Known as: Rottie, Rotts

Description: Black and tan in colour, with a compact and powerful body, giving great strength and endurance. size; dogs 60-68cm at the withers, bitches 55-63cm.

Temperament: Good-natured. Definitely not nervous, aggressive or vicious. They are courageous and biddable, with natural guarding instincts.

Advantages as an agility dog:

• Obedient

• Willing to work

• Wants to please.

• Quick reactions are quick

• Their learning capacity is excellent

Disadvantages as an agility dog:

• Must be kept motivated,

• Their size and weight puts them at a disadvantage when compared to the lighter weight agility dogs.

• Can suffer from hip dysplasia so utmost care must be taken when choosing a dog, both parents must be h.s. The breed average is 14.

• They also take a long time to mature so care must be taken whilst the dogs are still growing.

Rating out of ten: As an ABC 9/10, as an agility dog 8/10;  as a working pet 10/10.

Dogs that have done well in agility: Blue Savannah Storm, Mountain Breeze, Pride of the City.

What's it like to live with as a pet- Very easy to live with, Rotts switch off and sleep when nothing is happening, but are ready for action when the opportunity arrives. They have a strong attachment to the home and are always ready to defend it without any encouragement. They are a great companion and are good company where ever you go. Rotts enjoy meeting new people and seem to take everything in their stride.

As Rotts have a tendency to eat almost anything! Their weight must be kept in check and plenty of exercise must be given to keep them fit and healthy.