Many people believe that there is no difference in American Doberman Vs European Doberman apart from their breeding places. This assumption will likely cause canine experts to giggle because they have very few things in common.
Some breeders and owners believe their traits are so different that they should be considered two distinct breeds. What are the differences between these two breeds?
American Doberman Pinschers make great family and show dogs. They are calm and gentle and have a very gentle temperament.
Because of their relentless work ethic, European Dobermanns can be called too stubborn. They are also used for law enforcement and protection.
American Doberman vs European Doberman
My goal in this guide is to show you both Doberman varieties and not pick one.
This book will provide additional information for Doberman education. Pet owners and breeders will find guidance in buying and raising these dogs.
Overview of American Doberman Vs European Doberman
American Doberman
Overview
Height: 26 – 28 inches (male), 24 – 26 inches (female)
Weight: 75 – 100 lbs (male), 60 – 80 lbs (female)
Price: $1500 – $2500
Lifespan: 10 – 12 years
Colors: Black, blue, red, or fawn.
Markings: Light rust with a small white patch on the chest.
Appearance
General Build: Medium-sized toned and elegant body with thinner bone structure.
Head: Long and resembles a blunt wedge.
Eyes: Almond-shaped and medium brown to dark brown.
Neck: Well-arched which widens gradually toward the body.
Chest: Smaller and narrow.
Body: Long and lean.
Legs: Refined but delicate legs.
Temperament
- Loyal, fearless, and alert.
- Loving and devoted to their family.
- Not that excellent in police work.
- Alert protectors of homes and barks when the family is threatened.
- Couch potato.
- Sensitive to human emotions.
- Have less chase drive.
- Careful and calculating.
- Responds to softer commands.
- Needs tender training.
European Doberman
Overview
Height: 27 – 28 inches (male), 25 – 27 inches (female)
Weight: 80 – 105 lbs (male), 65 – 85 lbs (female)
Price: $2500 – $3500 (cheaper in Europe)
Lifespan: 10 – 12 years
Colors: Black, or brown with rust red.
Markings: Dark rust with no white patch on the chest.
Appearance
General Build: More compact and broader body with thicker bone structure.
Head: Wide and has a thick muzzle. Throatlatch and jaw are wider and muscular.
Eyes: Oval in shape and dark in color.
Neck: Short and thick with a lesser rise from the shoulder.
Chest: Muscular and broad.
Body: Solid and pronounced.
Legs: Straight and stockier legs.
Temperament
- Loyal, fearless, and alert.
- Loving and devoted to their family.
- Excel at police and military work.
- Very protective and attacks physically when the family is threatened.
- Couch potato but a space hog.
- In tune with human emotions.
- Have an intense prey chase.
- Brave with strangers.
- Prefer strict and firm instructions.
- Need strong discipline.
What Is an American Doberman Pinscher Vs European Dobermann? Are They the Same?
The European Dobermann and American Doberman Pinscher do not have hairline differences, as I said in the introduction. Because they were bred for different purposes, their differences are significant.
American Doberman Pinschers are described by the American Kennel Club as a small-built dog, but they can also be considered royal canines. Their noble appearance is completed by their elegant stance.
They are smaller than the European Dobermann and more gentle and submissive.
It is apparent in the Doberman Pinscher Club of America’s AKC breed standard.
The European Dobermann is located on the other side. Louis Dobermann was a tax collector who also raised dogs to create them. He wanted a dog protector that could accompany him on his walks.
This is why the European Dobermanns have been referred to as the “Tax Collector Dog”.
European Dobermanns make excellent work dogs, as they can’t be bred unless they pass the working test.
The Federation Cynologique Internationale (FCI) has published the ZTP regulations for the breed standard.
Why are these Dobermans called differently?
Perhaps you are confused about why I call them different Dobermans. The American Doberman Pinscher is the first, and the European Dobermann is the second.
Their names have a long history, and they are able to show their distinction. The original name of European Dobermanns was Dobermann Pinschers. However, the Germans dropped that second name.
They noticed that this breed is not as similar to a Pinscher or Terrier in Europe. These dogs are currently called Dobermann, with a double “n” in honor of Louis Dobermann, the breeder.
The American Doberman Pinscher was named for their political color. Many German associations brought terror after World War II, even spelling out names.
American breeders removed the “n” from Doberman’s name in order to reduce their European inclination.
