Smithfield is originated from United Kingdom but Rottweiler is originated from Germany. Smithfield may grow 16 cm / 6 inches shorter than Rottweiler. Smithfield may weigh 35 kg / 77 pounds lesser than Rottweiler. Smithfield may live 3 years more than Rottweiler. Smithfield may have less litter size than Rottweiler. Smithfield requires Moderate maintenance. But Rottweiler requires Low maintenance
The Smithfield is also known as the Smithfield, Smithy or Tasmanian Smithfield and is a herding dog found in Australia but originating in the UK. There is also the possibility that there was an Australian dog bred at a place known as Smithfield, near Texas which is just inside the Queensland border.
It is thought by some that the Smithfield is extinct. The dog was first introduced to the Land Down Under in colonial times.
The Smithfield isn’t recognised by the Canine Councils, but in 1862 the first Dog Show was held in Australia.
It is beleived to be the Rottweiler has been developed from the Roman cattle dogs. The Roman empire made a camp in a place at Germany in 74 AD. The area was called as 'das Rote Wil' and later as 'Rottweil'. In the middle ages Rottweiler was used in bear hunting and as a cattle dog. In 1899 the International club for Leonbergers and Rottweiler dogs was formed in Germany. In 19th century due to set in of railways the cattle was moved by railways and the need for the breed declined. When the world war was set in there came a heavy demand for police dogs. Rottweilers played a major role in first and second world war.
In 1921 many German Rottweiler clubs joined together to form ADRK, which is Allgemeiner Deutscher Rottweiler Klub. This is said to be the home club of Rottweiler. American kennel club recognised them in 1931. They become 9th most popular breed in America in 2013.
The Smithfield is a medium to large sized dog, strong and square-bodied with a wedge shaped head. Many people liken his looks to a Bearded Collie.
He has a rough, medium length coat. The coat has different colors such as white, black, grey or reddish brown. The coat is shaggy and in fact they are often clipped to give them a groomed look and to prevent grass and burrs clinging to the coat.
The tail of the dog can either be a natural bobtail or it could have a longer tail. When the tail is long it is carried low with an upward turn at the tip. The ears are mostly floppy and held close to the head.
He stands at between 46 to 53cm in height and weighs between 16 and 25kg. A bright, alert expression is a distinctive feature of the Smithfield.
The Smithfield is an active, robust dog and they have well balanced, stable personalities. They are often described as being laid-back.
You won’t find any signs of shyness or aggression with these dogs and they are known to be gentle and calm. They are self confident and well adjusted and also hard working.
They are devoted and loving to their human family and are also intelligent. When they’ve been trained and socialized they make splendid family pets, wonderful with children, just loving to run and play. These are dogs you can rely on to be consistent in nature.
Rottweilers are good natured, obedient and are very much eager to work. They are calm, confident and an excellent watchdog. They will not make friends immediately. Rottweilers can be said as an all purpose dog since they are suitable as companion and watch dog as well. He is good in herding and guarding as genital feature. Rottweiler must be trained from its younger stage and should not be hit while training. They have high energy level and thus they are interested in doing work if properly trained. There are more possibilities of biting the strangers because of watchdog tendency.
They are very good in herding sheeps as they have a natural gathering style. They are clever and adjusts the barking sound according to the situation. While herding they used to prove the leadership by selecting the dominant one in the flock and challenging it. If they were made to watch a same flock of cattle regularly, then they will develop a bond with them and will be affectionate with them as long as the cattle obeys its commands.
Those who have owned a Smithfield love them and say that once you’ve owned one, you’ll want another.
These easy going dogs have all the characteristics necessary to ensure a good pet, playmate and companion. They are devoted to their human family, and given the chance will become a very special 4-legged member of any family who appreciates the friendship a such a dog offers.
They are friendly with children and enjoy the company with them. But it is not advised to leave them with children without adult supervision.
Rottweilers do not make friends immediately but take time to know about new people. He is an excellent watchdog. Males are quiet in nature but are watchful and females are more affectionate and obey some more. A good training is required for them to obey your orders.
They are not good for apartment life and thus a fenced back yard will be better for them to play and spend the energy. They require companion and will be happy to walk around with you. Hot weather will be some what better for them when compared with cold.
Rottweilers are easy to train because of their high intelligence. The training should be started in their young stage to have best results. They should not be dominated but treated kindly with understanding. They should be comfortable with the surroundings and people. Giving him a reward for training will make him interested in doing it. If he does a mistake then he should not be hit, so that he may get fear and loss his interest in doing it. Punishments will never work for them but rewarding will make him encouraged. Simple commands such as sit and stand shall be taught to them.
