The German Breeding System Part 1: BST-Breed Suitability Test

The United States Rottweiler Club strongly believes that these tests are vital to maintain the Rottweiler in type and temperament and should be the cornerstone of any breeding program.

What is the Ztp/BST
The Breed Suitability Test is an evaluation of a dog's temperament, character and working ability.

The BST is designed to select those Rottweilers that are worthy of being bred and is modeled after the standards of the breed test used by the German Allgemeiner Deutscher Rottweiler-Klub (ADRK), the Zuchttauglichkeitsprufung. The United States Rottweiler Club (USRC) calls the test the BST and the ADRK calls the test the Ztp. The Ztp and BST are basically the same breeding suitability test. The test evaluates the dog's conformation and character to determine if the dog is a suitable candidate in a breeding program in both type and temperament. In Germany, a litter may not be registered unless both the dam and the sire have passed the Ztp!

Only Qualified Dogs are Eligible for the BST
There are several prerequisites prior to taking the test:

1.  The dog must have passed the BH (Canine Good Citizen equivalent).
2. The dog must be tattooed and registered
3. The dog must not have any disqualifying faults according to the standard of a Rottweiler.
4. The dog must have a passing hip evaluation from The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA).
5. The dog must have a 3-generation certified pedigree

 Conformation & Stability: Part 1 of the BST
In the first part, the dog is critiqued (judged on physical appearance) by a qualified international judge (usually an ADRK or FCI judge) and compared to the FCI Standard. The critique will be performed in much greater detail as compared a typical show critique. The color of the eyes are graded and the teeth are checked with an emphasis on full dentition and a scissors bite. Then everything on the dog is measured: height from the withers, body length, muzzle, chest depth, chest circumference and the skull. The judge inspects the dog's tattoo or microchip to ensure it matches with the paperwork submitted. The dog is then weighed. The dog is then required to do a short obedience routine such as heeling through a group of people, the group then converges on the dog (it must be stable) and then is heeled down the field. Gunshots are fired. If the dog shows a reaction, it must recover right away.

 Character: Part 2 of the BST
The second part of the test is similar to the SchH I protection routine. There is an attack out of the blind and a courage test. Many dogs fail the test at this point because they cannot take the threat is more ominous that in a typical SchH I routine. The helper hides in a blind, the dog is heeled towards the blind. The leash is taken off the dog. Upon the judge's signal, the helper comes out of the blind towards the dog when the dog is almost at the blind, at which point the handler releases the dog. The attack surprises the dog. The dog must bite the sleeve fully, is given two stick hits over the withers with a padded stick, the helper drives the dog until directed to stop by the judge. If the dog does not 'out' (release the sleeve) the dog fails. After outing, the dog must stay by the helper and guard him. Upon a signal from the judge, the handler returns to the dog and picks it up. The dog and handler then go into a blind. 

The last part is the courage test. The judge directs the helper to come out of the blind at the opposite end of the field (approximately 100 yards) than the dog and handler. The handler is not permitted to encourage or agitate the dog. The helper runs half way across the back of the field and then runs directly at the dog and handler, threatening with the stick. The dog is released. The dog must run at the helper at a full run and bite the sleeve. The handler is not allowed to move from the position from where the dog was released. The dog is given the command to 'out' by the handler who is still at the original position. If the dog does not 'out', the dog fails. Once the dog has outed, the dog must stay with the helper and guard him. The judge signals the handler to return to the dog. The handler returns to the dog and a leash is put on. The test is ended. The handler and dog report to the judge. The dog's performance is then critiqued to the spectators. There is no score given. It is either a pass or fail. 

Objectivity and Enforcement is Critical to Breed Maintenance
If the dog is not within the FCI standard (i.e. too tall or too short etc.), or has a disqualifying fault, the dog may NEVER be retested and will NEVER be bred.

If the dog fails the second part of the test, it is allowed to attempt the test once more upon the judge's discretion, however, if the judge believes the dog is of faulty character, the dog can be banned from future testing. After failing twice the dog may NEVER be retested.

These penalties may seem harsh, but they enforce the confirmation breed standard better than any subjective judging opinion and most importantly, they assert that ONLY DOGS OF SOLID CHARACTER PASS and are used in breeding.

The German Breeding System Part 2: Dogbase Software

Dogbase
by Anton Spindler

Dogbase was developed during my term as a member of the ADRK Board, and as an organizer, mainframe systems/applications programmer, and a breed specialist I brought my fair share into the completion of this project for the ADRK and our Rottweiler breed. 

