Rottweiler insurance
Is the Rottweiler the right dog breed for you?
Our guide to living with a Rottweiler
The Rottweiler is a large, powerful dog known for its strength, confidence, and loyalty. With a protective yet affectionate nature, they make devoted family companions and effective guard dogs. Their intelligence and versatility also make them excellent working dogs in search and rescue, police work, and service roles.
Rottweiler quick facts
- Size: Males: 61-68cm, Females: 56-63cm
- Lifespan: 8-10 years
- Weight: Males: 50-60kg, Females: 35-48kg
- Colours: Black with distinct rust or mahogany markings on the face, chest, and legs
- Temperament: Loyal, protective, confident
- Common health issues: Hip and elbow dysplasia, heart conditions, osteosarcoma (bone cancer), bloat (gastric torsion)
- Country of origin: Germany
Where does the Rottweiler come from?
The Rottweiler’s history dates back to ancient Rome, where they were used as cattle-driving dogs. Known for their strength and endurance, they accompanied Roman legions, herding livestock and guarding supplies.
As the Roman Empire expanded, the breed made its way to the region of Rottweil in southern Germany, where they were further refined. In the Middle Ages, Rottweilers became known as ‘Rottweil butcher’s dogs,’ used to pull carts and protect money pouches tied around their necks.
By the 20th century, their working abilities made them valuable in police and military roles. Today, they’re still prized for their versatility, serving as loyal companions, guardians, and working dogs.
Rottweiler temperament
Loyal
Rottweilers are loyal, confident, and intelligent dogs with a natural protective instinct. They're natural guard dogs; alert and wary of strangers.
Stable
They’re not aggressive by default. Well-bred and properly socialised Rottweilers are calm, stable, and discerning.
Intelligent
Rottweilers are highly intelligent and eager to learn. They respond well to consistent, firm, and positive training.
Loyal
With the right guidance, they become obedient, loyal companions. However, without proper training and socialisation, their protective instincts can become overbearing.
Confident
While they’re confident and self-assured, they thrive on human interaction. Rottweilers bond closely with their families and dislike being left alone for long periods.
Are Rottweilers aggressive?
Rottweilers can be protective, but that doesn’t mean they’re naturally aggressive. Well-bred, well-socialised Rottweilers are confident, calm, and loyal.
Like any breed, their behaviour depends on training, socialisation, and how they’re raised.
Poor handling or neglect can lead to problems, but with the right care, they’re wonderful companions.
Appearance and size of the Rottweiler
Rottweilers are large, muscular dogs with a powerful build. Males typically stand 61-68cm tall and weigh 50-60kg, while females are slightly smaller at 56-63cm and 35-48kg. Their distinctive black coat with rust or mahogany markings is short, dense, and weather-resistant. The markings typically appear above the eyes, on the cheeks, chest, legs, and under the tail.
Rottweilers have broad heads with strong jaws, a well-defined stop (the area where their forehead meets the muzzle), and dark, almond-shaped eyes that give them an alert and confident expression. Their ears are medium-sized, triangular, and hang close to the head.
Thinking of getting a Rottweiler puppy?
What to expect week-by-week from your first year
We've laid out what to expect from your first year with your new puppy with a series of videos and helpful guides, so you can stay on top of your training, keep your pup healthy, and help them settle in to their new life.
Rottweiler grooming
Rottweilers have low-maintenance coats that are easy to care for. Their short, dense fur only requires weekly brushing to remove loose hair and keep their coat healthy.
While they’re moderate shedders year-round, they tend to shed more heavily in spring and autumn. During these times, brushing them 2-3 times a week will help manage shedding.
We're a Which? Best Buy for Dog Insurance 2025
You can trust us with your Rottweiler
Agria is a Which? Best Buy for our Lifetime, Lifetime Plus and Lifetime Premium dog insurance products. **
** Agria is a Which? Best Buy for our Lifetime, Lifetime Plus and Lifetime Premium dog insurance products*. Which? policy score ratings are based on an analysis of policy cover levels conducted in November 2024. Best Buy providers have a high policy score and a good track record for paying claims. Read the Which? article.
Training a Rottweiler
- 1
Keep it firm and consistent
Rottweilers are intelligent, eager to please, and highly trainable. However, they need firm, consistent leadership and clear boundaries. Early socialisation and obedience training are essential. Expose your Rottweiler to different people, environments, and experiences from a young age to ensure they grow into well-mannered, confident dogs.
- 2
Socialise them young
Early socialisation and obedience training are essential. Expose your Rottweiler to different people, environments, and experiences from a young age to ensure they grow into well-mannered, confident dogs.
- 3
Use positive reinforcement
Positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats and praise, work best. Harsh or heavy-handed training methods can lead to distrust and stubbornness.
- 4
Train them to walk nicely on a lead
Due to their size and strength, leash training is important. Teaching them to walk politely on a lead from an early age will prevent pulling and make walks more enjoyable.
- 5
Use mental stimulation
Rottweilers enjoy mental stimulation. Engage them in puzzle toys, obedience challenges, and interactive games to keep them mentally sharp.
Rottweiler health issues
Rottweilers can be prone to a few specific health conditions.
Hip and elbow dysplasia
A genetic condition where the joints develop abnormally, causing pain and mobility issues.
Bloat (gastric torsion)
A life-threatening condition where the stomach twists. This requires immediate veterinary attention.
Heart issues
Rottweilers are prone to a condition called aortic stenosis, which affects blood flow from the heart.
