Description

The Doberman Pinscher is compactly built, muscular and powerful, has great endurance and speed. Doberman Pinscher is elegant in appearance, of proud carriage, reflecting great nobility and temperament. Doberman Pinscher is universally known as a police dog for his devotion to duty on the German Front during World War I. The Doberman is constantly alert and is a great companion or guard dog, and shyness is a fault. They makes an admirable obedience and show dog or a wonderful family pet. An excellent breed for a jogger to own, they may be a challenge because of their dominance for the elderly or disabled.

Size of Male: Height: 26-28 inches Weight: 65-90 pounds

Size of Female: Height: 24-26 inches Weight: 65-90 pounds

Temperament

Bred for a century to be an outstanding guard dog, the Doberman Pinscher is intense and energetic with tremendous strength and stamina. Doberman Pinscher is versatile, highly intelligent and very easy to train. Doberman Pinscher is determined, fearless and assertive, but not vicious. Noble, loyal and affectionate with the family. It likes to be physically close to the family members. Devoted and watchful, this is a very people oriented breed. The Doberman needs an owner who is willing and able to discipline the dog without being afraid of him. All family members should learn to handle the dog properly, as Dobermans can be pushy if allowed to have their own way too much. The Doberman is naturally protective and does not need additional “protection” training to be a fine guard dog. In fact they should be thoroughly socialized when young to prevent over-protectiveness. Mental stimulation is important for a truly well-adjusted and happy Dog. The Doberman must be consistently and thoroughly trained to be a good pet. Training should be through positive reinforcement. Doberman can be good family dogs if of good temperament, well trained and raised with children from early puppyhood. Best with experienced owners. Female Doberman are a little more stubborn to train than the male. The Doberman has been bred to work with man, and he needs this interaction often. They must be with family, and not abandoned to the backyard.

Living Conditions

Doberman Pinschers would do ok in an apartment if sufficiently exercised, but does best with at least an average-sized yard. Doberman Pinscher is very cold sensitive and is not an outside dog. That is why in areas where it gets cold, police are unable to use Doberman Pinschers.

Upkeep

Doberman Pinscher is an active breed that needs daily mental and physical exercise, lest it become frustrated or destructive. Doberman Pinscher’s exercise requirements can be met with a long jog or walk on leash, or a strenuous run in a safe area. Doberman Pinscher can live outside in temperate climates, but it is a much better companion and effective guardian if it shares its human’s home. Coat care is minimal. With brushing about two to three times a week to remove dead hair.

Health

Major concerns: Cervical vertebral instability, cardiomyopathy

Minor concerns: Von willebrand disease, gastric torsion, Hip dysplasia

Life expectancy: 10 – 13 years