They added the Pinscher word back because they noticed that their terriers are slowly becoming more like them through continued development.
There are differences in appearance
The most obvious difference between the American Doberman Pinscher (or the European Dobermann) is their physical appearance.
You can create multiple collages by searching the internet for photos of the two devices.
Although the differences in the photos are subtle, you’ll be able to see them in person.
American Doberman Pinscher
The American Doberman Pinscher was bred primarily to show dogs and it is normal for them to look eleganter and more regal.
You can compare their appearance to high-endurance athletes to get a better idea of how they look. Their coat is longer and more sleek than the European bloodline.
Here is a detailed look at their physical appearance.
- General Build: American Dobies have a toned and elegant body that is thinner and more refined than the European Dobermann. They are medium-sized but muscular at the same time.
- Head: Their head is relatively long that resembles a blunt wedge. It widens as it reaches the base of the ears when seen from the front. Their muzzle is also slender, and their throatlatch is dramatically tapered.
- Eyes: Their eyes are almond-shaped. The color of black dogs’ iris usually ranges from medium brown to dark brown, while the red, blue, and fawn dogs possess an eye color similar to their coat.
- Neck: The neck is the most notable physical difference of the American from the European Dobie. Those who are from the American bloodline have a well-arched neck which widens gradually toward the body. It also appears longer because of the sharp neck rise.
- Chest: They have a smaller chest but are still broad and well-defined as compared to other breeds.
- Body: They possess a long and lean body with a more elegant structure.
- Legs: They have refined but delicate legs that are straight and parallel to each other.
- Height: Standard height at the withers ranges from 26 to 28 inches for males while females are between 24 and 26 inches.
- Weight: Male weighs 75 to 100 pounds while females weigh 60 to 80 pounds.
The physical description I have presented above is lifted from the breed standard of the AKC for the American Doberman Pinscher.
European Dobermann
The European Dobermanns are more intimidating than the American counterparts. Because they have thicker bones, they are larger. They were deliberately designed this way by their breeders to protect and work for humans and property.
Here is a description of the physical appearance of an European Dobermann:
- General Build: They have a more compact body that is way broader than the American Dobie. However, they are also tagged as medium-sized dogs.
- Head: Their head is more expansive, and they have a thicker muzzle. They also have more enormous paws and a muscular throatlatch.
- Eyes: Their eyes are oval in shape and dark in color. Brown dogs are permitted to have lighter shades.
- Neck: Their neck is shorter and thicker with a lesser rise from the shoulder.
- Chest: Because they are larger than their American counterparts, their chest is more muscular and broader.
- Body: They have a solid and pronounced body that is essential for working dogs.
- Legs: Front legs are almost straight, as seen from all sides. It is also stockier.
- Height: Male European Dobermanns are expected to stand between 27 to 28 inches. While the female’s ideal size is 25 to 27 inches. Notice that their minimum height is one inch higher than that of an American Dobie.
- Weight: Since they are more massive, the males weigh 80 to 105 pounds while females weigh 65 to 85 pounds.
The majority of this information is based on the FCI standards for European Dobermanns. It is more detailed because it is composed of a 7 paged description.
John Walter, a dog owner and doberman enthusiast, has created this video. He explains the differences in temperament and physical characteristics between the American Doberman, and the European Dobermann.
American Doberman vs European Doberman: Which is Better?
Differences in Temperament
The temperament of the two Doberman varieties we discuss in this guide is the leading cause of their rivalry.
It is normal to see a European Dobermann breeder engage in a heated debate about the importance of the pup’s working skill because they are fundamentally bred for such tasks.
Meanwhile, American breeders have a lesser focus on this breed’s aggressiveness because they desire them to be a good show and family dogs.
Here are some temperamental facts about these two Doberman varieties that you need to know.
American Doberman Pinscher
Critics point out that the American Doberman has a lower drive than European dogs. They are calmer and are known for bonding well with their families.
Here is a detailed analysis of their behavior and temperament.
- American Dobermans are very loving and devoted to their owner and its family.
- They are a bit of a couch potato. They share spaces well, so you’ll see them lounging on your bed or sofa.
- They are alert protectors of homes and properties, although not as driven as the European Dobermanns.
- If their family is threatened, their instinct is to bark and sometimes intervene physically.
- They are sensitive to human emotion, so they are also more affected if you give them strong discipline.
- They prefer tender training.
- They are easy to train, and they respond to softer commands.
