Doberman Pinscher Breed Information

Last updated Sep 19, 2020 0

This distinctive breed may be one of the more recognizable types of dog in the world and if you mention the words Doberman Pinscher many people will immediately think of a guard dog with an aggressive, even vicious, temperament.

Some of this is true since the Doberman was bred over the years to be a guard dog. However, experts will tell you that this elegant looking animal is not vicious. In fact, the Doberman makes a loyal companion to family members.

The Doberman Pinscher likes to be around people, and though most dogs of this breed are fearless and determined, they are not aggressive by nature. In fact, if socialized early by a good breeder and brought into a good family atmosphere, this breed can be excellent with children, even playful. Dobermans were bred in Germany by crossing German Pinschers with Rottweilers, Greyhounds, and other breeds.

The name comes from a man named Dobermann who bred a watchdog to protect him during his travels as a tax collector. Eventually, the name was shortened by dropping one “n.” The German word “pinscher” means terrier, which does not accurately describe the modern Doberman.

Doberman Pinscher Temperament

Bred to be a guard dog, the Doberman is typically protective of family members. Even so, this breed is not overly aggressive and is not as vicious as the popular opinion might see it. Doberman Pinschers are extremely intelligent and can be a challenge for the owner, not because they are dangerous or mean, but because they love to be around people and require intelligent, consistent handling.

Good breeding in recent years has produced very sound new dogs that are excellent family pets. The number of vicious dogs is diminishing, some experts say, because the over-breeding of the past is not as common as it once was. In addition, top-quality breeders are today taking more care to socialize their young dogs to humans and other dogs.

Owners with experience agree that once you have a dog of this breed that has the true temperament of a Doberman Pinscher, you would be sold on the idea that the Doberman is the best family pet you could own. With good planning and by working with a good breeder, your Doberman Pinscher should be an energetic and alert family friend.

Doberman Pinscher Size and Color

The Doberman Pinscher is a medium-size dog with a compact, balanced build. Adult dogs of the breed will stand 24 to 28 inches tall at the withers while weighing anywhere from 66 to 88 pounds. The coat is smooth and tight, lying close to the skin, even feeling a bit hard, with black, red, blue, and fawn as the common colors. Markings will be a rust color on the muzzle, above the eyes and on the legs.

Doberman Pinscher ears are usually cropped at an early age and are taped to make them stand up. If the ears are not cropped and the tail “docked”, this breed would develop to give a hound-like appearance. Keep in mind that some areas of the world have banned the cropping of the puppy’s ears.

Doberman Pinscher Feeding 2and Grooming Requirements

The Doberman was bred to be a guard dog and watchdog, and is by nature energetic and quick its movements. It is a working dog by breeding, typically happiest when it can run and play. Therefore, diet should be chosen with these traits in mind. If you choose to feed your Doberman a commercial food, always buy the highest-quality product you can. Additionally, the main ingredient in what many experts consider “sub-standard” foods is grain, such as wheat or corn, which do not provide enough of the necessary nutrients for a healthy dog

In fact, many dogs are actually allergic to these grains, which can lead to unusual shedding, dry skin, and other problems. Better choices would include lean meats, fresh fruits, and vegetables. Then, high-quality snacks are recommended for your Doberman. Some breeders recommend feeding your purebred dog the same fresh foods you buy for yourself, prepared for the dog to eat comfortably.

Experienced owners and breeders know that a healthy, active dog will have little “dog” odor. However, an occasional bath, ear cleaning, and clipping of toenails should be enough to keep you and your family happy with your pet. The short, close hair of this breed makes extensive grooming unnecessary, though you should always watch for signs of dry skin, excessive shedding, and of course, dirt and mud in the coat.

Doberman Pinscher Exercise Needs

This is an important topic for owners of Dobermans because this is a breed with a lot of energy and playfulness. The Doberman Pinscher is a very intelligent animal that does not do well if left alone for a long time, even in a fenced back yard. They are fine for a short time when they are alone, but will do best when they can be around family members, running and playing.

A properly bred Doberman would be fine with children, especially if the breeder has been careful to raise his puppies in the right atmosphere. This breed is also sensitive to cold, therefore not to be considered an outside dog.

However, you want to plan to spend time with this breed, providing exercise on a daily basis, as well as “people time”. Adult Dobermans can show aggression toward other dogs so it is best to be firm and consistent with your new dog from the beginning.

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breed overview doberman pinscher