Dogs like the Doberman Pinscher were originally bred as guard dogs in Germany in the late 19th century. Although their exact history is uncertain, numerous canine breeds, such as Rottweiler, Black and Tan Terrier, and German Pinscher, are said to be a part of their mix.
Puppies like this one have the appearance of royalty thanks to their sleek hair and athletic frame. This breed excels in police and military service, canine sports, and as a family guardian and friend because of its high level of energy and intelligence, and its versatility. See the whole list of Doberman Pinscher dog features here!
Highlights
- The Doberman is a high-energy dog that requires a lot of activity.
- This breed is known for being protective, so don't be shocked if they assume the role of guardian in your home.
- If you're not a strong leader in your household, the Dobie will take over the role of alpha. As a pack leader, early and continuous training is essential.
- The Dobie is prone to hypothermia and requires proper protection throughout the winter months (they like to be in the house next to the fireplace).
- As a family dog, the Doberman Pinscher should not be left alone. When they're a part of the family's activities, they thrive.
- Dobermans have a reputation for being dangerous. Even though your Doberman has a kind demeanor, visitors and neighbours may still be terrified of them.
- To ensure a healthy dog, never purchase a puppy from an unreliable breeder, puppy mill, or pet store.
Characteristics
Social Appearance
Adaptability
It's a common misconception that a little dog is better suited to living in a limited space. Many tiny dogs have too much energy and are too yappy to live in an apartment building. An apartment dog's best attributes include being quiet, low energy, somewhat peaceful indoors, and respectful to the other inhabitants. Your dog's personal space in your apartment can be improved by purchasing one of these fantastic dog cages.
Sensitivity Level
Depending on the dog, a strong rebuke can be taken in stride by some, while others regard even the tiniest hint of disapproval as a personal attack. If you have a loud or pushy owner, a chaotic home, or a routine that is unpredictable or variable, your low-sensitivity dog, often known as "easy-going," "tolerant," "resilient," or even "thick-skinned," will be able to handle it better. Do you have young children, host a lot of parties, or have a hectic lifestyle? Choose a dog that isn't overly sensitive.
Intensity
You can't tell from looking at them whether or not they're hyperactive, but when they do anything, they do it vigorously. They tug at their leashes (unless you teach them not to), they push their way through barriers, and they down their meals in huge, gobbling gulps. A home with young children or an elderly or feeble person may not be the best place for these dynamos to learn proper etiquette. On the other side, a dog with poor vitality adopts a more reserved demeanor.
Potential for Playfulness
The playful nature of certain dogs never fades away, and they're always ready for a game, whereas the reserved and serious tendencies of other dogs develop through time. Think about how many times a day you want to play fetch or tag with your dog, and whether or not you have children or other dogs who can act as substitutes.
Personality Appearance
Intelligence
In the same way as working dogs, such as those that herd sheep, are bred for intelligence and decision-making, working dogs like those who run all day need to exercise their bodies. The two most common activities that a bored pet engages in are digging and chewing, both of which require mental stimulation. There are several ways to keep a dog's brain active, including obedience training, interactive dog toys like tug of war, and dog sports like agility and search and rescue.
Energy Level
Energy-draining dogs are always on the lookout for a new activity. There are several jobs that require a lot of stamina from dogs, such as herding livestock or recovering prey for hunters. Children are more likely to engage in activities such as jumping, playing and exploring new sights and smells as a result of this change in their environment
A low-energy dog is more like a couch potato than a dog that needs a lot of exercise. Think about your level of physical activity and whether or not you find a hyperactive dog irritating before making your final choice.
Easy To Train
Easy to train dogs can more easily form associations between a cue (like "sit"), an action (like sitting), and a reward than dogs that are more difficult to train. Dogs that require more time, patience, and repetition are more difficult to train.
Getting your dog interested in training will require incentives and games because many breeds are intelligent but have a "What's in it for me?" mentality when it comes to learning new things.
Family Affection Level
Affectionate With Family
Since puppyhood, some breeds remain aloof and independent; others form deep bonds with one individual but are uninterested in the rest of the family; still other types shower their entire family with affection. Canines raised in homes with people tend to be more open to human interaction and develop stronger ties, regardless of their breed or upbringing.
Kid-Friendly
Kids-friendly dogs are calm, strong enough to bear the hefty hugs and pets kids can dish out, and have an unfazed attitude about rushing, scream-inducing children. There are several names you may not expect to see on the list: Fierce-looking Both Boxers and American Staffordshire Terriers are regarded as family dogs (which are considered Pit Bulls). Chihuahuas, which are small, sensitive, and potentially sharp, are not always family-friendly.
