Is a Doberman the Right Breed for You?
Doberman Pinschers are known for their loyal and protective nature. They are intelligent, alert, and fearless dogs that make excellent guard dogs and companions. While they can be reserved with strangers, they are generally friendly and affectionate towards their family members.
The Doberman Pinscher was Developed in the
late 19th century by a German tax collector named Louis Dobermann, who aimed to create a versatile and loyal working dog to accompany him on his rounds and provide protection. While there are no exact records of the breeds used to create the Doberman, experts believe the Black and Tan Manchester Terrier and Black English Greyhound were mixed with two German breeds-the German Shepherd and German Pinscher.
The Doberman Pinscher is known to be
loyal, intelligent and strong-willed. These characteristics are what often make them fierce guard dogs. They were bred for protection and police/military work and are the perfect breed for the job.
Doberman Pinscher can Stand up to
28 inches and weigh 100 pounds. They have a tight-fitting short coat and, genetically, they posses two color genes-one black and one for color dilution which can lead to a “blue” coat. Possible different “sub-colors” are blue, red, fawn and black.
According to American Kennel Club (AKC) breed standard, accepted coat colors are: “Black, red, blue, and fawn (Isabella) with sharply defined rust markings.”
According to FCI breed standard: “The Dobermann is bred in two colour varieties: black or brown with clearly defined rust/red markings.”
White/Albino Doberman Pinschers
do exist but they are the result of a genetic mutation. The first white/albino Doberman was born in 1976. The specific breeding of white/albino Dobermans is frowned upon as this mutation causes MANY other negative health conditions and has a detrimental effect on the breed. AVOID any breeder trying to sell you a white/albino Doberman!
Cropped Ears and Docked Tails
are almost expected on Doberman Pinschers. It is part of their “look”. The debate rages if this should or should not be done as it provides no advantage to the ear health of the dog. Cropped and uncropped dogs get ear infections at the same rates. The American Veterinary Medical Association states:
“The AVMA opposes ear cropping and tail docking of dogs when done solely for cosmetic purposes. The AVMA encourages the elimination of ear cropping and tail docking from breed standards.“
But is a Doberman still a Doberman with floppy ears? We are not going to take sides in the debate-that is up to Doberman owners!
American vs German Doberman Pinschers
Doberman Pinschers bred in the United States tend to have a smaller bone structure and lighter weight when compared to their European counterparts. German Dobermans, in particular, closely resemble the breed’s original temperament, often displaying heightened aggression and a stronger tendency toward physical protection. They are known for their unwavering resolve and reluctance to retreat in physical confrontations.
Growing Up Doberman!
Get a FREE Video of Your Dog Here!
The average of lifespan of Dobermans is 10-12 years
One of the major causes of mortality (around 50%) in this breed is congestive heart failure. The breed is also susceptible to von Willebrand’s disease, a bleeding disorder that can also occur in humans. A few other health issues that may also be seen are progressive retinal atrophy and hip dysplasia.
The Doberman Ranks in the top 5 Breeds
in canine intelligence in research and case studies. Along with the Border Collie, Standard Poodle, German Shepherd and the Golden Retriever. They rank 5th out of 130 breeds. Essentially, this means a Doberman will learn new commands in less than 5 repetitions and obey the first command MORE than 90% of the time! In contrast, the least intelligent breeds may take up to 100 repetitions to learn the same command.
How Fast Can a Doberman Run?
In AKC conducts running events each December in Orlando, FL called the Fast Cat Invitational. Dogs run one at a time chasing a lure on a 100 yard track. The average running speed of Doberman Pinschers was about 24 mph. The fastest recorded speed was by a Doberman named Del Rey’s Black Russian at over 31 mph.
In Research on Dog Breed Temperament
being done at the University of Pennsylvania called the C-BARQ study, the Doberman ranked 23 out of 124 breeds in trainability. Their ability to focus and remember commands is very high. This is a very trainable breed.
Doberman Humor!
In this Same Research
Doberman Pinschers were found to be aggressive towards strangers. They ranked 24 out of 124 breeds. According to this research, Dobies are VERY likely to show an aggressive response to strangers entering their personal space. Barking and growling are likely, and in extreme cases, they may lunge or snap. This is really no surprise, as Doberman Pinschers were bred to be protective.
For all of Their Toughness and Reputation
as protectors, Dobies are very much attention seeking from their owners and crave/need to feel close to them. They may get jealous when their owner shows attention to another dog or person and they are not included. This breed NEEDS affection.
Check Your Doberman Facts and Take a Fun Doberman Pinscher Quiz!
Doberman Facts Infographic
Facts about Doberman Pinschers-Final Thoughts
Doberman Pinschers are a great breed that possess a unique combination of traits that make them an excellent choice for both police work and as a family dog. With their high energy levels and need for mental stimulation, they thrive in environments where they receive consistent obedience training and adequate exercise. Despite their large size, Dobermans can be gentle and patient with when raised in a positive, structured environment. Their smooth coat and tan markings give them an elegant appearance, complemented by their graceful gait. With their ability to learn and adapt, Doberman puppies can quickly become well-behaved family members through regular training sessions and socialization. Whether you’re looking for a loyal companion or a working partner, the Doberman is a breed that offers both beauty and brains, making them a great addition to any household.