DOGBASE includes all of the ADRK-Rottweilers along with their standard breeding values.

We have 6 values, figures above 100 show an increase in the value, figures below 100 show a decrease.

1 = HD

2 = ED

3 = undershot

4 = skull size

5 = cheek bones

6 = bone strength

 As an example: If a dog shows for its Value 1 (HD) the number 115, statistically there is a greater chance of hip dysplasia in offspring of that dog. If a dog has in Value 3 (skull size) also 115, this means that he has a high probability of being dominant for larger skull sizes.

 Very Important! As with any statistical evaluation, the results are only as good as the data used. These values must be interpreted with that in mind. If a dog has only been used once at stud, there will still be a value available, the value of relatives contributes to the value of individual dogs, so even a dog who has not yet been used at stud will show projected values. But if a dog had been used at stud 100 times, the numbers will be much more accurate. However, breeding will never be an exact science. Don't forget, there are lots of very good old breeders, who had great success with a good understanding of, and instinct about Rotts and some good common sense. DOGBASE is very helpful and I'm glad that we haveit, but it's not everything. Conversely, these days I personally couldn't imagine breeding without the additional input of DOGBASE.

 More.....from Dr. M. Herrmann (ADRK)

DOGBASE is both a database and a browser for all ADRK-Rottweilers born since the registration data was transferred to electronic processing in the mid 1980's. In addition the ancestors of these dogs, at least four generations back, are stored as well. All important information such as ancestors, name, stud book number, date of birth, breeder, hip and elbow score, stud tests (ZTP, Koerung), performance tests (SchH, IPO, AD, BH) and show titles are recorded. Dogs are indexed according to name or stud book number, and can be found easily. There are several ways to sort and extract data using keys such as time period, hip score, performance etc.

In order to improve breeding information there are six traits which are used for breeding value evaluation. Breeding values are given for informational purposes only, but you may be closer to the genetic truth. The breeding values given are no guarantee of the quality of future offspring, but may provide a better base from which to make breeding selections. To get an idea of inbreeding the index of inbreeding can be calculated for every dog. All ADRK-Kennels together with their breeding history are stored and can be found according to breeders' name, kennel's name or kennel's number.

The ADRK uses a computer database program called 'Dogbase'. Since July 1, 1999, ADRK breeders are required to use Dogbase as a tool for selecting the most suitable breeding partners. Dogbase is updated quarterly and is available on CD.

This database provides a numerical score in 5 categories: HD, ED, Head, Cheekbone, Bone strength . For every trait, "100" is neutral (average). A number higher than 100 means that a dog is more likely to exhibit that trait, a number lower than 100 decreases the likelihood of that trait. The first two categories (HD, ED) are the most important, they must not exceed 110 (if they are higher then the scheduled breeding is not allowed). The last three categories are "recommended". Optimally, for the first 2 categories the lower the number, the better. This means the dog is less likely to throw these traits. An example of a "good" HD number is around 95, a great one is around 85-90. It is not hard to find hips under 100, but good elbows (since they have only recently been examined) are more difficult to find. As a result, "100" is almost a good number for elbows, less than 100 is great and less than 90 is outstanding.

The numbers are dynamic, as the dog get its HD/ED ratings, its numbers will change and affect its parent's numbers (and further back), as well as its siblings. The numbers on a prospective (or already born) litter are simply the average of both parents until the offspring themselves get HD/ED ratings, Ztp / Koerung reports and show critiques.

Dogbase is a very interesting tool. It is no substitute for good research, but it is a huge step in the right direction. German bloodline dogs are superior because, in Germany, they take dog breeding seriously.

The German Breeding System Part 3: Schutzhund

Schutzhund (german for protection dog) is a dog sport that was developed in Germany in the early 1900s to test whether German Shepherd Dogs act and perform in the manner that the breed was intended, rather than simply evaluating a dog's appearance. Today, many breeds other than German Shepherds can compete in Schutzhund, but it is a demanding test for any dog and few of them can pass this kind of test.

 Schutzhund originated in Germany as a breeding suitability test for the German Shepherd dog and was quickly adopted for use by other working breeds such as the Malinois and Rottweiler. It provided breeders with a method to evaluate temperament, character, trainability, willingness and mental and physical soundness and to select and use only the highest quality dogs for breeding programs. Today, German Shepherd dogs in Germany may not be bred without aquiring Schutzhund titles, a breed survey, a conformation rating, hip (spine and elbow) x-rays and a certificate of endurance.

