Originally known as the Butcher's Dog of Rottweil, after the small German town where the breed developed, the Rottweiler was a cattle and guard dog of great repute. Not only would he drive the cattle to market, but once they had been sold, the money would be put in a leather purse tied to his collar to be protected from thieves on the way home. As well as providing a droving and banking service for the butcher, the Rottweiler also pulled a cart around town doing the meat deliveries!

When livestock transport became mechanised, the Rottweiler's role gradually changed to that of a police dog and guard dog, even serving during World War I. Today he is primarily a companion dog, with his dignified, unexcitable nature and natural cleanliness making him well suited to being part of the household.

The Rottweiler has a natural guarding instinct and should be supervised around visitors and visiting children. He is very loyal and affectionate to his owners but his self assured and fearless temperament, coupled with his great strength make socialisation and early training essential.

Rottweiler owners are encouraged to take their dogs to obedience training.