“Few human beings can declare to have had such a significant effect on the canine world as Louis Dobermann of Thuringen, Germany. Herr Doberman became a door-to-door tax collector who wanted a canine to accompany him on his rounds. In the late 1800s, he set about to create an alert, streamlined, defend puppy, most probably by crossing the old German Shepherd and German Pinscher, with later travels to the Tan and Black Manchester Terrier, Greyhound, and Weimaraner. He quickly acquired the prototype of the breed that now bears his name. The original Dobermans had been still rather heavy boned and roundheaded; following breeders selected for a more excellent racy-looking canine.

The breed developed in a great time; by 1899 formed—the first breed membership. The breed continued to attract acclaim, and the first Doberman arrived in the USA in 1908. They quickly found favor throughout Europe and America as police canines and later as war canines. Their prowess in those regions soon added more admirers, and the Doberman soon became a valued family pet. Their chiseled silhouette and fearless, alert demeanor have made the Doberman a top contender as a show canine. As their reputation grew, many families appreciated the breed as a family pet, and the Doberman subsequently rose to be the second most famous breed in the USA in 1977. Unfortunately, the media cast the Dobe in the role of a vicious breed, and their popularity unfairly suffered. During this same period, albinistic white Dobermans emerged.

In an attempt to lower the risk of producing those puppies, the Doberman Pinscher Club of the USA convinced the AKC to tag the registration numbers of puppies with the probability of carrying the albino gene with the letter Z (a DNA test is now available).”

Temperement

The Doberman Pinscher is a clever, efficient guardian, ever at the alert and prepared to shield its family or home. He is also a devoted and adventurous companion. He loves to be mentally challenged and is proficient in obedience, agility, and Schutzhund pupil. He is sensitive and responsive to his owner’s wishes, even though a few may be domineering. He is usually reserved with strangers but maybe assertive with strange dogs. Training is wonderful.

Upkeep

This energetic breed desires daily mental and physical workouts lest they end up frustrated or destructive. Their workout necessities may be met with a long jog or stroll on a leash or a strenuous run in a secure area. Coat care is simple.

Health

“Major diagnosis: CVI (wobbler’s syndrome), cardiomyopathy
Minor diagnosis: vWD, demodicosis, osteosarcoma, gastric torsion, CHD
Occasionally seen: albinism, hypothyroidism, PRA, narcolepsy
Suggested tests: cardiac (Holter monitor), hip, eye, DNA for vWD, thyroid
Life span: 10–12 years
Note: Blue Dobermans sometimes have hair loss; “white” Dobermans are albinos and are light-sensitive”

Disclaimer

Note: While the characteristics mentioned here may frequently represent this breed, dogs are individuals whose personalities and appearances will vary. Please consult the adoption organization for details on a specific pet.