Dobermann breed Information
The Doberman Pinscher: All you need to Know | Dog Breed Guide (2020)
Doberman Dog Breed Ultimate Guide 2020
The Doberman pinscher is a renowned dog breed that has got a great personality. This medium-large breed was developed to be a guard dog. Guard dogs are known to be very aggressive and protective; the Doberman has got these traits. This dog breed has a reputation as a brave and devoted one. When we talk about loyalty, Dobermans are known to be one of the most loyal dogs in the world.
The Doberman pinscher is a great option for those who need a guard dog. This dog breed was originally bred as a guard dog. Dobermans have got the athletic build and sleek coats which make them have a unique appearance. Due to their aggressive nature, these dogs need to be well trained and properly socialized at an early stage.
The Characteristics of the Doberman Dog Breed
The Doberman is a very intelligent and courageous dog. This dog has an astounding personality which can be a great deal for you. Regardless of their aggressive nature, this dog breed can serve as both a loyal companion and a guard dog. To understand these dog breeds very well, it is important you learn more about their characteristics.
Adaptability
- When Dobermans were rated for their overall adaptability, they scored 3/5 stars, which means these dog breeds can adapt to any environment to an extent. In some situations, they might find it difficult to adapt.
- Dobermans are a great option for first-time dog owners. They were rated 3 out of 5 stars.
- These dogs are very sensitive. They can easily sense danger from afar and know what to do when they find themselves in danger. Their sensitivity level is rated 5/5 stars.
- Dobermans don’t thrive well when they are left alone. These dogs have the tendency to become destructive when left alone.
- Due to the nature of their coats, they can’t withstand cold weather and as such, they are rated 1 out of 5 stars. It is common to see Dobermans hide under blankets or behind furniture during cold weather.
- Dobermans thrive well in hot weather conditions since their coats can tolerate it. When it comes to their tolerance for hot weather, they are rated 4/5 stars
All-Around Friendliness
- The Doberman is a very friendly dog that shows love and care to his owner. This dog breed is affectionate with family and as such, they are rated 5 out of 5 stars.
- Dobermans are also good with kids when they are properly introduced. They can be left with kids, as regards this, they are rated 3/5 stars.
- These dog breeds can relate well with kids, but find it difficult to relate with other dog breeds, which makes it rated 1 out of 5 stars.
- Dobermans can be friendly toward strangers but not every time, they have been rated 3/5 stars.
Health and Grooming Needs
- Dobermans need to be well-groomed and properly cared for. As regards their general health and grooming needs, these dog breeds are rated 4/5 stars.
- These dog breeds have the tendency to drool a lot and as such, they are rated 4 out of 5 stars.
- When it comes to grooming, Dobermans pose no difficulty. These dog breeds are very easy to groom and they score 5/5 star ratings.
- These dog breeds are prone to certain health issues. In terms of their general health, they have been rated 1 out of 5 stars.
- When they are overfed, they have the tendency to become obese. This is a major reason owners should watch their Doberman’s diet.
- Dobermans have a nice gait and a good physique. They are tall in height. In terms of size, they are rated 4 out of 5 stars.
Trainability
- Doberman Pinschers are very easy to train. They are rated 5 out of 5 stars in terms of trainability. However, it is advised that these dog breeds are trained at a young age.
- Dobermans are very intelligent and smart. They are considered one of the most intelligent dogs in the world. These dog breeds are rated 5/5 stars.
- Dobermans don't have a high prey drive. As regards this, they are rated 1/5 stars.
- These dog breeds are unique in their way. Dobermans don't bark unnecessarily as some dogs do.
- Dobermans can sometimes get easily attracted to things that catch their interest and as a result of this, they might wander away. When rating their wanderlust potential, they are rated 2 out of 5 stars.
Physical needs
- Generally, these dogs are very energetic, their energy level is rated 3/5 stars.
- Dobermans need a lot of physical exercises. Since these dogs have the potential to gain weight owners should ensure they undergo regular exercise.
- Dobermans are very playful. These dog breeds have the potential for playfulness and as such, they are rated 5/5 stars.
Important Stats about Doberman Dogs
The Doberman Pinscher was bred to be a working dog. Their height usually falls between 60.9 cm to 71.1 cm, and its weight falls between 27.2 kg to 36.3 kg. Their lifespan is long enough, as it can live between 10 and 13 years.
More Information about the Doberman Dog Breed
The Doberman dog breed has a rare personality. This dog breed can serve as a loyal companion and a watchdog. Dobermans are bred to be fearless, intimidating, and protective of their owners. They were originally bred to be guard dogs, which made them possess a ferocious and aggressive nature. However, breeders have done well to tone down this nature in them.
