It is believed that the Rottweiler breeders descended from the drover dogs that were of ancient Rome. When the Romans were conquering lands, they brought their dogs with them as the invaded Southern Germany in a farm area of Wurttemberg in the district of Rottweil. When the Romans were ousted from the area in 260 A.D., some of their dogs were left behind. These dogs were put to work to continue to raise cattle and for agriculture purposes. Guarding property and cattle were their basic requirements. It is believed that these dogs mated with indigenous dogs in Germany which helped to form the breeds that we are most familiar with today. Interestingly, the Rottweiler also has close cousins in Switzerland which include the Bernese Mountain dog. Another dog, the Entlebuch also has a close resemblance to the Rottweiler.

As the district of Rottweil became a prosperous marketplace for many during this time, farmers, cattlemen and traders began to notice how well these dogs performed the much needed work and started purchasing them for their businesses. The dogs not only helped to protect the cattle, but they also protected the money bags that were tied around their necks. Who would dare touch the collar of Rottweiler breeders? Local owners began to selectively breed these dogs, called the butcher’s dog in the area.

During the 1900s, the rottweiler breeders experienced a rebirth of sorts as a police dog and a family dog after suffering a period of decline in popularity. By 1931, the Rottweiler breed was admitted into the AKC Stud Book, gaining full recognition by 1935.

Today, the Rottweiler breeders have distinguished characteristics that have been carried down from the origins of its existence. They are medium sized with strong bodies as a result of the labor intensive work it was breed to do centuries ago. They have awesome strength, endurance, vigor and remarkable liveliness. They have mastered their strength with a reputation for poise and self-control. This makes them one of the most faithful and reliable companions.

The Rottweiler breeders are also distinguished by their black coats with brown or mahogany markings. Owners of this breed will not have to provide extensive care of the Rottweiler because its coat is not very long. Simple combing and brushing will suffice. It is important that this breed receives daily training that patiently allows the rottweiler to develop into a loyal and protective friend to man.