Dobermans were first bred in the town of Apolda, in the German state of Thuringia around 1890. The dog was bred to protect the tax collector who’s route took him through remote areas filled with thieves. The Doberman is a sleek, well muscled dog, very athletic with a proud carriage. Medium sized, Dobermans stand at around 26 to 28 in.  and generally weigh around 75 to 100 lbs. There is no real standards for weight in this breed, but they should have a combination of good size, strength, agility and endurance. Dobermans come in Black and Tan, Fawn, Red, and Blue. The dog has a square frame. The length of his head,neck, and legs should well proportioned to his body, and his height at the withers should equal his length. The tail is long and curls slightly up when left undocked, and the ears left un cropped fold and lay next to the head.

Temperament

Highly intelligent these dogs excel in problem solving and communication. Dobermans have high aggression toward strangers, average aggression towards other dogs, making the perfect watch dog with the proper discipline and training. The Doberman Pinscher can become a good family dog if socialized from an early age and the dominant role in the home is the owner. Also part of keeping this breed happy is the proper amount of exercise on a daily basis both physical and mental.

Grooming/Exercise

Dobermans do not require much grooming, but should be bathed regularly, and are average shedders. This is s extremely energetic dog and requires lots of daily exercise. They can make do with apartment living but would do better to have a yard to run and play in. They do best as indoor dogs as they don’t like the cold.

Health

Possible Issues

Average lifespan 10 to 14 years

• Hip Dysplasia
• Cardiomyopathy
• Willebrand’s Disease (This can be tested for)
• Hypothyroidism
• Attenuated Wavy Fiber (type of dilated cardiomyopathy)