Doberman Pinscher Breed Description

Introduction

These dogs were developed by a German tax collector named Louis Doberman in the 1860s-1870s. These elegant, often affectionate dogs are a classic example of the industriously successful dog breeding programs that took place in Germany just over 100 years ago. Dobermans are resourceful, obedient and alert. They are used as service dogs and companions all over the world. Good breeders ensure that their dogs are neither shy nor vicious, and that they are well socialized before going to any new home. These dogs are easy to train and grooming needs are minimal. They weigh 60 to 100 lbs. and stand 24"- 28" at the shoulders.

History

The Doberman Pinscher was presumably developed by crossing the German Pinscher breed with the English Greyhound, Rottweilers, Pinschers, Beauceron, Manchester Terriers and Greyhounds in a bid to create the highly intelligent and sleek Doberman Pinscher. Louis Dobermann created this mixture because he required a bodyguard and watchdog to protect him in his frequent voyages through areas that were bandit-infested. The first presentation of the Doberman Pinscher was at a show for dog breeds in 1876.

General Description

This is a handsome dog with a short, smooth, close fitting coat and ears that either hang naturally or are cropped to ensure they stand naturally. This dog’s hard and sleek coat varies in color, while the coloring includes black, brown, blue, and fawn with an exception of its legs and head which are rust colored. The Doberman’s chest is well proportioned. Its back and neck are muscular and lean. Dobermans have dark eyes with an intelligent, lively expression. With perfectly straight legs, the gait of Dobermans must be elegant and elastic to cover substantial ground.

Temperament

The Doberman Pinscher is a dutiful dog with a combination of a well balanced and even temperament with intelligence, creativity, and ability to learn quickly. This dog is among the fastest and most intelligent of all breeds in terms of learning. Due to their obstinate and strong willed nature, they are suitable for owners or trainers with a capability of establishing their authority from the first day. Doberman Pinschers dislike being treated roughly or teased and should be provided with adequate mental and physical stimulation to ensure they do not get restless or bored since this can consequently lead to adverse behavioral issues. Dobermans are protective and fearless and cannot back down if provoked, unless trained to do so.

Health and Care

There are various health disorders and problems linked to this breed, including thyroid problems, spinal problems, liver problems, bloat and cancer. Prior to acquiring a Doberman puppy, it is important to ensure that the OFA certificates of its parents are available. This breed of dog is susceptible to wobbler syndrome (cervical spondylitis) which results from the neck vertebrae fusion as well as the spinal cord compression. Dobermans are similarly prone to middle age obesity and a blood disorder which is possibly inherited. Dobermans should not be kept in the cold as they are very sensitive to it. They should do relatively well indoors so long as they are sufficiently exercised.

Other Important Information

When Doberman Pinscher puppies are roughly 12 weeks, their ears are cropped. They are taped for several months to ensure they stand up. Their tails are similarly docked when they are 3 days old, but there has been a ban regarding these two practices in England. Many breeders presently leave their pups in their natural state and these results in their ears and tails resembling those of a hound. The Doberman Pinscher’s life expectancy is roughly 8-12 years.

Colors

Allowed colors in the Doberman Pinscher breed include black, red, blue and fawn. Black is the most common color and the most recognizable.

Living Area

The Doberman is not an outdoor dog. They are very intolerant of cold weather. They also are much happier if allowed to live indoors. However, they do need room to exercise, so a yard is preferable. Because Doberman Pinschers are prone to bloat, they should be fed twice a day rather than one large meal. Because they are prone to obesity, they should be fed dry dog food.

Recognized By

CKC, FCI, AKC, UKC, ANKC, NKC, NZKC, APRI, ACR

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