Specific breed brochure - Breed Nutrition

R ottweiler
Royal Canin scientific research:
innovation in Health Nutrition
Tailor made
nutrition
for Rottweilers

C o n t e n t s
The history of Rottweilers
The breed standard
1 - Key points
for Rottweilers
Rottweilers, powerful and robust
A skeleton that needs protecting
Strong jaws and teeth
A heart function
that requires monitoring
2 - Tailor-made
nutrition for Rottweilers
Building, regenerating
and maintaining muscle mass
Nutrition formulated
to support the joints
A kibble tailored
to the big jaws
Helping preserve
good heart tonicity
References
Scientific glossary
Key innovations for pedigree dogs
in the history of Royal Canin
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26
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© J.-M. Labat
2
INTRODUCTION
The Rottweiler, a canine protector
with some unsuspected
particularities
It is with great pleasure that I am
writing the foreword to this brochure
devoted to those unrivalled,
talented protectors known as
Rottweilers. 2007 is a special year
in more than one way for this dog,
commonly nicknamed the Rottie by
enthusiasts. It is the centenary of its
official selection in the breed’s
home country Germany, but also
an important year in terms of nutrition,
with the launch by Royal Canin of Rottweiler 26*, a food perfectly tailored
to the particularities of the breed.
Rottweiler 26 is a logical step for Royal Canin, which has been pushing the
boundaries of nutritional expertise on all dogs for the past forty years. In formulating
best balance nutrition for our canine companions, we have always
been guided by our credo: the animal before the owner!
- Introduction in 1980 of AGR, an innovative food specially formulated for
large dogs. AGR redefined the rules of nutritional science for dogs at a global
level.
- In 1997 Royal Canin introduced RCCI Size, the first dietary programme for
dogs based on three fundamental factors: age, format (size/weight) and
lifestyle.
- In 2001 our knowledge enabled us to introduce a specific nutritional programme
– Giant – for dogs weighing more than 100 lbs (45 kg) in adulthood.

- In 2007 Royal Canin broke new ground, with the launch
of Great Dane 27*, dedicated to a second giant
breed, as a response to particular needs justifying a targeted
ration and formula.
With Rottweiler 26, Royal Canin takes the next step in
a process oriented to thoroughly examining and responding
to the needs of different breeds.
Rottweilers are accomplished athletes that have become
the world’s most sought-after protector of property and
people alike. This global expansion has highlighted the
strengths, but also the weaknesses, of this emblematic
breed. Famed for its strength and robustness – the male
generally weighs more than 110 lbs (50 kg) – a
Rottweiler subjects its joints to heavy mechanical strain,
either during competition (ring, RCI, agility) or simply
when walking with its owner. It is accordingly essential to treat its skeleton with
care, especially the hips and elbows. The heart of such a Goliath must also
be monitored closely.
Our network of breeders has provided the Royal Canin Research Centre with
valuable information. Rottweiler 26 is the result of their combined efforts.
Just like millions of enthusiasts across the globe, we are impressed by the
Rottweiler, a dog that demands respect owing to the force of its personality.
Thank you for sharing this passion with us.
Pascal Jouannet
President
Royal Canin Group
3
*Rottweiler 26 contains 26% protein.
© J.-M. Labat

© Private collection
The history of Rottweilers
The Rottweiler’s roots probably go back to ancient Rome. Mastiff-type sheepdogs from
Mesopotamia and Assyria were employed by Roman legions to control and accompany cattle kept
to feed the troops. These dogs were also responsible for protecting people and livestock from the
attacks of predators and bandits.
Rottweil and the Rottweilers
Roman soldiers founded a town, which they called Arae Flaviae, in what’s now the region around
Baden-Württemberg of present-day Germany, probably around 74 AD. The post was an important
stop on the Roman road that crossed the south of what was called Germania.
Renamed Rottweil at some time, probably due to the red tiled
roofs (Rote Wil) that characterised it, the town was – and
remained until the nineteenth century – the site of a major
livestock market that attracted butchers from the south of the
German lands. The dogs that guarded the animals were initially
known as Metzgerhund (literally butcher’s dog), before
adopting the Rottweiler name. Trade with Swiss, Hungarian
and French butchers probably led to crosses with other herding
dogs. The Rottweiler’s coat for instance could be
influenced by the Swiss cattle dogs.
The dogs were selected on the basis of their ability to lead
and guard cattle as well as their protective aptitudes. They
were also sometimes used to pull small carts of meat. The following
prized qualities are still found in Rottweilers today:
• Compact format and off-putting size
• Strength, courage and endurance
• Confidence and a well-developed guarding instinct
• Calmness and robustness
4

The fall and rise
The Rottweiler population gradually fell as the centuries rolled past. Legend has it that the town was
home to just one Rottweiler in 1905, undoubtedly due to the reduction in livestock numbers and
the development of new ways of selling animals.
Interest in the breed was rekindled at the turn of the twentieth century however. In 1899, a common
club was founded for the Leonberger (after another Baden-Württemberg town) and the
Rottweiler. The Deutsche Rottweiler Club was founded in 1907, the forerunner of the Allgemeiner
Deutscher Rottweiler Klub (ADRK), the only present-day club charged with managing the breed
standard by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI). In 2007 the ADRK celebrated its centenary
in Rottweil.
The Rottweiler was adopted by the
German police service in 1910. Other
countries have also used the breed as a
police or army utility dog. The Austrian
army still has a very large kennel of
Rottweilers (von der Karl Adolf Ranch),
which has a major influence on the breed.
Rottweilers went global in the 1970s. The
American Rottweiler Club was founded in
1971 and the French equivalent was established
in 1977.
The breed that was once used to pull cartloads
of meat at the market is now a
strong competitor in the ring, which
makes great demands on its speed and
agility as well as its endurance, as trials
can last anything up to 45 minutes.
5
© Private collection

