History of the Rottweiler
Rottweilers are considered to be one of the oldest dog breeds in the world, with their origins dating back to Roman times. Rottweilers were used as herding dogs and often marched over the Alps with the Roman legions, protecting human life, and driving their cattle. These dogs mixed and bred naturally with the native dogs in the 'Rottweil' region which influenced their name today.
The Rottweilers' main task in the Rottweil region was driving and guarding the herds of cattle and defending their masters and their property.
They became known as "Rottweil butchers' dogs" with butchers using the breed for their performance and usefulness which evolved into an excellent watchdog and driving dog which could also be used as a draught dog to pull carts. The breed was used in this way until the mid-19th century until railways started to be used to transport stock to marketplaces. Overview of the Rottweiler
Rottweilers can be wonderful companions provided that they are handled responsibly and with a good understanding of the dominant nature of the breed. They are an intelligent dog, extremely hardy and adaptable.
While temperaments can vary, they are very loyal with strong instincts to protect home and family. They do require appropriate socialisation, obedience training, and supervision.
Most Rottweilers will test for position in the family pecking order and will push these boundaries where there is a weakness or an inconsistency. They require an assertive pack leader who knows how to lead a strong-minded dog. The dogs position should be at the bottom of the human pack where it will be quite happy and respect the whole family. 
Portrayal of the Rottweiler
The portrayal of Rottweilers as vicious or aggressive dogs in several fictional films, TV series, and sensationalist press coverage, has created a negative image of the breed. However, in an event widely reported by the UK media in July 2009, a two-year-old Rottweiler named Jake, owned by Liz Maxted-Bluck was recognised for his bravery at an RSPCA event.
Jake and Liz were out for an evening walk through a park near Coventry, England, when Jake suddenly stopped as he heard screaming from a wooded area nearby. Without hesitation, Jake ran to investigate and chased off a man as he molested a woman. Jake returned to the scene where he found his owner and then stood guard over the victim until the police arrived.
The attacker was convicted of serious sexual assault and jailed for four years. Jake was nominated by the police for a bravery award following the incident.Development of the Rottweiler
The development and socialisation of your Rottweiler during the first 16 weeks is crucial. It is important to introduce your pup to as many different noises, textures, surfaces, challenges and situations as possible.
Rottweilers are strong and muscular and need space and exercise. Appropriate type and amount of exercise is important. Young Rottweiler's need enough exercise to stay engaged and lean but not too much that growing bones, joints, and ligaments are stressed and damaged.
At 1-2 years of age, a Rottweiler pup will start to see other dogs as rivals - a behaviour that should not be condoned and never be considered cute. Discipline must be firm, fair and consistent and if confrontations with other dogs are avoided the behaviour will not be reinforced and will settle.