These dogs enjoy exceptional good health and can reach between 10 and 14 years of age.
You have to be careful with your pet however, because there are quite a few common dog illnesses that can plague your pet, and we look at a few -
This is caused by a contagious virus. Infected dogs develop symptoms such as runny eyes, fever, coughing, vomiting and even seizures. Unfortunately this disease is often fatal. There is luckily a vaccine against it and it is highly recommended for your pet.
Also a very contagious disease which attacks the gastrointestinal system, causing fever, vomiting and diarrhea. It is often spread by contaminated stools and feeding utensils of dogs. Many dogs die from parvo but there is also a vaccine against it.
This is terrible for your pet and is a huge risk for dogs during Summer. Never leave your pet in a car unattended, especially on a hot day. Remember that stub-nosed dogs such as Boxers, Pugs, Bulldogs and Boston Terriers are more prone to respiratory problems and heat can be deadly for them.
The health issues affecting the eyes of them are Cataract and Progressive Retinal Atropy. Health problems common in their joints are Hip Dysplasia, Elbow Dysplasia and Panosteitis. They also have chances to get circulatory system problems like Aortic Stenosis and Von Willebrand's Disease. Other common health problems in Rottweiler are Bloat and Cancer.
Mostly people think that Rottweilers don't shed but they are short haired dog and sheds more. They are having double coat that is undercoat and topcoat. The undercoat is softer and protects them in winter and topcoat is rougher and visible. It is said that they will shed in spring and winter seasons. Shedding can be reduced by brushing them.
The Smithfield has plenty of energy and loves nothing more than lots of games with the children. He will also look forward to a walk every day as well as other activities.
When it comes to grooming, you can save money by grooming your dog at home. Whether you have your pet’s hair cut or you leave it as is, get into the habit of brushing the fur at least twice a week. You can speak to your vet or groomer and get advice on what comb of brush to use on your Smithfield.
It you want to cut your pet’s hair, it is important to use the right equipment so you don't accidentally injure him. Certainly if you feel unsure about shaving your dog at home, leave this grooming aspect to the experts.
Check your pet’s eyes. They must be clear and bright. Check inside his mouth for bad teeth. Check inside his ears to make sure they aren’t red with infection.
Your Smithfield is relying on you to provide him with good food. For convenience, it is always a good idea to have a packet of the best dry kibble there is. Check out the label and make sure to buy one that has a good balance of vitamins and minerals.
Give him some tasty homemade food too. Remember to keep it plain and simple. Boiled chicken, brown rice or pasta and spinach, sweet potatoes and carrots are nutritious and tasty. This food can all be chopped up and small portions added to the dry kibble twice a week as a treat.
You’ll never have to worry about digestion problems with your dog. A little bit of raw meat can also go a long way to ensuring his skin stays healthy and free of skin infections. Ensure that he has a constant supply of fresh, cool water.
Rottweiler puppies should be given a diet which has protein, carbohydrates and fats. They need different diets in their growing stages. They can be given chicken with bones and vegetables for 4 days in a week. Beef with vegetables can also be given. When feeding them red meat a raw meaty bone can also be included. Fish oil can be given such that starting with 1000 mg and making it to 3000 mg in a time of two weeks.
High calories of protein should be provided to them to meet their energy requirements. While buying commercial food it should be checked for the main ingredient to be meat. Protein levels should be more from animals than vegetables. High quality dairy products should be included. Food should not have low quality flavours and preservatives. Healthy fat is necessary for their skin and coat. If these fats are not provided it will cause dandruff and itchy skin.
Brushing them weekly once is recommended for their coat and skin. Buying the puppy from reputable breeder will be better. Vaccinations and preventive medicines should be given on right time. Spaying and Neutering should be done to avoid unwanted pregnancy. High quality diet should be maintained. Making them to bath once in a week is advisable. Nails should be trimmed once in every two weeks.
Rottweilers like to chase something and Laser pointer will be a good game for them. It will make them busy and also entertain us. But it should be on a limit and they should not get bored. A treat or toy can be hided and they can be made to find it. A bottle should be filled with water and frozen. The frozen bottle can be given to them for playing. In summer time it will make them very happy to play with it. A ball or toy can be thrown and they can be made to fetch it. Walking them is also a good exercise.