Rottweilers from the tips of their toes…
Rottweilers are robust dogs of medium to large
size. The length of the torso measured from the
tip of the shoulder to the tip of the buttocks must
not exceed the height to the withers by more
than 15%.
Height to withers:
• Males: 24-27? inches (61-68 cm)
• Female: 22-25 inches (56-63 cm)
Weight :
• Males: ±110 lbs (±50 kg)
• Females: ±90 lbs (±40 kg)
(in kennels some females have been weighed at
between 77 lbs and 90 lbs or 35-40 kg).
Skull: medium length, broad between the ears;
forehead line moderately arched as seen from
the side; occipital bone well developed without
being conspicuous.
Stop: well defined.
Nose: well developed, more broad than round
with relatively large nostrils, always black,
straight nasal bridge, broad at base, moderately
tapered.
Lips: black, close fitting, corner of the mouth not
visible, gums as dark as possible.
Jaws/teeth: Upper and lower jaw strong and
broad; strong, complete dentition with the
upper incisors closely overlapping the lower
incisors in a scissor bite.
Cheeks: zygomatic arches pronounced.
The Rottweiler is classified
in Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI))
Group 2, Pinscher and Schnauzer, Molossian type, Swiss
Mountain and Cattle Dogs and other breeds, Section 2.1:
Molossian type, Mastiff type
GENERAL APPEARANCE HEAD EYES AND EARS
6
Large almond-shaped eyes, dark brown in
colour; close-fitting eyelids.
Medium-sized ears, pendant, triangular, wide
apart, set high; with the ears laid forward close
to the head, the skull appears broader than it
really is.
© J.-M. Labat

… to the tip of their nose
Appearance (based on FCI standard N° 147 /19/06/2000)
NECK, BODY AND TAIL LIMBS SKIN AND COAT
Neck
Strong, of fair length, well muscled, slightly
arched, clean, free from throatiness, without
dewlap.
Body
Straight, strong, firm body; short, strong, deep
loins; croup: broad, of medium length, slightly
rounded; neither flat nor falling away; chest:
roomy, broad and deep (approximately 50% of
the shoulder height) with well developed fore
chest and well sprung ribs.
Tail
In natural condition, level in extension of the
upper line, may hang at ease.
Forequarters
Seen from the front, the front legs are straight
and not placed too closely to each other. From
the side, the forearms are straight and vertical.
The shoulder blade is at around 45 degrees.
The shoulders are well laid back. The upper
arms are close to the body. Forearms are well
developed and muscular; pasterns are slightly
springy, strong, not steep; front feet are round,
tight and well arched; pads hard; nails short,
black and strong.
Hindquarters
Seen from behind, the legs are straight and not
too close together; obtuse angles between
upper thigh and hipbone, upper thigh and
lower thigh, and lower thigh and metatarsal;
moderate length to upper thighs, which are
broad and highly muscled; the lower thighs are
long, powerful and broadly muscled, sinewy;
sturdy, well angulated hocks, not steep; feet are
slightly longer than the front feet. Strong,
arched toes as tight as those on the front feet.
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Skin
Sur la tête, la peau est bien tendue ; lorsque le
chien est très attentif, elle peut former de légères
rides sur le front.
Hair
The topcoat is of medium length, coarse to the
touch, smooth and flat; the undercoat must not
show through the topcoat; the hair is a little longer
on the hind legs.
The colour is black with clearly defined rich tan
markings on the cheeks, muzzle, throat, chest
and legs, as well as over both eyes and under
the base of the tail.
© J.-M. Labat

1KEY POINTS
FOR ROTTWEILERS
Rottweilers,
powerful and robust
Character and aptitudes
Rottweilers are peaceful, friendly animals. It is difficult to overawe a member of this self-assured
breed, which is well balanced and highly attentive to what goes on around it. These docile, obedient
dogs love to work with their handler.
Results produced from
a sample 225 members
of the American Rottweiler Club
Main activities Number of responses*
Companion dog 210
Obedience 178
Shows 152
Assistance for sick people 78
Cattle dog 59
Agility 48
Other activities Number of responses*
Ring (Schutzhund) 23
Pulling trials 20
Carting 16
Emergency response 6
*Several responses possible
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All their qualities make Rottweilers very popular
working and sporting dogs in several disciplines.
A survey by the Rottweiler Health
Foundation (USA) among members of the
American Rottweiler Club revealed the wide
array of activities the breed is used for.
In some countries, like Austria and Russia,
Rottweilers are widely used in state services as
a canine assistant..
A balanced
body composition
The Rottweiler’s vigorous, squat appearance
suggests strength, suppleness and endurance.
Its muscle mass is well developed, but it also
possesses sufficient energy reserves (in the
form of fat mass*) to stay on its feet without
flagging for a relatively long time.

The fat mass – or adipose tissue – represents
a dog’s biggest energy reserves.
Its preferred gait is trotting and the standard
states that when it trots ‘the back remains
firm and relatively immobile. [The] gait is
harmonious, bold, powerful and relaxed,
characterised by good amplitude’.
Rottweilers,
world-class working
and sporting dogs
The German discipline Vielseitigkeitsprüfung
(Schutzhund, RCI), which consists
of three levels, is a good test of the most
sought-after qualities in Rottweilers: endurance,
obedience, sociability and defence.
The ADRK even requires a dog to have an
elementary certificate in the discipline before
it is authorised to breed. The Körung
rewards the best dogs.
%
100
Comparison of the body composition
of various large dogs
The French Rottweiler club has developed
a number of tests to evaluate a dog’s temperament
and physical aptitudes. These
tests are among the toughest employed
by any breed club. The endurance test for
instance requires the dog to complete a
12? mile (20 km) course at an average
speed of around 6-9 miles an hour, with three breaks of 15-20 minutes each. A successful dog
proves that it can work at a given intensity without showing overt signs of fatigue.
80
60
40
20
0
Boxer
(4)
9
Great
Dane
(6)
(data from Royal Canin Research Centre, unpublished)
German Rottweiler
shorthaired (3)
Pointer
(4)
German
Shepherd
(12)
Saint
Bernard
(3)
Golden
Retriever
(3)
Lean mass
Fat mass
Labrador
(8)
With an average 78% lean mass* and 22% fat mass,
the Rottweiler’s body composition is equivalent to that of the German Shepherd.
© J.-M. Labat

