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How Smart Are Rottweilers and Do They Learn Commands Easily?

Are Rottweilers smart

Most people know that Rottweilers have been trained for various types of work in their long history.

In addition, they are also very popular as pets. With these dogs being as popular as they are, many wonder about their intelligence and learning abilities.

Are Rottweilers smart?

Rottweilers are intelligent dogs who pick up commands pretty quickly. However, they can be strong-willed and sometimes require kind but firm leadership from their owners. These dogs need a lot of mental stimulation.

This video shows an excellent example of how Rotties are smart but can be stubborn. They enjoy pleasing their owners but are not fans of performing tricks. Read on to learn more about this breed’s intelligence and trainability.

How Intelligent Are Rottweilers?

According to Maureen Finn, Rottweilers are very smart. They are descended from a long line of dogs that have often had to think and act independently of their owners.

These dogs are descended from a type of Mastiff that the Romans brought when they crossed the Alps into what is now Germany.

The breed that would become the Rottweiler was developed by Germans to help protect cattle and other livestock.

Rotties eventually found a place as effective security dogs as German society became less dependent on agriculture.

The traits inherited from their ancestors helped shape them into dogs well-suited for protective work and being family protectors.

One of the things that you will enjoy knowing the most about these dogs is that they are responsive to training, especially if well-socialized from an early age. Well-behaved Rottweilers can improve the breed’s reputation.

Are Rottweilers Prone to Stubbornness?

Some people believe that Rottweilers are stubborn to the point of being untrainable. However, this belief is a myth that often proves harmful for these dogs. The reality is that these dogs are trainable, but owners must be consistent.

FluffandPuff Spa dates the Rottweiler’s history back as far as 2,000 years, with the Roman army’s arrival in present-day Germany.

These dogs that formed the foundations for modern Rotties were used for cattle driving, a task which required the dogs to work independently much of the time. They have had to learn how to respond to threats that arise in the owner’s absence.

Because of their strong build, these dogs have been used for pulling butcher’s carts. Unlike horses, dogs performing such a task do not require a lot of guidance. When performing this work, the dogs guard to load, as well as pull it.

Germans also used these dogs for bear hunting, particularly in the Middle Ages. Dogs used for hunting have to be able to think and act quickly, regardless of whether their owners are nearby. In modern times, their independence has given them new “jobs”.

Rotties are suitable for police work, being able to run down and hold suspects in place. These abilities have proven useful for dogs performing military work. This breed is an alternative to shepherds somewhat less prone to hip issues.

Rottweilers are also effective as service or therapy dogs. These dogs have the physical strength to easily help people with mobility issues get around. As therapy dogs, they have a calming, reassuring presence.

Even though Rotties are wilful sometimes, very few are so stubborn that training is impossible. Because these dogs are intelligent, they always enjoy the chance to learn. Once trained, their devotion to their family members is unquestioned.

What Kind of Stimulation Do Rottweilers Require?

According to Pet Dog Owner, Rottweilers thrive on physical and mental stimulation. The most important thing to remember overall is that these dogs need daily exercise.

One thing that is said of many breeds is that a tired dog is a happier one. In the case of Rotties, this adage is especially true.

A dog that exercises enough to require rest without exhaustion is a dog less likely to become hyperactive.

Training is one of the best ways to provide stimulation and increase your dog’s sense of bonding. Even if you’ve already gone through obedience training, a bit of refresher training never hurts. Making sure the dog remembers commands is always good.

Teaching your dog to play fetch can be a great bonding activity for both of you. Frisbees, boomerangs, and tennis balls all work well for this type of activity. Playing fetch in a fenced-in yard or dog park is always a safe, fun activity.

Playing tug of war with your dog provides excellent stimulation if it already has a healthy respect for you.

Although this is a great way to exercise your dog, you may want to skip this activity if your dog tends to be dominant.

Toys that bring out your Rottweiler’s instincts are always fun. Using toys that your dog can chase or use in the pool is always an excellent choice. Try to make sure you can supervise your dog while playing, mainly if any batteries are used.

Chew toys help exercise your dog’s jaws and clean its teeth. However, use care with what you choose for the dog. Avoid bones that may splinter easily, such as poultry or pork bones, as well as plastic toys with squeakers.

Interactive play and puzzles are excellent stimulation for Rottweilers. Toys that you can fill with food treats that the dog must work to get out work well. Hiding treats around the house for your dog to look for also provides stimulation.

Dog daycare can be an option for trained Rottweilers who enjoy other dogs’ company. You will have the benefit of supervised activity while knowing that your dog is enjoying itself while you are at work.

Why Aren’t Rottweilers Into Doing Tricks on Command?

Whether Rotties do tricks or not doesn’t have a clear answer. Although there are Rottweilers who do tricks on command, this is not a trait associated with the breed.

Why is this the case with this breed?

Canna-Pet highlights the need for positive affirmation when a dog is being trained. Sometimes, a dog will learn to repeat a behavior because it associates it with a treat.

For example, once a dog knows to sit on command, it may transition to sitting up in a begging position.

Such tricks should be encouraged if they are inclined to perform them on demand. Doing tricks on demand can be good for the dog-owner bond.

What Types of Activities Are Best for Rottweilers?

According to Wag!, Rotties had a history as messengers during World War I. This type of work, combined with other historical tasks, demonstrates the dog’s hardiness.

Even though these dogs do best with and should live in indoor settings with their families, they are still dogs that enjoy fun outdoor activities. Consider expanding your dog’s horizons past the backyard for more fun.

A daily walk around your neighborhood is something that your Rottweiler will likely enjoy. Most dogs will enjoy being able to meet and interact with people. Consider partnering up with someone else in the neighborhood who walks their dog.

If you have nature trails or parks nearby, these can provide a nice change of scenery for your dog. Be on the watch for loose, unattended dogs. Also, remember to bring some water, especially if the weather’s warm.

Consider taking your dog to the beach or a lake if one is convenient. Many Rottweilers enjoy playing in or around the water. You’ll probably enjoy taking a break in the water yourself.

Rottweilers are intelligent dogs that do best with a variety of activities to keep them busy. The more your dog takes part in your life, the happier it will be. A more comfortable dog is always more willing to please.