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Parent24 : Experts : Ally Cohen : 3.Answered : Adopting a Rottweiler into a family with young children

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Ally Cohen

Ally is the founder of 4aKid.co.za and is a Child Safety Advisor for Arrive Alive. Ally aims to help parents with their child safety matters. Read More...

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Posted by: JJ on 06 September 2011

Hi There, we are thinking of adopting a 6 week old Rottweiler puppy into our family, which already includes my 5 year old son & 15 month old baby girl. My kids are very calm & well mannered , they don't have a tendency to hurt animals, they are very gentle with animals. The puppy's mom is apparently extremely fond of children , the can even sit with her while she feeds her puppies-she doesn't mind. I have done my research on the breed, and I know we'll need to socialize the puppy as much as possible , train it properly etc. The puppy will also have another companion as we have a Great Dane as well (which is a male, the Rott is female ). Will it be a good idea to opt for a Rott , as we have a lot of love to give, but I am a bit wary of the negativity surrounding the breed ? I have met a lot of loveable & gentle Rotts as well...I suppose I just need a bit more opinions /testimonials....

Answer

Rottweilers typically like children, especially if they're raised with them but proper training will need to be done.

Please be aware that Rottweilers are considered dangerous dogs suitable as guard-dogs and not necessarily a family dog.

Always teach children how to approach and touch dogs, and always supervise any interactions between dogs and young children to prevent any biting or ear or tail pulling on the part of either party.

Here are some basic guidelines to follow:

Never leave your child unsupervised with a dog, even the family pet. Most dog attacks happen at home to the under-7s.

Dogs don't like being patted on the head or having their tails pulled, so teach your child to stroke dogs gently and from the side.

Never disturb a dog who is eating or sleeping.

If a dog hides under a table or bush, do not allow your child to follow. The dog is probably feeling threatened and seeking a refuge.

If a dog threatens you: cross your arms over your chest, look down and stand still. If the dog persists, slowly curl up on the floor, protect your head and stay still. Never run. Avoid eye contact, which dogs may see as confrontational.

If the dog is interested in your child's toy or lunch, throw it on the ground for him.

In the unlikely event that your child is attacked, try to distract the dog (ideally by throwing water at it).

Regards,
Ally

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Jelly Belly

2011/11/30 05:35 PM

Had a Rottweiler female in the house before my daughter was born. They were the best of friends for years, with my daughter sleeping with her head on the Rotties tummy. When the female passed we got a male. Worst mistake we ever made. Had to rehome him after 9 months. It all depends on the nature of the specific dog. it sounds like mom is a family dog so I don't think you will have problems, but watch carefully in the beginning.

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Parent24 : Experts : Ally Cohen : 3.Answered : Adopting a Rottweiler into a family with young children

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