1. Ulna
2. Radius
3. Process Medial coronoid
4. Humerus
A skeleton that needs protecting
Weighing in often at more than 40 kg – even females – the Rottweiler is halfway between the large
and giant breeds. Its particular conformation means that its joints are subjected to major mechanical
pressure. Visits to the veterinarian due to limping are not uncommon as the Rottweiler’s joints are
very susceptible to diseases commonly affecting large dogs. Good management of physical activity
and diet is vital to keep the skeleton healthy.
Fragmentation of the coronoid
medial process
Fragmentation of the medial
coronoid process is an
example of elbow dysplasia,
a disease that often affects
Rottweilers
(Swenson et al, 1997).
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Forequarters
The most common complaints in the forelimbs
relate to the elbow joint (Weinstein et al, 1995).
In puppies, these are generally primary lesions,
such as osteochondritis* due to an ossification
problem in growth cartilage or fragmentation of
the ulna (one of the bones in the forelimbs),
known as the medial coronoid process. In older
dogs, the source of pain can be secondary
arthritis lesions. Males appear to be more often
affected than females (Grondalen and Lingaas,
1991).
In 19% of cases of a chronic limp in one of the
front legs, the diagnosis is a bone tumour, generally
an osteosarcoma, causing the proliferation
of abnormal bone tissue. Compared with the
general dog population Rottweilers are 4.6 times
more at risk of this type of disease (Langebach et
al, 1998).

Although often discovered by chance and not causing the dog any pain, the frequency of fracture
of one of the eight sesamoid bones should also be noted. These are the small bones of the foot
that connect the metacarpi and the phalanges of the toes. Almost every other Rottweiler is said to
be susceptible to this type of problem at some time (Desperiez, 1997).
Hindquarters
The most common diseases of the hindlimbs among Rottweilers are hip dysplasia and a ruptured
anterior cruciate ligament of the knee.
Incidence of dysplasia in Rottweilers
Rottweilers are robust dogs, but they are much more susceptible to hip dysplasia than the dog
population as a whole (6.5 times more susceptible according to LaFond et al, 2002). It is important
to screen for dysplasia as early as possible as genetic selection is the basis of the fight to eradicate
the hereditary component of this disease.
A radiology examination can be used to
diagnose dysplasia. Clinically, hip dysplasia
Coxofemoral dysplasia
can manifest itself as a ‘rolling’ gait as viewed
from the rear or pain during exercises that
require flexion-extension of the hindlimbs.
The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA)
database shows that in the US Rottweilers are
among the breeds in which the percentage of
dogs classified as having healthy hips after a
radiology examination is rising fastest. These
figures are skewed due to the greater likelihood
of the healthiest dogs being screened,
but the high rate of submission to this examination
is still a positive factor (Morgan et al,
2000).
Dysplasia is due to hyperlaxity of the head
of the femur inside the joint cavity of
the pelvis. In time abnormal joint functioning
leads to wear of the surfaces of the joint
and subluxation of the femur.
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1. Pelvis
2. Head of femur
3. Neck of femur
4. Femur

could you please
translate 2 words
in pink colour?
Predisposition to rupture of the cruciate ligament of the knee
The anterior cruciate ligament keeps the hock joint in place. If it ruptures it will lead to instability
(Weinstein and Mongil, 1995). In the absence of trauma the cruciate ligament rupture may be
connected with the ligament’s gradual loss of resistance due to degenerative phenomena that
increase with age.
1. Femur
2. Tibia
3. Fibula
4. Patella
5. Meniscus
6. Anterior cruciate ligament
Rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament
Anterior cruciate ligament sain Anterior cruciate ligament rompu
Rottweilers have been shown to
be predisposed to knee cruciate
ligament ruptures
(Necas et al, 2000).
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Strong jaws and teeth
Ingestion and digestion are connected
Among the factors causing gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV) – also known as bloat and torsion –
are small kibbles and rapid ingestion (Glickman et al, 1994; Raghavan et al, 2004). As with all
large dogs, the risk of GDV in Rottweilers is not to be brushed aside, although the likelihood of it
occurring remains relatively low compared with
other giant breeds. According to Ward et al
(2003), 3.9% of individuals will suffer from
the problem some time in their life.
Dilatation occurs when the sphincter at the
end of the stomach, the pylorus, does not
allow the stomach to empty normally. This is
quickly aggravated by the accumulation of gas
emitted from the stomach contents and air ingested
by the dog as it unsuccessfully tries to vomit. It
can be followed by the rotation of the stomach,
which is facilitated by the laxity in the way the stomach
is attached in the abdomen. This disrupts
local circulation, lowers blood pressure and provokes
a sudden state of shock. If surgery is not performed
in time GDV can be fatal.
This means it is essential to take account of the anatomical
characteristics of the Rottweiler’s teeth and
jaws to ensure the dog is given a food that encourages
it to chew and prevents it from sucking a
large quantity of air in with its food.
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© J.-M. Labat

Main muscles working the Rottweiler’s jaw
1. Temporomandibular joint
2. Mandible (lower jaw)
3. Maxillary (upper jaw)
4. The masseter muscle is the most powerful muscle involved in closing the jaws
5. The temporal muscle raises the mandible
6. The pterygoid muscle is involved in the lateral movements of the lower jaw
7. The digastric muscle is the only muscle tasked with lowering the mandible
Powerful, wide jaws
Rottweilers have characteristically strong jaws. The lower jaw – the mandible – is connected at the
back to the temporal bones, at a joint that works like a hinge. A dog’s jaws basically move vertically
(open/closed), although small transversal movements are possible and are seen during mastication.
Several muscles are involved in working the jaw
Four muscles participate in the process of grasping and chewing food, three of them play a role
in bringing the jaws together.
Rottweilers are mesocephalic-type dogs
Contrary to the Boxer, another molossoid breed, the Rottweiler’s head is not brachychephalic (short,
wide, round skull) but mesocephalic, which means that the bottom of the skull and the muzzle are
more or less the same size.
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The well-balanced proportions of the
Rottweiler’s head permit the physiological
implantation of 42 teeth, each with
a different role depending on their size
and shape:
- 12 incisors cut and bite
- 4 canines trap, hold and tear
- 16 premolars hold, cut and tear
- 10 molars cut and crush.
Skull dimensions characterise the different types
of canine morphology
C
3,62
L 20,3
LD
8,34
(Centre de Recherche Royal Canin : Komonski, 2004)
C
3,35
LD
8,01
Z
13,37 Z
12,26
Rottweiler Boxer
The upper incisors (6) form a scissors joint with the lower incisors (6).
15
L 15,53
Analysis clearly shows
that the Rottweiler’s head
is almost as wide as
the Boxer’s but it is
much longer.
Z : width of the bones of the head
between the zygomatic arches
C : distance between the lingual
border of the upper canines
L : total length of the bones of the
head de l’incisure intercondylaire
à l’extrémité rostrale de l’os
incisif
LD : width of the palate between the
vestibular borders of the upper
molar arch
© J.-M. Labat
Could you please
translate the pink
sentence?