These days, Dobermans serve as a companion to their owners. These dogs are known for their intelligence and bravery. As a result of this, they are ranked as the 5th most intelligent dog in the world. They are not only intelligent, but they are also sensitive. They have the ability to sense danger and protect their owners.
This obedient dog breed is very easy to train. It is important to train Dobermans at an early stage in order to curb their aggressive nature. A properly socialized and well trained Doberman will behave well around people. Dobermans are also prone to certain health diseases like every other dog. Doberman owners should watch the diet they give their dogs since some diets contribute to some health conditions.
What is the History/Origin of Doberman Dogs
Doberman Pinschers were originally bred as guard dogs. These dogs originated in Germany. History recorded that Dobermans were first bred by a tax collector, Karl Friedrich Louis Dobermann. Karl was a tax collector in Thuringia, Germany. As a tax collector, he needed a guard dog to protect him from thieves. Karl Friedrich has a dog pound in Apolda, having access to several dogs, he developed a breed that would be able to protect him.
He had the idea to breed a dog breed that would possess strength, courage, and intelligence. However, there are no accurate records of the kind of dog breeds used for creating the Doberman. However, history gathered that the German Shepherd, Weimaraner, and Rottweiler were used in the development of the Dobermann.
Doberman pinscher was formerly spelled as 'Dobermann.' In the year 1984, Dobermann died and the breeds mixed to create this Dobermann remained uncertain. This dog breed was named after Louis Dobermann. It was named Doberman pinscher, but after some years, the German removed the word ‘pinscher’ as it seemed inappropriate.
The British also removed the word ‘pinscher.’ The only countries that have continued using Pinscher are the United States and Canada. The Doberman gained popularity within a short period. This dog breed is about 150 years old now. The American Kennel Club recently ranked the Doberman as the 16th most renowned dog breed.
Some German breeders continued with the work of Louis Dobermann and they focused majorly on their function. They intended to create a super dog. Initially, the bravest, toughest, and smartest dogs were bred. Their work was almost successful, but the breed was too aggressive. Otto Goeller was the breeder responsible for reshaping the Doberman into a more acceptable dog.
In 1952, Dobermans were reintroduced in Australia. It had become a traditional practice to dock the tails and crop the ears of Dobermans immediately after birth. Over the years, these practices were frowned upon and Australia outlawed them. Therefore, these practices are no longer accepted in Australia.
Doberman Pinscher was recognized as a breed by the German Kennel Club in 1900. During the first World War, Dobermans were only owned by wealthy people and the military due to the fact that ‘ordinary people’ couldn’t afford to feed them. These dog breeds began to gain their popularity when they served as guard dogs in World War II.
Dobermans began to appear in movies in the 1970s. They made an appearance in a movie titled The Doberman Gang. After these dog breeds won several Westminster Kennel Club Dog Shows, they became more popular. For so many years, breeders have put in their best to reshape the personality of the Doberman. Although these dog breeds are aggressive, they are a good companion.
What is the Average Size of a Doberman
The accepted size of the male Dobermans ranges between 68 and 72 cm. According to the United Kingdom Kennel Club, the ideal height for a male Doberman is 69 centimeters while that of a female is 65 centimeters. The length of the Doberman should be equal to its height while the length of the leg, head, and neck should be proportionate to its body.
According to the FCI, the ideal dog should have sufficient size for the combination of agility, strength, and endurance. The ideal weight for make Dobermans is between 40 and 45 kg and that of females is between 32 and 35 kg.
What is the Personality of Dobermans?
Dobermans have got an astounding personality. These dog breeds have been ranked the 5th most intelligent dog in terms of training and obedience command. They have the ability to learn fast, solve problems, and communicate well. Dobermans are known to be one of the most trainable dog breeds. This super-intelligent dog is very energetic and playful.
Since they were bred to protect their owners these dogs won’t hesitate to attack anything or anyone that serves as a threat. However, these dogs don’t show their aggressive nature for no reason. When you see an aggressive Doberman, then something is wrong somewhere. Dobermans like keeping themselves busy both mentally and physically. Their learning rate is very high, which makes them very easy to train.
The temperament of a Doberman is influenced by several factors which include socialization, heredity, and training. Dobermans are often described as an aggressive dog, but when they are properly trained and socialized at an early stage, they tend to be obedient and friendly. The Doberman was originally bred to be brave, intimidating, and ready to attack anything or anyone that serves as a threat to its owner, but they can be trained to do such on command.
