| Q & A |
"Are Rottweilers prone to Heart Disease?" The most common heart problem seen in Rottweilers is Sub-Aortic Stenosis. This disorder can be very mild or so serious that it results in sudden death. "Do Rotties get Allergies?" Some Rottweilers are prone to flea and/or food allergies. Symptoms and severity of the allergies vary from dog to dog "Can Rotweilers suffer from Eye Diseases?" Entropian (eyelids rolling inward) and Ectropian (Eyelids rolling outward) are inherited conditions which require surgical correction. Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), Central Progressive Retinal Atrophy (CPRA) and certain types of Cataracts are inherited conditions. Dogs used for breeding should be examined annually by a Board-certified Veterinary ophthalmologist, until at least eight years of age, as hereditary eye problems may not present themselves until later in life. "What about Epilepsy?" Epilepsy may result from injury to the head or from bacterial infections of the brain. If no such cause is found, it is thought to be congenital. Congenital epilepsy can be an inherited trait, and has been observed in many breeds. The term epilepsy refers to recurring episodic seizures/convulsions. The episodes can be triggered by fatigue, excitement, anxiety, noise or in females, by estrus. It may be controlled with medication. For this reason breeding is not recommended. "I have heard something of Hypothyroidism, should I be concerned?" Hypothyroidism refers to insufficient output of the thyroid hormone by the thyroid gland. It may slow down the whole body functions; the dog may become lethargic, mentally slow, without much energy. Its coat may become dull, thin and fall out easily. In males it can lower the sperm count and reduce sexual activity. In females it may cause irregular heat cycles. The signs may develop very slowly, and the condition can be detected with a blood test. Usually, it is a permanent condition, and is treated with thyroid hormones. Hypothyroid is generally considered to be an inherited trait. "Is cancer as prelevant in Rotties as humans? If so what type? Cancer is quickly becoming common in Rottweilers, Bone cancer being the most frequent type. Any suspicious lumps, moles, sores or unexplained lameness should be investigated by your veterinarian. ASAP. "Are they vicious?" A properly bred, socialized and trained Rottweiler is not inherently vicious. The rapid rise in popularity of the breed has attracted many irresponsible breeders who are only interested in making a profit, and don't care what damage is done to the breed in the process. Again, Investigate the Breeder! Most Rotties that attack have done so Because they have been taught to. Or have never been corrected and maintained the dominant nature they are prone to. "What about discipline?" A Rottweiler is a sensitive, intelligent and loyal animal and usually wants to please its owner. Occasionally, it can be quite stubborn though, It is imperative that discipline is consistent and firm without being mean. A harsh word will often correct the behaviour although sharper corrections are sometimes necessary. I feel that it is NEVER necessary to HIT, KICK, THROW objects or be cruel to any dog. Remember, He can't hit back but he can pack a helluva bite. They have no other defense. Just because your master does not mean this animal is required to accept cruel and unusual punishment. Would you like to be hit everytime you displeased someone? I think NOT. "Which sex makes the best pet?" Opinions vary on this topic. Most breeders would generally recommend a female, especially for first-time owners. Females are smaller and easier to control, somewhat less dominant and usually more affectionate. Males are stronger, more powerful and dominant, and therefore somewhat harder to train and control. |
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