This doberman pup is a true aristocrat with their elegant coat, athletic build and royal appearance.
But you need to take care of your dog with attention as there are certain Doberman Health Issues too. They are intelligent and energetic dogs that excel in canine sports, police and military work, as well as being family guardians or companions.
So it is essential to properly care of your loving pet. You can find almost any breed of dog at your local shelters or rescues. Adopt if you feel this is the right breed for you. Don’t shop!
Doberman Pinschers were bred in Germany as guard dogs. They first appeared in the late 19th-century. Although their exact lineage is not known, they are believed to be a mix of several dog breeds including the Rottweiler and Black and Tan Terriers and the German Pinscher.
Doberman Pinschers were originally bred to guard dogs. They are striking and beautiful and can be trusted as family pets with careful breeding.
If you are lucky enough to have a Dobie in your home, you need to be aware of the several health issues that this breed can pose.
Doberman Health Issues
- Major concerns: CVI (wobbler’s syndrome), cardiomyopathy
- Minor concerns: 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
This large, spacious crate is recommended by vets to provide a safe place for your Doberman Pinscher to relax and rest. This dog brush and massager are also recommended for short-haired dogs.
The Doberman Pinscher, also known as the Dobermann in certain countries, was created at the beginning of the 19th century.
They are the newest dog in the world. The Dobie, or as they are affectionately known, has been one of the most recognized and loved breeds in America.
The Distinctive Dobermann (Dobie)
- The Doberman Pinscher is renowned for its loyalty and vigilance.
- Playful and energetic
- A loving companion and family dog
- Obeyant and dedicated
- Motivated and easily trainable
- Protective; an excellent guard dog
- Athletic, strong, and large
Be sure to emphasize the positives and keep in mind these characteristics.
- If not socialized well, can be aggressive, fearful, and snappy.
- You need to be active and get enough space to run.
- Boredom and separation anxiety are common, along with chewing and howling behaviors.
- A puppy can be rowdy and rambunctious.
- If not socialized well, can be too protective of the family and territories.
- Sensitive and matures slowly
The Doberman is muscular, powerful, compact and well-built. They are a combination of elegance, strength, speed, endurance, and elegance.
Their carriage is strong and alert and their gait is fluid and active. Dobermans have a short, hard coat that is smooth and straight, displaying the athletic lines of this breed.
Your Doberman Pinscher’s Health
We understand that you love your dog and want to do the best for her. We have compiled a list of health issues we will discuss with you throughout the lifetime of your Doberman.
We can create a preventive plan for Doberman Pinschers by learning about their health issues.
Many health conditions and diseases are genetic. This means that they are closely related to the breed of your pet. Canine genetic researchers and veterinarians agree that these conditions have a high incidence rate and/or impact on this breed.
This does not necessarily mean that your dog will experience these issues; it simply means that she is more likely to have them than other dogs.
To give you an idea about what might happen in the future, we will list some of the most common problems seen in Doberman Pinschers. We can’t address all possibilities, so please consult us if you have any questions.
This guide includes general information for all dogs as well as genetic predispositions that are most relevant to Doberman Pinschers. This information will help you and your pet plan for their individual medical needs.
We have included a description of home remedies that you can use to keep your Dobie happy and healthy at home. This article will help you to identify the signs and symptoms that should be monitored. We will all feel better knowing we are taking good care of our pal.
General Health Information for your Doberman Pinscher
Doberman Health Issues – Dental Disease
Dental disease is the most common chronic condition in pets. It affects 80% of dogs before age 2. Your Doberman Pinscher may have more problems with her teeth than other dogs.
Dental disease begins with tartar buildup on teeth. It progresses to infection of gums and roots. Your friend could lose her teeth if we don’t treat or prevent dental disease. This could also cause damage to her liver, kidneys, and joints.
Your Dobie’s lifespan could be reduced by as much as one to three years. We will clean your dog’s teeth and tell you what you can do at-home to keep them clean.
Doberman Pinscher Dog Breed Infections
Doberman Pinschers can be infected with bacterial and viral diseases. These are the same infections that all dogs can get, such as rabies and parvo. Many of these infections can be prevented with vaccination. We will recommend this based on her age and the diseases that we see in our area.
