"Rottweiler breeders aim at a dog of abundant strength, black coated with clearly defined rich tan markings, whose powerful appearance does not lack nobility and which is exceptionally well suited to being a companion, service, rescue and working dog."

General Appearance
"The Rottweiler is a medium to large size, stalwart dog, neither heavy nor light and neither leggy nor weedy. His correctly proportioned, compact and powerful build leads to the conclusion of great strength, agility and endurance."

A Rottweiler standing alert on a grassy field, showcasing the breed's muscular build and distinctive black and tan markings
Key Standard Characteristics
Physical Build:

Medium to large size breed

Robust, compact, and powerfully built

Black coat with clearly defined rust/tan markings

Size Requirements (FCI Standard):

Males: 61-68 cm (24-27 inches) at withers, approximately 50 kg (110 lbs)

Females: 56-63 cm (22-25 inches) at withers, approximately 42 kg (92 lbs)

Size Requirements (AKC Standard):

Males: 24-27 inches, 110-130 pounds

Females: 22-25 inches, 77-110 pounds

Temperament Description:
"The Rottweiler is good-natured, placid in basic disposition, very devoted, obedient, biddable and eager to work. His appearance is natural and rustic, his behaviour self-assured, steady and fearless."

Comparison of male and female Rottweiler dogs showing typical size and build differences
Utilization Statement
Official Purpose: "Companion, service and working dog"

Historical Context: Originally known as the "Rottweil butcher's dog," the breed was developed from mastiff-type dogs used for herding and guarding cattle, marching with Roman legions over the Alps

Standard Color and Markings
Coat Color: "Black with clearly defined markings of a rich tan on the cheeks, muzzle, throat, chest and legs, as well as over both eyes and under the base of the tail"

Coat Type: "The coat consists of a top coat and an undercoat. The top coat is of medium length, coarse, dense and flat"

Important Proportions
"The length of the body, measured from the point of the sternum (breast-bone) to the ischiatic tuberosity, should not exceed the height at the withers by, at most, 15%"

This standardized description serves as the official blueprint for judging, breeding, and evaluating Rottweilers across international dog shows and breeding programs. The consistency across major kennel clubs ensures uniform breed type and quality worldwide.