Today, I wanna talk about something that’s been a big part of my life lately – adult Rottweilers. These dogs are seriously impressive, and I’ve learned a ton while raising mine. I started with figuring out what to feed them.
I read that these dogs need a lot of protein to stay strong, so I looked for high-quality dog food with real meat as the first ingredient. I also added some supplements like glucosamine for their joints, since they’re prone to hip issues.
- Food: High-protein, high-quality kibble, and occasional raw bones.
- Supplements: Glucosamine and fish oil for joint and coat health.
Next up was exercise. These guys are no couch potatoes. I started taking my Rottweiler on long walks, and we even started jogging together. It was tough at first, but we both got into it. I also got him a bunch of toys to keep him entertained when we’re at home. We played fetch, tug-of-war, the works. They need a good amount of exercise to stay healthy and happy. It takes about 3 years for them to mature, before that, they are very active.
- Exercise: Daily long walks, jogging, and playtime.
- Toys: Chew toys, balls, and ropes for mental and physical stimulation.
Then there was training. Rottweilers are smart, but they can be stubborn. I started with basic commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “come.” I used positive reinforcement, lots of treats and praise. It took time and patience, but eventually, he got it. They are loyal and protective, but they really need training.
- Training: Positive reinforcement with treats and praise.
- Commands: Started with basic obedience and moved to more advanced training.
Grooming was another thing. I brushed him regularly to keep his coat shiny and healthy. I also trimmed his nails and cleaned his ears to prevent infections. Their health care is super important. They are prone to bloat and gastric tortion, so I always keep an eye on his eating habits. They also have optical disorders, including cataracts, entropion, and progressive retinal atrophy.
- Grooming: Regular brushing, nail trimming, and ear cleaning.
- Health: Monitored for bloat, joint issues, and other common Rottweiler health problems.
Living Together
Living with a Rottweiler has been a wild ride. He’s the most loyal dog I’ve ever had. He’s always there to greet me at the door, and he’s super protective of our family. But he also needs a lot of attention and boundaries. I had to learn to be firm but fair with him, and it’s made our bond even stronger. Sometimes they will chase joggers or bikers, it is better to keep them behind a secure fence.
If you’re thinking about getting a Rottweiler, I’d say go for it, but be prepared to put in the work. These dogs need a strong leader who can give them the exercise, training, and love they need. It’s a big commitment, but it’s totally worth it.