Obesity Doberman Health Issues
Doberman Pinschers can have serious health problems from obesity. This serious disease can cause or worsen joint problems and metabolic and digestive disorders, back and heart disease, as well as other health issues.
It’s tempting for you to feed your friend when you look at her with those beautiful eyes. However, you can still “love” her with leftover dog food and other treats.
Give her a hug, give her a treat, take her on a walk, and brush her teeth. You’ll both feel better and she will too.
Parasites Doberman Health Issues
Your Dobie can be infested by all kinds of bugs and worms, both inside and outside. All kinds of bugs and fleas, including ticks and ear mites, can infest Dobie’s skin and ears. There are many ways hookworms and heartworms can enter her system.
These parasites can spread to you and your family members, making them a serious concern. These parasites can be fatal for your dog. If necessary, we will recommend preventive medicine to keep your dog healthy.
Spay or neuter Doberman Health Issues
Spaying your Doberman (neutering males) is one of the best decisions you can make for her. This means that we remove the ovaries, usually the uterus, from females. In males it means that we remove the testicles.
Spaying or neutering reduces the risk of certain cancers, and can eliminate the possibility that your pet will become pregnant or have unwanted puppies.
This surgery allows us to examine your pet while they are asleep and identify any potential diseases.
This is a great time to have your pet’s hip X-rays taken or a tooth removed. It’s easier for you, your pet, and your friend.
Routine blood testing before surgery helps us identify common problems and prevent them from becoming serious. We will discuss the specific issues we are looking for once the time is right.
Doberman Pinschers: Genetic Predispositions
1. Heart Disease As Doberman Health Issues
Doberman Pinschers are more susceptible to a potentially fatal heart condition called dilated cardiomyopathy (or DCM). This is when the heart becomes too large, thin and weak to pump blood efficiently to the body.
Your pet might become weaker or more tired as the problem progresses. They may also experience a loss of consciousness, fainting, collapse, a slow breathing rate, and cough.
An echocardiogram and an electrical heart screening (ECG), will be performed every year to check for abnormal heart rhythms. Treatment may include medication or dietary supplementation if indicated.
2. Doberman Pinscher Neurological Disease
Wobbler syndrome or wobbler disease is a genetically-linked neurological condition that causes pets to walk with a drunken, wobbly gait.
Wobbler disease results from a narrowing in the vertebrae of the neck, which pinches the spinal chord and associated nerves.
Pinched nerves can cause a pet’s inability to feel his feet. Wobbler disease is often characterized by unstable hind legs, stumbling and falling.
There are many treatment options available for wobbler disease, including medications, neck braces and rehabilitation exercises programs.
3. Bleeding Disorders As Doberman Health Issues
Dogs can be affected by inherited bleeding disorders in many ways. These conditions can be very severe or very mild.
Sometimes a pet may appear normal until they are injured or have to be operated on. Then severe bleeding can occur. Dobies are especially susceptible to certain rare diseases of blood.
When the immune system malfunctions and begins attacking your pet’s red blood cells and platelets, hemolytic anemia or thrombocytopenia can occur. Your dog will quickly become weak and anemic if the immune system starts destroying red blood cells.
Instead of being a bright, normal color, his gums will turn whitish or yellow. His blood will not clot properly if the immune system damages platelets. He’ll also have bruises and abnormal bleeding.
Before we do any surgery, we will perform blood clotting diagnostics to rule out these issues. We can prescribe steroids and other immuno-suppressive medications to slow down or stop the immune system from destroying cells.
Sometimes, an emergency transfusion with red blood cells or platelets may be necessary.
Von Willebrand’s Disease is a blood-clotting disorder that is often found in Doberman Pinschers. Before we perform surgery, we will conduct diagnostic testing to determine blood clotting time and conduct a DNA test for Von Willebrand’s disease.
4. Liver Problems As Doberman Health Issues
Hepatitis is a chronic liver disease that can affect Doberman Pinschers. It can occur around middle age. Hepatitis is diagnosed by blood testing and liver biopsy. We can also treat it with medication or a special diet.
The signs of liver disease are usually not apparent until the liver has already been severely damaged or destroyed.
Early detection and intervention through routine blood screening is crucial to detect problems early and make it easier to treat.
Some Doberman Pinschers can develop a liver disorder called copper hepatopathy. If not treated, this disease can lead to liver failure.
