Q: I am occasionally called out of town on work related issues, leaving my wife and 1 year old son home alone sometimes for 2 weeks or more. We live in an “ok” area, but with the recent crimes that have taken place, we have talked about getting a dog so that we all feel more at ease to have that added “extra protection” during my absence. Friends of ours have a Rottweiler, however, they do not have children, though he’s good with mine, he’s also not my dog.  I’ve heard and read about some of the horrific bites that have occurred between kids and dogs and I would like a professionals opinion on this. First, would this make a good  family dog, or is my family going to need protection from the dog? Second, what type of training would we need?  


Breed bans target certain breeds such as Pit Bull type dogs, Rottweilers, Doberman Pinchers, American Stafford shire Terriers and German Shepherds just to name a few.  ALL BREEDS OF DOGS ARE CAPABLE OF BITING. Larger dogs are capable  of inflicting more severe bites than smaller dogs, however, smaller dogs and these new designer dogs can cause just as much damage.

It is not the breed of dog that leads to the attack or the bite, it is the temperament, training or lack there of that leads to these attacks. People, and their lack of understanding is what give these breeds bad reputations, not the breeds itself.

Any well-trained, well-socialized dog of any breed including mixed breeds can become loyal family companions with proper training.

When your are considering buying or adopting a dog, choose one that fits your lifestyle. If you are high energy, look at a high energy dog such as a Australian Shepherd. If you are a couch potato maybe a Basset Hound is better for you. Either way, you want to choose one that displays confidence, one that is not fearful of people or sensitive to noises or environment. One who comes to you readily and  accepts leadership from the start with no struggles.  

Do not choose a dog/pup because of size, new designer breed or reputation. It is not fair to the dog when you mismatch. Please keep in mind, that no two dogs are alike. Far to often, we hear:” But I grew up with” Or “I’ve had this breed all my life” TEMPERAMENT, NOT BREED IS IMPORTANT.

Your friends may have a Rottweiler and he is the best dog you have ever seen, but, how did he get that way? Someone had to teach him. Though most Rottweilers carry some of the same “breed characteristics” all have their own unique personality and temperaments. The Rottweilers original purpose and function was the all-purpose working dog used as a herder for cattle ,and now used as militant  and police dog for Search and Rescue, Guard and Companion. He defended his master and his masters property.


Rottweillers are calm, strong, sturdy, dependable, courageous , self assured affectionate to family, wary of strangers and intelligent. A well-bred, well-socialized Rottweiler is good natured and has a stable temperament. He should NOT be nervous or aggressive, but should have “natural” guarding instincts and an inherent desire to protect your family and home. They make superb companions with an experienced owner.

They do NOT make good backyard dogs. They need to be part of the family pack, and require heavy socialization and training or they will become stubborn, willful and bossy, making your life unbearable.


 Whether you get a dog from a breeder or a humane society ASK QUESTIONS. Find out as much as you can about the dog and it’s origin. Do your homework before bringing any dog into your life.  Owning a dog is a privilege and a life long financial and emotional commitment. Recognize the commitment, before making it. It you cannot make it, don’t do it. It is not fair to the dog.

People training is equally as important as training your dog.  You must learn how to be an effective communicator and good strong leader and your dog needs to learn and must always follow your leadership. Remember firm does NOT mean force.