Doberman Pinscher

Photo by mtzule

Doberman Pinscher - Breed Profile:

Origin: Germany
Colors: Black and tan, red and tan
Size: Large
Type of Owner: Experienced
Exercise: Daily
Grooming: Little
Trainability: Very easy to train
Combativeness: Dog-aggressive
Dominance: Very high
Noise: Average barker

Breed video: Doberman Pinscher

Physical characteristics

The Doberman Pinscher is a sturdy, athletic, and powerful dog. Some people even call these dogs aristocratic, and you can hardly disagree looking at their elegant appearance. The body has good square proportions and sharply defined lines. Like in the Collie, the head of Doberman Pinschers is narrow with a flat top. The almond shaped eyes are dark and bright. The tail is customarily docked in this breed, but the ears can be left natural. The gait of Dobies is very graceful and full of dignity.

Temperament

There are very many adjectives that can be used to describe this dog's special character and temperament: highly intelligent, energetic, determined, courageous, affectionate, assertive (however, not vicious)... Dobies are really noble and loyal dogs. A very people-oriented breed, devoted and watchful. Awesome guard dogs. But to raise up a dog with such a versatile personality, an owner should be able to discipline the Dobie well. Also, all family members have to be taught to treat the dog properly: Doberman Pinschers can be wilful and pushy if they feel you cannot take charge of them. That is why this breed is not recommended for novice owners. Socialization must be done at an early age: over-protectiveness can become a problem, so make sure you prevent this behaviour (if excessive). Positive reinforcement is the best training approach with Dobermans because these dogs need mental stimulation to have a well-balanced character and to be happy. Good with children if raised up with them from puppyhood. Dobies are usually aggressive to other dogs and pretty dominant, but the temperament can vary greatly from dog to dog, i.e. some individuals are known to be very obedient. Dobermans must live with the family and not be left to live alone in a backyard - this is a breed to work and interact with men, otherwise they become unhappy and even aggressive.
Well-trained and socialized Dobies make truly wonderful pets.

Photo by cerroazulver

Coat and grooming

Dobermans come in black-and-tan, and red-and-tan colours. Their coat is short, sleek, and easy to take care of: it requires little grooming.

Health

The common health issues in Dobermans are hip dysplasia, von Willebrand’s disease and congenital heart disorders. The last two can be fatal.

The lifespan of Dobies is pretty long: 15 years and more.

Doberman Pinscher

Physical characteristics

Temperament

Coat and grooming

Health

Doberman Pinscher

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