Affected dogs often develop jaundice, which is a yellowing of the skin, eyes, gums and skin, around two to four years old. To detect any abnormalities in your pet’s liver, it is important to have them tested early in their lives.
5. Diabetes As Doberman Health Issues
Diabetes mellitus can be a common condition in dogs. Dobies are more likely to be affected than any other breed. Diabetes is a condition in which dogs are unable regulate their sugar metabolism and need daily insulin injections.
Diabetes is serious and should be treated as soon as possible. Diabetes symptoms include weight loss, increased drinking, and increased drinking. We will perform lab tests to confirm he is suffering from this condition.
If he does, we will discuss the options with him. The treatment requires a significant commitment of time, resources, and effort. Dogs with diabetes are now living to the same age as other dogs if they are well-treated.
6. Eye Problems As Doberman Health Issues
The proper functioning of your dog’s eyes can have a dramatic impact on his quality of life. Doberman Pinschers are susceptible to developing eye conditions that can cause blindness or other serious problems. Every examination will be done to check for signs of concern.
7. Kidney Disease As Doberman Health Issues
Glomerulonephropathy, an inherited disease, slowly damages the kidneys of your Doberman Pinscher, often causing them to fail at an early age. We may be able diagnose this disease by testing your pet’s urine annually for excess protein.
A quicker and more cost-effective treatment is possible if the disease is detected early. This will make your pet happier. As part of his therapy, we may recommend that he eat a special diet.
8. Problems with Bones and Joints
Doberman Pinschers have reported a variety of musculoskeletal issues. Although it can seem overwhelming, each condition is easily diagnosed and treated. This will help to avoid undue suffering and pain.
You can take care of your friend all his life by keeping an eye on him at home and learning about any diseases that could affect his bones, joints, and muscles.
Dobermans are very familiar with intervertebral disk disease (IVDD). This happens when the jelly-like cushion that lies between the vertebrae ruptures or slips and causes the disc to press against the spinal cord.
Your dog may be in severe pain if he suddenly becomes unable or unwilling jump up or down stairs, or if he cries or refuses to eat.
You may also notice sudden paralysis. Your dog may be unable or unwilling to use his back legs or drag his feet.
Don’t delay if you notice these symptoms. Contact us immediately or an emergency clinic! Paralysis is often caused by paralysis. We recommend that you have the discs surgically removed within 24 hours.
Rest and medication might be sufficient to resolve milder cases. As with many other diseases, weight management can help reduce the risk of IVDD.
To prevent your dog’s stress from jumping on furniture or jumping on it, you should provide steps or ramps for your pet starting at puppyhood.
Growing Dobermans may experience pain in their legs from eosinophilic Panosteitis. Also known as pano or eopan, it is a painful condition that causes inflammation of the long bones.
It typically starts between six and ten months old and can shift from one leg to the next. This condition will be checked upon examination. If your pal feels pain when they squeeze or palpate the area, we’ll order X-rays.
Panosteitis is not a serious condition, but it can cause permanent pain. Rehabilitation exercises may be necessary if your dog develops an abnormal gait due to panosteitis.
Many dogs with arthritis are older and larger dogs have more pain and disability. There are many treatments available for arthritis in Dobermans.
The sooner we start treatment, the better it will be. Proper nutrition and exercise are important for your pet’s health as he ages. Do not allow your pet to become obese. This will cause a lot of strain on his joints.
9. Thyroid Problems in Doberman
Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the body doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormone. Hypothyroidism can lead to dry skin, hair loss, vulnerability to other skin diseases and weight gain.
Fearfulness, aggression and other behavioral changes are all possible signs. To screen for this condition, we will conduct an annual blood test. The treatment is often as easy as taking a pill to replace the hormones.
10. Cancer in Dobermann
Cancer is the leading cause of death for older dogs. Your Dobie is likely to live longer than other breeds, making him more susceptible to developing cancer in his golden years. Some cancers can be treated with surgery, while others require chemotherapy.
It is important to be early in detecting cancer. This care guide includes a healthcare chart that lists possible cancers for your pet.
When we visit your pet, we’ll conduct periodic diagnostic tests to check for lumps or bumps.
11. Multiple Skin Problems in Dobermann
There are many skin diseases and infections that can affect your Dobie. Malassezia is a type of yeast that causes this condition. This yeast can cause itching, redness, and the accumulation of waxy, brownish-colored discharge.
