About the Rottweiler
The Rottweiler is a descendent of the Roman drover dog and was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in the AKC stud book in 1931. This Roman drover dog has been described by various sources as having been of the Mastiff-type-a dependable, rugged, willing worker, possessed of great intelligence, and a strong guarding instinct.
The transition from Roman drover dog to the dog we know today as the Rottweiler can be attributed to the ambitions of the Roman Emperors to conquer Europe. Very large armies were required for these expeditions and the logistics of feeding that number of men became a major consideration.
Robust and powerful, the Rottweiler is happiest when given a job to perform that meets his intellect and stamina. His intelligence, endurance and willingness to work make him suitable as a police dog, herder, service dog, therapy dog, obedience competitor and loving, devoted companion. An inherent protector, the Rottweiler is self-confident and responds quietly and with a wait-and-see attitude to variables in his environment. He must be medium in size and his coat is black with rust to mahogany markings
No means of refrigeration existed which meant that the meat for the soldiers had to accompany the troops "on the hoof." The services of a dog capable of keeping the herd intact during the long march were needed.
We have no reason to doubt that descendants of the original Roman drover dogs continued to guard the herds through the next two centuries. Circa A.D. 260 the Swabians ousted the Romans from Arae Flaviae, taking over the city. Agriculture and the trading of cattle remained their prime occupations, insuring the further need for the dogs.
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