Just like Humans
Just like humans, a lot of your dog's health is predetermined by genetics. Quality of food, diet, health care and the amount of exercise he gets; all contribute greatly to the longevity of his life.
Health
Breeder's are the front-line defense against poor genetic make-up and possible future health problems caused from poor breeding selections. Although no breeder can guarantee your dog's longevity, choosing a pet store or "backyard breeder" is certainly going to narrow your chances of getting a pup that will live a long and healthy life.
Rottweilers like other breeds of dogs (and people for that matter) are more prone to one type of disease or genetic problem than another. The genetic qualities of a Rottweiler or any other dog cannot be overstated. This is why the parents and preferably several generations of your puppy's ancestry should be cleared for common health problems like hips, heart and eyes defects.
Although Rottweilers are generally very healthy dogs, you should still be aware of the more common health problems that could occur. Below is some of the most common ones found in Rottweilers.
- Hip Displaysia
- Rupture of Cranial Cruciate Ligament (Knee Joint)
- Heart Disease
- Cancer
- Enthropia (eyes)
Learn more about healthy foods and General Health Care.
Exercise
Exercise is also crucial to your dog's overall health. The amount he gets should be determined by his age.
18 Months Or Less
Force exercising your dog or puppy under 18 months of age is not recommended. Several short walks a day are better than 1 or 2 long ones and always try to keep him off the pavement as much as possible. This can be hard on his skeletal frame. This is a pivotal time for the skeletal development of your dog. Stressing him or his muscles from too much exercise could permanately threaten his health. He may not even be aware he is over exerting himself but you should know! Remember to watch for heat stress, Rotties don't do well on hot days! Swimming is certainly healthy for him. Just be sure to monitor any water intake and be careful he doesn't drown.
The Adult Dog
Your adult Rottweiler should never be asked to carry anything over 20% of his body weight and even that should be gradually obtained.
Although Rottweilers are known for cart pulling, you should first seek expert guidance before asking your pet to pull anything over 10lbs. One more thing worth mentioning, although cute as it may be, never let your children ride your adult Rottie! He is not a horse.