possible. If you’re using an outdoor fenced dog run, add an enclosed top.

The Rottweiler’s base coat color is black with rust to mahogany markings. Any other color is a disqualification in the show ring, according to the breed standards of major purebred registries, including the American Kennel Club and United Kennel Club. Red Rottweilers carry a higher incidence of cardiac problems and may have lighter colored eyes, which may develop problems. Reputable breeders do not intentionally breed for unusual colors.

When choosing a fence, avoid chain-link, as a Rottie can easily figure out how to hook his back feet into the links and climb up and over the fence and out of the yard. Choosing a privacy fence made from a solid material, such as wood or vinyl, helps prevent strangers from peering into your yard and teasing your dog. Blocking your dog’s view also discourages territorial aggression.

Never opt for electronic fencing. For a Rottweiler, this system means disaster, as it won’t keep people or animals from wandering onto your property, and will likely be ineffective at keeping your Rottie contained. If another dog or a person walks into the yard, your dog won’t hesitate to chase the intruder back through the boundary and out of yard, despite the pain of electric shock.

A Rottweiler, or any dog for that matter, should never be chained up outside or left unattended on a tie-out cable. This is cruel punishment that is outlawed by many communities.

Expect your Rottie to keep a close eye on your property’s perimeter. Although this trait varies to some degree within the breed, most Rotties have maintained their strong territorial instinct. The Rottweiler’s heritage as a herding dog, keeping cattle inside a safe area and keeping intruders away, translates today into a desire to defend his owner’s home, car, and property. If someone comes to visit while your dog is in the yard, and the person decides to use the back door instead of the front door, he may encounter a less-than-welcoming Rottweiler. To drive an ornery steer back to the herd, the Rotties used intimidation and sheer body strength to force the issue.

The perfect Rottweiler owner is someone who has owned the breed before and knows to treat the dog as part of the family. Establishing strict boundaries from the first day that the dog comes home and providing early training and socialization are absolute musts.

—Sue Larsen, breeder of Falcon Crest Rottweilers in Newport, Rhode Island

If small dogs and rodents overly excite your Rottie during outdoor exercise, avoid areas where they are present. If that’s not possible, do some training to help him ignore small creatures. Take food treats along, and when your Rottie sees another animal, ask your dog to sit and focus on you instead. When he complies, give him a treat. Eventually, he’ll associate small prey with a reward instead of a conquest.

Before your Rottie goes out to exercise, always check the weather. Brisk, cold, or wet weather doesn’t present a problem, but Rottweilers do not tolerate hot temperatures, as their black coat heats up quickly. If the temperature climbs to 75 degrees Fahrenheit or higher, a Rottie can easily suffer from heat stroke if he’s exercising or in the direct sunlight for too long. Schedule your exercise and training sessions during early morning or evening hours, when it’s cooler.

If you notice your Rottie panting heavily or showing signs of fatigue, give him some rest and try to cool him down. Either place a wet towel on the ground and let him stand on it (he’ll cool off through the pads of his feet) or take him to a shady area and give him some water to drink.

LIVING WITH CHILDREN

In 1984, author and artist Alexandra Day was browsing in a Zurich bookshop when she came across a nineteenth-century cartoon about a Poodle left alone with an infant. The drawing inspired her to create a series of picture books, which became best sellers, about a Rottweiler named Carl who gently babysits an infant. While Day’s paintings are attractive and present a saintlike portrayal of a Rottweiler, the general concept of a dog overseeing a child’s needs is pure fiction. No canine, no matter how cute or mild-mannered, should ever be put in the role of caretaker or be left unsupervised with a child.

The Rottweiler has a strong instinct to pursue and capture prey, which around the house includes cats, small dogs, and children. For this reason, many Rottweiler breeders do not recommend that families with children younger than five or six years of age own this breed. Other people say that Rotties are good with younger children but must be raised with them from puppyhood.

If you already have an adult Rottweiler and are having a baby, socialize your dog with the small-fry world as often as possible. As you prepare the baby’s room, give your dog plenty of opportunities to sniff the furniture, clothing, and supplies so that he has a chance to become accustomed to these new items before the baby arrives. Carry a doll around in your arms as if it were a baby. Talking and fussing over the doll lets the dog experience your new body language before the real baby comes home.

Invite friends with infants over to visit. This gives your Rottie the opportunity to become accustomed to the sights, smells, and sounds of babies. If possible, take your dog out walking where he can see and hear children.

Stock up on some new toys for your dog and dole them out as distractions when the baby comes home. This rewards your dog and lets him associate the new addition to the family with positive experiences. Introduce your Rottweiler to the baby as a new member of the household pack by letting your dog sniff the baby. Don’t worry; he’s not going to give your infant any canine diseases, even if he gives the baby a little lick. Keeping your dog from meeting your baby gives the dog the impression that this newcomer is an intruder, and the dog may react as if he needs to protect the family.

With proper instruction and supervision, children and Rotties can be the best of friends.

Show your artistic side. Share photos, videos, and artwork of your favorite breed at Club Rottie. You can also submit jokes, riddles, and even poetry about Rottweilers. Browse through our galleries and see the talent of fellow Rottie owners. Go to DogChannel.com/Club-Rottie and click on “Galleries” to get started.

A Rottweiler therapy dog participates in a reading program with children.

Organize your schedule so that you can spend the same amount of time with your Rottweiler as you did before the baby arrived. Your dog shouldn’t have to lose your attention, and he won’t understand why you are neglecting him. A dog who is ignored once a baby arrives often resorts to destructive behavior as a way to get your attention.

Taking the baby out for a walk around the neighborhood? If you can handle both of them, bring your Rottie along, too. Never leave your child alone with your dog, regardless how sweet or well trained your dog is. An infant’s odd noises and jerky movements may startle your dog and prompt him to act out in self-defense.

As your child grows, it’s your responsibility to teach him or her to respect your Rottie’s space and how to act around the dog. For their safety, children should never be allowed to run and scream in the house or yard when the dog is in the same area. The dog’s strong prey instinct will kick in, and this incites him to chase after and pounce on your child.

Never let your toddler walk around the house carrying food. Your dog will think that your child is a walking meal ticket and will gobble up the goody, not realizing that small fingers are holding it. Insist that your child always eat snacks and meals at a table, out of your Rottie’s reach.

Instruct your child that the Rottie’s toys are off limits, as your dog will want them back and may bite a hand in the process. For the same reason, children should never grab anything away from the dog. Teach children that they should never pinch or pull the dog’s skin or face or poke at his ears or eyes.

NEEDY/INDEPENDENT TRAITS

Despite their initial aloofness with strangers, Rotties are entirely devoted to their families and need to stay close to them at all times. If you’re in the bedroom and decide to walk to another room, expect a large black-and-rust partner to accompany you. It doesn’t mater whether you’re answering the door or getting a snack from the fridge. Your Rottie doesn’t want to miss a chance to stick like glue to your side. Test this out by walking into a room of the house and closing the door, leaving your dog on the other side. Open it a few minutes later, and he’ll greet you with a silly grin and an enthusiastic wiggle as if you’ve been gone for days.

TrueTails

Gentle Dodger

Pamela Grant of Plano, Illinois, waited patiently at the airport’s cargo area while her Rottie, Am./Can. Ch. Quail Ridge’s Artful Dodger CGC, TT, TDI (“Dodger”) catnapped on the floor at her feet. The pair was flying to a dog show, and Dodger was catching a few winks before the time came to hop into his pet carrier. Suddenly, Grant spotted a small toddler running down the hall in their direction.