© Bussadori
A heart function that requires
monitoring
Large dogs are less affected by degenerative heart disease than small dogs, although there is a
real risk of heart pathology. It is said to be 3.7 times higher in the former than in the dog population
as a whole (Deeb and Wolf, 1994).
Heart diseases that may be encountered
Breed predispositions to cardiovascular disease have been identified in Rottweilers. The most common
heart diseases are subaortic stenosis (Manczur, 2003) and dilated cardiomyopathy (Sisson et
al, 2000). The breed was also very well represented in a study on atrial fibrillation (Menaut et al,
2005), a very common heartbeat problem among dogs suffering from dilated cardiomyopathy.
The risk of subaortic stenosis is 5.4 times higher among Rottweilers (Gough and Thomas,
2004). This disease is characterised by lesions of the aortic valves that disrupt the flow of arterial
blood, creating a specific heart murmur. There may be no clinical signs and the diagnosis is made
during routine auscultation.
Ultrasound showing
dilated cardiomyopathy
in a large-breed dog
VG
AG
A right
parasternal long
axis view shows
the dilatation of
the left atrium
(AG) as well as
the spherical
shape the left
ventricle (VG)
tends to assume.
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Dilated cardiomyopathy (CMD) is
the second major heart disease affecting
Rottweilers. This disease is characterised
by the large-scale dilatation of the heart
cavities, together with thinning of the
muscle wall. Ultimately, the myocardium*
is unable to contract enough to
pump blood around the body.
Rottweilers probably have a genetic predisposition
to DCM, although the disease
is often linked to too low a plasma
taurine and/or L-carnitine level.

The recently developed Doppler ultrasound technique appears to be more promising
than other current ultrasound techniques in detecting DCM even before
lesions develop (Chetboul et al, 2004). Early diagnosis helps prevent affected
dogs from being used for breeding before they manifest signs of the disease.
Possible link between dilated
cardiomyopathy and taurine deficiency
The link between taurine* deficiency and feline DCM (Pion et al, 1987) has led to
studies into the role of taurine in canine DCM. Taurine is an amino acid normally
produced by dogs, but in the event of DCM the blood taurine concentration is
often low.
Taurine regulates the heartbeat and protects the heart muscle cells (Satoh and
Sperakis, 1998). A simple blood test will reveal whether the dog is deficient in
taurine, as it is present in blood cells.
A retrospective study shows that the average dietary consumption of taurine is not
significantly different between dogs with and without taurine deficiency (Freeman
et al, 2001). The taurine deficiency
could develop as a consequence of
higher requirements or specific
metabolic abnormalities.
© Bussadori
1
2
17
Case of subaortic stenosis:
ultrasound examination
The inadequate production of taurine found
in some breeds, like the Rottweiler, may
induce the development of dilated
cardiomyopathy.
A 2-D ultrasound reveals
hypertrophy of the
interventricular septum (1)
and the back wall of the left
ventricle (2).
© J.-M. Labat

© J.-M. Labat 2
TAILOR-MADE NUTRITION
FOR ROTTWEILERS
Building, regenerating
and maintaining muscle mass
Objective #1: ensuring the regeneration
of muscle cells
Protein plays a major role in tissue regeneration. The greater the physical and/or psychological
stress on the dog, the faster the cells are regenerated. During effort, 5-15% of the energy expended
comes from protein, yet muscles are the only source of protein in a dog’s body. That means a
higher intake of protein is vital to prevent the dog from drawing from its own muscle protein.
An optimal protein level is essential in an active dog. If it is too low there is a correlation to a higher
risk of muscle or tendon injuries among sporting dogs (Reynolds et al, 1999).
18
Too low a protein intake has dramatic
consequences for a dog’s health,
including anaemia, poor hair quality,
lower immune defences and muscle
atrophy. Conversely, an increase in
the quantity and quality of the protein
intake in sporting dogs helps
improve performance while reducing
the risk of muscle or tendon injuries
(Reynolds et al, 1999). The low indigestible
protein used in Rottweiler
26 is 90% digestible, which helps the
dog extract maximum benefit from
the amino acids* in its food.

Objective #2: facilitating
the use of fatty acids
through L-carnitine
L-carnitine is the only substance that can
transport long-chain fatty acids to the
mitochondria*, where they are oxidised
to produce energy. L-carnitine is synthesised
in the liver but the more active the
dog, the greater the risk that this process
will be restricted.
When the content is increased in the food
(700 IU/kg in Rottweiler 26), the
serum L-carnitine concentration will
return to normal much faster. L-carnitine
is traditionally used in slimming diets to
accelerate weight loss while preserving
lean mass (Allen, 1998).
Objective #3: providing sufficient calories
to cover expended energy
A high fat diet (20% in Rottweiler 26) helps spare the glycogen* reserves in the muscles as their
exhaustion corresponds to the appearance of signs of fatigue in dogs (Grandjean, 1983).
A diet rich in fats improves a dog’s sporting performance in endurance (Reynolds, 1998) and
speed disciplines (Hill et al, 2000). It increases the maximum amount of oxygen – VO2 max* –
that the body is able to use (Reynolds and Taylor, 1996).
It is important to maintain a good balance between omega 6 and omega 3 unsaturated fatty acids
through an intelligent mix of fat sources (animal fat, fish oil, soy oil and copra). Copra provides
short-chain fatty acids, which are not well incorporated into fat tissue and do not require the presence
of L-carnitine to provide energy to the muscle cells.
% mitochondrial
volume/muscle fibre
20
15
10
5
0
Impact of fat content in the diet
on the capacity of the muscle cells
to produce energy from fatty acids
Study on dogs trained for three months and fed with each of the diets
before measurement (Reynolds & Taylor, 1996)
19
11,59
+ 37 %
15,97
High carbohydrate diet* High lipid diet**
* Carbohydrates
represent 65%
of metabolisable
energy
**Lipids represent
65% of
metabolisable
energy
The mitochondrial volume is a manifestation of the cell’s ability to oxidise fatty acids to
produce energy. A high fat diet improves the body’s ability to burn fat. When a
carbohydrate-rich diet is imposed there is a return to initial values.

