Description: The Roman Rottweiler is just like the standard Rottweiler, except that it is bigger and more mastiff-like in appearance and temperament. Its large and massive body brings out an impressive and noble air. Its head is broad and heavy, with some wrinkling, and a deep and well-defined stop. Its muzzle is full and also broad, and its jaws form a scissors bite. Its lips are well-developed and thick. Its eyes are deep set and well apart, and its pendant ears are carried forward and also set apart. It mouth and nose are dark in color, with the nose usually black but really just follows the base color of its coat.

The Roman Rottweiler’s coat is thick and can be long. The usually desired coat is a thick plush one. Its chest is deep with well sprung oval ribs. Its legs are muscular and powerful. Its tail can either be docked or left natural and curved over the back

Dynamics: The Roman Rottweiler has a calm and confident temperament. It is highly trainable, is athletic, courageous, and reliable. Of course, firm and consistent training and socialization is needed. Without a firm hand to guide it, it can become aggressive and uncontrollable. But it is usually a very loyal and devoted dog. It is an intelligent breed and and is a good worker and companion mixed into one. It can also get along well with children and other household pets as long as it has been socialized with them since puppyhood. It can get suspicious with strangers but it is amiable with family and friends.

Breed Group: Mastiff, Flock Guardian

Weight: males at least 120 pounds (54 kg), females at least 80 pounds (36 kg)

Height: males at least 26 ½ inches (67 cm)and can grow to more than 30 inches (76 cm), females at least 24 ½ inches (63 cm) up to 29 inches (74 cm) or more

Color: The coat color of the Roman Rottweiler can be black and tan, black and rust, black and dark, black and mahogany, red and tan, blue and tan or black. Other colors can be expected but not as desirable as those mentioned.

Country of Origin: The Roman Rottweiler came to Europe with the Roman legions, before that serving to herd and protect cattle that fed the Roman soldiers as they were crossing the Alps. The breed was settled in Germany, and this proved to be its end. The Germans wanted Rottweilers smaller in size and began breeding the now popular Rottweiler while the Roman Rottweiler’s line slowly shrunk.

Activities: The Roman Rottweiler should be walked everyday and sufficiently exercised. It likes to run in an open area and there will be no worry for the owner because the Roman Rottweiler will not wander away. Swimming and retrieving a ball is also a favorite past time.

Grooming: The coat of the Roman Rottweiler is easy to groom. Just brush regularly with a firm bristle brush and bathe only when necessary. Of course, if the Roman Rottweiler has a long coat then it needs more attention. But normally, brushing everyday is the most important.

Other Info: The Roman Rottweiler has a life expectancy of 10 to 12 years. It is susceptible to ACL damage and hip dysplasia. It is also prone to entropion, and it tends to snore and overeat. This breed will do okay living in an apartment as long as it is sufficiently exercised.

Photo: CollosalRottweilers.com