 Schutzhund (German for "protection dog") tests dogs of all breeds for the traits necessary for police-type work. Dogs that pass Schutzhund tests should be suitable for a wide variety of tasks: police work, specific odor detection, search and rescue, and many others. The purpose of Schutzhund is to identify dogs that have or do not have the character traits required for these demanding jobs. Some of those traits are:

    * Strong desire to work

    * Courage

    * Intelligence

    * Trainability

    * Strong bond to the handler

    * Perseverance

    * Protective Instinct

Schutzhund training tests these traits. It also tests physical traits such as strength, endurance, agility, and scenting ability. The goal of Schutzhund is to illuminate the character of a dog through training. Breeders can use this insight to determine how and whether to use the dog in producing the next generation of working dogs.

 There are three schutzhund titles: Schutzhund 1 (SchH1), Schutzhund 2 (SchH2), and Schutzhund 3 (SchH3). SchH1 is the first title and SchH3 is the most advanced. Additionally, before a dog can compete for a SchH1, he must pass a temperament test called a B or BH (Begleithundprüfung, which translates as "traffic-sure companion dog test"). The B tests basic obedience and sureness around strange people, strange dogs, traffic, and loud noises. A dog that exhibits excessive fear, distractibility, or aggression cannot pass the B and so cannot go on to schutzhund.

 The Schutzhund test has changed over the years. Modern Schutzhund consists of three phases: tracking, obedience, and protection. A dog must pass all three phases in one trial to be awarded a schutzhund title. Each phase is judged on a 100-point scale. The minimum passing score is 70 for the tracking and obedience phases and 80 for the protection phase. At any time the judge may dismiss a dog for showing poor temperament, including fear or aggression.

 The tracking phase
The tracking phase tests not only the dogs scenting ability, but also its mental soundness and physical endurance. In the tracking phase, a track layer walks across a field, dropping several small articles along the way. After a period of time, the dog is directed to follow the track while being followed by the handler on a 33 foot leash. When the dog finds each article he indicates it, usually by lying down with the article between his front paws. The dog is scored on how intently and carefully he follows the track and indicates the articles. The length, complexity, number of articles, and age of the track varies for each title.

 The obedience phase
The obedience phase is done in a large field, with the dogs working in pairs. One dog is placed in a down position on the side of the field and his handler leaves him while the other dog works in the field. Then the dogs switch places. In the field, there are several heeling exercises, including heeling through a group of people. There are two or three gunshots during the heeling to test the dog's reaction to loud noises. There are one or two recalls, three retrieves (flat, jump and A-frame), and a send out where the dog is directed to run away from the handler straight and fast and then lie down on command. Obedience is judged on the dog's accuracy and attitude. The dog must show enthusiasm. A dog that is uninterested or cowering scores poorly.

 Schutzhund is a wonderful sport. It is fun for the dog and trainer, it's challenging and it's rewarding. But more than a sport, the schutzhund evaluation is the best way we have of testing a dog's temperament. There's plenty else we can tell about a dog off the trial field too — for instance, aversion to slick surfaces, dog aggression, gunshyness and other temperament and character faults that degrade working ability — but it's the best tool we have to evaluate breeding stock if we're honest with ourselves about what we see.

The true temperament test of Schutzhund isn't (or shouldn't be) about points or how tough or extreme the dog is — it's about how well the dog puts it all together.

The German Breeding System Part 4: Korung (Advanced Breed SuitabilityTest)

 The ADRK calls the Korung,  Gekort or Gek.b.Eza, The USRC calls the test ABST,  it is similar to the ZTP but the working requirements are higher.It's not really necessary for breeding, it's optional. The meaning of Korung is to select the best breeding dogs out of all the dogs with a Ztp (Breed Suitability Test) It is written in the ADRK rules that we should utilize these few selected dogs in our future breeding since they display the strength in character, strong and powerful self confidence. Rottweilers whom have passed the Koerung are a selection of special dogs in their appearance, temperament and working ability.