This yeast causes a distinctive odor and leaves the skin with a greasy, hairless appearance, particularly on the neck or throat. Seborrhea, another common skin condition, can lead to dry, flaky or oily skin.
Your pet may feel itchy and uncomfortable due to skin diseases. We can help with allergies and shampoos or rinses for your pet. It is less likely that your dog will become itchy, bald, and smelly if you contact us early.
Demodex, a microscopic mite, lives in all dogs’ hair follicles. The mites are normally kept under control by a dog’s immune system. However, some breeds like the Doberman may have an excessive number of them.
Pet owners might notice some dry, itchy, hairless spots in mild cases. These can be found on the feet or face and can be itchy.
Secondary skin infections can also occur. It is crucial to seek prompt veterinary attention in order to prevent the disease from spreading.
While some pets are able to overcome the disease, others will require ongoing management. Pemphigus Foliaceus, a superficial skin condition that is more prevalent in Doberman Pinschers, is more common.
It usually starts at four years old and causes hair loss and crusts, mostly on the top of the nose and within the ear flaps.
It can also be found on the toenails and footpads of dogs. Secondary skin infections are easy to get from bacteria.
The skin crusts are usually waxy and wane. There is no cure but there are many effective treatments. It can be worsened by sunlight so apply zinc-free sunscreen to the skin before you go outside.
While most dogs will lick their legs and bodies from time to time, or to clean minor skin lesions or wounds, some Dobies may lick the same spot over and over.
A lick granuloma, a skin condition that develops from repetitive licking, can form at the affected area. These sores are most common on the feet or legs, but can also occur on the flank.
You should bring your pet to the vet immediately you see a granuloma developing. It can be very difficult to treat a lick granuloma once it is established. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial.
13. Dilated Cardiomyopathy
Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM), a fancy medical term for an “enlarged heart”, is a condition in which the heart muscle becomes increasingly thicker and weaker, leading to heart and respiratory failure.
This condition can be difficult to spot in dogs, but these are the signs you should look for.
- Depression
- Fainting
- Breathing difficulties
- Weakness
An echocardiogram may be performed by your vet to determine if your dog has DCM. However, an ultrasound of the chest is the best way to diagnose the condition.
If your dog is diagnosed with DCM, you and your vet will discuss the best ways to care for him while making sure he remains comfortable.
This disease can be caught and treated by regular veterinary exams, which may improve and extend the life expectancy.
Scientists and veterinarians are constantly looking for new treatments and genetic markers in this area.
DCM Update
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration conducted a investigation into specific dog food brands and their relationship to Dilated Cardiomyopathy.
They investigate many cases of Dobermans with DCM, and are very insightful.
15. Von Willebrand Disease As Doberman Health Issues
Von Willebrand disease, which is the most common hereditary bleeding disorder in dogs, is similar to hemophilia. It is a clotting condition that can cause your doggo to bleed excessively.
These are the symptoms you should be looking out for.
- Nosebleeds (This is an excellent clue, since dogs aren’t known for their nosebleeds!)
- There may be blood in the stool or urine of your dog.
- Bloody gums
Ugh. If managed properly, von Willebrand disease can be a rare fatal condition. More good news: This is one of few canine diseases that has a definitive genetic test.
Your vet will perform a blood test to determine if your dog has the disease. Your dog may have symptoms, but the disease can affect breeding.
If your dog is a carrier of this gene, it is wise to not breed him/her as you risk passing the virus on to the puppies.
As long as they are aware of the risks, dogs with vWD can still be spayed or neutered. Some dog food mixes may contain legumes (including peanuts). Copper, which is a harmful element for dogs with Chronic Active Hepatitis, is found in legumes.
16. Chronic Active Hepatitis, (CAH).
Chronic active liver disease, also known as CAH, is a condition in which the liver is unable to efficiently metabolize copper. It can be found in many foods that your dog eats and packaged dog food.
Copper levels can then rise to dangerous levels. This can cause scar tissue to build up, which can eventually lead to liver failure and death. CAH is more common in females than it is in males, and usually appears between 4 and 6 years old.
