Dobermann - a Well-Balanced Loyal Utility Dog That’s Alert and Protective

07.10.2022 - Reading time: 3 minutes

Ein Dobermann rennt über eine Wiese.

The Dobermann is a striking dog that stands out for its elegance, sportiness and pride. The versatile dog has numerous talents. Whether as a protector, working or family dog, consistent training is decisive for a harmonious co-existence. It is not for nothing that the Dobermann is considered to be a demanding dog that, however, is affectionate and fundamentally friendly within the family.

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Newsletter Dobermann

Breed
Dobermann
Origin
Germany
Classification
Pinscher and Schnauzer, Molossus, Swiss Mountain Dogs
Size
63 to 72 centimetres
Weight
32 to 45 kilograms
Physique
slim, sporty, with good muscles, proud posture
Eyes
medium-sized, almond-shaped and dark
Ears
small, triangular hanging or prick ears that are close to the dog’s head
Coat and colour
short, firm fur with clearly defined colour structures in black or brown
Special features
healthy puppies with a strong character are difficult to find
Nature
lively, alert and protective, agile and intelligent
Health
susceptible breed with numerous breed-specific illnesses from heart problems to narcolepsy

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Dobermann – eventful past

The Dobermann is the only German dog breed that is named after its breeder. In the mid-19th century, Mr Dobermann wanted to create a strong, self-confident and lively dog that could be used both as a guard dog and a protector and also for hunting rats. Historians dispute to this day which breeds were incorporated into the Dobermann. There is relative certainty with regard to the German Pinscher, the Weimaraner and the German Shepherd. Other dog breeds that are presumed to be involved are the Great Dane, Rottweiler, Beauceron, Greyhound and Terrier breeds. Whatever breeds are in the mix – the Doberman is a recognised breed of utility dog that has even served with the police in many countries for a long time.

The character of the Dobermann

Even though the breed standard requires a well-balanced dog that is obedient and reliable at work, and the breeding goal describes a friendly nature that is well-balanced, curious and open with its owners, with a pronounced urge to discover, the Doberman is first and foremost a family dog. The dog was bred for use as a guard dog and protector; as such, it should be fearless and show a high level of capability and courage. Therefore it is initially distrustful towards strangers. As a working dog the Dobermann will defend its owners and the territory that it guards if the occasion arises. It has a reliable instinct for “right” and “wrong” and intervenes independently in situations if necessary.

Training and keeping

An adult Dobermann is a power pack with a boisterous will. As with every breed, it is therefore extremely important to start with consistent and calm training from puppy age. Clear structures, a few easy-to-understand commands and fixed rest times tell the young Dobermann that its owners have everything under control at the same time. For dog enthusiasts who are still inexperienced, the tips and advice from an experienced dog trainer are essential for training.

The focus should be on sufficient exercise and mental stimulation. Many types of dog sports are suitable. The following should be emphasised: obedience training and agility sports, nosework such as mantrailing as well as subordination exercises and protection dog work. A Dobermann that is always well occupied in this way and who knows its role in the family is a loyal, alert and peaceful companion.

Caring for the Dobermann

The short, smooth fur of the Dobermann makes caring for it an easy task. Regular brushing does the dog good and consolidates its bond with you and at the same time the volume of hair that the Doberman sheds in the home can be reduced. A check of teeth, ears, eyes and claws should be part of the health check once a week.

Peculiarities and health

The Dobermann has been in and out of fashion and bred frequently. This proved to be a disadvantage because the number of illnesses typical for the breed such as heart disease, epilepsy, deafness and von Willebrand syndrome (VWS) has increased sustantially. It is therefore all the more important to select a reputable breeder. Before buying a puppy, you should inspect the animal several times at the breeder’s. If it is well looked after and fed appropriately, a Doberman can live for up to 12 years.

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