Preparing Your Home for a Rottweiler

The weeks before a dog arrives are the easiest time to get things right. Walk around your home and garden at dog height: look for gaps under gates, loose fence panels, accessible cables, toxic plants, and anything at nose level that could be chewed or swallowed.

A place to rest

Choose a quiet corner away from the busiest part of the house for a bed or crate. Dogs, especially young ones, need a great deal of undisturbed sleep. Make it clear to everyone at home — particularly children — that this space belongs to the dog.

Thinking about the Maltese climate

Summer heat is a real welfare issue for a large black-coated dog. Plan for permanent shade, airflow, cool flooring and several water bowls. Flat roofs and enclosed balconies can become dangerously hot and are not suitable places to leave a dog.

The first fortnight

Agree house rules before the dog arrives, keep the first days quiet, and introduce new people and places gradually. Book an early check-up with your veterinarian and start gentle, reward-based training from day one.