- They are careful and calculating in unfamiliar surroundings.
- They have less chase and food drive.
- They are less likely to succeed in working events such as Schutzhund.
- They are not that excellent in police work because they have a tendency to retreat.
The American bloodline is recommended if you’re looking for a Doberman that can get along with family members and be calm in a more active environment. You will also find them easier to manage if you’re a novice pet owner.
European Dobermann
European Dobermanns are much more assertive than their American counterparts. They are the best choice for police work and similar work.
Below is a comprehensive analysis of their temperament:
- European Dobermans are loving and devoted to their owner and its family.
- They can be a couch potato, but they do not like sharing their space, unlike American Dobies.
- They are very protective, which sometimes results in physical brawls.
- They do not retreat when their family is threatened. They will bark and bite without hesitation.
- They prefer strong discipline.
- They are tuned with human emotions, especially to their owner.
- They gain confidence when they are disciplined. This escalates through training and leadership tasks.
- They need clear and firm training instructions.
- They do not shy away from new environments. In fact, they can be outgoing and chaotic.
- They have an intense prey chase, so if they aren’t suggested to go collar-free. They may jump on strangers if they aren’t fully trained.
- They are successful in working events like Schutzhund.
- They are simply born to do police and military work, so they excel at it.
European breeders want Dobermans who are confident and can work hard.
They reject the refined and elegant American Dobermans with less work aptitude.
The European Dobermanns are the perfect choice if you’re looking for dogs that will protect your property and personal belongings.
Differences in Coat Quality and Color
The differences in coat quality and color between the American Doberman Pinscher (and the European Dobermann) are less pronounced.
The European breed has a darker and richer coat than the American variety.
Although some colors are not listed on the respective kennel clubs for the American Dobie and European Dobie, they still exist.
American Doberman Pinscher
The AKC states that the American Doberman Pinscher’s coat is soft, smooth, thick, close-lying and thin. Some dogs may have an invisible gray undercoat around their necks, which is acceptable.
The AKC recognizes only black, blue, red and fawn as their coat colors. Despite evidence to the contrary, both all-black American Dobies with no markings and white and albino puppies are not recognized by the AKC.
The AKC considers rust the best color for markings. These rust markings can be found on the following:
- Above each eye
- On the pup’s muzzle, throat, and forechest
- On the legs and feet
- Below the tail
A few American Dobies may have white patches on their chests, but they should not exceed 1/2 inch to comply with the standards. This isn’t a common feature in European Dobermanns so it can be considered a significant difference.
Here are some examples of the different coat colors of the American Doberman Pinscher:
Black and Rust American Doberman Pinscher
Blue and Rust American Doberman Pinscher
Red and Rust American Doberman Pinscher
Fawn and Rust American Doberman Pinscher
All Black American Doberman Pinscher
White American Doberman Pinscher
Albino American Doberman Pinscher
European Dobermann
An European Dobie’s coat is dense and short. It feels soft and has a uniform distribution to its body just like an American Doberman’s coat.
The AKC permits a Dobie to wear a grey undercoat around his neck. However, the FCI doesn’t recognize any undercoat anywhere else on the body.
The FCI recognizes only two colors for coat color. These are black, brown and rust red.
European Dobermann breeders should produce the two colors mentioned above, as they are consistent with the overall disposition of the dog breed.
Some breed blue, red and fawn European Dobies despite this rule. They are striking.
The FCI accepts only tan colors for their markings. Tan is actually a darker shade of the rust color most American Doberman Pinschers have. These are the usual locations for tan markings:
- On the muzzle
- Above the eyebrow
- On the forechest
- On the throat
- On the hind thigh’s inner side
- On the metatarsus, metacarpus, and feet
- Under the tail
- On the forearms
Here are some examples of the different coat color of the European Dobermann:
Black and Tan European Dobermann
Blue and Tan European Dobermann
Red and Tan European Dobermann
Fawn and Tan European Dobermann
Differences in Kennel Club Conformation
The official term for dog shows is conformation. This is where canines are evaluated to determine if they meet breed standards.
This is not a beauty contest. The only thing that is compared between dogs is how closely they conform to the specifications of the kennel club.
Conformation events are held because people believe that litters will be of high quality if the dog’s appearance conforms to breed requirements.
Let’s take a look at some interesting differences in Doberman conformation.
