[SABELLESMOM]

Ask yourself the question, "Is the person knocking posing a threat? Or, is it normal activity?" I'd say if the individual acted suspicious/sneaky/devious in ANY way, he'd respond.

Some Rottweilers may be more vocal than others. They are still individuals, therefore display a bit of a range of responses. Your dog seems to be relaxed, unafraid, and comfortable.

Mine often perk and alert, if someone does more than just walk by. But, they generally don't go crazy.

Recently, we've had errant and mischievious teens out in the early hours of the morning. Two weeks ago, I heard a low growl from both my girls. They woke me first as is their habit. Then I heard a loud POP! Followed by significant, dangerous sounding barking, and jumping up to the window sill in the bathroom. V-E-R-Y scary!

My neighbor (recent knee surgery...awake) heard the same POP, and since the windows were open, heard the dogs going bananas. He came out to check his vehicles. The sound of the dogs, had scared them away.

A police report was filed. Though I didn't know of the damage until the next day...my driver's side window was cracked, and 2 screwdriver-like dings on the door by the lock, from trying to get in. The POP was my window.

So will you know for sure if your dog will respond? Unknown, until you have a real situation. Trying to "set the dog up" won't work. Negative results and failure to have things completely thought out, happen. Don't do it.

As to the question, did he display a proper reaction? Yes, he did. He perked, without the alert. The alert was unecessary, as there was no threat.

Another Rottweiler may have perked, and alerted. Still another may have perked, alerted, and stood stiffly. The next one may have added raised hackles. The next, movement toward the door, etc. All are appropriate responses.

If there was a percieved threat, ie:devious, suspicious, unusual, furtive, unusual behavior? A stronger response.