Extreme thirst is the first sign, although it may not be constant and go unnoticed. As the disease progresses, you will notice more symptoms:
- Appetite loss
- Vomiting
- Weight loss
- Abdominal fluid retention
- Lethargy
Your vet can test your liver enzyme levels to rule out CAH and may perform a biopsy. There is no cure. The best treatment is to give a low-copper diet.
Commercial dog food should be labeled carefully. Avoid legumes, shellfish and liver as well as cereal grains.
Only distilled water should be drank by a dog suffering from CAH. Some veterinarians recommend holistic treatments like milk thistle, but you should talk to your vet before giving any “natural” medicine or over-the-counter medication.
17. Cervical Vertebral Disorder (Wobbler syndrome)
Wobbler syndrome refers to a neurological condition that occurs when the neck of your dog is affected by the spinal cord. These are the symptoms:
- A unsteady, or “wobbly,” gait
- Dragging or weakness in the hind legs
- With the front legs, take short, awkward steps.
- The neck should be held in a downward or flexed position.
- Neck pain
Your dog might become unable to stand or walk independently as the condition worsens. This condition is more common in dogs over three years old.
Although the cause of the compression remains unknown, younger dogs are more likely to experience it. However, there are many treatment options available for dogs suffering from wobbler syndrome.
Rest and steroids may help milder cases. For more severe cases, acupuncture can be used for pain management and chiropractic adjustment.
Whatever your choice, consult your veterinarian to learn how your dog can thrive.
18. Hypothyroidism As Doberman Health Issues
Hypothyroidism is a condition that can affect many people. This condition, which is often hereditary, results in a decreased production of thyroid hormones.
It’s also quite common in large-sized dogs (Dobermans included). The condition can develop at any moment and should be checked annually.
Doberman’s hypothyroidism symptoms include:
- Lethargy
- Depression
- Dry skin
- Cold Sensitivity
A physical exam, blood tests and a urinalysis are used to diagnose the disorder. Although there are many causes for an underactive thyroid it is easy to treat.
Hypothyroidism is a condition in which a dog’s thyroid function is impaired. Your dog will likely be prescribed a synthetic thyroid replacement and dietary adjustments to ensure he has the best nutrition to combat the symptoms.
19. Gastric Dilatation & Volvulus Syndrome (GDV / “Bloat”)
This is not the same feeling you get after a night with soft pretzels, diet Coke, and a full-season of the Arrested Development remix.
Bloat can happen in any deep-chested dog, even Dobermans. This is an emergency condition in which the stomach twists, cutting off both the esophagus and the intestines at one end, causing gas buildup and blocking the flow of blood and food.
This can happen when the dog eats too fast or is given a difficult-to-digest meal. To avoid this rare, but not uncommon medical condition, veterinarians advise against exercising immediately following eating.
Bloat symptoms in dogs can include:
- Gagging, but not throwing up
- Excessive slobber
- Obvious pain
- A full belly. If you don’t get treatment, bloat can be fatal. Bloat symptoms in dogs should be reported immediately to the veterinarian.
Gastric decompression may be performed by your vet. This involves inserting a tube through the dog’s throat into his stomach.
To relieve pressure and un-kink the stomach, a large needle can be inserted into the abdomen if the stomach twist is not possible.
The last option is surgery to untwist your stomach. You can help your dog avoid bloat by giving them smaller meals more often, softening the kibble in water, and giving them a gentle diet. Also, give your dog time to digest and rest before going on a run.
You should allow your Doberman to have a rest between each meal. This will prevent any emergency conditions such as “bloat” or other unpleasant symptoms.
20. Bloat Problem in Doberman
GDV, or gastric dilatation volvulus is a condition that occurs in dogs with narrow, deep chests. Your Doberman is at greater risk than other breeds. Bloating is when a dog’s stomach twists and becomes full of gas.
This twisting causes the blood supply to the stomach, and sometimes the spleen to be cut off. The disease can be fatal if left untreated.
You may notice your dog retching or heaving (but nothing comes up), acting restless, having an enlarged stomach, or lying in a prayer pose (front feet down, back end up).
You can prevent your dog from getting hurt by having their stomach tacked down or stapled so it doesn’t twist. If your pet is experiencing symptoms, immediately take him to the emergency department.
21. Hip Dysplasia in Doberman
Hip dysplasia refers to a condition in which the socket and ball of the hip joint are not aligned properly. This can cause pain and weakness. Both environmental and heredity can influence this disorder.
