Daily use of commands such as sit, stay, down, come, and stand as well as training Rambo to walk on a leash without pulling are essential to building a partnership with the dog. Rottweilers should never be banished to the back yard, whether confined to a kennel run, allowed free-range of a fenced yard or chained. Like other guardian breeds such as Akitas, Chow Chows, Dobermans, and German Shepherds, Rotties left to their own devices can become very territorial, particularly if they do not get enough human interaction or if they are teased or tormented by neighborhood children or other dogs. Invisible fences are not suitable for guardian breeds as they do not prevent intruders from entering the property or keep the dog in if he really wants out. They may also be subject to panosteitis, an intermittent lameness cause by varying bone density in young dogs.
Retinal problems are also a possibility, as is spinal cord paralysis.
Like all deep-chested dogs, the Rott is also susceptible to bloat, a condition in which the stomach can turn and block, causing a buildup of gas. Unless treated very quickly, bloat can be fatal. Hip and elbow dysplasia are genetically carried malformations. Dogs that are dysplastic are likely to produce dysplastic puppies. Retinal problems are inherited, as is the tendency to bloat.