Dog Friendly
Dog friendship and human friendship are two entirely different things. The fact that a dog is friendly with humans doesn't mean it's immune to aggression or aggression from other dogs; some canines choose to play rather than fight; others will just run away. The type of animal isn't the only consideration. Dogs who have spent a lot of time playing with their littermates and their mother at the age of six to eight weeks are more likely to be socially competent.
Physical Appearance
Amount of Shedding
Having a dog in the house means that you'll have to deal with some level of dog hair on your clothing and in the home. It's worth noting, however, that shedding varies widely among breeds. Some dogs shed all year long, while others ``blow" just during specific times of the year, and still others don't shed at all. If you're a stickler for cleanliness, you'll need to choose a breed that sheds less or lower your expectations. You can use a deshedding tool to keep your house a little cleaner.
Drooling Potential
While greeting you, some dogs may cover their arms with ropes of drool and create large, wet patches on your clothing. If you don't mind a little drool, go for it; but if you're a stickler for cleanliness, you may want to look for a dog with a low drool rating.
Easy To Groom
Some breeds of dogs can simply be brushed and left alone, while others require frequent washing, trimming, and other grooming in order to maintain their health and appearance. If you don't have the time or money to take care of a dog that requires a lot of grooming, you may want to look into hiring a professional.
Exercise Needs
Evening walks around the neighbourhood are perfectly acceptable for some breeds. Others, particularly those trained for physically demanding vocations like herding or hunting, require regular, rigorous exercise.
They can gain weight and release their pent-up energy in ways you don't like, including barking, chewing, and digging, if not given enough exercise. Those looking to train their dog for an energetic canine activity, such as agility, should consider getting a dog that needs a lot of exercise.
Average sizes and life expectancy of the breed
Weight
60 to 80 pounds
Lifespan
10 to 13 years
Height
24 to 28 inches tall at the shoulder
History
There was once a tax collector named Louis Dobermann who resided in the Thuringia district of Thuringia, Germany, in the late 19th century. His employment as a money collector was perilous since bandits could assault him as he made his rounds in the neighbourhood.
Dobermann frequently travelled with a dog for protection, given that he was also the municipal dogcatcher. Dobermann began breeding dogs with the goal of creating a dog that would be a loyal friend and a fierce defender. Because of his efforts, the early Doberman Pinscher was born.
Speculation has it that the Rottweiler, German Pinscher and Black and Tan Terrier were all part of the mix when the Dobermann was created. The Dobie made his debut in 1876, and was greeted with enthusiastic applause.
True knowledge of the breeds that were merged to create the Dobermann went to Dobermann's tomb in 1894 when he passed away. The breed bears his name as a tribute to his work in creating it.
German breeders who followed Dobermann's efforts in the late nineteenth century were more concerned with function than looks. They aimed to make the Doberman a "super dog" by developing it. First, they produced only the strongest, brightest, fastest, and most courageous dogs. Success came easy for them. Headstrong and aggressive were two of the breed's most well-known characteristics.
German Kennel Club in 1900 officially recognised the Dobermann Pinscher as a distinct dog breed thanks to the efforts of a breeder named Otto Goeller.
The Dobie arrived in the United States in 1908. Before any judge dared open his mouth to check the dog's teeth, one of the earliest Dobies transported to America was said to have won "Best in Show" awards at three consecutive events.
It wasn't until 1921 that the Dobermann Pinscher Club of America got its start. In the year after that, it incorporated the German breed standard within its governing documents.
Over the next 15 years, the Dobie evolved significantly. Dobies' population in Europe plummeted as a result of the Great War, as the poor could not afford to retain such enormous dogs. Dobies that made it out alive belonged to members of the military, police, and the wealthy. Breeding was considered a luxury, and only the best of the best were selected for the breeding programme.
Most of the top German sires and progeny arrived in the United States after 1921. The Doberman Pinscher was once again under threat in Germany during World War II. This breed might be extinct now if so many Americans hadn't imported dogs to the country in the past.
Since then, Germans have dropped Pinscher from their name, and British people have followed suit several years later. Efforts by breeders over the years have been successful in taming the original Dobie's sassy disposition. Dobermans are recognised as loving and faithful companions, despite their protective nature toward their family and house.
Personality & Temperament
Doberman pinschers are well-known for their devotion to their owners and for their ability to stand their ground in times of danger. As well as being incredibly skilled and adaptable, they are always on the lookout and on guard.
They are primarily meant to be companions for families, and as such, they must be included in daily activities and be available at all times. Because of their high level of activity and enthusiasm, Dobermans perform best in an enclosed yard where they can run, play, and receive plenty of exercise.
