Buying a Rottweiler

Consumer Information

SO YOU WANT TO BUY A ROTTWEILER

Before you go any further, ask yourself the following questions:

• How well do I understand Rottweilers
• Have I researched the history of the breed & studied the current FCI Breed Standard
• How well do I understand Rottweiler temperament
• Have I researched the inherited diseases most likely to occur in Rottweilers
• Do I understand the responsibility of owning a Rottweiler, in particular the more dominant types
• Am I committed to a lifetime of training and working with a large breed
• Am I dedicated enough to devote my time to training the dog to its full potential

The Rottweiler is a large powerful and sometimes strong minded dog that is not for everyone, he is best suited to an owner that is willing to work with him; he is not suited to being shut in a yard with no stimulation.

You’ve studied the Breed Standard and have an understanding of what the Breed should look and act like and understand some of the genetic issues that may occur and you have decided you are dedicated enough to deal with a Rottweiler coming into your life.

SO, NOW TO FIND A RESPONSIBLE BREEDER!! ENSURE YOU ARE AN EDUCATED BUYER!!!

Sadly, Breeder doesn’t always mean RESPOSIBLE/KNOWLEDGEABLE Breeder.

You have probably been checking the Internet and studying Advertisements with flashy photos and claims of worldly success in shows and working trials by Breeders attempting to lure you to their Kennel, but upon further investigation you will more than likely find no such Titles exist, it’s all clever advertising on the part of the breeder/seller. Some will tell you they are extremely knowledgeable with working dog training experience, but have nothing to back up these claims. Again ask for proof of qualifications, don’t be fobbed off with “I’ll send them to you at a later date, or I’ve been in the breed x number of years, I know a good Rottweiler when I see one.” Research – Research and Research again.

Please ask the Breeders to furnish as a minimum, certified proof of clearances for both parents in:

• Hip Dysplasia
• Elbow Dysplasia
• JLPP
• Eye & Mouth

The National Rottweiler Council (Australia) has a database with the results of Members Breeding Stock, a simple check can verify the results of the parents of pups you may be interested in. You can also research the Pedigree of the parents.

Ask the Breeder:

• Can I see the Contract
• Will I be supplied with Registration Papers when collecting my pup
• What register will my pup be on (Mains, Limit)
• Are you a Member of a Breed Club
• Can I come visit the parents & pups
• Will I receive a vaccination certificate when collecting my pup
• Will I receive a microchip certificate when collecting my pup
• Can you recommend a training club I can attend with my pup

THINK TWICE:

• If you can’t meet the mother and pups prior to purchase
• If you aren’t allowed at the Breeders Premises
• If the Breeder suggest you meet somewhere else for pickup of your pup
• If the mother and pups are timid and fearful towards you
• If the Breeder hasn’t given you details of the parents to research
• If the Breeder demands you pay in full prior to meeting the pups
• If there are no guarantees of a refund if you change your mind
• If the price of the pup keeps changing
• If there is no paperwork available from the Breeder, (Pedigree, Contract, Vaccination Certificates, Parents Health Certificates, Microchip Certificates)
• If you don’t believe the dogs on the premises are in good health
• WHEN YOUR GUT SAYS NO!!!!!

Use the State Rottweiler Breed Clubs as a resource - and expect to be given the third degree by responsible Breeders.