One of the most popular breeds of dogs in both Europe and America has been the Rottweiler. In America, the Rottweiler has been one of the ten most popular breeds of dogs for about twenty years. Part of the reason for their popularity is that they make great guard dogs. They are suspicious of strangers, but loyal and kind to the people and property they are protecting. They are highly trainable, extremely intelligent and look like they can easily rip a burglar’s leg off. What’s not to love? In the past, Rottweilers were used as battle dogs, draught animals, and to round up and guard livestock. They have received a lot of press about being attack or guard dogs. Just like the German Shepherd, the trainability and size of the dog, unfortunately, makes for an animal that in the eagerness to please his master will rip somebody’s leg off if told to. These are not dogs for first-time dog owners, anyone with health problems or apartment dwellers. They are bold, active dogs that need a lot of interaction with you and a lot of play.