American Doberman Pinscher
The AKC is the main organizer of American Doberman Pinschers’ conformation shows. They have established a breed standard that is being used in their dog shows.
Here’s how your American Dobie can be eligible for these shows:
- They are six months or older on the show day.
- Their breed is recognized and registered at the AKC.
- They are not spayed or neutered.
- They have no disqualifying faults stated by the breed’s foremost organization. As for the American Doberman Pinscher, it would be the Doberman Pinscher Club of America.
- They have sound health, and they have complete shots.
As compared to European Dobermanns, American Dobies are required to have their ears cropped and their tail docked for them to join.
Many pet owners find this a huge deal, especially if they wish to keep their Dobies natural appearance while allowing them to compete in dog shows.
European Dobermann
The FCI organizes conformation shows for European Dobermanns. The FCI has digitally published a 21-page list of regulations (conformations rules.) that covers Dobermann conformations.
Here are some of their generic rules to enter the competition:
- Sick and lactating dogs are not allowed to join.
- Female dogs who are in heat are also prohibited from participating.
- Preparing the dog with a substance that will alter their overall structure and appearance is not allowed.
- Double entries and late entries are not permitted.
The main difference between the European Dobermann’s conformation and that of the American bloodline, is that European Dobies can have their ears trimmed and their tails dragged.
This is because only police and military dogs are allowed to have their ears and tails altered.
Western Europe regards cropping and docking in this manner as illegal and wants their dogs to look natural.
Only dogs with these characteristics are allowed to compete in conformation shows if they were conceived on a particular date.
Differences in Gait/Movement
Dogs’ gait refers to their movement quality. This is especially important in dog shows because it determines whether the pup can fulfill its purpose.
The Europeans place a lot of emphasis on the Doberman’s gait, as they believe it is associated with the dog’s working ability.
The American Doberman Pinscher is also a strong breed, but they are not the main focus of pet owners and breeders.
American Doberman Pinscher
American Dobies are described as having a free, energetic, and balanced gait. Their forequarters are strong and have good reach. They also have excellent driving power.
Their rear-action drive is too strong once the American Dobie trots. Their rear legs move along with their forelegs, and they are often thrown in and out.
They can also single-track at fast speeds. They are balanced and of high quality.
European Dobermann
As I mentioned, European breeders place more importance on the Dobermann’s gait because it is what determines his working ability.
According to the FCI, European Dobermann’s gait can be described as free, elastic, elegant and ground-covering.
You will see that their forelegs move in the same way as their hindquarters.
They have a flexible drive in their legs that allows them to move faster than other breeds.
At the same time, the movement of one foreleg and the other hind leg occurs simultaneously.
This is due to their back stability and the quality of their joints, ligaments, and muscles.
Differences in Health Issues
Canine diseases can cause death in the American Doberman Pinscher, American Doberman Pinscher, and the European Doberman Pinscher, European Doberman Pinscher. Both types of Doberman can be affected by the following:
- Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM): According to the College of Veterinary Medicine of Cornell University, DCM is a cardiac muscle disease that decreases the heart’s ability to pump blood. This condition may lead to death if not treated early.
- Gastric Volvulus: This is a common disorder among Dobermans because they are large and deep-chested. Initially, the dogs experience bloat, which progresses into volvulus where the stomach’s entrance and exit are blocked.
- Hypothyroidism: Hypothyroidism in Dobermans is characterized by loss of hair, weight gain, and low cold tolerance. This can easily be identified through routine blood tests.
- Von-Willebrand Disease: This is a bleeding disorder that is primarily hereditary. The leading cause of this health problem is the lack of a specific protein needed for blood clotting.
- Wobbler Syndrome: Wobbler syndrome is evident in large dogs like Doberman. Pups afflicted with this disease experience compression on their spinal cord and nerve roots, which results in neck pain or a deficit in the nervous system.
- Hip Joint Dysplasia: This is a deformity in the hip joint and socket of Dobermans. Dogs who are diagnosed with this hereditary disease exhibit wobbliness and limping.
- PHTVL/PHPV: The persistent hyperplastic tunica vasculosa lentils (PHTVL), called persistent hyperplastic primary vitreous (PHPV), is a developmental disease that causes cataract formation and variable leukocoria.
Let’s take a closer look at the chances of each Doberman variety of acquiring the diseases mentioned above.
American Doberman Pinscher
According to AKC, American Dobermans live between 10 and 12 years. They are more susceptible to canine diseases than their European counterparts.