Bones Muscle Power
By Steve Wolfson

If one were to take a survey asking, “Why did you purchase a Rottweiler ”, “Why this breed over others”, it would certainly elicit intriguing answers. I cannot say for sure what the attraction others had to the Rottweiler when first encountered, however for me, it was his raw masculine appeal, his unique head and the impressive musculature and power he exuded. From his appearance, one could easily understand that this was a serious dog! Not alone in this view, many other Rottweiler aficionados have recognized this hallmark of the breed and expressed a similar perspective as well. After all, is not the “look” of a dog that makes the first and lasting impression? Surely, his breed type is what makes the Rottweiler unique.

The Germans understood the Rottweilers distinction when they came together to codify the standard at Heidelburg, Germany in 1907. They were deliberate when articulating and fixing the appearance of the German Rottweiler, which is why the standard uses detailed language in its description of this essential aspect of breed type. The standard was modified since 1907, but the general appearance of the Rottweiler has not. Reading the current standard, one finds the word “powerful” written 6 times, “bone” mentioned 3 times and “muscle” mentioned 5 times. No other words have such repetition when describing the details.

Excerpts from the standard: 

“The ideal Rottweiler is a medium large, robust and powerful dog - Dogs are characteristically more massive throughout with larger frame and heavier bone than bitches - His bone and muscle mass must be sufficient to balance his frame, giving a compact and very powerful appearance - Neck- Powerful, well muscled - Loin is short, deep and well muscled - Legs are strongly developed with straight, heavy bone - Upper thigh is fairly long, very broad and well muscled - Lower thigh is long, broad and powerful, with extensive muscling - His movement should be balanced, harmonious, sure, powerful and unhindered, with strong forereach and a powerful rear drive ”

Despite his distinctive breed type and the words used in the blueprint to describe it, a negative, subtle change has occurred over the years, which ultimately is disastrous to his appearance.

Currently in the US, which is observable both in the show-ring and out, is a great loss in the 
general power of the breed’s masculine design. Now, a rarity and an oddity, the once major factor in the 
breed’s appeal, its power and substance, were put on the “back burner” in many breeding programs. One must look carefully to find this trait; the breed has lost its distinction.

On the street, we encounter Rottweilers that are a poor representation of once was. They possess “pin heads”, narrow, snipey, muzzles, and spindly bones, no muscle mass and shallow frames. To the knowledgeable, these Rottweilers appear to be a mix breeding, although they are not. To the unknowledgeable, they appear to be correct!

In the show-ring, this problem has crossed the boundaries. One should expect poor examples of the breed on the street since they are comprised of non-show dogs. However, the show ring should be the exception. Presently, many exhibits share the same problem of their street cousins and are only a notch or two above. Many exhibits that enter the show-ring are constructed well but are also as weak in substance, spindly in bones and musculature as their pet counterparts are. Now, when a dog or bitch that is in the ring with correct breed type, exuding power and substance, it appears as the “odd man out”. A strong masculine dog or powerful bitch seems strange among exhibits with spindly frail bodies and Doberman-like heads. To the newbie's and unknowledgeable judges, it is untypical and put at the end of the line.

Often, I have heard that a female, which possesses strong bones, muscle and a powerful head, is now deemed “too strong” and considered a “doggy bitch”. What was once correct and typical is now abnormal. The dogs, which should embody power and masculinity, are now so weak in type they can be considered “beautiful females”!

WHAT ARE CORRECT BONES AND MUSCLES?

The standard does not give a numerical value for the appropriate bone mass or muscle, only a verbal guide. Therefore, to state a formula, “Dog x must have y amount of bone and muscle to be correct is not possible.” To understand what is appropriate for the correct amount for these attributes, one must refer to the blueprint. From the standard: “His bone and muscle mass must be sufficient to balance his frame, giving a compact and very powerful appearance.” A reasonable guide when assessing an exhibit, one should ask, “Does this exhibit exemplify a powerful appearance”? - “Is the bone and muscle mass substantial, so that its appearance exudes power”? One should be impressed with the overall appearance for power, muscle and bones.

A. BONE MASS

Bones mass should be thick enough in width so that it appears to support the frame of the dog in a substantial and powerful manner, without being refined, elegant, too massive or grotesque. 

The place to visually assess the bone mass on a Rottweiler, correct or incorrect, is the thickness in the radius/ulna and humerus. When making an evaluation, the dog is presented “head on” so that the full width of the chest (from East to West) can be seen. If a numerical evaluation for the  thickness of the bones is desired, it is measured by using a tape measure and wrapping it around the circumference of the pastern. Here is where the least amount of skin, muscle and tendon can be found.

