A Rottweiler Lay Still While the Kittens Climbed His Back Like a Hill
The big black-and-tan Rottweiler has stretched out on a beige rug with his chin flat against the floor, and the kittens have turned him into a mountain. A ginger kitten sits proudly on his shoulder, a gray one perches at the top of his back, and a calico and a black-and-white kitten scramble up near his front leg. His half-closed eyes show no sign of worry. A basket of folded towels and a leafy plant sit in the sunny corner behind them.
We might call the Rottweiler Bruno. His paw is the size of a kitten's whole body, yet he lies completely still, as if he knows exactly how delicate his climbers are. It is hard to say who is more pleased, the kittens with their new hill or Bruno with his new job.
Kittens love to climb because it builds muscle and coordination, and a patient dog can be a great playmate. Rottweilers are strong, loyal dogs that are often calm and affectionate with their families when they are well trained and socialized from a young age. Because of the size difference, supervise all play and end it if either animal seems stressed. Check that kittens cannot fall from a height, and keep their nails trimmed to avoid scratches. A calm dog who tolerates climbing deserves praise, so reward him with a treat and a quiet rest afterward. Your vet can advise on introductions.
Bruno stays perfectly still, and the kittens treat the whole thing as a great adventure.