It can be diagnosed in puberty or later as osteoarthritis. There are many symptoms of hip dysplasia, including:
- Reluctance or inability to run, jump, or engage in any other climbing activity
- The difficulty is increasing
- Limping
- Activity has declined
Your veterinarian might order blood work, urinalysis, and an x-ray to examine your dog’s hips. Sometimes surgery is necessary.
The options for surgery vary depending on the size and age of the dog. The non-surgical options for managing symptoms include anti-inflammatory medication and physical and hydrotherapy.
Take Care of Your Doberman Pinscher At Home
Doberman Pinscher Dog Breed InformationMuch of what you should do to make your dog happy is the same as for humans. Watch her diet and make sure she is getting enough exercise.
If something does not seem right, call us or a hospital for assistance. Follow the recommended schedule for vaccinations and examinations.
We’ll perform the “check-ups” necessary to check for common diseases and conditions in Dobermans.
Signing up for pet insurance is another important step to take when caring for your pet. Pet insurance will cover the costs of any medical procedures or tests she may need.
Routine Care, Diet and Exercise
Your Dobie will live longer, be healthier, and have a happier life. It is important to have a healthy diet and exercise program.
As you would with a child, supervise your pet. You should keep your pet safe. This will keep her safe and prevent her from getting into trouble.
She is not very particular about her grooming. She should be brushed at least once a week. Doberman Pinschers have great teeth. You can brush them twice per week to keep them in tip top shape!
Even as a puppy, you should clean her ears every week. We’ll show how to do it! She is a smart, energetic dog who has lots of energy. Keep her active or she will get bored. This is when she starts to do the naughty things.
She is sensitive and does not like punishment or harsh training methods. Always end training with a positive attitude.
Sensitive to cold, can be irritable so it is important to have a warm winter wardrobe. Don’t feed your dog people.
Give your daughter a healthy, high-quality diet that is appropriate for her age. Regular exercise is important for your dog, but it’s not a good idea to overdo it.
What to Look Out For
An abnormal symptom can be a sign that you have a serious condition or it may be something minor. It is important to know when your dog needs veterinary attention and how quickly.
Dogs can have a variety of symptoms that are indicative of a number different diseases. This could be a sign that your Doberman Pinscher is in need for help.
Call To Vet
If you see any of these signs, give us a call to schedule an appointment.
- Water consumption and appetite change
- Bad breath, tartar buildup, red gums or broken teeth are all signs of tartar accumulation.
- Itching skin (scratching or chewing) and hair loss
- Excessive sleeping, mental dullness or lethargy
- Fearfulness, aggression or other behavioral changes
- Weight loss, increased hunger and thirst
- Stiffness/reluctance/regret to climb/sit/use stairs
- Dull hair, hair loss, and sluggish weight gain
Emergencies of Dobermann
If you see any of these signs, it is important to seek medical attention immediately.
- Tender ears, ear discharge, and rubbing the head with your fingers or shaking your head can all be caused by shaking or shaky movements
- Discolored urine; inability to urinate or straining
- Eye problems such as cloudiness, redness, itching or any other abnormality can be caused by the eyes.
- Collapse, suffocation, and a feeling of weakness or paralysis.
- Dry heaving, or a tight, painful abdomen
- Gums in a different color than bright pink
- Depression, low appetite, yellowing eyes
They are elegant in appearance and athletic in style. The Dobie is intelligent, alert and loyal. They are a loyal family friend and a brave guard dog.
They are known for their fierce reputation. People who don’t know the Dobie are afraid of them because they’re stereotyped as vicious and aggressive.
They are a powerful guardian but they are a gentle, loving, and watchful dog. They aren’t aggressive, but they will protect their family and turf from danger if they see it.
Doberman Pinschers love being part of a large family. They love to be with their loved ones and are a natural protector. As long as they are treated with kindness, they can be trusted by their friends, family, and relatives.
Despite their positive traits, the Dobie may not be the right breed for you. Their size is large at 60-80 pounds and their physical and mental activity are intense. They require a lot of exercise.
They need mental challenges to keep them interested. They require a strong pack leader/owner who is able to socialize with them and train them. For those who prefer a more relaxed lifestyle, this may prove too difficult to manage.