Nutrition formulated
to support joint health
Around 40% of large dogs aged upwards of seven years old suffer from arthritis (Deeb and Wolf,
1994), particularly those with dysplasia or osteochondritis and those that practised a physical activity
at too young an age or too intensely, causing repeated microtraumas to joint cartilage.
Nutrition is a way of providing substances that help maintain joint health. They can stimulate the
regeneration of cartilage cells (glucosamine* and chondroitin*) and promote cartilage hydration.
Glucosamine and chondroitin sulphate
is a synergistic mix that helps support cartilage health
Rottweiler 26 contains a high level (1200 mg per kg) of chondroitin sulphate and glucosamine,
natural substances that help maintain the health of joints and cartilage (Johnston et al, 2001).
These substances belong to the glycosaminoglycan family (GAGs), natural components of cartilage.
GAGs facilitate the hydration of cartilage, which helps it fulfil its role as a shock absorber. They
are also present in synovial fluid, helping lubricate the joints.
glucosamine and chondroitin sulphate are given to dogs to help
Structure of a joint cavity
maintain joint health and mobility.
1. Synovial fluid
2. Synovial membrane
3. Joint cartilage
The joint is protected by a capsule lined with the synovial
membrane, which secretes the fluid needed to nourish
cartilage. After oral administration, glucosamine and
chondroitin are concentrated in the synovial fluid.
- Glucosamine is precursor of many components of cartilage.
After oral administration it is concentrated in the joints
(Davidson et al, 2000), where it stimulates the regeneration of
cartilage, particularly by promoting the synthesis of collagen.
(Braham et al, 2003).
20

- Chondroitin sulphate is a component of cartilage and the synovial fluid that lubricates the
joint. It can absorb a great deal of water, facilitating good cartilage hydration, which in turn helps
cartilage in its role as a shock absorber. It tends to inhibit the enzymes responsible for cartilage
degradation (Basleer et al, 1998). Like glucosamine, it is concentrated in the synovial fluid and
the cartilage after oral administration (Conte et al, 1995; McLaughlin 2000). When daily administration
is repeated, the effect is cumulative (Adebowale et al, 2002).
Glucosamine and chondroitin have long been used for humans and animals. The earlier they are
given regularly, the greater the likelihood of the joints remaining in good health.
Supporting joint health
Long-chain omega 3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (EPA/DHA)*, found in fish oil improve
local microcirculation (Enikeeva et al, 1998) and so favour tissue oxygenation.
A higher intake of omega 3 fatty acids helps maintain health of the elbow joint (Hazewinkel et al,
1998).
21
© J.-M. Labat

Rottweilers have a
remarkable head,
characterised by powerful,
wide jaws and
well-developed zygomatic
arches (supporting
the cheeks).
© J.-M. Labat
A kibble tailored
to big jaws
The ergonomics of the kibble designed for Rottweilers must be studied on the basis of the strength
of the breed’s jaws and teeth, as these characteristics impact its dietary behaviour.
Four distinct objectives were pursued during the development of the food’s physical characteristics
(size, shape, texture, density):
- facilitating kibble prehension so the dog finds it easy to grasp its food, as
the first contact with the food is a key factor of palatability
- encouraging the dog to chew to maintain the masseter muscles,
which shape the cheeks and reduce the size of particles arriving in the
stomach
- minimising speed of ingestion to limit the risk of regurgitation
or poor digestion
- promoting the penetration of the teeth in the kibble to
minimise build up of dental plaque and slow down tartar
formation.
0 10 20 30 mm
The kibble’s shape
Seven different kibble prototypes were evaluated in a five
month period on a group of 41 dogs belonging to seven different
breeders. The selected kibble is in the shape of an arc.
It took several attempts before we found a way to produce
the shape on an industrial scale to the satisfaction of our
panel of breeders. The curve of the kibble helps the dog
grasp it easily in all circumstances, even when its bowl is
almost empty.
Rottweiler 26 was awarded a maximum five for palatability
in the trials.
22

Kibble size
When dogs are forced to chew, the food particles that enter the stomach
are smaller, which makes the work of digestive enzymes easier,
thus improving digestibility. In tests, the faeces produced by a diet of
Rottweiler 26 were graded ‘very good’.
A large kibble also helps prevent gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV). The
risk falls when the food is presented in pieces larger than 30 mm
(Theyse et al, 1998). While Rottweilers are much less likely to suffer
from GDV than other giant breeds, the risk cannot be ignored, so it is
recommended that the daily ration be split into two servings.
Kibble texture
The texture is the result of a compromise:
- The teeth have to sink deep enough into the kibble to produce a kind
of mechanical brushing
- The kibble must be resistant enough not to
shatter too soon and negate the beneficial
effect on the teeth.
Only a perfect mastery of the cooking and
extrusion process (temperature and pressure
during cooking, length of drying etc)
guarantees kibbles with the right elasticity
to produce both these effects.
Effect of crushing the kibble and addition
of calcium chelators on the tartar index
Tartar index (Warrick and Gorrel)
2
1,5
1
0,5
0
To optimise the role of the food in oral hygiene, the Rottweiler 26 kibble contains
sodium polyphosphates*, which are known to curb the deposition of calcium in dental
plaque and so slow the formation of tartar (White et al, 2002).
23
1,86
-41%
Crunching -73%
Crunching +
calcium
chelators
1,11
0,5
A B C
A : Non-crunchy food
(control)
B : Crunchy test food
C : Crunchy test food +
addition of calcium
chelators
© J.-M. Labat