Over the years, modern breeders have put effort in toning down the Doberman’s aggressive nature. The modern Doberman is highly intelligent, smart, friendly, trainable, and obedient. These dogs can easily learn basic commands. When they are properly introduced, they can live well with kids and other pets. The personality of Dobermans may differ based on the breeding strategies and training employed by breeders.
While some Dobermans may exhibit gentle and friendly behavior some may exhibit aggressive behavior. It has been scientifically proven that Dobermans have got some stable psychological traits. Studies reveal that there are a number of broad behavioral traits that predict behavior and can be genetically determined.
The Doberman needs to be exposed to several places, experiences, people, and sound at a very young age. This helps your dog to grow into a lovely and smart dog. You can also enroll them in an obedience class to learn some basic commands. Dobermans are great dogs to own as they serve as loyal companions and as well as protectors.
What are the Major Health Concerns of the Doberman Dog Breed?
In terms of general health, Dobermans are prone to certain health issues. Generally, the average lifespan of this dog breed ranges between 10 and 13 years. The common health issues experienced by these dogs include Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus, Progressive Retinal Atrophy, Von Willebrand’s Disease, Hip Dysplasia, Color Mutant Alopecia, Wobblers syndrome, etc.
According to studies, Dobermans suffer from at least one or two of these health issues. Some of these health issues can be prevented through good diet and regular exercise. It is best to understand the general health of a Doberman before owning one. Some of the common he health issues experienced by these dogs are discussed below;
Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus
This is also known as bloat. This health condition is life-threatening and as such much attention should be paid to it. Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus is a health condition that affects deep-chested and large dogs like the Doberman. This usually happens when they are fed too many meals, eat too fast, and consume large volumes of water immediately after eating.
This health condition is commonly associated with older dogs. It occurs when the tummy is filled with air or gas and twists. As a result of this, this dog won’t be able to vomit to get rid of the excess air in the tummy. These cause the blood flow to the heart to impede and the pressure of the blood drops which results in shock. Dobermans that experience this need immediate and serious medical attention, otherwise, they will die.
Symptoms of this health condition include excessive salivation, retching, distended tummy, restlessness, weakness, and rapid heart rate. If you notice any of these symptoms, it is time your Doberman visits a veterinarian.
Hip Dysplasia
This is a health condition that is often inherited. Hip Dysplasia occurs when the thigh bone doesn’t fit properly into the hip joint. Some dogs experience discomfort and pain on one or both legs while some don’t. Hip Dysplasia is best diagnosed through X-ray. Since this health condition is usually inherited in Dobermans there are no ways to prevent it, the progression can be prevented.
You can also watch the diet your Doberman consumes. According to research, poor nutrition and inadequate exercise can contribute to hip dysplasia. A regular regimen of Winston’s Joint System is another way you can treat this health condition. Over the years, Winston’s Pain Formula and Winston’s Joint System have healed more than twenty thousand dogs across the world.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy
This is a common health condition experienced by Dobermans. This health condition is caused by a progressive deterioration of the retina, a thin layer lining inside the eye. Progressive retinal atrophy is an inherited disease, which means the dogs affected inherited a single copy of the gene from each parent. Dobermans suffering from this disease always experience night blindness.
If the disease is not noticed on time, it could lead to total blindness. If you notice your Doberman has difficulty in seeing, it is time you took him to a veterinarian. This disease can be diagnosed after the examination of the retina. Unfortunately, this disease can’t be treated, but breeders can prevent this health issue by testing for these traits in their breeding animals.
Von Willebrand’s Disease
This is a blood disorder in Dobermans. This is caused by the inability of the blood to clot. The symptoms of this condition include bleeding gums and excessive bleeding in the intestines or stomach. The only cure to this condition is a blood transfusion from normal dogs. Von Willebrand’s disease comes in different forms such as type 1, type 2, and Type 3. Most dogs with this kind of disease can live their normal lives.
Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism is a health condition that is caused by a low level of thyroid hormone in the blood. Insufficient thyroid hormone in the blood can cause long-term issues. The signs of this health condition are weight gain, skin problems, lethargy, loss of fur, slow heart rate, etc. Hypothyroidism can be caused by a low intake of iodine.
At the early stage of this disease, the symptoms are not easily noticed by owners since the hormone levels reduce slowly. It is only diagnosed when the symptoms become severe. The only way to treat this life-long problem is through the administration of oral thyroid hormone supplements.
