Picture this: you’re taking a leisurely stroll through the park, a gentle breeze rustling the leaves in the trees overhead. Suddenly, you spot something hefty barreling towards you at full speed, and your breath catches in your throat as you recognize the unmistakable shape of a Rottweiler. What would be your first instinct? To flee, I’ll bet! The sheer sight of this large canine sends a chill down many people’s spine. But, is a Rottweiler truly a dangerous dog, or is it the victim of an unflattering stereotype?
To answer this critical question, we need to dive deep into the world of these intriguing dogs, unfold the layers of myth, fact, and pure hearsay. Allow me to shed some light on this dark and perhaps misunderstood, figure.
Rottweilers have a rich history that dates back to ancient Rome. They were initially used as herd-protecting dogs, making sure the cattle stayed in line during long walks from summer to winter grazing areas. Eventually, they found a home in Rottweil, a town in Germany, where they got their contemporary name. These historical facts hold a hint about the Rottweiler’s nature: they were bred to protect and serve, showcasing their responsible and loyal nature.
Indeed, a well-trained Rottweiler exhibits charming qualities, which are part of their natural temperament. They are loving, loyal, confident, and brave. They are not overly excitable or boisterous, making them wonderful family pets. Furthermore, Rottweilers are often quick learners who respond well to positive reinforcement.
However, what about the not-so-friendly side of the Rottweiler, the one that movies, newspapers, and frantic Google searches would have you believe is the true, terrifying face of the breed?
First, let’s consider the size and strength of the Rottweiler. These robust animals range from 80 to 135 pounds, with powerful jaws capable of exerting a good amount of pressure. This physical prowess can indeed lead to trouble if not handled correctly. A poorly socialized, badly trained, or abused Rottie can certainly be a dangerous dog. But as we’ll see, this is far from being a breed-specific issue.
The American Temperament Test Society, an organization that assesses breed temperaments, gave the Rottweiler an 85.9% pass rate, above the average rate for all breeds tested! This means that out of all Rottweilers tested, nearly 86% showed a stable and sound temperament. The passing rate indicates an excellent temperament, rather than the stereotypical image of the “dangerous dog.”
Besides, one can’t ignore the role of the dog’s guardian in molding a dog’s behavior. The Rottweiler’s strong desire to protect its family and territorial nature can be a problem if the owner doesn’t provide the right training and socialization. A dog, sturdy as a Rottweiler, can pose a risk if it feels threatened or scared and reacts in self-defense. For these reasons, the breed may not be a suitable choice for a first-time dog owner, or for folks who don’t have the time or inclination to invest in solid training and supervise socialization process.
So, to put it straight: A Rottweiler is not inherently dangerous. Yes, they can be a threat if in the wrong hands or brought up in an unsuitable environment. But this is true for any dog, regardless of its breed.
To strengthen my argument, let’s draw from actor, Orlando Bloom’s personal life. Bloom has a pet Rottweiler named Mighty. When Bloom was asked whether Rottweilers are dangerous or not, he said that Rottweilers are “loving and gentle.” Mighty is his walking buddy and best friend, a clear demonstration that the breed, when correctly socialized and trained, can be anything other than “dangerous.”
In the end, it all comes down to their upbringing, similar to us humans. We are products of our environment, and our behavior is shaped by our experiences. Similarly, how a Rottweiler or any other dog behaves largely depends on how it is brought up, socialized, and treated.
So, the next time you see a Rottie, don’t let fear guide you. Instead, remember that under the brawny exterior beats a loyal, loving heart, not so different from any other furry friend. With nurturing, training, and a bit of love, the Rottweiler can be as friendly and loving as any Labrador retriever or any other ‘adorable’ breed you might meet!
Remember, a dog may just be a part of our life, but to them, we are their whole life. So before labeling a breed as ‘dangerous,’ think twice and give them a chance because every good boy or good girl deserves it! In conclusion: No, a Rottweiler is not a dangerous dog. It’s a fantastic canine breed with a bad wrap. So, rethinking your answer, what are you going to do the next time a Rottweiler comes running at you in the park?