Osteosarcoma (bone cancer)
This breed is at higher risk of developing bone cancer, particularly in older dogs.
Obesity
Rottweilers have hearty appetites and can easily become overweight without proper diet and exercise.
Regular vet check-ups, a healthy diet, and appropriate exercise will help maintain their health and longevity.
What we love most about Rottweilers
Fiercely loyal
Rottweilers form incredibly strong bonds with their families. Their protective yet gentle nature makes them devoted companions.
Confident and courageous
They have a bold, self-assured presence. Their natural confidence makes them excellent guardians and working dogs.
Surprisingly affectionate
Despite their tough exterior, Rottweilers are affectionate and loving with their owners. They thrive on human companionship
Things to consider before getting a Rottweiler
While Rottweilers make wonderful companions, they aren’t the right fit for everyone. Here are three key considerations.
- 1
Experienced ownership required
Rottweilers need confident, experienced owners. Their strength and protective nature require firm, consistent leadership and training.
- 2
Exercise and mental stimulation
These powerful dogs need daily physical and mental exercise. Without it, they can become bored and develop destructive behaviours.
- 3
Guarding instincts
Rottweilers are naturally protective. Early socialisation and training are essential to prevent overprotective or reactive behaviours.
The Rottweiler’s loyalty, strength, and affectionate nature make them a devoted companion. With proper training, socialisation, and care, they are both loving pets and confident protectors.
Rottweiler insurance with Agria
With Agria, it's lifetime, every time
At Agria, we believe pet insurance should last your pet’s lifetime. Our policies provide lifelong vet’s fees cover for illnesses and injuries. This means that, provided your policy is renewed each year, your maximum benefit will be refreshed, providing cover for ongoing conditions.
So, whatever happens throughout your Rottweiler's life, we’ll always be there for you and your dog!
Up to £20,000 towards vet bills every year
So your dog can get the care they need.
We pay 98% of claims*
And we can pay your vet directly, so you can focus on your dog.
No increase in your premiums when you claim
So you don’t have to worry about the cost of insurance when you go to the vet.
Free vet video calls, 24/7
Which means help is always on hand if you’re worried.
Dotty about dogs? Get a 5% multi-pet discount when you insure more than one pet with us.
*Based on all Agria Pet Insurance claims received between November 2023 and May 2024.
Want to know about our insurance policies? From multi-pet coverage to pre-existing conditions, we have lifetime insurance options for cats, rabbits, horses, and dogs, including older dogs.
Rottweiler FAQs
More dog breeds
Beagle
Loyal and happy-go-lucky, Beagles can thrive in a busy family environment.
Bichon Frise
Small, fluffy and cheerful, the Bichon is an affectionate companion to all.
Border Collie
You’ll need a lot of energy to match the intelligent, active Border Collie.
Border Terrier
Border Terriers love to explore, mix well with others, and they’re cheeky!
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The friendliest dog you'll ever meet, Cavs love humans almost as much as they love food.
Cavapoo
Sociable and charming, you’re sure to fall in love with a curly Cavapoo.
Chihuahua
The smallest of dog breeds, Chihuahuas are active, alert and cuddly!
Cockapoo
The curly Cockapoo is a fluffy pal that’s guaranteed to make you smile.
Cocker Spaniel
A bundle of joy, Cocker Spaniels are great companions for active families.
Dachshund
Small but mighty, Dachshunds are loyal, playful and frequently vocal.
French Bulldog
With a playful, cuddly disposition, the lovable Frenchie is ear to stay.
German Shepherd
Strong, courageous and smart, German Shepherds need lots of stimulation.
Golden Retriever
Golden Retrievers are eternal puppies – intelligent, kind and great with kids.
Goldendoodle
So much more than a designer dog, Goldendoodles have a lot of love to give.
Greyhound
The world’s fastest dog, a Greyhound is actually a lovable, laid-back layabout.
Hungarian Vizsla
An energetic hunting dog, the Vizsla’s a great companion for active families.
Jack Russell Terrier
Compact and athletic, the Jack Russell will bring a ton of fun to your home.
Labradoodle
Social and happy, a curly surprise, you’ll have oodles of love for a Labradoodle.
Labrador Retriever
Gentle, friendly and super-smart, the Lab is the UK’s most popular dog.
Lurcher
Gentle and affectionate, Lurchers love running, and also lounging about.
Maltipoo
Maltipoos are cheerful and charming, and they’re sure to win your heart.
Miniature Schnauzer
In spite of their quizzical look, Schnauzers are bold little characters.
Mixed Breed
Affectionately known as ‘mutts’, mixed breed dogs are a diverse bunch.
Patterdale Terrier
Patterdales are brave and determined little dogs, and also loyal and loving.
Pomeranian
A tiny little ball of fluff, the Pomeranian is a charming little lovebug.
Poodle
Poodles are known for their elegance, but they’re also fun and super smart.
Shiba Inu
Shibas are a cat-like dog, in that they’re independent and quirky, but also loyal.
Shih Tzu
With their charming little faces, Shih Tzus are gentle and playful little beans.
Siberian Husky
A striking-looking dog, the Husky is actually clownishly playful and full of joy.
Springer Spaniel
Full of beans and master of cuddles, Springers are great pals to everybody.
Sprocker Spaniel
Sprockers are smart, mischievous and full of energy – great for active families.
Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Despite their tough exterior, Staffies are playful, loyal and full of energy.
Whippet
Sleek, swift and surprisingly snuggly, you’ll love a Whippet. Whippet = good.
Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkies are tiny, fluffy and full of energy. And their spirit is infectious!