Wobblers syndrome
Wobblers syndrome is a disease that affects the cervical spine and it is commonly experienced by giant and large-breed dogs. It is caused by compression of the nerve roots or the spinal cords which results in neck pain. The term ‘wobbler syndrome’ described the wobbly gait affected dogs possess.
Breeds like Dobermans are prone to this condition. The symptoms of Wobblers syndrome include stiffness, wobbly gait, neck pain, weakness, difficulty in walking, complete paralysis, and scuffed toenails. This health condition can be caused by excessive intake of some dietary supplements. It is diagnosed through X-rays, magnetic resonance, myelography, and computed tomography.
Cardiomyopathy
Cardiomyopathy is a life-threatening and inherited disease commonly associated with the Doberman. It is the disorder of the heart muscle that can cause erratic heartbeats, ventricular arrhythmia, and sudden death. Some dogs don’t show any signs of this disease. Dobermans suffering from this health condition can have congestive heart failure.
As a result of the prevalence of this disease, breeders are advised to test dogs for cardiomyopathy every six months. This disease reduces the life-span of dogs. It can be diagnosed through an ultrasound examination. Through a blood test, you can identify dogs having the mutant gene.
Albinism
This is another genetic condition commonly associated with Dobermans. An albino Doberman has a white coat, pink lips and nose, vision disturbances, and eye discoloration. Albinism is caused by a genetic mutation. According to researchers, this genetic mutation is similar to that of humans. They further explained that Dobermans with this gene mutation have no protein required for cells to have color.
Some Dobermans carry albinism traits in their body, but they show no signs of it. Dobermans suffering from this condition are at a high risk of skin cancer. Albino Dobermans are very sensitive to sunlight and are more prone to various health conditions such as eye problems. These dogs should never be bred.
Color Mutant Alopecia
This health condition is commonly associated with blue or fawn-coated Dobermans. The symptoms of this condition begin to show up when the dog grows up. As the dog becomes an adult, they begin to have brittle hair and patchy hair loss. It is a genetic defect that affects the way pigment distributes in the hairs. Dobermans often experience this health condition, although it can affect any breed.
Color mutant alopecia can be diagnosed when a microscope is used in viewing the dog’s hair. There is no treatment for this health condition. Treatment is only focused on controlling further skin infections and avoiding harsh grooming products that can contribute to hair breakage. The best way to prevent this condition is to avoid breeding affected dogs.
Narcolepsy
Narcolepsy is a health condition that is usually inherited. It is caused by a disorder in the nervous system. A narcoleptic dog often experiences sudden collapse, sleeping while physically active, and loss of movement. This health condition is often associated with cataplexy, a neurologic disorder that leads to loss of reflexes and muscle paralysis.
During a narcoleptic episode, a Doberman may lose consciousness, lie still, and experience rapid eye movements. However, this condition is not life-threatening and can be diagnosed through the identification of the symptoms. Therefore, it is important you take note of your dog’s behavior and the description of the attacks. There is no cure for narcolepsy, but frequent episodes can be prevented.
How to Take Care of Dobermans
Dobermans are well-suited for a country or suburban home. They require much exercise daily, which could be very demanding for owners who have a job or have a busy schedule. Their yard must be securely fenced, to ensure their safety, as well as the safety of animals and humans who find their way to their zone.
Dobermans shouldn’t be left lonely for long or separated as an outside dog, neither should they be chained. Dobermans deserve to be a member of the family, contributing to all family activities.
Dobermans need to be trained and socialized early. Just like other dogs, if they are not well socialized, they can become quarrelsome or timid when they are young. With early socialization, you can be sure that your Doberman puppy will grow up to be well-rounded.
The general reaction to Dobermans is fear. As a pet owner, you have o take this in a sensitive manner, and ensure your dog is kept on a leash in public places.
What is the Ideal Diet for Doberman Dogs?
The daily amount of high-quality food to give your dog should be 2 ½ to 3 ½ cups of dry food, shared into two different meals.
Please note that the quantity of food your dog eats is dependent on their age, metabolism, size, build, and activity level. Just like human beings, dogs are individuals, and they can’t all consume the same quantity of food.
More active Border Terriers will require more food than less active ones.
Also, another difference is seen in the quality of food you give your dog. The better it is, the more you will achieve in nourishing your pet.
Ensure that your Border terrier is kept in good shape by taking the right measurement for its food. He should also be fed twice daily rather than leave food in his bowl at all times. To know if he has grown overweight, carry out the hands-on test and the eye test. Look down at your dog, you must see his waist.
