Grooming Rottweilers

Your Rottweiler may not require as much grooming attention as do other dogs with longer hair. However, to keep the dog's coat in top shape, regular grooming is essential. Even though your Rottweiler has short hair, this breed sheds considerably and regular grooming is necessary if your dog stays indoors.

  1. Getting Started

    • Keeping your Rottweiler brushed at least several times a week will help cut down on hair loss and shedding. Using a wire bristle or pin brush, gently brush the dog in the direction of the hair growth, starting at the nape and working down to the tail. As you brush away the dead hair, look for signs of dry skin, which appears as white flakes, and for signs of fleas. If your dog has fleas, you will notice dark brown debris areas or dried blood on some areas of the skin.

    Bathing

    • Bathe your Rottweiler with a shampoo formulated for dogs. If you notice dry skin flakes, use a shampoo designed to put moisture back into your dog̵7;s coat. Flea shampoos are formulated to kill pests on your dog. Rottweilers are prone to skin allergies that produce visible sores or hot spots. Use moisturizing treatments that you can purchase at most pet supply stores.

    Nail Care

    • Keep your Rottweiler̵7;s nails trimmed on a regular basis, usually once a month. Since the nails are black, you will not be able to see the blood vein to use as a guide. Cutting into this area, called the "quick," can cause the dog̵7;s nail to bleed and be painful. Using only nail clippers designed for dogs, cut barely below the tip. Never attempt to trim your Rottweiler's nails with trimmers made for humans, since the dog̵7;s nails grow in a curved slant.

    Follow-Ups

    • While grooming your Rottweiler, check the dog̵7;s ear and clean with a wet, soapy cloth if needed. Check your dog̵7;s teeth at least every few months, looking for any yellow or brown tarter buildup near the gum area. These areas should be brushed to avoid any decay. Grooming time is also a good time to check your Rottweiler̵7;s paws for cuts or foreign objects, such as small sticks or thorns.