LITMIR.BIZ

      (Eric Isselee)

      In spite of its powerful body and formidable appearance, this dog can make a good pet if properly trained. Very few Rottweilers are used for their droving ability nowadays. Instead, their strong protective instincts are put to use in security work. A young puppy will need kind but firm training and lots of socialization if it is to grow into a good-natured adult.

      History

      The likely origin is from the Mastiff-style dogs that travelled with Roman armies driving livestock as they swept northwards conquering Europe. First used as boar hunters, then as cattle drovers in the German city of Rottweil (a cattle market town in mediaeval times), they doubled as custodians of traders’ money. The Rottweiler is devoted to its family but must be taught its place kindly but persistently.

      Description

      A big, thick-set, muscled dog, the Rottweiler should show boldness and confidence, never nervousness or aggressiveness. The Rottweiler has a calm look that indicates a good nature and needs no training as a house guard. Because of its intensely protective nature, it is not advisable to leave this dog with young children as, like all guarding breeds, it might misinterpret their signals.

      Fact File

      Group: Working

      Country of Origin: Germany

      Male:

      63–69 cm (25–27 in)

      Female:

      58–63 cm (23–25 in)

      Coat: Thick, smooth coat.

      Life Expectancy: 10–12 years

      Guarding Instinct: Great guard dog, malefactors beware.

      Temperament & Grooming

      Temperament: Highly intelligent, the Rottweiler’s strong naturally protective instincts need socialization with firm but kind training. These dogs can be difficult in the wrong hands – can be dominant without training.

      Grooming: Easy care; need only be brushed once a week with a stiff brush to remove dead hairs.

      Exercise & Feeding

      Exercise: Keep these big dogs’ muscles hard with walking, free running and play. If you live in a town, you should take them out for a brisk walk at least twice a day.

      Feeding: There are no special feeding requirements.

      Health Problems

      Occasional hip dysplasia; osteochondrosis dessicans (OCD) largely under control (here); entropion (here).

      Dobermann

      (© Jean Michel Labat)

      A devoted, affectionate house dog, the Dobermann is very intelligent and is easily trained but its power must be kept under control. It is a devout family companion that loves to be part of daily activities. Its guardianship of the family’s children is legendary but it must be trained firmly but kindly. A family dog for experienced owners.

      History

      This breed was designed in the 1880s by Herr Louis Dobermann, a German tax collector. At a time when taxes were collected personally, he wanted a fearless, alert dog with stamina to defend him as he travelled the country. His secondary job as ‘dog catcher’ gave him the ideal opportunity to study breeds. The Rottweiler, the old German Pinscher and also the Manchester Terrier were probably the foundation. Later the breed may have been refined further with the addition of Pointer and Greyhound blood.

      Description

      A big dog, the Dobermann is very graceful, with a refined outline; a powerhouse athlete. The coat is a glossy black, brown, blue or fawn (Isabella) with a rich tan, which must be well defined. Powerful but elegant, a well-trained Dobermann makes an ideal guard dog and an affectionate pet. If it is well socialized and trained, a Dobermann puppy can adapt really well to family life.

      Fact File

      Group: Working

      Country of Origin: Germany

      Male:

      69 cm (27 in)

      Female: 65 cm (25½ in)

      Coat: These dogs moult freely and have a double coat.

      Life Expectancy: 10–13 years

      Guarding Instinct: A powerful guard dog.

      Temperament & Grooming

      Temperament: A great family dog needing to be trained.

      Grooming: Very little is required; a weekly brush and polish with a chamois leather will be enough.

      Exercise & Feeding

      Exercise: An hour or so of walking every day with about ten minutes’ free running will suffice. Add fifteen minutes’ play in the garden and a Dobermann will be happy and fit.

      Feeding: There are no special feeding requirements.

      Health Problems

      Low to average hip dysplasia. Buy from eye-tested parents and test the puppy. Von Willebrand disease (here) is also possible.

      Great Dane

      (© Jean Michel Labat)

      The Great Dane is a majestic-looking dog with its powerful physique and appealing expression. Very family orientated, Great Danes are easily trained and obedient. Although large, they are not clumsy and don’t take up too much space. However, a big house and garden are best. Seriously fond of

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