Doberman Pinscher Breed
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The Doberman Pinscher, commonly known as the Doberman or simply Dobie, is a breed of domestic dog that is known for its intelligence, loyalty, and protective nature. Originally bred in Germany as a guard dog, the Doberman has since become a popular choice for a variety of working roles, including as a police and military dog, a therapy dog, and a companion animal. The history of The Doberman originates in Germany in the late 1800’s where a tax collector named Louis Dobermann wanted a dog to protect himself as he traveled from business to business. Since he couldn't find a dog to fit his needs, decided to breed the perfect dog for the task – the Doberman. Very quickly, these dogs were recognized for their problem solving capability paired with the speed and agility as one of the best dogs for protection. Because of this, Dobermans were picked up and utilized by the police and military. Because these dogs can be gentle and loyal companions, they also gained a reputaion for being an awesome family dog too.
One of the key characteristics of the Doberman is its size and build. These dogs are large and muscular, with males typically weighing between 60-90 pounds and females weighing between 50-70 pounds. They have a sleek, athletic build with a short, shiny coat that is typically black, red, blue, or fawn in color. These are deep chested dogs, which means that they are at a higher risk for gastric dilatation and volvulus (bloat or GDV). There is a simple surgical procedure that can be performed laparoscopically called a gastropexy which is where the stomach is tacked to the body wall to prevent it from turning over on itself.
In terms of behavior, the Doberman is known for being highly energetic and driven. These dogs have a strong work ethic and require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy. They are also known for being highly trainable, with a strong desire to please their human handlers. They also have a strong protective instinct and are good guard dogs. However, like many breeds, Doberman can be prone to certain behavioral issues such as aggression and separation anxiety if not properly trained and socialized. Doberman can also be sensitive to harsh training methods, so positive reinforcement training is recommended.
When it comes to nutrition, the Doberman requires a high-quality diet that is rich in protein and fat to support their active lifestyle. They do well on a diet of high-quality dry kibble. Our favorite diet for Dobies is Royal Canin's Digestive Care for Large Breeds. For the best recommendation for your dog, be sure to ask your veterinarian. It's important to monitor their diet and adjust as needed based on their activity level and body condition.
One more thing to be sure you are aware of before you team up with a Dobie to keep them safe. Doberman Pinschers are prone to a genetic disorder known as von Willebrand's disease (vWD). vWD is a bleeding disorder caused by a deficiency in a blood-clotting protein. Not all Dobermans have this - but some so. It's better to know if they have the disease so you can be on the lookout and keep them safe. This disease can be tested by a veterinarian, and it's important to test any Doberman before breeding to ensure that the disease is not passed on to the offspring.
In conclusion, the Doberman Pinscher is a highly versatile and intelligent breed that excels in a variety of working roles. They are a large, energetic breed that requires a great deal of time, energy, and commitment from their handlers. With proper training, socialization, and nutrition, the Doberman can be a loyal and dedicated companion. However, it's important to be aware of the challenges that come with owning a Doberman and make sure you're prepared for the commitment before bringing one home.
Want to learn more about Dobermans? Check out these resources:
"The Doberman Pinscher is a true partner, always there to protect and serve, their loyalty and intelligence are an inspiration to us all." -Fawn Nyvold
The Doberman Pinscher
A breed specific history and overview.