These include not only genetic disorders but also non-hereditary problems. He estimated the spread of each type of degenerative disease in a study he conducted among Dobermans from Germany and Europe.
Below is a table containing the results for the American Doberman Pinscher:
| Disease | The Occurrence of the Disease Among American Dobermans |
| Dilated Cardiomyopathy | Very high |
| Gastric Volvulus | High |
| Hypothyroidism | High |
| Von-Willebrand Disease | High |
| Wobbler Syndrome | High |
| Hip Joint Dysplasia | Little |
| PHTVL/PHPV | Little |
It is not hard to see that American Dobies are more likely to get the DCM. This can cause cardiac arrest in your dog.
It isn’t that expensive, and dogs’ health testing has become more common in America.
A second positive point is that American breeders now import European Dobies in an effort to reduce the chance of this defect.
European Dobermann
Dobermanns from Eastern Europe have been proven to be healthier than American dogs for many years.
Dobies, who were originally from Russia and other countries that once belonged to the Soviet Union, didn’t have any illness or disease until a few decades back.
Dobermann’s chances of staying healthy into old age have decreased over time.
Experts believe this is because breeders began using Western European Dobies in order to get a certain look. These Dobies are more susceptible to many diseases.
Here’s the result of the study of Dr. Haberzetti about the European Dobermanns:
| Disease | The Occurrence of the Disease in Western Europe | The Occurrence of the Disease in Eastern Europe |
| Dilated Cardiomyopathy | Very High | Little |
| Gastric Volvulus | High and Increasing | Little |
| Hypothyroidism | Little, but Increasing | Little |
| Von-Willebrand Disease | Little, but Increasing | Little |
| Wobbler Syndrome | Little, but Fast Increasing | Little |
| Hip Joint Dysplasia | Little | Little |
| PHTVL/PHPV | Little to Medium | Little |
A second research, published in the Journal of Veterinary and Internal Medicine, has also linked European Dobermans to DCM.
Researchers found that 58.2% (of the 412 Dobermanns) had a greater chance of developing DCM during their lifetime. Unfortunately, genetic testing is more costly in Europe for this disease.
Differences in Breeding Regulation
European breeders believe the American Dobies have lost their ability to work due to the stricter regulations of American kennel clubs.
The AKC admits that their goal is to educate and promote breeding, not to reinforce existing rules.
Conformation shows that the Doberman breeds have a wide range of temperament and disposition.
American Doberman Pinscher
The American Kennel Club doesn’t regulate Doberman Pinschers’ breeding like the Europeans. Their focus is on the consumer’s preference.
This is in a way a good thing. Doberman owners may have pups that are more manageable and friendly to their families.
Because of their altered breeding, American Dobermans are unable to pass basic social tests or other examinations that the European Dobies would easily pass.
American breeders will also mix Dobermans from European lines to enhance the litter’s temperament, color, and bone structure. Their breeding options are therefore more expansive and less limited.
Many people find the registration process to the AKC and other American kennel clubs easy.
You will only need a certificate proving that your Doberman was born to AKC-registered parents.
You don’t have to inspect your dog, but you will need to pay a small fee to get the certificate.
European Dobermann
Dobermanns in Europe are prohibited from breeding unless they have passed a Doberman Clubs working test. ZTP is a test that measures a dog’s work ability, mental stability and nerves. It also assesses social skills.
Non-compliance with the regulations will result in a denial of registration and a refusal to receive an FCI pedigree.
These are the requirements for the European Dobermann to perform during ZTP testing.
- Walk through a noisy crowd of strangers.
- Identify friendly people from those who are suspicious.
- Protect his owner during a staged attempted attack.
- Remain calm and non-aggressive during a gunshot.
Below are some decent videos I found on Youtube that shows what happens during ZTP testing:
European Dobies are tested for temperament and behavior. Their teeth are also counted and measured to ensure that they meet the FCI breed standard.
They are rated based on their protection performance and how closely they match the breed’s expected appearance.
Additionally, pups that compete in working dog events and competitions like the Schutzhund/IPO will be considered more valuable and encouraged to breed.
Differences in Puppy Price
Pricing of a Doberman Pinscher depends on many factors. This applies to both American and European varieties. These are the main ones:
- Bloodline
- Certification from kennel clubs
- The reputation of the breeder
- Vaccines
- Ear cropping and tail docking (for American Doberman Pinschers)
- Disease Testing
- Options between show quality and pet quality Dobies (for American Doberman Pinschers)
Below is a detailed comparison of the average cost of the American and European Doberman.