Helping preserve
good heart tonicity
Preventing any taurine deficiency
Taurine is an amino acid normally produced by the dog, but synthesis may be limited sometimes.
It is essential to heart muscle contractility. Several publications have shown the benefit of a taurine
supplement when a dog fails to synthesise enough or fails to use it properly (Alroy et al, 2000;
Sanderson et al, 2001; Fascetti et al, 2003).
Rottweiler 26 contains 0.26% taurine, which corresponds to an ingested average of 1500 mg
per day for a 45kg dog whose activity level is normal. Feeding a complete food rich in taurine
ensures regular and cost effective taurine intake.
L-carnitine to help the heart find energy
Role of L-carnitine in the production
of energy by the cells
exterior of the mitochondrion
fatty acids
carnitine
L-carnitine is produced in the dog’s liver and kidneys from two amino acids – lysine and
methionine – although production may sometimes be insufficient.
24
energy
La L-carnitine* is a substance synthesised
by the body the main purpose of which is
to facilitate transport of fatty acids into the
mitochondria where it is used to produce
energy in the cells.
A study among dogs suffering from heart
failure shows that the L-carnitine concentration
in the myocardium is often reduced
(Pierpont et al, 1993). The higher the
L-carnitine dose (Rottweiler 26 contains
700 mg/kg) and the earlier it is administered
in the dog’s life, the more beneficial
it is.

Helping heart cells
neutralise free radicals through
the incorporation of a patented
antioxidant complex
The main antioxidants in Rottweiler 26 are:
- Lycopene from tomatoes: a carotenoid pigment
that helps protect cell DNA
- Taurine: in addition to its impact on heart contractility,
it also has antioxidant properties
- Polyphenols from green tea and grapes:
intake of polyphenols (flavanols) is beneficial to support
cardiovascular health (Urquiaga and Leighton,
1999)
- La lutéine* neutralises free radicals and protects
the health of the lipid membranes
- Vitamin E: as the disease develops dogs produce
more oxidants and their level of vitamin E decreases
(Freeman et al, 1999)
- Vitamin C: promotes the regeneration of vitamin E.
Helping support normal heart
rhythm through inclusion of
EPA/DHA
1. Interior of the nucleus (DNA)
2. Mitochondrial membrane
3. Lysosomes
4. Cell membrane
5. Endoplasmic reticulum
6. Golgi apparatus
Antioxidant action sites
Dogs with cardiac disease have lower plasma EPA and DHA levels (Freeman et al, 1998; Rush et
al, 2000). Some heart problems are said to increase the use of omega 3 fatty acids, so an
EPA/DHA supplement is recommended for Rottweilers to ensure normal levels are maintained.
When the DHA concentration in the myocardium is high, normal rhythm can be maintained (Smith
et al, 2007).
25
Polyphenols
Vitamin C
Vitamin E
Lutein
Taurine
Un apport très diversifié d’antioxydants agissant en synergie permet de
mieux protéger les différents points sensibles de la cellule et d’optimiser
la protection contre l’oxydation.
Could you please
translate the pink
sentence?

References
1. http://www.rottweilerhealth.org/RHF_surveyresults.html
2. Allen TA - The effect of carnitine supplementation on body composition in
obesity prone dogs. Symposium Proceedings (L-Carnitine/What difference
does it make?) ; Leuven, Belgium, 15th December 1998: 41.
3. Baasler C, Rovati L, Franchimont P - Stimulation of proteoglycan production
by glucosamine sulfate in chondrocytes isolated from human osteoarthritic
articular cartilage in vitro. Osteoarthritis Cartilage 1998; 6: 427-434.
4. Braham R, Dawson B, Goodman C - The effect of glucosamine supplementation
on people experiencing regular knee pain. Br J Sports Med 2003; 37:
45-49.
5. Davidson G - Glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate. Compend Contin Educ
Pract Vet 2000; 22: 454-458.
6. Grandjean D - High fat nutrition and endurance stamina in dogs, study on
physiological biochemical and hematological parameters. PhD University
Paris 6, 1983: 378 p.
Nutrition formulated to support joint health
11. Adebowale A, Du J, Liang Z, et al - The bioavailability and pharmacokinetics
of glucosamine hydrochloride and low molecular weight chondroitin
sulfate after single and multiple doses to beagle dogs. Biopharm Drug
Dispos 2002; 23: 217-225.
12. Curtis CL, Rees SG, Little CB, et al - Pathologic indicators of degradation
and inflammation in human osteoarthritic cartilage are abrogated by
exposure to n-3 fatty acids. Arthritis Rheum 2002; 46: 1544-1553.
13. Desperiez F - Affections des os sésamoïdes métacarpo-phalangiens chez le
chien : à propos de deux cas. Prat Méd Chir Anim Comp 1997; 32: 325-
329.
14. Enikeeva NA, Manasova PA, Kostiv ED - Effect of diet enriched with marine
omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids on microcirculation system in
patients with cardiorespiratory pathology. Vopr Pitan 1998; 4: 39-41.
15. Grondalen J, Lingaas F - Arthrosis in the elbow joint of young rapidly growing
dogs : a genetic investigation. J Small Anim Pract 1991; 32: 460-464.
16. Hazewinkel HA, Theyse LF, Wolvekamp WT, et al - The influence of dietary
omega-6: Omega -3 ratio on lameness in dogs with osteoarthrosis of the
elbow joint. In: Recent Advances in Canine and Feline Nutrition vol II (ed
Building, regenerating and
maintaining muscle mass
26
7. Hill RC, Bloomberg MS, Legrand-Defretin V, et al - Maintenance energy
requirements and the effect of diet on performance of racing Greyhounds.
Am J Vet Res 2000; 61(12): 1566-1573.
8. Reynolds AJ - The role of fat in the formulation of performance rations.
Recent advances in canine & feline nutritional research. Proc Iams Int Nutr
Symposium 1998: 277-282.
9. Reynolds AJ, Reinhart GA, Carey DP, et al - Effect of protein intake during
training on biochemical and performance variables in sled dogs. Am J Vet
Res 1999; 60(7): 789-795.
10. Reynolds AJ, Taylor CR - The effect of diet on sled dog performance, oxidative
capacity, skeletal muscle microstructure, and muscle glycogen metabolism.
Recent advances in canine & feline nutritional research. Proc Iams
Int Nutr Symposium 1996: 181-198.
GA Reinhart & DP Carey); Orange Frazer Press, Wilmington (OH), 1998:
325-336.
17. Johnston KA, Hulse DA, Hart RC - Effects of on orally administered mixture
of chondroitin sulfate, glucosamine hydrochloride and manganese
ascorbate on synovial fluid chondroitin sulfate 3B3 and 7D4 epitope in a
canine cruciate ligament transaction model of osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis
Cartilage 2001;1: 14-21.
18. LaFond E, Breur GJ, Austin CC - Breed susceptibility for developmental
orthopaedic diseases in dogs. J Am Anim Hosp Assoc 2002; 38: 467-477.
19. Langebach A, Anderson MA, Dambach DM, et al - Extraskeletal osteosarcomas
in dogs : a retrospective study of 169 cases (1986-1996). J Am
Anim Hosp Assoc 1998; 34: 113-120.
20. Morgan JP, Wind A, Davidson AP - Hereditary bone and joint diseases in
the dog. Schlütersche Verlag; Hannover, 2000.
21. Necas A, Zatloukal J, Kecova H, et al – Predisposition of dog breeds to rupture
of the cranial cruciate ligament. Acta Vet Brno 2000; 69: 305-310.
22. Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) - www.offa.org/stats.html