Correct bone mass is correlated to the height. The taller the dog, the more bone mass it should possess, compared to dogs of lesser height. Additionally, bone mass should always be proportionate and balanced to the frame of the dog. “Out of balance” is not correct. Good examples of this are the extremes. They are exhibited when a tall dog possess long, fine bones of the radius/ulna and humerus, giving the appearance of spindles, or when a short dog possesses too strong bone mass appearing like “tree trunks”. These dogs are “out of balance”. The Rottweiler is not a St. Bernard or a Dobermann.

B. MUSCLE MASS

The general muscle mass should be substantial, well defined and in proportion to the frame of the dog so that it exudes strength, masculinity and athleticism. The muscles should be apparent, yet not overpowering, like the Bull and Pit Bull Terriers’. The muscle groups that comprise this “appearance” are the muscles of the front and rear assembly. 

In the front assembly, the muscles of the shoulders, the upper arm and forearm should be well developed and obvious. These muscle groups are the Deltoids, Biceps, Triceps and the Extensor muscles of the radius/ulna. In the rear assembly, the muscles of the Gluteus and Biceps Femoris should be well developed and defined. Viewing the rear muscles from the back, the depth and width of the Biceps Femoris and Gluteus should be full, supporting the Femur (see Fig.2). Here is where all forward locomotion begins.


C. THE CORRELATION OF MUSCLE AND BONE

With human body-building, the muscles can be developed, shaped and improved, with discipline, hard work, good nutrition and much sweat. However, improvement has limits, since body-building is dependent upon the size, mass of the muscle groups and bone substance. In essence, “you are what you 
inherited”. The thin framed, fine boned man or woman will always work harder and strain longer to build bulk and definition in the muscle tissue. With this body type, a major factor is bone mass! Strong bone mass is supported by thick muscles. The same principles hold true for the Rottweiler. 

Dogs and bitches that are fine boned possess muscles, which are light in their mass and often show little or no definition. This type, will always work very hard to make strides improving and developing what it inherited from the pedigree. Conversely, there are those dogs/bitches, which impress us with their natural well-developed musculature and powerful bone mass. Their musculature is correlated 
to their robust bone mass.

BREED TYPE IS A STEPCHILD 

Why is the great majority of Rottweilers here in the states, (especially in the show ring), not uniformly masculine in type with powerful muscle and bones, which is specified in the standard? Why have they become slight in bone, shallow in substance, and soft in appearance? The answer is breed type has become a stepchild.

In the US, the accent is on the best possible construction demonstrated by superior gait. Those dogs, which display this attribute, are the ones that win in the show-ring. Placing the accent on this attribute is both good and problematic. It is good since all concerned breeders have this as one of  their goals in mind when planning their next litter. Sound construction, in accordance with the breed standard is essential. All exhibitors want to win in the show-ring; therefore, many breeders make superior gait their only goal. With this as their prime directive, many breeders have made a detrimental detour; they traded breed type for locomotion. This is problematic.

Often, at ringside, one can hear spectators and breeders alike say, “Oh that dog moved beautifully with great reach and drive”, “It was well put together.” Yes, that could be said however, the dog looked more like a Doberman than a Rottweiler. Excellent construction with outstanding gait is not breed type. These two attributes are separate entities in a breeding program and are not mutually interchangeable or should be misconstrued for breed type. 

Over the years, the masculinity of the Rottweiler, here in the states, has slowly eroded. Its masculine power and substance, clearly specified in the standard, has been oozing away. Spindly, fine bones with narrow long muzzles and smooth body lines have replaced broad top skulls, wide, short muzzles and powerful bones and muscles. Working character has also eroded and replaced with many Rottweilers that are shy and lack confidence in their temperament. This is a negative and detrimental trend. Once set in motion, it is extremely difficult to reverse. One only has to see our European and International counterparts by comparison to understand the differences in breed type and working temperament. In the international community, the accent is placed on breed type and working temperament.

Some would argue there is nothing to improve. All is well within the Rottweiler and breed type is where it should be. That is a myopic view. It is valuable and healthy for all concerned to step “out of the trenches” and obtain an international perspective by making comparisons with our domestic breeding program and our international counterparts. Exchanging ideas and methods to improve genetics and techniques will benefit all. Additionally, it is extremely important to promote and make available more breed seminars in all Rottweiler clubs. There, is where real progress is achievable in an open dialog exchanging opinions and ideas. The benefactor of this is the Rottweiler.

