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The Doberman Pinscher is
considered one of the ten most popular dog breeds in
the United States and a friendly, loyal nature makes
the Doberman a top choice for family pet. This
intelligent dog is quite protective of its owner and
family. To help you understand this excellent breed
we have put together 10 common questions about the
Doberman Pinscher with answers for each.
1. What is the history and background of the
Doberman Pinscher?
Named for the German tax collector who developed the
breed as a guard dog and watchdog more than 150
years ago, Dobermans have been used as guard dogs,
as assistance dogs for those who are ill or have
physical limitations, and as therapy dogs for those
in nursing homes and special care residences. This
breed is by nature a friendly, often playful dog
that can make an excellent pet.
2. What size and weight is the Doberman?
The Doberman Pinscher is a medium-size dog with a
compact, balanced build. Adult dogs of the breed
will stand 24 to 28 inches tall at the withers,
weighing from 66 to 88 pounds. The breed is a solid,
balanced looking dog with a deep chest and assertive
demeanor.
3. What is the best
way to choose a breeder for the Doberman Pinscher?
Most owners with experience say it is best to visit
at least three reputable breeders so that you can
compare how they raise and socialize their dogs. It
is best to ask tons of questions to clear up any
doubts or lack of information you may have. A good
breeder will probably specialize in one breed and be
very open to questions about health, training, and
care of your pet.
4. Is the Doberman a good family dog?
Doberman Pinschers have been tagged with a bad
reputation with many people over the several years,
but they are actually friendly and people-oriented
by nature. If the breeder has been careful in
raising and socializing his puppies, Dobermans are
usually wonderful with adults and children. This
breed does well with a yard and needs regular
exercise.
5. Is the Doberman a good choice for people with
allergies?
The Doberman is a good dog for this situation
because of their short, close hair. They are best as
an inside dog and thus many of the outside irritants
that cause problems are left outside. When you take
your Doberman for walks and exercise, it would
probably help to make sure the dog is clean and not
dusty or covered with things like pollen and grass.
6. Can you provide me with some information as to
training and housebreaking a Doberman?
Doberman Pinschers are considered rather easy to
train, if you are firm, positive, and consistent.
This dog is naturally protective, so your pet may
not need additional training to serve as a watchdog.
For other obedience and housebreaking, a consistent
system that relies on praising the dog for good
behavior is best. Remember, the Doberman also seems
to do well in competitions and challenges such as
agility and tracking, due to their great
intelligence.
7. What health problems should I be aware of with
my Doberman?
The Doberman and many other purebred dogs can be
prone to hip dysplasia, a degenerative joint disease
related to arthritis. However, a good breeder can
head off this problem by using breeding parents who
have been checked and cleared for this disease. In
this case, both parents should be Orthopedic
Foundation for Animals (OFA) certified as being free
from this condition.
In addition, you may find that your Doberman has a
condition called hypothyroidism in which the thyroid
gland does not produce enough hormones to maintain a
healthy metabolism. In this situation, a special
test could be performed to confirm diagnosis and
treatment by a veterinarian would help to adjust the
hormone level to keep your pet growing normally.
8. What should I feed my Doberman?
It is important to feed this breed lean meats, fresh
fruits and vegetables, and high-quality snacks. In
fact, some breeders recommend feeding your purebred
dog the same fresh foods you buy for yourself,
prepared for the dog to eat. Just remember that many
dogs are allergic to the grains in lower-priced
foods.
9. What jobs do working Dobermans have?
Doberman Pinschers were originally bred to be guard
dogs and watchdogs, and many are still used in those
jobs today. In addition, the breed’s natural caring
and intelligence make it an excellent companion for
the ill and elderly, as well as a service dog for
those with physical limitations.
10. Does the Doberman Pinscher get along with
other dogs?
Generally, the Doberman is not a vicious dog, but
this breed can be somewhat aggressive toward other
dogs. Therefore, it is best to be involved with some
obedience training and always keep your pet under
control when out in public. Within the home
environment, the Doberman can be protective of
family members and property, something to consider
when choosing and raising a Doberman.
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