#2) Insist on meeting the parents if possible.
Meet the 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 the parents are well-adjusted chances are high that the offspring will turn out the same way with proper training.
#3) Ask the breeder how many times the mother has had puppies.
The general rule seems to be that a female rottweiler should have only at most 3 litters in her lifetime for optimal breeding results. If she is being overbred, you might run into some problems, health wise and behavior wise with your Rottweiler.
#4) Examine the back legs.
Rottweilers and large dogs in general have problems with their back hips (hip dysplasia). Hip problems can be extremely costly to fix and heart-breaking, both to the dog and to you. To find a dog that is less likely to encounter these problems, examine their back legs. The legs shouldn't be grossly turned out (or in) but for the most part, face forward. (Again, this is a general rule)
Also, ask the breeder about the parents. Do either of them have a history of hip dysplasia? Since experts say hip and elbow dysplasia is hereditary this will give you a good idea of whether the puppy you are looking at will run into these types of problems later on in life.
#5 Talk to the Breeder.
Most reputable breeders who treat their dogs properly will be helpful and know many of the above facts (without you telling them) and more. They will be accomodating, allowing you to ask questions and (if possible) meet the parents to assess their traits. They will not be pushy (if any breeder is pushing you to buy their dogs, ALWAYS be suspicious) and may even be a bit cautious about allowing YOU to take one of their precious puppies!
Ask the breeder about any health problems in general in the parents or in the breeding line, not just in regards to hip dysplasia. Heart problems? Cancer? Temperament problems?
#6 Keep An Open Mind
When we went to purchase our rottweiler puppy, the breeder was, to the human eye, slightly eccentric. He was more of a dog-person than a people person and we were a little thrown off by his appearance and the state of his home in general.
But he knew his dogs. And it was plain that he knew more about rottweiler breeding and training than most rotti owners put together. Once we got over our initial reaction and saw the way he treated his rottweilers and the puppies, we knew that we wouldn't have any problem with our chosen sweetie.
Make sure you keep an open mind when choosing a puppy. You might walk into something you don't expect but you also might find the best companion you'll ever have!
Getting a Rottweiler puppy? Congratulations! Here are some tips on choosing the right Rottweiler puppy for you.
Note: These are only general tips to help you choose. (There are always exceptions to the rule and we 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.