American Doberman Pinscher
An American Dobie will cost you less than its European counterpart. They can be purchased from breeders who are reputable and their prices range from $1,500 to $2,500.
If you are looking for a Doberman as a pet, the less you must spend.
If you want a show-quality pup that can compete in conformation shows, then you should be prepared to pay the extra I mentioned.
Experts usually examine show quality puppies to ensure that they are healthy and ready to go to dog shows.
European Dobermann
If you buy them from the United States, the European Dobermann will be more expensive than the American-bred ones.
Because they are rare, they would be expensive at around $2,500 to $3,000. To ensure you get a genuine puppy, you can spend between $500 and $2,000. Shipping fees are expensive.
The most affordable Dobermanns are found in Russia, Ukraine, Poland and Poland. I recommend looking for a professional breeder.
The Rivalry Among the American Doberman Vs European Doberman
Their temperaments and purposes are the main reasons for the long-standing rivalry between American Doberman Pinschers and European Dobermans.
The one is bred to be a working dog and the other is not. Each breeder believes that one variety is better than the other. This is subjective because they weren’t bred for the same job.
Ask the Europeans and they will tell you that the Doberman breed is more authentic than the American. The modern American Dobies are too timid, fragile, and lack assertive drive, according to them.
These pups are criticized because they don’t pass a temperament test before being allowed to breed.
European breeders keep the Dobermanns’ original behavior intact by adhering to FCI standards. They are strong workers and excellent protectors.
Americans are averse to Europeans who appear to prefer the aggressive Dobermans.
The European dogs are regarded as being too aggressive, rough, and vicious because they were bred primarily to be a show dog.
It is not about breeding aggressive protectors, but rather on making the breed look more elegant. This does not mean that American Dobies are not capable of working dogs.
Just because they were bred to work, European Dobermanns excel in the area of working.
American Doberman Vs European Doberman Breeders: Places to Get Your Doberman Puppy
This section is dedicated to helping you find the best place to buy your American or European Doberman. Here is a directory of trusted breeders that you can use to find your next puppy.
American Doberman Pinscher
- Doberman Pinscher Club of America (DPCA) Breeder Referral: The DPCA Breeder Referral features a directory of reputable breeders that you can contact to look for American Dobies. On the DPCA’s website, you will be able to find the breeder’s location, contact information including phone, email, and website, and the year where they became a member of the DPCA.
- American Kennel Club (AKC) Marketplace: AKC Marketplace is your best option if you are a beginning pet owner, and you want to make sure that you will be handed a good quality pup. The bloodline of the puppies available is indicated on the website, as well as the contact information of the breeder.
European Dobermann
- Doberman Ultimatus: Doberman Ultimatus breeds European Dobermanns who have a reliable temperament and easy to trace bloodlines. To view the Dobies they are selling, you should create an account and log in on their website.
- Britton Farms: Britton farms import their studs from Europe, so you are assured of their quality. In fact, they work directly with the top kennels in that region to breed work inclined Dobies.
Which Doberman Is Right for You?
After you’ve learned the differences between the American Doberman Pinscher (EDP) and the European Dobermann (EDM), it’s time to decide which one will meet your expectations.
The American Doberman Pinscher is right for you if:
- You want to own a gentle but fierce-looking companion.
- You desire a calmer dog that bonds well with the family.
- You want a pup that is more in tune with human emotions.
- You fancy elegant looking Dobies.
Meanwhile, the European Dobermann is right for you if:
- You are adventurous, and you have a lot of time to spend with your dog.
- You intend to compete in bite sports like Schutzhund/IPO, French Ring, etc.
- You live in an area that would benefit from a guard dog.
- You prefer robust and stable Dobermans that look menacing because of their massive build.
Final Thoughts
The best way to distinguish the two Dobermans is by not calling them by their geographic indicators. They should be called working or non-working dogs.
Although I understand that many people will disagree with me, labeling them American and European doesn’t help them. This creates the impression of rivalries between the dogs. However, they are not.
Because they want to prove their dogs superior, there is a competition between European and American breeders.
Doberman selection should not be based on appeal. Instead, consider their purpose. You need to assess your temperament before you decide to raise a Doberman.