From Roman cattle drover to modern family dog. Learn about the rich history of this imposing German breed.
The Rottweiler owes its name to the German town of Rottweil, an important trading centre in the Middle Ages. Here the breed developed into what we know today.
The Rottweiler's ancestors were Roman drover dogs that travelled with the legions criss-crossing Europe. They herded cattle and guarded the camps.
In Rottweil these dogs were used by butchers to drive cattle to market and safely transport money — tied to their collars.
With the arrival of the train in the late 19th century the breed nearly died out. A handful of breeders brought it back, focusing on workability and character.
Today the Rottweiler is a versatile working dog: police, search and rescue, IPO and a beloved family dog. A breed with a past to be proud of.
Share this article
Read also
Pause for a moment
Three moments showing why Rottweilers are so special.
