During your last Hospital visit, doctors advised you to devise a fitness routine for yourself to help improve your overall health.
You have been thinking about taking up running but aren’t sure if your furry friend, a Rottweiler, could join this new fitness journey.
After all, in your neighborhood, you have seen people jogging with their Rottweilers by their side.
So, how fast can Rottweilers run?
Rottweillers can’t run as fast as some other breeds of dogs but can reach speeds of up to 20-25 mph.
However, most Rottweilers will only be able to maintain this speed for a short distance before needing a break.
This is because Rottweilers are bulky dogs and their short legs make it difficult for them to run long distances.
This article will explore how fast Rottweilers can run, dispel any myths about their speed, and give some alternative exercises that you can do with your Rottweiler.
How Fast Can A Rottweiler Run?
Although the average speed of Rottweiler is below that of greyhounds, whippets, and other sighthound breeds, they can still reach up to 20-25 mph for a short distance.
Thus, Rottweiler will outrun most people.
Can Rottweilers Run Long Distances?
Like muscular athletes won’t run long distances, Rottweilers can’t either.
Their short legs and bulky bodies make it difficult to run long distances.
They will need a lot of rest if they try to run long distances.
Rottweilers are best suited for short runs or walks.
If you want your Rottweiler to join you in a long run, they need gradual training to build up their endurance.
Why Can’t Rottweilers Run Fast for Longer?
Already we’ve hinted at a few reasons but let’s explore this a bit more.
Rotties are Designed for Strength
Rottweilers were bred as working dogs.
They were used for herding livestock and pulling carts.
This work required them to be robust over short distances but didn’t require them to run long distances.
Thus, Rottweilers didn’t need to develop the ability to run long distances.
At an average height of 27 inches and an average weight of 130 pounds, Rottweilers are one of the larger breeds of dogs.
Their muscular build gives them a lot of strength and makes them quite bulky.
Rottweilers’ Short Legs
Compared to other breeds, Rottweilers have relatively short legs.
This is due to their working heritage.
Rotties needed to be low to the ground to maneuver around livestock and carts nimbly.
While this conformation makes them powerful over short distances, their legs can’t cover a lot of ground.
Rotties Short Face Design
The fastest dog breeds have long, narrow faces that help funnel air into their lungs.
This design allows them to pant effectively and cool down their bodies while running.
Rottweilers have short, broad faces, which isn’t as effective at cooling their bodies.
Thus, Rottweilers are Brachycephalic, a term used to describe short-nosed dogs.
Breeds like Boxers, Pugs, and Bulldogs are all brachycephalic.
These breeds have a higher body temperature and less efficient respiratory systems, making it difficult to run long distances.
Do Rotties make good Running Companions?
Rottweilers aren’t the best running companions, but they can still join you on your runs.
If you want your Rottweiler to join you on long runs, you will need to train them gradually so they can build up their endurance.
Instead, take your Rottie for a hike, walk or jogging; they will still enjoy the exercise and fresh air.
Great Jogging Partners
Although Rotties aren’t the best long-distance runners, they still make great jogging partners.
Their short legs make it easy for them to keep up with you, and their muscular build means they can carry their weight.
Take your Rottweiler for a Walk
Rottweilers are best suited for short runs or walks.
They are brave, loyal, and will enjoy spending time with you.
Walking is a great way to bond with your Rottie while getting some exercise.
Rotties are Great Hiking Buddies
If you love hiking, then consider taking your Rottweiler with you.
They have the endurance to keep up with you on long hikes and the strength to carry their gear.
Just be sure to pack extra water and food for your furry friend.
What are the Alternative Exercise Options for Rotties?
Long-distance running isn’t the best exercise for Rottweilers, but plenty of other options are available.
Here are a few ideas:
Swimming
Rotties love to swim, and it’s a great way to exercise without putting strain on their joints.
It helps your dog cool down in the summer heat and is a fun way to bond with your furry friend.
Thus, even if you don’t have a swimming pool, buy a dog-friendly kiddie pool for them to enjoy in the backyard.
Dog Sports
There are many dog sports that your Rottweiler can participate in, such as agility, obedience, and herding.
These activities are great for mental stimulation and give your dog a sense of purpose.
For instance, agility requires your dog to navigate through obstacles.
This activity isn’t only fun but also builds up your Rottie’s confidence.
Toys & Yard Games
You can supplement the above dog sports with some yard games.
These games are a great way to wear out your Rottweiler while having fun.
The choice yard games should concentrate on short bursts of energy, such as fetch.
This helps your Rottweiler to stay fit without overworking its muscles.
Tug-of-War
Tug-of-war is a great way to exercise your Rottweiler’s muscles and teeth.
It’s also a fun game that you can play with your dog. Just be sure to use a rope toy specifically designed for dogs.
Weight-Pulling
This is a popular sport for Rottweilers and other working breeds.
In weight-pulling, your dog will need to pull a weighted sled or cart.
This exercise is excellent for building muscle and stamina.
However, invest in a harness designed explicitly for weight-pulling to avoid injury.
Rottweiler Myths
There are many myths about Rottweilers, and one of them is that they can’t run fast because of their short legs.
This isn’t true; although their legs are shorter than some other breeds, they can still reach high speeds.
Rottie can reach a top speed of 30 miles per hour.
Rottweilers are also often thought of as aggressive dogs.
However, this isn’t the case; Rotties are loyal and loving dogs.
They make great family pets and are excellent with children.
Another myth is that Rottweilers are lazy dogs.
This couldn’t be further from the truth; Rotties are very active and need plenty of exercises to stay healthy.
However, concentrate on short walks or jogs, as they aren’t built for long-distance running.
Conclusion
While Rottweilers may not be able to run as fast or as far as other dogs, they are still an excellent breed for running partners.
Rottweilers are loyal and will stay by your side no matter how slow you go.
They are also good motivators, as they will always look to you for direction on when to start and stop running.
If you’re looking for a dog that can keep up with your pace, then a Rottweiler is the perfect breed.
Just be sure to give them plenty of breaks and pack extra water and food on long runs or hikes.
With a Rottweiler by your side, you’re sure to reach your fitness goals.
Unfortunately, handicapped dogs are much more likely to be ignored when a family is picking out their new pet. Handicapped pets need more care than non-handicapped pets, so it is understandable why they are often harder to rehome.
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