References
Fiftieth Anniversary of the Allgemeiner Deutscher Rottweiler Klub, Powerhorn Press, 1978
American Rottweiler Club Standard, May 1990
Dog Anatomy-Illustrated, Way Robert VMD, MS Dreenan Press 1974
Der Rot

Rottweiler Breed Standard

USRC Breed Standard
F.C.I.-Standard Nr. 147 / 19.06.2000 / D Rottweiler
Translator: Mrs. Chris Seidler

 Contents

Brief historical summary

General Appearance

Important Proportions

Behavior / Temperament

Head

Body

Limbs

Skin

Coat

Size and weight

Faults

Eliminating Faults

Origin: Germany

 Utilization: Companion, service and working dog
Classification FCI:
Group 2 (Pinscher and Schnauzer type, Molossian type and Swiss Mountain- and Cattle Dogs and other breeds)
Section 2.1 Molossian type, Mastiff type with working trial

Brief historical summary:

The Rottweiler is considered to be one of the oldest dog breeds. Its origin goes back to Roman times. These dogs were kept as herder or driving dogs. They marched over the Alps with the Roman legions, protecting the humans and driving their cattle. In the region of Rottweil, these dogs met and mixed with the native dogs in a natural crossing. The main task of the Rottweiler now became the driving and guarding of the herds of cattle and the defense of their masters and their property. This breed acquired its name from the old free city of Rottweil and was known as the "Rottweil butcher's dog".

The butchers bred this type of dog purely for performance and usefulness. In due course, a first rate watch and driving dog evolved which could also be used as a draught dog. When, at the beginning of the twentieth century, various breeds were needed for police service, the Rottweiler was amongst those tested. It soon became evident that the breed was highly suitable for the tasks set by police service and therefore they were officially recognized as police dogs in 1910.

Rottweiler breeders aim at a dog of abundant strength, black coated with clearly defined rich tan markings, whose powerful appearance does not lack nobility and which is exceptionally well suited to being a companion, service and working dog.

General Appearance:

The Rottweiler is a medium to large size, stalwart dog, neither heavy nor light and neither leggy nor weedy. His correctly proportioned, compact and powerful build leads to the conclusion of great strength, agility and endurance.

Important Proportions:

The length of the body, measured from the sternum (breast-bone) to the ischiatic tuberosity, should not exceed the height at the withers by, at most, 15 %.

Behavior / Temperament:

Good natured, placid in basic disposition and fond of children, very devoted, obedient, biddable and eager to work. His appearance is natural and rustic, his behavior self assured, steady and fearless. He reacts to his surroundings with great alertness.

Head    

Cranial Region:

Skull:     Of medium length, broad between the ears. Forehead line moderately arched as seen from the side. Occipital bone well developed without being conspicuous

Stop:     Well defined

Facial Region:    

Nose:    Nose well developed, more broad than round with relatively large nostrils, always black

Muzzle:                The foreface should appear neither elongated nor shortened in relation to the cranial region. Straight nasal bridge, broad at base, moderately tapered. Lips: Black, close fitting, corner of the mouth not visible, gum as dark as possible.

Jaws / Teeth:     Upper and lower jaw strong and broad. Strong complete dentition (42 teeth) with scissor bite, the upper incisors closely overlapping the lower incisors.

Cheeks:                Zygomatic arches pronounced.

Eyes:     Of medium size, almond shaped, dark brown in color. Eyelids close fitting.

Ears:      Medium-sized, pendant, triangular, wide apart, set on high. With the ears laid forward close to the head the skull appears to be broadened.

Neck:    Strong, of fair length, well muscled, slightly arched, free from throatiness, without dewlap.

Body     

Back:     Straight, strong, firm.

Loins:    Short, strong and deep.

Croup: Broad, of medium length, slightly rounded. Neither flat nor falling away.

Chest:   Roomy, broad and deep (approximately 50 % of the shoulder height) with well developed forechest and well sprung ribs.

Belly:     Flanks not tucked up.

Tail:        In natural condition, level in extension of the upper line; at ease may be hanging. USRC Adopted Exception: Docked at the first or second joint within 7 days of birth or left in its natural state.

Limbs   

Forequarters:    Seen from the front, the front legs are straight and not placed too closely to each other. The forearm, seen from the side, stands straight. The slope of the shoulder blade is about 45 degrees to the horizontal.