Next, touch him with your hands from the back, then your thumbs along his spine, spreading your fingers downward. You should feel his ribs without pressing hard, but not see it; if you cannot, then it is very important you give it more exercise and less food.
Best Dog Food for Doberman
The recommended dog foods for Dobermans are:
- Newman’S Own Organics Beef Dinner for Dogs
- Castor & Pollux Organix Dry Dog Food
- Wellness CORE Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
- CANIDAE All Life Stages Dry Dog Food
- Merrick Real Bison Dry Dog Food
Coat Color and Grooming Needs for Doberman
The smooth, short sleek Dobie coat lies very close to its skin. At times, there may be a slight undercoat found around their necks. The possible coat colors you may find are red, fawn, black, and blue. Rust markings are usually found above the two eyes, their chest, their muzzle, and their feet and legs.
The sleek coat of Dobermans requires just a little grooming. This dog breed is clean and they have very little doggy odor. That their coat is short doesn’t mean they don’t shed. You could brush his coat weekly with a rubber curry or grooming mitt. Also, unless he plays in the mud, or smells bad, there is no need for frequent bathing.
Your Doberman’s teeth should be brushed at least twice or thrice weekly to get rid of bacteria and tartar buildup that is lurked inside it. Brushing every day will be great if you don’t want your Dobie to have bad breath and gum disease.
His nails should be trimmed at least once every month to avoid some serious tears to your skin when you carry him, as well as other problems. Endeavor to get his nails trimmed either once or twice monthly. If his nails start clicking on the floor, they have become too long. With short nails, the feet are properly kept, they don’t cause scratches to your legs each time your pet jumps on you, and don’t get entangled in the carpet or cause a tear.
Dog toenails contain blood vessels, and if you cut it too deep, it may result in bleeding and next time you want to do this, your dog will never cooperate with you. If you don’t have the necessary experience in trimming the nails of dogs, it is advisable you call a groomer or a very to help you out.
Conduct weekly checks on their ears for a bad odor or redness, which could mean an infection. When checking his ears, use a cotton ball to wipe them out after dampening it with a pH-balanced, gentle cleaner to help in preventing infections. As regards the ear canal, nothing should be inserted in there; just focus on the outer ear.
Ensure your Doberman gets used to getting their coat examined and brushed from puppyhood. His paws should be handled frequently – dogs are usually touchy when it comes to their feet. Also, ensure you check his ears and mouth frequently.
Ensure that every grooming process is filled with a positive experience with rewards and praise; this will prepare the ground for easy veterinary examination, as well as other handling when he grows into an adult.
How do Dobermans Relate with Children and Other Pets?
Dobermans that are well bred are usually wonderful family dogs. You can trust him and they usually offer some protection for the children found in the home, so far they are trained and socialized properly. Children have to show some respect and be kind to the Doberman, and they will surely reciprocate.
Just like other dogs, pet parents must ensure they teach their kids how best to touch or approach your Border Terrier. Also, ensure that you supervise each time your dog is playing with young children to avoid any ear pulling or biting from any of the parties. Teach them never to come close to dogs sleeping or eating or make any attempts of taking away the dog’s food. No matter how friendly any dog is, you should never leave your child with him unsupervised.
As regards other dogs and pets kept in the home, they are friendly with them, most especially if they are raised up together. However, Dobermans could turn aggressive when it comes to dogs from other families that pose a threat to his family.
Australian Based Breed Organizations for Dobermans
Below are some organizations, breed clubs, as well as associations that can give answers to whatever information you might want to know about Dobermans.
- Bravadobe Dobermans
Perth, Western Australia
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
- Kalora & Kaldra Dobermanns
Berri SA
- Myown Dobermanns
1 acre in Southern River, Western Australia
- Bravadobe Dobermanns
Herne Hill WA
Rescue Groups for Dobermans in Australia
At times, some people buy Dobermans without having a deep comprehension of what it entails, and at the end of the day, they end up in rescue groups needing fostering or adoption. Below are some of them:
- NHFD New Homes for Dobermanns
Acton Canberra, ACT 2601, AU
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
- Dog Adoption
https://www.dogadoption.org.au/
- The Dogs’ Refuge Home
30, Lemnos Street, Shenton Park
Concluding Lines on the Doberman Dog Breed
Dobermans are one of the most intelligent and smartest dog breeds in the world. These dog breeds have got an amazing personality; they are known to be brave, smart, friendly, intelligent, and playful. They are indeed a great and loyal companion. Although they may exhibit aggressive behaviors, proper training and socialization will tone down this behavior.
Dobermann Photo Gallery
