How to Train a Rottweiler to be a Family Friendly Pet

A well-trained Rottweiler is a wonderful family pet that is calm, confident and loyalty. These dogs have a special devotion and a fondness for small children. Since an adult can weigh between 100 and 120 pounds, a Rottweiler can pose a danger if trained poorly or improperly handled. If you decide that this breed is for you, take these steps to train a Rottweiler and secure his place as a loving member of your family.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Make your dog's world as big as possible. Allow her to accompany you in the car. Introduce her to friends, family and the neighbors.

2. Kennel train your Rottweiler early on. Start by kenneling her for short periods and then build up to a maximum of three hours at a time. In time, your dog will use the kennel as his den or retreat, so be sure to respect her space.

3. Enroll in puppy school. Continue through beginning up to advanced dog training. You and your dog will learn together and enjoy a wonderful bonding experience.

4. Purchase a 6-foot, flat leather training leash. Most dog trainers require a good leather leash, which will last a long time.

5. Select a pinch collar with the help of a trainer who can show you the proper method of adjusting and fitting it. Use the collar only during training sessions. When you put the collar on your dog, she'll know it's time to get down to business.

6. Give your dog simple, one-word commands in a firm, calm voice. Teach him that one "no" means "no" and don't establish the habit of arguing with him. Praise your dog in an enthusiastic tone that is different from your "training voice."

7. Be patient and consistent in your commands and rules. Establish a schedule for walks and mealtimes. Dogs like routine.

8. Offer your Rottie an array of interesting toys and chews. Rottweilers are playful and bright and need to be engaged. When ignored, a bored Rottie will find creative ways to pass the time, perhaps chewing your new shoes or tearing up the sofa cushions.

Tips & Warnings

• Remember that you're actually the one being trained in "dog school." Never use the crate as punishment.
• A pinch collar is not cruel. It is an effective training tool and your dog will do extremely well with it. A choke collar can injure a big, powerful dog and offers little control over your dog.
• Never leave a Rottweiler alone with an individual who is not capable of controlling him.
• Never shout at your dog in anger or frustration. Never hit your dog.

[Xavspeech]

on 7/16/2007 great advice it was very useful

[DeanPing]

on 7/3/2007 Excellent advice for a breed that gets a bad rep because of bad owners.