Dobermans, when raised and taught properly, have a well-rounded personality and a strong sense of self-control. They have a strong sense of self-motivation and often know exactly what they want, which can make them difficult to manage without strong, consistent leadership. So the owner must establish himself or herself as the pack's leader, with a consistent and firm attitude, in order to keep them under control.
Dobermans are very clever dogs who require a great deal of attention and care from their owners, as well as a variety of mental and physical activities to keep them healthy and content. As a family dog who gets along well with children and other pets because they love company and attention, they are a great choice.
The fact that they are essentially guard dogs means that they are likely to bark, which is why it's necessary for their owners to know how to rein in excessive barking. When they are bored, they can also be destructive due to their desire for activity and adventure. They also have a reputation for maturing very slowly, often retaining their puppy characteristics well into their third or fourth year. However, Dobermans have excellent intuition and are able to foresee potential hazards or threats, which is in line with their innate protective impulses and guarding abilities.
The aggressive and threatening nature of Doberman pinschers was prized in the early days of the breed's development as a personal guard dog. In spite of this, decades of skillful breeding have transformed the Doberman's personality and demeanour in positive ways. They really display less aggression than other dog breeds that do not have such a reputation for scary and violent behaviour, like Dalmatians or Cocker Spaniels, contrary to popular assumption.
Even while Dobermans may display violent behaviour toward other dogs and strangers if they believe their owners are in danger, the breed is not one of the more aggressive ones. Dobermans, on the other hand, do not exhibit aggressive behaviour toward their owners. A Doberman's training and socialisation are the responsibility of its owners, who don't have to put in a lot of effort because Dobermans are extremely trainable and quick learners.
Care
If you are considering purchasing a Doberman pinscher, there are a few things to keep in mind. Giving this dog the proper care and nutrition will help him live a longer and more peaceful life.
Health
Like any other breed, Dobies are susceptible to a variety of health issues. If you're thinking about getting a Dobie, you should be aware of the diseases listed above. Not all Dobies will contract any or all of these conditions.
Von Willebrand's Disease
This is an inherited blood ailment that affects the blood's clotting ability. Excessive bleeding following an injury or surgery is the most common sign. Another symptom is a nosebleed, bleeding gums, or gastrointestinal bleeding. There is currently no treatment other than a blood transfusion from a healthy dog. However, most dogs with von Willebrand's illness are able to lead a normal life. The illness can be diagnosed by a veterinarian, and dogs with it should not be bred.
Hip Dysplasia
The thighbone does not fit securely into the hip joint in this hereditary disease. Some dogs have obvious indicators of pain and disability in their hind legs, whereas others don't. (X-ray screening is the most accurate method of diagnosing the issue.) When a dog becomes older, he or she may develop arthritis in one or both joints. In order to prevent the spread of hip dysplasia, it is best to avoid breeding dogs with this condition.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
The retina gradually deteriorates as a result of this family of eye illnesses. Affected dogs initially go night-blind, but as the condition develops, they begin to lose their daytime vision as well. As long as their surroundings remain the same, many affected dogs are able to adjust to their reduced or lost vision.
Hypothyroidism
Epilepsy, hair loss, obesity, lethargy, dark patches on the skin, and other skin disorders are all thought to be caused by a thyroid issue. A combination of medicine and dietary changes is used to alleviate the symptoms.
Wobblers Syndrome
Dobermans with this ailment, which is thought to be passed down through the breed's genes, have spinal cord compression as a result of either cervical vertebral instability or a structurally abnormal spinal canal. Neck discomfort and limb paralysis are the most severe symptoms. Surgery is a controversial treatment option because the illness might return even after surgery.
Cardiomyopathy
Thinning and weakness of the cardiac muscle are hallmarks of this condition. The heart chambers enlarge abnormally as a result of this condition's dilatation (expansion). As a result of the injured heart muscle's inability to pump blood throughout the body, this condition eventually culminates in heart failure. Oxygen, fluid therapy, and medicine to improve heart function are all possible treatments.
Albinoism
The Doberman pinscher has a hereditary trait known as albinoism. For an albino dog, the skin and nose are pink and the eyes are blue or light in colour. Albinos are susceptible to a range of health issues, including cancer and eye disease, as a result of their skin's sensitivity to sunlight. Breeding albino dogs is wrong.
Colour Mutant Alopecia
Those with blue or fawn coats may experience this problem. Only blue and sometimes red Dobies are affected. Most dogs with this illness are born with normal coats, and symptoms usually appear between the ages of four months and three years.
During a dog's growth and maturation, their hair becomes brittle and then falls off in patches. Only the coat's blue sections are affected. Secondary infections and inflammation are very common. There is no cure for the illness, however medicated shampoos can help alleviate the itching and scaling.