23. SwensonL, Audell L, Hedhammar A - Prevalence and inheritance of and
selection for elbow arthrosis in Bernese Moutain Dogs and Rottweilers in
Sweden and benefit:cost analysis of a screening and control program. J Am
Vet Med Assoc 1997; 210: 215-221.
26. Komonski N - Intégration de la biométrie maxillo-faciale et du comportement
alimentaire dans la conception de croquettes pour chiens. Mémoire
de fin d'études Esitpa (2004).
27. White DJ, Cox ER, Suszcynskymeister EM, et al - In vitro studies of the anticalculus
efficacy of a sodium hexa-metaphosphate whitening dentifrice. J
Clin Dent 2002; 13: 33-37.
30. Alroy J, Rush J, Freeman L, et al - Inherited infantile dilated cardiomyopathy
in dogs: Genetic, clinical, biochemical, and morphologic findings. J
Med Genetics 2000; 95: 57-66.
31. Chetboul V, Carlos C, Blot S, et al - Tissue Doppler assessment of diastolic
and systolic alterations of radial and longitudinal left ventricular motions
in Golden Retrievers during the preclinical phase of cardiomyopathy associated
with muscular dystrophy. Am J Vet Res 2004; 65: 1335-1341.
32. Deeb BJ, Wolf NS - Studying longevity and morbidity in giant and small
breeds of dogs. Supp to Vet Med 1994; 89 (Suppl 7): 702-713.
33. Fascetti AJ, Reed JR, Rogers QR, et al - Taurine deficiency in dogs with dilated
cardiomyopathy: 12 cases (1997-2001). J Am Vet Med Assoc 2003;
223: 1137-1141.
34. Freeman LM, Brown DJ, Rush JE - Assessment of degree of oxidative stress
and antioxidant concentrations in dogs with idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy.
J Am Vet Med Assoc 1999; 215: 644-646.
35. Freeman LM Rush JE, Brown DJ, et al - Relationship between circulating
and dietary taurine concentrations in dogs with dilated cardiomyopathy.
Vet Therapeutics 2001; 2: 370-378.
36. Freeman LM, Rush JE, Kehayias JJ, et al -Nutritional alterations and the
effect of fish oil supplementation in dogs with heart failure. J Vet Intern
Med 1998; 12: 440-448.
37. Gough A, Thomas A - Breed predispositions to disease in dogs and cats;
Blackwell Publishing Ltd, 2004.
38. Manczur F - Pathological heart development IV. Clinical aspects of hereditary
cardiac diseases in dogs. Kisallat Praxis 2003; 4: 2-10.
A kibble tailored to the big jaws
24. Weinstein MJ, Mongil CM, Smith GK - Orthopedic conditions of the
Rottweiler - Part I. Continuing Education 1995; 17: 813-828.
25. Weinstein MJ, Mongil CM - Orthopedic conditions of the Rottweiler – Part
II. Continuing Education 1995; 17: 925-938.
28. Theyse LFH, Van De Brom WE, Van Sluijs FJ, et al - Small size food particles
and age as risk factors for gastric dilatation volvulus in Great Danes. Vet
Rec 1998; 143: 48-50.
29. Ward MP, Patronek GJ, Glickman LT - Benefits of prophylactic gastropexy
for dogs at risk of gastric dilatation-volvulus. Prev Vet Med 2003; 60: 319-
329.
Helping preserve good heart tonicity
39. Menaut P, Belanger MC, Beauchamp G, et al - Atrial fibrillation in dogs with
and without structural or functional cardiac disease: a retrospective study
of 109 cases. J Vet Cardiol 2005; 7: 75-83.
40. Pierpont MEM, Foker JE, Pierpont GL - Myocardial carnitine metabolism in
congestive heart failure induced by incessant tachycardia. Basic Res Cardiol
1993; 88: 362-370.
41. Pion PD, Kittleson MD, Rogers QR, et al - Myocardial failure in cats associated
with low plasma taurine: A reversible cardiomyopathy. Science
1987; 237: 764-768.
42. Rush JE, Freeman LM, Brown DJ, et al - Clinical, echocardiographic, and
neurohumoral effects of a sodium-restricted diet in dogs with heart failure.
J Vet Intern Med 2000; 14: 513-520.
43. Sanderson SL, Gross KL, Ogburn PN, et al - Effects of dietary fat and L-carnitine
on plasma and whole blood taurine concentrations and cardiac function
in healthy dogs fed protein-restricted diets. Am J Vet Res 2001; 62:
1616-1623.
44. Satoh H, Sperelakis N - Review of some actions of taurine on ion channels
of cardiac muscle cells and others. Gen Pharmacol 1998; 30: 451-463.
45. Sisson D - Medical management of refractory congestive heart failure in
dogs. In: Bonagura JD (ed). Current veterinary therapy XIII, 2000a. WB
Saunders, Philadelphia; 752-756.
46. Smith CE, Freeman LM, Rush JE, et al -Omega-3 fatty acids in Boxer dogs
with arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy. J Vet Intern Med.
2007; 21: 265-273.
47. Urquiaga I et Leighton F - Plant polyphenol antioxidants and oxidative
stress. Biol Res 2000; 33: 55-64.
27

