Doberman Pinscher dogs

Doberman Pinscher dog black and tan

Thinking about Doberman Pinscher dogs as a companion?
Get to know this popular dog breed before you buy!

Size
Exercise
Grooming

Height: Males: 69cm (27-28 inches); Females: 65cm (24 inches)
Weight: Males: 34–45 kg (75–100 pounds); Females 27–41 kg (60–90 pounds)

Group
American Kennel Club: Working
The Kennel Club (UK): Working
Australian National Kennel Council: Utility

Lifespan: 12-14 years

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Who are Doberman Pinscher dogs?

Doberman Pinschers are long-legged, elegant dogs. They are fearless, loyal, obedient and affectionate, and are one of the most popular large dog breeds.

History of the Doberman

Doberman Pinscher dogs (sometimes also spelled ‘Dobermann’) are believed to have originated in Germany around 1900.

Doberman Pinscher with uncropped ears and undocked tail Herr Louis Dobermann was a tax and rates collector in eastern Germany who found a need for a loyal, trainable watchdog. He seems to have used a number of different locally available dogs in his breeding program, including the Great Dane, the old German Shepherd (not the modern German Shepherd Dog), Weimaraner, Manchester Terrier and Greyhound – and possibly many others!

After many years, Herr Dobermann achieved the dog we recognize today as the Doberman Pinscher.

Dobermans came to prominence during World War II when American Marines, who called them the ‘Devil Dog’, used them to help flush out the enemy. Since then, they have become well known as police dogs and guard dogs.

The breed's coat is usually black, black and tan, or red, but there are also some 'blue' or fawn dogs.

Aggressive reputation

Because of their background as police and war dogs, Dobermans have gained a reputation for aggressiveness.

But although they can be aggressive towards other dogs or strangers unless well socialized, they are regarded as most unlikely to be aggressive towards their owners.

Nowadays, good breeders aim to achieve a calm, non-aggressive temperament and it is these breeding programs that have resulted in the modern dog which makes an excellent house pet while serving as a faithful watchdog.

As with all other dog breeds, good puppy socialization is essential if you want your Doberman to interact well with humans and other animals.

Personality

Loyal
Obedient
Highly intelligent and trainable
Affectionate
Elegant

Good with children?

Yes – Doberman Pinscher dogs are loyal to their families and bond strongly with them. As with any of the larger, strong breeds, children should be introduced to the dogs at a young age, should be taught to handle them properly and should be supervised at all times in the dog’s company.

Exercise needs

The Doberman needs good daily exercise and mental stimulation. He will excel at obedience and loves agility work too.

Health

Doberman Pinscher dogs can live a long life (up to 14 years) but they can be susceptible to a number of diseases.

Possible health problems

Dilated cardiomyopathy (a condition in which the heart becomes weakened and enlarged, and cannot pump blood efficiently)

Cervical vertebral instability - also called 'wobbler disease' (a condition affecting the neck spinal column causing an unsteady gait)

von Willebrand's disease (a bleeding disorder. A genetic test is available that screens both parents of a prospective litter for the carrier gene)

Hypothyroidism (insufficient production of thyroid hormones by the thyroid gland)

Hip dysplasia (a disease that can cause lameness and arthritis in the hips)

Prostatic diseases (diseases of the prostate gland. Neutering can significantly reduce these diseases)

Grooming

Doberman Pinschers have a short, hard coat that is easy to groom. A light weekly brush and wipe down, and an occasional bath is all that's needed.

Ear cropping and tail docking

In countries where the operations are still legal, Dobermans' ears are often cropped and their tails are docked. Be aware, however, that these practices are illegal in several countries (see Dog Tails for more information).