Let’s talk about a Rottie quirk…why do Rottweilers lean? As a dog lover and a huge fan of cuddles, I was on a mission to understand what the infamous “Rottweiler lean” is all about. Is the answer to why Rottweilers lean affection, a beg for attention or genetics? Here’s what the research says…
So, why do Rottweilers lean? When Rottweilers snuggle up next to you, they’re likely reverting back to their old drover habits. Droving is another term used for herding. Rottweilers would lean on sheep or cattle to guide them in their desired direction. Rottweilers are also notorious for being a sensitive breed and are often happiest when glued to their owners.
So, how can you tell if your dog is practicing skills ingrained in their DNA, being a stage-5 clinger or trying to tell you something more? Here are 3 ways to better understand your Rottweiler. Barking – not required!
3 Times When Leaning Might Mean More Than Just “I Love You”
1. Rot-sicle
Rottweilers have short hair and can be sensitive to temperatures. If you find your pup excessively leaning, they could be feeling a little chilly.
You may notice this more during colder months or during the warmer months if you tend to blast the air conditioning.
If you detect any shivering, this is another sign your Rottweiler might be cold!
2. Leaning accompanied by a deep stare
Although a very cute audience indeed, your pup may be trying to tell you something. The quickest way to determine what that might be is through a process of elimination.
Best place to start?
Food!
Try handing over a few treats and if that doesn’t cut it, an extra scoop of kibble.
Still feeling the lean and stare?
Try water!
Nope?
Try playing a game they love. Perhaps your Rottie just wants some more of your undivided attention!
3. Is your dog anxiety-prone?
Do they destroy the house when you’re gone?
Do they lean primarily when you’re about to leave the house or are packing for a trip?
In this case leaning may signify separation-anxiety. If you suspect this to be the case, you can always make an appointment with your vet to discuss your options.
If you feel your Rottie is more of a mild case, you may be able to manage it on your own!
Is Leaning Safe for My Rottweiler?
Great question!
Leaning is completely safe and delivers many positive benefits for both of you! Here are a few of the top benefits of close contact with your pup:
- A Rottweiler glued to your side reduces the amount of cortisol produced in your system which is responsible for stress, anxiety and depression leading you both to live happier, healthier lives! This single health benefit can lower your risk for stroke!
- According to tractive.com, when you’re side by side with your pup both of you show increased levels of oxytocin. This chemical stimulates feelings of joy and love and deepens the bond you both share!
- Regular canine contact can make you more in-tune with your pups physical health. During petting-sessions with your pup, you are more likely to notice any irregular lumps and bumps that may have surfaced. Early diagnosis is key, so daily checks can result in a life-saving pay-off!
When Leaning can Become an Issue
- In very rare cases, leaning could be a sign your Rottie is trying to become the boss of the house. Just as they used to herd cattle, they may be trying to steer you in their desired direction and exert their dominance. Pay attention and see if you notice any other dominant patterns of behaviour such as: growling, aggression when playing, biting, possessiveness with toys and food. That said, more and more professionals are chalking this up to myth but it is still something to watch out for just in case. If your Rottie is usually very sweet, loving and patient, a dominance issue is likely off the table!
- Rottweilers are a larger breed and are quite heavy and strong. You want to be very cognisant of their leaning around young children and the elerdy. If they’re not expecting this type of behavior from your dog, they may be caught off balance and fall, leading to an injury. It’s prudent to let any elderly family members know in advance prior to visiting that your dog has a tendency to lean so that they can be prepared.
- Rottweilers may also lean as a form of protective behavior for their owners. Pay attention for any signs of this when your dog feels threatened. If you notice your dog leaning up against you on walks near strangers or other dogs, it may be due to fear or because they are protecting you from the threat. In either case, this could lead to an aggressive response to the threat. It can become quite a job to manage a large, overprotective dog. It is imperative to correct this behaviour early on. Reassure your pup that they are safe and the threat is nothing to worry about. Speak in a calm, loving voice, pet them gently, letting them know it’s okay and you both are safe.
How Can I Teach My Rottweiler to Stop Leaning?
Maybe your Rottweiler resembles a small elephant and you have little kids around or maybe you’re just not a huge fan of their leaning habit.
Either way, here are 5 quick tips you can use to get their leaning habit under control.
- As with any habit or behavior you are trying to break, a great place to start is with the command “No”.
- If ‘No’ doesn’t work, AKC suggests avoiding giving your pup any attention when they are doing the behavior you’re trying to change. In this case, leaning on you. An example would be walking away the next time they try.
- The key to any lasting behavior change is consistency! Use the same commands and the same rewards to continue seeing improvement.
- Look for patterns each time your dog tries to lean on you. Could they be trying to tell you something? Hungry? Thirsty? Bored? See if there’s something they want.
- As mentioned above, droving is in their genes. It’s important to be gentle in transitioning them away from this habit. Avoid the use of heavy discipline. The truth is, because this behavior is in their nature, it may be very hard to change completely.
Pro Tip! Each time your pup starts to lean in, try distracting them with something more exciting. For example: a game of fetch or tug of war – they will be too occupied to lean!
Related Questions
If you find yourself asking why your pup looks like a dog, acts like a dog but sounds like a cat? Don’t panic! When in a comfortable and stress-free position such as leaning against their owner, Rottweilers are known to make a ‘purring’ sound. This is essentially their way of saying “I Love You!” It can sound very mumbly, grumbly and comes from deep in the throat.
Give it a try! Look deep into those brown eyes and try to replicate the ‘Rottie-purr’. Perhaps if you’re any good, they might just answer back and boom, your love language is now established…how cute! Did this just get weird?
Rottweilers are loyal and loving to their owners and members of their household. They’re known for clinging to their favorite family members and following them around. Rottweilers typically get along well with other animals. Be mindful of their predatory nature when introducing another dog to your home. To avoid any negative behavior issues, ensure your Rottweiler is well-socialized and that you make the introduction in a neutral space. A public park or any large green space that would be considered new for both animals is best. To avoid a dominance issue, choose a puppy of a different gender.