Scientific glossary
Amino acids: base elements of protein; there are 22 in all, ten of which are essential to dogs, which means they must be
provided in the diet
Arrhythmia: irregularity of the heartbeat
Chondroitin: natural cartilage extract that facilitates the hydration of cartilage
Dysplasia: disease characterised by abnormal joint development resulting in accelerated wear of articular cartilage
followed by the appearance of arthritis
EPA/DHA: (eicosapentaenoic acid/docosahexaenoic acid) omega 3 long-chain fatty acids; abundant in fish oil
Free radicals: by-products of oxygen metabolism responsible for oxidising the unsaturated fatty acids that make up cell
membranes
Glucosamine: base element in the cartilage structure that encourages the regeneration of cartilage by stimulating the synthesis
of its constituents
Glycogen: form in which glucose is stored in the muscles and the liver
L-carnitine: carrier that helps get the fatty acids to the mitochondria, where energy is generated for the cells
Lutein: antioxidant of the carotenoid family (yellow-red pigments)
Lean mass: heterogeneous whole composed mainly of the body’s muscles, bones and liquids
Mitochondria: cell component responsible for the production of energy based on oxidation of fatty acids
Myocardium: heart muscle
Osteochondritis: osteoarticular disease common in large dogs due to irregular cartilage development
Sodium polyphosphates: mineral substances that can capture (chelate) salivary calcium, rendering it unavailable for the mineralisation of
dental plaque
Taurine: amino acid derivative that remains in free form; essential to the heart function and a constituent part of the
retina, it also possesses antioxidant powers
VO 2 max: maximum quantity of oxygen that can be absorbed by the body during effort; expressed in millilitres per
kilogram of body weight per minute
28

Key innovations for pedigree dogs
by Royal Canin
Since the launch in 1980 of AGR – the first food
specially formulated for large-breed puppies –
Royal Canin has continued to break new ground
in nutrition, providing breeders and owners with
products that are fully tailored to the age, size
and lifestyle of their dogs.
© J.-M. Labat
New BREED HEALTH NUTRITION
programme: tailor-made nutrition
specially adapted to the requirements
of different breeds of dog
In 2002, Royal Canin introduced the first-ever
tailor-made food for the Yorkshire Terrier.
Yorkshire 28 was the first product to take
account of the particular characteristics of the
breed. The Breed Health Nutrition line now comprises
no fewer than 23 specially formulated
foods (for adult dogs and some puppies) for 15
different breeds:
• Boxer
• Cavalier King Charles
• Chihuahua
• Cocker Spaniel (English and American)
• Dachshund
• English Bulldog
• German Shepherd
• Golden Retriever
• Great Dane
• Labrador Retriever
• Poodle
• Rottweiler
• Shih Tzu
• Miniature Schnauzer
• Yorkshire Terrier
29
Written by Aniwa S.A.S.
on behalf of Royal Canin
Publisher: Royal Canin Group
Communication Department,
Aimargues, France
Editor/supervisor: Pascale
Pibot (responsible for scientific
publications)
Publisher’s contact: Marie-Laure
Rémy-Néris
Producer: Diffomédia Paris
Printed in the EU
© Royal Canin 10/2007
Artistic direction:
Élise Langellier
Graphic design concept:
Guy Rolland
© Illustrations:
Diffomédia/Élise Langellier,
Mickaël Masure
Editorial coordination:
Céline Davaze
Cover photo:
Jean-Michel Labat

Up to
18 months
Birth
3 weeks
Supplementing
and/or replacing
mother’s milk.
A NUTRITIONAL PROGRAMME FOR
An exclusive patented complex
of antioxidants (lutein, taurine,
vitamins E and C) combined with
mannan-oligosaccharides supports
the immune defences of giant puppies.
GROWTH PHASE
2 months
For the whole weaning period (first
mixed with water, then dry). Giant
Babydog can be fed to thin puppies or
those with particularly sensitive
digestion until 5 months.
8 months
GIANT Puppy helps control how fast the
puppy grows and prevents excessive
weight gain. The purpose of its nutritional
balance is to protect the puppy in the
growth phase and ensure optimal
mineralisation of the skeleton.
30
GIANT Junior helps protect joint
and cartilage health through
the addition of glucosamine
and chondroitin. The omega 3
fatty acids provided by fish oil
(EPA and DHA) also support
joint health.
© J.-M. Labat
End of the growth phase
(24 months)

EVERY STAGE OF THE ROTTWEILER’S LIFE
from
18 months ADULT AND MATURE PHASES
ROTTWEILER 26
Tailored nutritional food exclusively
formulated for the Rottweiler.
© J.-M. Labat
Helps support the heart function
of this athletic dog through
beneficial nutrients: EPA/DHA,
taurine to encourage good heart
contractility, L-carnitine to ensure
the cells can make energy,
vitamins E and C to neutralise
free radicals.
31
More protein, an essential component of the muscles, and L-carnitineet en
L-carnitine.
More chondroitin, glucosamine and EPA/DHA.
An exclusive kibble specially tailored to the Rottweiler’s physiological
characteristics. Its shape, size and texture control ingestion, encourage
chewing, protect the teeth and promote oral hygiene.
Kibble exclusively designed to suit the
Rottweiler’s jaws and encourage it to
chew.

KNOWLEDGE AND RESPECT
Customer Services
Royal Canin (UK)
Oak Tree Meadow
Blackworthy Road
Castle Cary
Somerset
BA7 7PH
Tel: 0845 300 50 11
www.royalcanin.co.uk
Royal Canin brochures for individual breeds are available from:
www.royalcanin.com