The long haired Rottweiler is a rare and captivating variation of the traditional Rottweiler, known for its distinctive flowing coat and loyal demeanor. Although not as common as its short-haired counterpart, this breed variant has been gaining popularity among dog enthusiasts for its charming appearance and affectionate nature. With its unique coat and robust build, the long haired Rottweiler has an air of elegance that sets it apart from the rest.
Despite its growing fan base, the long haired Rottweiler remains somewhat of a mystery to many. Its long coat is a result of a recessive gene, making this variation less frequently seen. For those who appreciate the traditional Rottweiler’s traits—such as intelligence, protectiveness, and strength—but desire a more striking and unique look, the long haired Rottweiler is a perfect choice. This guide will delve into every aspect of this amazing breed, from its origins and physical traits to its temperament and care requirements.
Whether you’re considering welcoming a long haired Rottweiler into your home or are simply curious about this rare breed, this article will answer all your questions. From understanding its genetic makeup to learning how to appropriately care for its luscious coat, we’ll equip you with all the knowledge you need to appreciate and care for this magnificent canine companion.
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Table of Contents
- History and Origins of the Long Haired Rottweiler
- What Causes the Long Coat in Rottweilers?
- How Rare is the Long Haired Rottweiler?
- Physical Characteristics of Long Haired Rottweilers
- Temperament and Behavior of Long Haired Rottweilers
- Long Haired vs. Short Haired Rottweilers: Key Differences
- Care and Grooming for Long Haired Rottweilers
- Is a Long Haired Rottweiler Right for You?
- Health Issues and Lifespan of Long Haired Rottweilers
- Diet and Nutrition for Long Haired Rottweilers
- Training and Socialization Tips for Long Haired Rottweilers
- How to Find a Long Haired Rottweiler?
- Frequently Asked Questions about Long Haired Rottweilers
- Conclusion
History and Origins of the Long Haired Rottweiler
The long haired Rottweiler shares its ancestry with the traditional Rottweiler, a breed that dates back to Roman times. Originally bred as cattle-driving dogs, Rottweilers were known for their strength, endurance, and ability to protect livestock. As the Romans traveled through Europe, these dogs accompanied them, eventually settling in the German town of Rottweil, where the breed earned its name.
While the short coat became the standard for the breed, the long coat emerged due to a recessive genetic trait. Over time, breeders focused on the short-haired Rottweiler for its practicality in herding and guarding tasks. As a result, the long haired version became a rare sight, often overlooked in the breeding world. However, this unique variant has been making a quiet comeback due to its distinct appearance and loyal nature.
The long haired Rottweiler is not recognized by major kennel clubs, such as the American Kennel Club (AKC), because the long coat deviates from the breed standard. Despite this, many dog lovers argue that this variant is just as purebred as its short-haired counterpart, with all the same desirable qualities.
What Causes the Long Coat in Rottweilers?
The long coat in Rottweilers is caused by a recessive gene that both parent dogs must carry for their offspring to exhibit this trait. This gene, known as the fibroblast growth factor 5 (FGF5) gene, affects the length of the dog's hair. While most Rottweilers have the dominant short-haired gene, some carry the recessive long-haired gene without showing it themselves.
How does genetics work in Rottweilers?
For a Rottweiler to have a long coat, it must inherit the recessive gene from both parents. This means that even if two short-haired Rottweilers are bred, there’s a possibility of producing long-haired puppies if both parents carry the gene. However, if only one parent carries the recessive gene, all puppies will have short coats, but they may carry the long-haired gene.
Are there any genetic implications of the long coat?
The presence of the long-haired gene does not affect the overall health or temperament of the dog. It simply alters the coat's appearance, giving it a more luxurious and fluffy look. However, it’s essential for breeders to conduct genetic testing to ensure the overall genetic health of their breeding stock.
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How Rare is the Long Haired Rottweiler?
Long haired Rottweilers are indeed rare, primarily because breeders have historically focused on the short-haired breed standard. This rarity makes them highly sought after by enthusiasts who appreciate their unique appearance. Since both parent dogs must carry the recessive gene, the probability of producing long-haired puppies is relatively low.
Why are long haired Rottweilers less common?
Long haired Rottweilers are less common because most breeding programs aim to produce dogs that conform to the breed standard. Since the short coat is the accepted standard for Rottweilers, long-haired puppies are often not included in breeding plans. As a result, the long haired Rottweiler remains a hidden gem in the canine world.
Are long haired Rottweilers more expensive?
Due to their rarity, long haired Rottweilers can sometimes be more expensive than their short-haired counterparts. However, prices vary depending on the breeder, location, and the dog’s pedigree.
Physical Characteristics of Long Haired Rottweilers
The long haired Rottweiler shares the same robust and muscular build as the short-haired version, but the key difference is its coat. Here are some notable physical characteristics:
- Coat: A longer, softer, and more flowing coat compared to the traditional Rottweiler.
- Color: Black with well-defined rust or mahogany markings.
- Build: Strong, athletic, and compact, with a powerful stance.
- Size: Males typically weigh between 95–135 pounds, while females weigh 80–100 pounds.
- Eyes: Medium-sized, almond-shaped, and dark brown.
- Ears: Medium-sized and triangular, set high on the head.
The long coat adds an extra layer of elegance to the breed, making it stand out in a crowd. However, this longer coat requires special grooming attention, which we’ll cover later in the article.
Temperament and Behavior of Long Haired Rottweilers
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