Rottweilers as family protection dogs

Rottweilers can make excellent family protection dogs. As affectionate as they are protective, the Rottweiler is a formidable guardian and offers some of the highest levels of deterrence possible. Originating in Germany, it was developed to escort cattle from their farms to the local town market while protecting the money that owners had made that day in pouches that were traditionally carried around their neck. These roles demanded intelligence and physicality which remains dominant in the breed even today. Although sadly overbred, the modern Rottweiler can still be an outstanding working dog and one we are extremely fond of.

As with all large and powerful breeds, Rottweilers require responsible owners committed to establishing healthy boundaries, a regular socialisation programme, and frequent training. Often instinctively distrustful of strangers, socialisation should emphasise a healthy level of acceptance rather than viewing everybody as a friend or playmate. This is particularly important for dogs employed in protection roles. In a home setting this should manifest as suspicion, but not untoward aggression where there is no threat. Training teaches Rottweilers what is expected of them while also facilitating bonding and mutual trust building. Obedience and bonding are the foundation of all training, and mastered before any protection specific work is started.

Rottweilers thrive in loving homes where they can spend large amounts of quality time with their family. This is a highly effective form of enrichment, and one of the greatest differentiators between protection and guard dogs. Long walks, games, and considered training sessions are all recommended. Perhaps most importantly, Rottweilers should be enjoyed in the same way that any other pet is, even if used for protection work. Responsible ownership is also key with potential considerations including only allowing free running in safe and fully enclosed spaces, appropriate socialisation with other dogs and unfamiliar humans, and ensuring proper supervision while with children.

Generally only recommended for committed and responsible owners, a Rottweiler can be a wonderful addition for a home seeking a deeply loyal and affectionate companion that can double as a formidable guardian. For information on the trained Rottweilers he currently hold, we can be contacted on info@protectiondogs.co.uk.