The Dobie’s current appearance is more slimmer and sleeker that it was in previous years. Breed enthusiasts say that their temperament has changed a little, but they are still a great guard dog.
Dobies had their ears cut to improve their ability to find sounds. Tail docking gave the breed a cleaner look. Doberman puppy breeders in North America usually trim the ears and dock the tails of Doberman pups, but it is not required. Some countries make it illegal to dock or crop the ears.
People who have met them tell you that Dobies are a great companion and pet. They can be socialized well and are gentle with children and young people.
Highlights of Dobermann
- Dobermans are energetic and need to be exercised a lot.
- This breed is protective and can take over the household guardian role.
- If you are not a strong leader, the Dobie will take over as the alpha in your household. To establish your position as leader of the pack, it is important to receive consistent training.
- Dobies are sensitive to cold and need shelter in winter. They like to be near the fireplace.
- Doberman Pinschers are family dogs and should not be left alone. They thrive when they are part of family activities.
The Doberman is known for being vicious. Although your Doberman may seem sweet, strangers and neighbors may be scared of them.
Never buy a puppy from an unreliable breeder, puppy mill, pet shop, or other source if you want a healthy dog.
Histories of Dobermann
Louis Dobermann was a tax collector who lived in Apolda in the Thuringia region of Germany in the late 19th-century.
Because of the dangers involved in collecting money, he was often attacked by bandits as he went about his rounds.
Dobermann was the dogcatcher in town, so he frequently brought along a dog to protect him. Dobermann started breeding dogs with the idea that a dog would be a faithful companion and protector. His breeding experiments led to the Doberman Pinscher, which was his first creation.
Although there are no records of which dogs Dobermann used in creating the breed, it is believed that they included the Rottweiler and German Pinscher as well as the Black and Tan Terrier. The Dobie was shown for the first time in 1876. He was greeted with great enthusiasm.
The true knowledge of the breeds used to create the Dobie was lost when Dobermann passed away in 1894. It was named after him because of his contributions to the development of the breed.
German breeders continued Dobermann’s work at the end of 19th century. They were more concerned about function than appearance.
They wanted the Doberman “super dog” to be developed. They bred the strongest, smartest, fastest, most courageous, and toughest Dobermans. They were almost too successful. They were known for their aggressiveness and headstrong nature.
Otto Goeller, a German Kennel Club breeder, is credited for making the Doberman more useful. In 1900, the Dobermann Pinscher was recognized as a breed by the German Kennel Club.
The Dobie was introduced to America in 1908. Legend has it that the first Dobie to be brought to America was shown in conformation.
He won the “Best in Show” award at three consecutive shows, before any judge could open his mouth to inspect his teeth.
In 1921, the Dobermann Pinscher Club was founded in America. It adopted the German breed standard a year later.
The development of the Dobie was crucial over the next 15 years. The number of Dobies in Europe fell drastically during World War I because many people couldn’t afford large dogs.
The military, police and wealthy owned the Dobies that survived. Breeding was considered a luxury, and only the best dogs were kept alive.
Nearly all of the top German sires and progeny were imported to the United States after 1921. After World War II, the Doberman Pinscher was once again in danger in Germany. Many believe that the breed would have been extinct if Americans hadn’t brought so many dogs to America before.
The Germans dropped Pinscher from their name in the middle of the 1900s. A few years later, the British did the same.
Breeders have worked hard over the years to bring out the best in the Doberman’s original personality. They have achieved great results.
The Doberman is protective of their home and family, but they are affectionate and loyal companions.
Size of Dobermann
Males are 26-28 inches tall, while females are 24-25 inches high.
Females and males can weigh between 60-80 pounds. Males are slightly heavier than females.
Personality of Dobermann
You get a Doberman Pinscher, a super-intelligent, super-active dog. A Doberman Pinscher is a trustworthy, loyal dog that’s playful with his family.
They are a natural protector and will not hesitate to protect their family if they feel threatened. However, they don’t act aggressively without a reason.
Dobies love to be active, both mentally and physically. It is very easy to train them and they learn quickly. It’s difficult to keep their lessons interesting and fresh because they learn so quickly.
Although they may have their own opinions, they are not likely to be stubborn or willful if they are surrounded by consistent, kind leadership.
It takes the Dobie a while to mature. They are still puppyish until they reach three or four years of age.