The Dobermann is a large, strong dog with a loyal and friendly disposition. However, he is also vigilant and has a great urge to protect. This gentle person does need a good owner who has the necessary knowledge of this breed and dogs in general. With the right owner, the dobermann is a great dog for the whole family.
General
The dobermann grows to about 68-72 cm (bitches 63-68 cm) high and weighs about 40-45 kg (bitches 32-35 kg). His body is muscular, yet slim and elegant. The Dobermann’s head is narrow and it has medium-length hanging ears. In the past, the ears were often docked and erect. This gave them the dangerous appearance. The tail was usually docked as well, but both procedures are now prohibited in most countries. The dobermann’s coat is smooth, short and shiny. Usually the coat is black with brown markings on the legs, belly, ears and muzzle. However, there are also dark brown animals, with light brown markings. Furthermore, blue and tan, isabel, white and fawn also occur, but these are not approved colors and are not recognized by the FCI (Fédération Cynologique Internationale). In America they breed with these colors. The dobermann lives on average 10 to 13 years old. Unfortunately, the breed suffers from diseases such as cancer, skeletal abnormalities and the heart disease dilatative cardiomyopathy.
Origin
The Dobermann has its origins in Apolda in Germany and is named after its first breeder Karl Friedrich Louis Dobermann, a bailiff and dog catcher. He wanted to have a strong working dog especially to protect him from negligent taxpayers. This breeder probably crossed Pinscher crossbreeds with the predecessors of the Rottweiler and a greyhound and the Dobermann was created from that in the 19th century. This dog breed is vigilant and was soon used as a police dog, but it was also used for hunting during the war. The dog is now also a popular breed with the police, army and customs. But he is also highly regarded as a family member, because he is affectionate, kind and loyal by nature.
Character
The dobermann is characterized by his affection and willingness to learn. He often only has one real boss. He is sensitive, gentle and gets along well with other animals. It is fun teaching these dogs because he is very smart, obedient and loves to participate. Dog sports (such as agility or obedience) are also very suitable to do.
The Dobermann has a vigilant nature. He is self-aware and fearless. He is very loyal to his people and he will want to protect them with his whole being. It is important that this dog only protects when it is really necessary. His owner has to decide on that and not the dog. To ensure that these traits are not negatively expressed, it is important that this breed remains in the hands of people with experience with dogs, someone who knows what he is doing. Because the dobermann can be so friendly and gentle, because of his posture and vigilance there is the danger that he can become dangerous with a bad upbringing. This is not to say that he is naturally aggressive or unruly. However, he has breed specific characteristics and if that is taken into account, the Dobermann is a very nice family dog.
Education
As mentioned before, the Dobermann therefore needs an experienced boss. Anyone who has no experience with this breed should read up properly, get informed and get help from a good dog trainer. Upbringing and the associated boundaries must be taught gently, but clearly. Although the Dobermann often only has one real boss, it is important that all family members get along with him and that the dog knows that he is not in charge.
From the outset, the doberman must be made clear what he can and cannot do. For socialization it is good to visit a dog school with him, where he can play with other puppies. He must also be familiar with all other daily matters (other dogs, animals, children, joggers, cyclists), so that as an adult dog he will also find this very normal.