Roisin heads our Cambridge Criminal Defense firm’s security detail. Trained at Rottweiler Security Services, she is loyal, obedient, and courageous. Powerfully built, with a massive head and a broad and muscular chest, Roisin is nearly immune to pain. Highly intelligent, calm, and alert to any danger, she is a valued member of the firm.
You may get in, but you won’t get out.
~Roisin
Though considered quite dangerous, well-trained Rottweilers are magnificent pets. They love to play, get along well with other pets, and greet family friends enthusiastically. Rottweilers are, however, not for everyone. Owners must assume the position of “pack leader” with any dog, and Rottweilers in particular. If you are not prepared to dominate a Rottweiler, he will dominate you.
While we strive to maintain great relationships with our clients—many of whom are very loyal to us—a criminal defense practice is not without its dangers. When Roisin comes by for a visit, she makes the entire staff feel a little safer.
Rottweiler Training Tips:
- Begin training your puppy as soon as you take him home, before he develops any bad habits.
- Resist the temptation to treat the dog as a baby or human being. He is, after all, a dog.
- You are the alpha dog. A Rottweiler will not obey you if he does not consider you above him in the pack power structure. If he considers himself above you, it will be all bad.
- Walk the dog at least once every single day, for 45 minutes. Keep the leash lax, but short. Walk with confidence and purpose and the Rotty will follow you. Resist the temptation, especially in the beginning, to allow the dog to wander around during the walk. It is important that he understand that when you take him for a walk, you dictate that walk.
- Invite people over to your home to give the puppy an opportunity to socialize with them — before his territorial instincts kick in. When he is fully grown, instruct the dog to sit down before you answer the door, letting him know that you dictate who is allowed into the home.
- Resist the temptation to yell at the dog or physically discipline him. A disaproving tone of voice is usually enough to let him know that he has been a “bad dog.”
- Use “treats,” praise or petting to reward and, therefore, reinforce his good behavior. Don’t over do the “treats.” Otherwise, the Rotty will quickly learn to withhold the expected behavior until he receives the treat; rather than buy expensive and, likely, unhealthy treats, use his regular dry dog food as the treat.
- Though Rotties are intelligent, they can take time to train. Be consistent, patient, and determined.
- If you are having difficulty with your dog, watch the “Dog Whisperer.” Cesar Milan is a natural with dogs.
Kevin J. Mahoney is a Cambridge, MA Criminal Defense Lawyer and owner of Roisin, a three-year-old Rottweiler.