Shoulders:          Well laid back.

Upper arm:         Close fitting to the body.

Forearm:             Strongly developed and muscular.

Pasterns:             Slightly springy, strong, not steep.

Front feet:          Round, tight and well arched; pads hard; nails short, black and strong.

Hindquarters:    Seen from behind, legs straight and not too close together. When standing free, obtuse angles are formed between the dog's upper thigh and the hip bone, the upper thigh and the lower thigh and the metatarsal.

Upper thigh:      Moderately long, broad and strongly muscled.

Lower thigh:       Lower thigh: Long, strongly and broadly muscled at top, sinewy.

Hocks:   Sturdy well angulated hocks; not steep.

Hind feet:            Slightly longer than the front feet. Toes strong, arched, as tight as front feet.

Gait:      The Rottweiler is a trotting dog. In movement the back remains firm and relatively stable. Movement harmonious, steady, full of energy and unrestricted, with good stride.

Skin       

Skin on the head:             Overall tight fitting. When the dog is alert, the forehead may be slightly wrinkled.

Coat      

Hair:       The coat consists of a top coat and an undercoat. The top coat is of medium length, coarse, dense and flat. The undercoat must not show through the top coat. The hair is a little longer on the hindlegs.

Color:    Black with clearly defined markings of a rich tan on the cheeks, muzzle, throat, chest and legs, as well as over   both eyes and under the base of the tail.

Size and weight                                    Males                                                           Females

Height at withers:                     61 - 68 cm                                                    56 - 63 cm

                                                61 - 62 cm is small                                       56 - 57 cm is small

                                                63 - 64 cm is medium height                        58 - 59 cm is medium height

                                                65 - 66 cm is large - correct height              60 - 61 cm is large - correct height

                                                67 - 68 cm is very large                               62 - 63 cm is very large

Weight:                                   approximately 50 kg                                     approximately 42 kg

Faults    Any departure from the foregoing points should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to its degree.

General appearance:     Light, weedy, leggy appearance. Light in bone and muscle.

Head:    Hound-type head. Narrow, light, too short, long or coarse head. Flat forehead (lack of stop or too little stop).

Foreface:             Long or pointed muzzle; split nose; Roman nose (convex nasal bridge) or dish-faced (concave nasal bridge); aquiline nose; pale or spotted nose (butterfly nose).

Lips:       Pendulous, pink or patchy; corner of lips visible.

Jaws:     Narrow lower jaw.

Bite:       Pincer bite. (level bite)

Cheeks:                Strongly protruding.

Eyes:     Light, deep set. Also too full and round eyes; loose eye-lids.

Ears:      Set on too low, heavy, long, slack or turned backwards. Also flying ears or ears not carried symmetrically.

Neck:    Too long, thin, lacking muscle. Showing dewlap or throaty.

Body:    Too long, too short or too narrow.

Back:     Too long, weak; sway-back or roach back.

Croup: Too sloping, too short, too flat or too long.

Chest:   Flat ribbed or barrel shaped. Too narrow behind.

Tail:        Set on too high or too low.

Forequarters:    Narrow or crooked front legs. Steep shoulder placement. Loose or out at elbow. Too long, too short or too straight in upper arm. Weak or steep pastern. Splayed feet. Too flat or too arched toes. Deformed toes. Light colored nails.

Hindquarters:    Flat thighs, hocks too close, cow hocks or barrel hocks. Joints with too little or too much angulation. Dewclaws.

Skin:      Wrinkles on head.

Coat:     Soft, too short or too long. Wavy coat; lack of undercoat.

Color:    Markings of incorrect color, not clearly defined. Markings which are too spread out.

Eliminating Faults            

General:              Distinct reversal of sexual type, i.e. feminine dogs or masculine bitches.

Teeth:   Overshot or undershot bite, wry mouth; lack of one incisive tooth, one canine, one premolar and one molar.

Eyes:     Entropion, ectropion, yellow eyes, different coloured eyes.

Tail:        Kink tail, ring tail, with strong lateral deviation

Hair:       Definitely long or wavy coat.

Color:    Dogs which do not show the typical Rottweiler coloring of black with tan markings. White markings.

Behavior:             Anxious, shy, cowardly, gun-shy, vicious, excessively suspicious, nervous animals.

                Male animals must have two apparently normal testicles fully descended into the scrotum.

List of Recognized Working Titles