Doberman Pinscher Purebred
Dog Breed Information

A member of the Working group, The Doberman Pinscher is an energetic, elegant, watchful, determined, fearless, loyal, and obedient dog who will make a devoted companion.

The breeds creator was a German tax collector named Louis Dobermann. Due to his high risk position as a tax collector, Dobermann decided to breed a watchdog and bodyguard that would be capable of handling any and all situations.

The original Dobermans had rounder heads and a thicker bone structure. Eventually the dog was bred to have a more narrow look.

Comparatively speaking, this is a fairly new breed, developed in Germany in the 1860's - bred to be a working dog in many ways.

These dogs serve in many ways - as tracker, guardian and companion and has served with both the military as well as the police. Even today these dogs are used as guard dogs, watch dogs, or as police and military dogs.

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Keep in mind that his "attack-dog" reputation is overly exaggerated. While the Dobie is very capable of doing any kind of protection work, overall he does not have the aggressive demeanor of certain breeds used in protection work such as the Rottweiler. The first Doberman Pinscher found its way to the United States in the early 1900s. Both the US and European nation took to this breed as a perfect police dog and guard dog. In time, it was also used as a war dog.

In time, these valuable functions became the desire of many household families, in addition to the sleek, defined appearance of the animal. By the year 1977, the Doberman was the second most popular dog breed in the United States.

Dobermans are easy to teach and quick to learn and are very versatile dogs who can do many different types of jobs or activities. They excel in any activity they are a part of from agility, to police work, to therapy work and everything in between.

If you do not have time to properly train your Doberman you should seriously consider a different breed as these dogs work best with experienced owners.

Watch a Dobie in action

The Dobies appearance is that of a dog of medium size, with a body that is square, compactly built, muscular, and powerful with great endurance and speed. The Doberman Pinscher stands 24 to 28 inches at the shoulder and weighs between 60 and 100 pounds. Sometimes you may see them with, or without, cropped ears.

Keep in mind, the Doberman is susceptible to bloat, hip dysplasia, von Willebrand's disease (a blood disorder similar to hemophilia), as well as skin and heart problems. Also, because of his lean body structure, he can develop pressure sores on his body, much like a greyhound, if he is not given a bed or blanket to sleep on.

They possess a short, glossy, and low-maintenance, smooth coat and can come in several colors- black, red, blue or fawn with rust markings. Elegant in appearance, and of proud carriage, the Doberman Pinscher reflects great nobility and temperament. Important: Dobies are very cold sensitive dogs and are not meant to be kept outside.

One more thing, socialization is an absolute must! Best advice - socialize, socialize, socialize, and from the earliest possible opportunity.

Additionally, these are very energetic dogs and need thorough and frequent exercise. Any family considering a Doberman Pinscher should be prepared for a lifelong commitment of daily walks and plenty of vigorous games. He needs to be exercised daily to prevent restlessness and destructive behavior.

Ideal home: In a house with a securely fenced yard. Dobermans should never be allowed to roam loose. The owner should be an active, athletic and confident person who wants a high-energy dog. If you are a jogger, then this is an excellent dog breed to own.

Country of origin: Germany
Lifespan: 10-13 years
Colors: Black, red, blue or fawn with rust markings
Known health problems: Hip dysplasia, bloat, Wobblers syndrone, von Willebrands, congenital heart problems
Famous Dobermans: Graf Belling v. Grönland - first registered Doberman

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