Note: These are only general tips to help you choose - especially for first-time owners. (There are always exceptions to rule and I believe every Rottweiler should be given a chance to show that he/she can be a well-adjusted, happy dog.)

#1) Choose one that approaches you or doesn't shy away when you approach.

Don't choose one that seems overly fearful or aggressive. Don't choose one that shrinks back when you come near it or nips your hand. Choose one that seems friendly, lets you hold him/her and handle him/her.

When we went to choose our first Rottweiler puppy, I was convinced that I wanted a female Rotti. When we got to breeder's home there were 3 females and 1 male puppy available.

All of females however, shrank back when I put my hand near them. The male puppy walked right up to my hand and began to happily chew on my diamond engagement ring. I fell in love on spot and have never since regretted choosing my male Rotti.

#2) Insist on meeting parents if possible.

Meet parents first and observe their behavior before getting attached to a puppy. Do they seem friendly, well behaved, easy to touch and get along with?

If parents are well adjusted chances are high that puppies will turn out same way with proper training.

#3) Ask breeder how many times mother has had puppies.

The general rule seems to be that a female rottweiler should have at most only 3 litters in her lifetime for optimal breeding results. And, as our breeder told us, it's also best that she is given adequate time to recover after having a litter, before she is bred again.

If she is being overbred, you might run into some problems, health wise and behavior wise with your Rottweiler.

#4) Examine back legs.

Rottweilers - and large dogs in general - can have problems with their back hips (hip dysplasia). Hip problems can be extremely costly to fix and heart-breaking, both to dog and to you.

By Ron Swerdfiger

www.web-rover.com

What is Canine Distemper?

Canine distemper is a highly contagios disease caused by a virus (paramyxovirus) which attacks respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervus systems of dogs. Although dogs are most commonly affected, Canine Distemper is also seen in foxes, ferrets, mink and many other carnivores. These infected animals are often cause of spread of this disease to domesticated dogs.

At normal temperature virus can remain active in infected tissue for several weeks, provided infected source does not dry out, or become exposed to ultraviolet radiation (sun light). At below zero, virus can remain active for several months. At temperatures of 32°C or greater, Canine Distemper virus will be destroyed very quickly.

How can Virus spread?

Canine Distemper is spread through bodily secretions (nasal fluid for example} The most common form of transmission is airborne. Dogs become infected by breathing in particles secreted by infected hosts. For several weeks after recovery, a dog will still carry virus which can lead to further contamination if not properly quarantined.

What are symptoms?