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Greater Swiss Rottweiler |
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He is not recognized by the F.C.I. |
Origin |
Switzerland <> Germany -> U.S.A. | |
Translation |
Francis Vandersteen |
A brief presentation of the Greater Swiss Rottweiler |
Described as large and active, the Greater Swiss Rottweiler will not hesitate to show affection to its family. Gentle and loyal, they get on well with children in the home, although boundaries need to be clearly defined for both pet and children. This hybrid can be territorial due to its Rottweiler heritage, and can also have a stubborn streak. It is an excellent watchdog and companion that will flourish with an owner who knows how to provide consistent leadership. |
History of the Greater Swiss Rottweiler |
The hybrid known as the Greater Swiss Rottweiler is a new breed of dog with no detailed history. The two breeds that combine to create the Greater Swiss Rottweiler both have interesting and complete histories. |
A little of the Great Swiss Mountain Dog |
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The Great Swiss Mountain Dog is thought to be one of Switzerland's oldest breeds, having been discovered around 2000 years ago. Several theories exist as to how this gentle, loyal dog came to be. The most common thought is that the Great Swiss Mountain Dog is a descendant of Mastiff-like dogs that came to the Alps as companions for the Roman legions. Excellent for breeding, guarding and drafting, they were once one of Switzerland's most popular farm dogs. Their usefulness was diminished by the availability of machinery to carry out their farming responsibilities. Today, these hard-working dogs are once again useful as guardians, watchdogs and competitors in agility and obedience. | ||
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Standard of the Great Swiss Mountain Dog | ||
A little of the Rottweiler |
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The common belief about the origin of the Rottweiler is that the breed evolved around 74 AD from Roman soldiers of the 11th Legion of the Roman Empire settling in the Württemberg region of Germany. It was here that the soldiers bred German Shepherds with Roman Mountain Dogs or Mastiffs they had brought with them, with the aim of developing a big, strong dog that could guard the camp as well as control the big bulls to herd the cattle. This region of Germany became known as "das Rote Wil", in reference to the red roof tiles of the town's small villas. The name evolved into Rottweil, which led to the name of the breed. In the mid-19th century, the construction of railroads led to a ban on driving cattle. As a result, donkeys became the main draught animal and the Rottweiler's popularity declined. Butchers were able to use the dogs to pull meat carts and began to be called "Rottweiler metzgerhund", meaning Rottweiler butcher's dog. Rottweilers began working as police dogs in the 1900s and were put to work during the First World War. The breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1931. | ||
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Standard of the Rottweiler |
Appearance of the Greater Swiss Rottweiler |
Greater Swiss and Rottweiler heads are fairly large, with short muzzles and broad skulls, giving the hybrid a powerful look. Their kind eyes are round and can be brown, hazel or amber, and their ears hang to the sides, close to the middle of the face, although the Grand bouvier suisse parent has slightly longer ears. The nose is black and the nostrils are somewhat flared. Your hybrid will have a neck often described as thick and a robust, muscular body. Its legs are not too long but are definitely of strong stature, and its large paws are round with black nails. |
Temperament of the Greater Swiss Rottweiler |
The Greater Swiss Rottweiler has a lovely temperament. They can be clumsy, laid-back and affectionate. He's courageous and confident, as well as protective of his home. He may bark, but only to warn you of potential visitors or trespassing. He will, however, need a pack leader, and it should be you, otherwise he may choose not to follow your instructions. He is, however, adorable and can follow you wherever you go. Your Greater Swiss Rottweiler will need early and consistent socialization so that he can feel at ease in all situations. This will extend to interactions with other dogs and children. He is bright and easy to train. |
Needs and activities of the Greater Swiss Rottweiler |
Activity requirements for the Greater Swiss Rottweiler will involve a minimum of one hour a day. This hybrid is very athletic and has plenty of stamina, so give him a job to do and he'll do it. He'll love pulling a cart full of stuff, and this kind of activity will help him tire himself out so he can relax in the evenings. The Greater Swiss Rottweiler will be happiest when he's using his mind and body, so try him at obedience classes, flyball or agility and he'll be delighted. Not at all suited to apartment living, he needs a large garden to stretch his legs at regular intervals throughout the day. It's best if the yard is fenced and all walks are on a leash. Although obedient at heart, his adventurous and confident nature may lead him to decide that he can wander off on his own. |
Maintenance of the Greater Swiss Rottweiler |
Your Greater Swiss Rottweiler will have a relatively simple grooming routine and should only require weekly brushing with a pin brush, which will keep his coat shiny and tangle-free. He won't need to bathe so often, unless his curious and adventurous nature leads him to roll around in something he shouldn't. His nails will grow fast and strong, so it's a good idea to have them trimmed every two to three weeks to make the job easier. Dental care is another important aspect of the grooming regime, so brush his teeth three times a week to avoid costly, unexpected dental expenses. Start these habits early with your hybrid and he won't think about them when grooming time comes around. |