Narcolepsy
As a result of the brain's inability to control its wake-sleep cycle, this is a neurological problem. Narcolepsy can cause a dog to feel sleepy without warning and even to nod off. Efforts are being made to find a cure.
Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus
Large, deep-chested dogs, such as Doberman Pinschers, are particularly vulnerable to this life-threatening illness, which is also known as bloat. For those who are served only one substantial meal each day, they are more likely to gain weight than those who consume smaller meals throughout the day and drink enough water following each meal. It is more usual in older dogs to suffer from bloat. When the stomach becomes bloated and twists as a result of gas or air, GDV is the result (torsion). Due to a lack of air movement, the dog's regular blood flow to its heart is hindered. This results in a condition known as bloat.
The dog goes into shock when his blood pressure drops too low. The dog could die if it doesn't receive prompt medical assistance. Having a swollen tummy, increased salivation, and retching without vomiting up are all signs of bloat in your canine. People who have these symptoms may also have a quick heartbeat and be restless or depressed or weak. If you notice any of these symptoms in your dog, you should take him to the veterinarian as soon as possible.
Recommended Health Tests
- Hip Evaluation
- Cardiac Exam
- Ophthalmologist Evaluation
- Thyroid Evaluation
- Von Willebrand's Disease DNA Test
Nutrition
There should be two meals per day for Dobermans; they should eat at least 2.5 cups of dry dog chow each time. Size, exercise level, age, and other characteristics all have a role in how much a dog needs. To avoid gas and bloating, try eating two little meals rather than one large one. As soon as the stomach starts twisting, the blood supply is cut off.
Obesity can shorten a dog's life expectancy and increase the chance of various health issues, so keep an eye on the dog's weight. Consult with your veterinarian about your dog's individual nutritional needs.
Grooming
The short, silky hair coat of the Doberman is fairly low maintenance. Once a week, you can use a moist towel to comb his coat, or you can use a brush to remove any loose hairs. If your dog gets dirty or starts to stink, you don't have to bathe it every day. Extra care should be taken to keep the ears clean if they are left natural (not clipped). Nail trimming and brushing the dog's teeth on a regular basis can help avoid gum disease and other dental issues.
Exercise
Dobermans have a lot of energy, therefore they need a lot of exercise to keep healthy. Due to the Doberman's innate athleticism, a few quick walks or runs every day will assist keep the dog in peak condition? You should have a well-fenced yard for your Doberman, but don't let him outside all the time. This breed is susceptible to hypothermia in cold weather. Instead of being left outside, your dog will prefer to be a part of your family.
Training
Doberman is a breeze because the dog is extremely intelligent and adept at picking up new concepts quickly. To ensure appropriate conduct in this breed, proper training is a necessary must. In order to prevent the dog from becoming unduly scared or aggressive, socialisation is essential.
You should always keep your dog on a leash while out for a walk because Dobies can be aggressive toward other dogs and protective if they sense you are in danger. A dog park may not be a good place for them if they engage in this type of behaviour. As a result, many people are afraid of this breed and prefer to keep it on a leash.
Children and Other Pets
When properly raised and socialised, the Doberman Pinscher is an excellent pet for a family. As long as the youngsters in their family have been properly socialised and trained, he is trustworthy and protective. Children must treat the Dobie with respect and kindness, and the pup will reciprocate.
It is important to teach youngsters how to deal with dogs, as well as oversee any encounters between dogs and young people so that there is no risk of either side biting the other. Never approach any dog when it is eating or sleeping or attempting to steal the dog's food away from them. A youngster should never be left alone with a dog, no matter how nice.
Also, if they've been reared with other dogs and animals in the house, they're often amiable. Outside of their own family, Dobermans can be aggressive toward canines who pose a threat to their well-being.
Puppies
Doberman puppies are raised in the same manner as Pinscher puppies. They are, however, far more delicate than their adult counterparts, and require more attention. Unlike adults, they should be fed three to four times a day.
Dogs Similar to Doberman Pinschers
Several breeds of dogs, like the Doberman pinscher, are quite similar to each other. These breeds are:
Ibizan Hound
This breed of dog is extremely loving toward youngsters. They can, however, become extremely violent if they feel threatened. As a whole, the breed is regarded as highly clever and energetic.
Pointer
Like the Doberman pinscher, this is a well-built dog. Originally bred for hunting in the 19th century, the German pointer has a solid and muscular build. Children in the household will also find it very gentle and loyal.
Rottweiler
These dogs are particularly devoted to their owners, much like Doberman pinschers. They must be kept in the house with the family and do not enjoy living in kennels.