As Rottweilers are known for their strength and power, the question of whether or not they are also agile often arises.
Are these large dogs capable of quick and graceful movements, or do they lack the coordination and finesse to truly be considered agile?
Are Rottweilers Agile?
Rottweilers tend to be agile because of their fearlessness, muscular build, and their ability to train. They are considered a medium to large/large breed of dogs weighing up to 110 pounds for females and 130 for males.
While Rottweilers may not be the quickest dogs, training can still be made fun and enjoyable by including a variety of exciting agility drills into their routine.
In this blog post, we will explore the agility of Rottweilers and see if they live up to the expectations set by their reputation as a dominant breed.
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Why Rottweilers May Be Good at Agility
Although Rottweilers are often seen as fierce and powerful, they tend to excel in agility exercises. For them to be the “perfect” family-friendly pet, they need to receive the proper training.
Along with regular training, they have high energy levels so daily exercise needs to be part of their ongoing routine.
Their History Is What Makes Them Agile
Rottweilers date back to the early 1800s and were initially named “drovers.” Their purpose was to guard, push carts for butchers, and herd cattle or other livestock.
Their herding jobs often required them to turn or run quickly and circle around the various livestock and cattle on farms.
This type of work catered to the high energy levels of the Rottweiler, along with honing their agility skills.
They Have A Strong Physique
Well known for their powerful and muscular build, Rottweilers have served in the police force, military, and even as personal protectors.
Their paws are large and heavy, with high knuckles to support their strong bodies.
Younger Rottweilers typically have no issues jumping over obstacles and thrive on this type of exercise. Older Rotties may struggle, however, especially if they develop joint issues such as hip dysplasia.
They Have Great Trainability
When training a Rottweiler, their ability to focus is normally quite high. This is especially the case with female Rotties. You may notice how easily they pick up on commands, as their focus is on you at all times.
Male Rotties can be a little more challenging, mainly due to their ability to be easily distracted!
Why Rottweilers Struggle With Agility
While Rottweilers can excel in agility in many cases, there are instances where this can be a challenge for them. We explore some of these reasons below.
They Are Not Your Typical “Running” Dogs
Rottweilers tend to be very limited in certain activities like running and fetching for long periods of time. This doesn’t mean they can’t go for a walk or a quick jog. They are “medium-level” energy dogs which means they have the energy to perform the jobs they were made to do.
Their Strong Build Can Make Them Less Agile
When it comes to agility exercises, your Rottweiler may fall behind other breeds with higher energy levels, such as the Border Collie or greyhound. Their heavier muscular body can also make agility exercises a little more challenging, especially compared to smaller and lighter dog breeds.
They Can Develop Arthritis and Hip Complications
Some Rotties can develop hip problems or arthritis as they age. Hip dysplasia is a common condition experienced by Rotties in their later years.
This can be overwhelming for some owners because these health issues tend to slow them down, making simple exercise routines a real battle.
How To Train Your Rottweiler To Be Agile
Agility exercises are a great way to train your Rottweiler both physically and mentally.
It teaches them endurance, keeps them fit, and strengthens their bone structure and joints. Furthermore, agility training can train a dog’s mind to help them solve problems. Here are a few tips on how to train your Rottie effectively.
● It is essential to begin a Rottie’s agility training at the right time. As they are developing at a rapid rate in their first 12 months, it is recommended to wait until then before this training commences. This will help reduce any unnecessary impact on their joints as they develop in the early stages.
● Use training agility commands. You can start them off with smaller exercises such as jumping over tiny obstacles, climbing through tunnels, etc.
Once they are more physically mature, you can challenge them to learn advanced jumping exercises, pole weaving, tire jumping, and other activities.
● Use obstacle courses for your Rottie. Once your dog has mastered some of the lighter agility exercises, it is time to start considering proper obstacle training courses. You can either purchase agility training equipment or create your own agility course in your yard at home.
Here are some examples of agility courses to consider:
● Running through tunnels
● Jumping over hurdles
● Crossing through a dog walk (a plank that is 4ft tall)
● Balancing on a seesaw
● Scaling through an A-frame
The Benefits Of Training Your Rottweiler
Agility training comes with a range of benefits for you and your Rottie. Apart from the obvious bonding sessions you will have with them, they benefit both physically as well as mentally. Let’s explore these below:
It Builds Their Confidence Level
Rottweilers are known for wanting to please their owners. Especially with some Rotties that may be a bit shy, running an obstacle course may improve their confidence level. Agility exercises will also help them gain confidence in socializing with others.
Agility Training Has Physical Benefits
Running, jumping, and balancing are some of the obvious ways Rottweilers can excel in agility. These benefit your Rotties as they are great strengthening and muscle-building exercises that help with preventing injuries.
Agility work helps build their stabilizing muscles which offer joint support and increased bone density.”
Agility Training Offers Mental Stimulation
Rotties are known for staying busy. Aside from physical exercise, they enjoy new challenges and incorporating new skills. Training in an obstacle course can mentally stimulate them and keep their brains occupied with something constructive.
As they are an intelligent breed, mental exercises will also help keep them balanced and well-behaved.
You Can Both Work Well As a Team
Agility training can build a bond between you and your Rottie. When you both work as a team, you will find a way to communicate with each other.
Teamwork also builds respect and trust between you and your Rottie. When you assist your dog in passing through an obstacle course, you empower them to keep up the good work as they know their owner is impressed!
You Can Make The Experience Fun For The Both of You
Agility training can take a lot of hard work, time, and dedication, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be a fun experience for both of you. If you are willing to build a great relationship with your Rottie and keep them fit and healthy, agility training can be a mutually rewarding experience.
Final Thoughts on Agility Training
As previously mentioned, you want to start agility training with your Rottie after 12 months of age. Rottweilers need time to develop their bodies and agility can be too taxing on their bodies if started too early.
Including agility as part of your Rotties training program can help keep them focused, especially if you have a dog that barks constantly, becomes aggressive, or chews on your personal belongings.
Rotties can be pretty stubborn and headstrong if training does not take place early on. Along with obedience training and select behavioral training, agility will do wonders in their physical and mental development.
To many, Rottweilers may not seem to be the “agile” type because of their imposing size. However, with proper training and introduction to agility work at the right age, they will likely thrive in the experience and love you even more!
