Have you noticed Dobermans in movies over the years? They are often portrayed as vicious guard dogs chasing intruders off the property. Dobermans have been used as guardians, war dogs, and police dogs for as long as they have existed. However, they can also make great family dogs, so don’t let the movies ruin their reputation. This article will discuss some things you probably didn’t know about Dobermans, including where Dobermans came from and the best ways to care for them.
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History Of Dobermans
During the late 1800s, Louis Dobermann, a German tax collector, was the first to breed the Dobermann Pinscher. Besides his job as a tax collector, he also managed a local dog pound, which inspired him to create a guard dog to help him with his tax collection duties. After Louis Dobermann passed away in 1894, the Germans named the breed after him.
The Doberman Pinscher’s original breeding is not documented, but it is thought to be the result of breeding the now-extinct Old German Shepherd with the German Pinscher. The ancestors of the German Pinscher include the Rottweiler and Weimaraner.
After about 50 years, the Germans removed the word “Pinscher” (meaning Terrier) from the name because it no longer resembled a Terrier. It is important to note that the Miniature Pinscher is a separate breed and not a miniature version of the Doberman.
Reference: Doberman Pinscher Club of America
Doberman Overview
- Breeds: American Doberman & European Doberman
- Temperament: Intelligent, Obedient, Alert and Energetic
- Coat Color: Red, Black, Blue, and Fawn
- Potential Health Issues: Hip Dysplasia, Dilated Cardiomyopathy & Gastric Dilatation Volvulus
- Lifespan: Approx. 10-13 years
American Dobermans have a leaner look with some variations in appearance:
- Eyes: Lighter Brown
- Coloring: Red, Black, Blue, and Fawn with rust markings
- Overall Build: Longer body, narrow chest, and thin legs
- Size: Male- 26″ to 28″ | Female- 25″ to 26″
- Weight: Male 75lbs to 100lbs | Female- 60lbs to 90lbs
European Dobermans have a broader look with some variations in appearance:
- Eyes: Dark Brown
- Coloring: Red or Black
- Overall Build: More compact body, shorter thick neck, larger chest, and muscular legs
- Size: Male- 27″ to 28″ | Female- 25″ to 27″
- Weight: Male 80lbs to 105lbs | Female- 65lbs to 85lbs
Doberman Appearance
When Louis Dobermann developed the Doberman breed, he wanted them to look alert and intimidating. As a result, we often associate Dobermans with short hair, cropped ears, and docked tails.
There is ongoing debate regarding the practices of ear cropping and tail docking, and in some countries, these procedures are prohibited by law. Before deciding to have these procedures done, you should educate yourself on the benefits and drawbacks. In countries where these procedures are allowed, they should always be performed by experienced veterinary professionals.
Tail docking is done within three days of birth, while ear cropping is performed when the puppy is between 8 and 10 weeks old. After the procedures, proper aftercare is necessary, especially for the ears, which need to be taped and posted for several months to train them to stand upright. They must also be kept clean to avoid infection and proper healing.
Doberman Care & Grooming
Dobermans are relatively low maintenance, with an average amount of grooming needed:
- Brushing: They are short-haired dogs and shed minimally. One to two times weekly brushing of their coats is sufficient. Use a dense bristle brush for de-shedding and removal of dirt and dead skin.
- Nail Trimming: Consistency with nail trimming is vital for their overall health, and trimming your dog’s nails every 3-4 weeks is recommended. Learn how to trim your dog’s nails correctly here.
- Ears: Dobermans can be susceptible to ear infections, so clean their ears 1-2 times a week with a dog ear cleansing solution to avoid wax buildup and excessive moisture.
- How to: Dampen a fresh cotton ball or gauze pad with the ear cleaning solution and carefully wipe the ear, being cautious not to insert anything into the ear canal.
- Bathing: Dobermans can be prone to dry skin and skin allergies. Always use a nontoxic brand with no sulfates or synthetic fragrances. To maintain a healthy coat, wash every 6-8 weeks with a conditioning dog shampoo.
- Professional Grooming: Professional grooming is optional but can help ensure their coat remains clean and healthy and prevent potential health issues.
Mental & Physical Exercise Needed For A Doberman
Doberman’s will thrive in an active household. They require daily physical exercise and mental stimulation as they are very energetic animals and eager to learn. This will keep them from getting bored and being destructive. It is recommended that they have about 70 minutes to 2 hours of exercise daily spread throughout the day.
Physical Exercise
- Throw Frisbee
- Play Fetch
- Swimming
- Tug of War
- Walk, Jog, and Hike
Mental Stimulation
- Agility Courses
- Hide and Seek
- Puzzle Toy
- Snuffle Toy
- Daily Training
The Value In Training Your Doberman
One of the main reasons Dobermans have been used so much in movies is partly due to their trainability and intelligence. Dobermans are among the five most intelligent dog breeds, are eager to learn, and are incredibly loyal. Professional training classes and regular socialization with different people, animals, and places at a young age will help build good habits and teach owners skills that can be used throughout their lives.
Dobermans require a lot of love, attention, and affection. If mistreated or neglected, they may develop unwanted behaviors or become destructive or even aggressive. If you have an active family and are willing to dedicate the necessary time to training and care, a Doberman may be the ideal breed for you.
READ ABOUT: WHY SHOULD YOU TRAIN YOUR NEW PUPPY?
