This distinctive breed may be
one of the more recognizable types of dog in the
world and if you mention the words Doberman Pinscher
many people will immediately think of a guard dog
with an aggressive, even vicious, temperament. Some
of this is true since the Doberman was bred over the
years to be a guard dog. However, experts will tell
you that this elegant looking animal is not vicious.
In fact, the Doberman makes a loyal companion to
family members.
The Doberman Pinscher likes to be around
people, and though most dogs of this breed are
fearless and determined, they are not aggressive by
nature. In fact, if socialized early by a good
breeder and brought into a good family atmosphere,
this breed can be excellent with children, even
playful. Dobermans were bred in Germany by crossing
German Pinschers with Rottweilers, Greyhounds, and
other breeds.
The name comes from a man
named Dobermann who bred a watchdog to protect him
during his travels as a tax collector. Eventually,
the name was shortened by dropping one “n.” The
German word “pinscher” means terrier, which does not
accurately describe the modern Doberman.
Temperament
Bred to be a guard dog, the Doberman is typically
protective of family members. Even so, this breed is
not overly aggressive and is not as vicious as the
popular opinion might see it. Doberman Pinschers are
extremely intelligent and can be a challenge for the
owner, not because they are dangerous or mean, but
because they love to be around people and require
intelligent, consistent handling.
Good breeding in recent years has produced very
sound new dogs that are excellent family pets. The
number of vicious dogs is diminishing, some experts
say, because the over-breeding of the past is not as
common as it once was. In addition, top-quality
breeders are today taking more care to socialize
their young dogs to humans and other dogs.
Owners with experience agree that once you have a
dog of this breed that has the true temperament of a
Doberman Pinscher, you would be sold on the idea
that the Doberman is the best family pet you could
own. With good planning and by working with a good
breeder, your Doberman Pinscher should be an
energetic and alert family friend.
Size and Color
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 while
weighing anywhere from 66 to 88 pounds. The coat is
smooth and tight, lying close to the skin, even
feeling a bit hard, with black, red, blue, and fawn
as the common colors. Markings will be a rust color
on the muzzle, above the eyes and on the legs.
Doberman Pinscher ears are usually cropped at an
early age and are taped to make them stand up. If
the ears are not cropped and the tail “docked”, this
breed would develop to give a hound-like appearance.
Keep in mind that some areas of the world have
banned the cropping of the puppy’s ears.
Feeding and Grooming Requirements
The Doberman was bred to be a guard dog and
watchdog, and is by nature energetic and quick its
movements. It is a working dog by breeding,
typically happiest when it can run and play.
Therefore, diet should be chosen with these traits
in mind. If you choose to feed your Doberman a
commercial food, always buy the highest-quality
product you can. Additionally, the main ingredient
in what many experts consider “sub-standard” foods
is grain, such as wheat or corn, which do not
provide enough of the necessary nutrients for a
healthy dog
In fact, many dogs are actually allergic to these
grains, which can lead to unusual shedding, dry
skin, and other problems. Better choices would
include lean meats, fresh fruits, and vegetables.
Then, high-quality snacks are recommended for your
Doberman. Some breeders recommend feeding your
purebred dog the same fresh foods you buy for
yourself, prepared for the dog to eat comfortably.
Experienced owners and breeders know that a healthy,
active dog will have little “dog” odor. However, an
occasional bath, ear cleaning, and clipping of
toenails should be enough to keep you and your
family happy with your pet. The short, close hair of
this breed makes extensive grooming unnecessary,
though you should always watch for signs of dry
skin, excessive shedding, and of course, dirt and
mud in the coat.
Exercise Needs
This is an important topic for owners of Dobermans
because this is a breed with a lot of energy and
playfulness. The Doberman Pinscher is a very
intelligent animal that does not do well if left
alone for a long time, even in a fenced back yard.
They are fine for a short time when they are alone,
but will do best when they can be around family
members, running and playing.
A properly bred Doberman would be fine with
children, especially if the breeder has been careful
to raise his puppies in the right atmosphere. This
breed is also sensitive to cold, therefore not to be
considered an outside dog. However, you want to plan
to spend time with this breed, providing exercise on
a daily basis, as well as “people time”. Adult
Dobermans can show aggression toward other dogs so
it is best to be firm and consistent with your new
dog from the beginning.
