About the Rottweiler Health Foundation
The Rottweiler Health Foundation (RHF) was founded March 1, 1997 as a free standing charitable organization with the objective of improving the health status of the Rottweiler. It is a non-profit 501 (c)(3) Public Benefit Corporation. The mission of the RHF is facilitated by officers and directors on a strictly volunteer basis. RHF raises money through membership dues, charitable donations from individuals, estates and corporation, fund raising efforts, and memorial contributions. It then makes grants to worthy projects which will benefit dogs in general and the Rottweiler in particular.
The membership of RHF is comprised of individual members, including Charter Members, and local and regional Specialty clubs, as well as the National Parent Club for Rottweilers, The American Rottweiler Club. A newsletter “HealthNotes” is mailed to the national based membership on an annual basis with quarterly web and email updates.
Rottweiler Seizure Disorder Sample Recruitment
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RHF is supporting a new study at the University of Missouri to Identify the Genetic Basis of a Seizure Disorder in Rottweilers. This study will be undertaken to test the hypothesis that the disorder results from inheritance of a specific DNA sequence variant that is uniquely homozygous in affected dogs.
To accomplish this goal, research will be undertaken to achieve the following specific aims:
1) Collect DNA samples and seizure-related health information on as many affected Rottweilers and their unaffected littermates and parents as possible.
2) Perform whole genome sequence (WGS) analyses on selected affected and unaffected Rottweilers to identify DNA sequence variants that are associated with the disease.
3) Genotype and phenotype a large number of affected and unaffected dogs for any candidate variants to determine whether there is concordance between genotype and phenotype.
To conduct this study, a large number of blood samples are required. If you would like to participate in this study, a candidate survey form and a blood sample are required. Click here for instructions to submit blood samples
Please contact mucvmk9genetics@missouri.edu for any questions about whether y9ur dog is eligible to participate.
NEW 2025 FUNDRAISER
We’ve partnered with the Rottweiler Coffee Company on these coffees and treats to help raise funds for critical research into the genetic, communicable, and acquired diseases that plague our beloved breed.
COFFEE
When you purchase this special RHF Blend, they will donate $5 for every bag sold — and if you subscribe, the Rottweiler Health Foundation will receive $15 per subscription.
Help raise funds for this incredible organization by giving this smooth, delicious coffee a try.
Buy 3 or more bags and save 15% on your order — Donation amount remains the same.
TREATS
Purchase just one bag – RHF will receive $5. – or take advantage of our Buy One, Get One discount and buy two bags – they’ll receive $10. There’s no limit. So stock up on RHF dog treats and help them raise funds while supplies last.
These are Beef & Beans flavored treats, that your Rottie is sure to love.
Your Story
Do you have a REAL STORY to share about your Rottweiler’s Health?
Please email your story, along with photos to us. Please indicate your approval to include your email address with your story if you don’t mind others contacting you. Your story may help others going through similar circumstances.
Thank you for sharing your story.
Goals and Objectives
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To foster and promote the public’s knowledge and appreciation of dogs in general and Rottweilers in particular.
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To further the understanding of the diseases, defects, injuries and other ailments that afflict dogs and Rottweilers in particular.
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To support and promote study of and research on the history, character, breeding, genetics and particular health problems of Rottweilers.
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To establish a national database of resource materials about Rottweilers.
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To produce, publish and distribute to the general public educational materials about the proper care, treatment, breeding, health development and training of Rottweilers.
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Identify the types and prevalence of health problems affecting the Rottweiler.
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Identify quality researchers in major disease focus areas.
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Direct the organizations efforts to fund appropriate research projects.
In the year 2000, the RHF Health Survey Committee sponsored an inclusive general health survey to determine the frequency of specific health problems affecting the breed. This national survey was conducted and reported on by Dr. Margaret Slater, Dept. Veterinary Anatomy and Public Health, Texas A & M University.
Funded Research
View our Active and Closed Grants to see how your donations fund vital research for the Rottweiler breed.
Circle 2000
The Circle 2000 Registry was established by the Rottweiler Health Foundation to memorialize or honor nominated Rottweilers, as well as special friends of the breed. The registry, at the same time, provides an opportunity for lovers of the breed to support health research to enable longer and healthier lives for all Rottweilers.
RHF Store
Purchase a printed or embroidered Rottweiler shirt, sweatshirt, or blanket. Check out the Rottweiler food bowl, treat jar, and dish towel. More items added seasonally, so check back!
