Over the years, some dogs have declined in popularity because of our changing needs as a society. This is especially evident with the poor Otterhound, a breed hovering near extinction after the prohibition of otter hunting.
Yet, this decline cannot be said for Germany’s mighty Doberman, a strong, muscular breed. Over the past 10 years, it’s remained within the top 20 most popular breeds in the United States, and it’s certainly not seeing any threats to its enduring nature. But is the Doberman the right breed for your family?
The Doberman: A Protective German Dog Breed
The Doberman Pinscher is a relatively new breed of dog, having been first developed in the late 19th century. It was created by a German tax collector named Karl Friedrich Louis Dobermann, who wanted a dog that would protect him on his routes. After all, being a tax collector wasn’t a popular job, and Dobermann often came face to face with violence. He needed a dog to stand between him and the unknown. Enter the Doberman.
To create this large dog breed, he crossed German Pinschers with other strong breeds, such as the Greyhound and Rottweiler. The resulting dogs were known for their courage and ferocity, traits that quickly made them popular.
In recent years, the Doberman Pinscher has remained a popular working dog, prized for police work and assistance in search-and-rescue missions. It remains a formidable guardian, doing anything possible to protect its family from perceived threats—even if it’s just the mailman.
These Are Large Black-and-Tan Dogs
Dobermans are large dogs that are leaner and more athletic than stocky and muscular. Males stand at 26 to 28 inches at the shoulder and weigh between 65 and 90 pounds, while females stand at 24 to 26 inches and weigh in the same range.
They have a short coat that generally needs only a few brushings a week to maintain. The Doberman generally comes in a combination of black and rust. The distinctive feature of the breed is the tan markings all around their paws, chest, throat, and muzzle, like other German dog breeds, like the Rottweiler.
They have naturally floppy ears and a long tail, but some Dobermans have their tail docked and ears cropped as puppies. This surgery used to help protect dogs while in fights with predators. In today’s age, for companion animals, docking and cropping are completely optional and even discouraged by some veterinary professionals.
Dobermans Need Early Socialization
The Doberman is an intelligent, loyal, and obedient breed. These canines are very protective of their families and make excellent guard dogs. However, without proper socialization from a young age, Dobermans can become very aggressive, which is why they’re banned in some housing developments. Dobermans are also subject to same-sex aggression. So, if you’re planning to get two females or two males, you’ll have to closely monitor their interactions to ensure a harmonious household.
Dobermans are typically very loving and devoted to their owners, but they can also be stubborn and headstrong. For this reason, Dobermans are not considered an ideal breed for first-time dog owners. They need firm, consistent training and need to be well-exercised to prevent them from becoming bored or destructive.
Like All Dogs, Dobermans Have Health Concerns
A healthy Doberman’s lifespan will be about 10 to 13 years. They are generally healthy dogs but like any breed, are genetically predisposed to certain health conditions, such as:
Hip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia is a congenital disorder in which the bones of the hip joint do not fit together properly, causing instability and pain. If left untreated, hip dysplasia can lead to arthritis and lameness.
Fortunately, there are several steps that can be taken to prevent or alleviate this condition. For example, feeding your dog high-quality food can prevent obesity and undue stress on their joints. Regular exercise can also keep off excessive weight and keep your dog’s body in optimal shape.
Wobbler Syndrome
Dobermans are also prone to a condition known as Wobbler syndrome, a degenerative disorder of the vertebrae that can cause a wide range of symptoms, including neck pain, difficulty walking, and incoordination. In severe cases, it can even lead to paralysis. While there is no cure for Wobblers Syndrome, early diagnosis and treatment can help to improve the quality of life for affected dogs.
Bone Cancer
Unfortunately, Dobermans are also prone to a type of cancer called osteosarcoma. This disease affects the bones and can be very painful for dogs. Treatment options are limited, and the disease often proves fatal. While there is no sure way to prevent osteosarcoma, responsible breeders can help to reduce the incidence of the disease by screening dogs for genetic defects and only breeding healthy animals.
Dobermans Make Great Dogs for the Right People
If you’re thinking about getting a Doberman, here are some things you should know:
- First, these dogs need lots of exercise, so be prepared to take your pooch for long walks or runs each day.
- Second, Dobermans can be prone to aggression if they don’t get enough socialization – so make sure you introduce your dog to lots of different people and animals.
- Finally, these dogs can be expensive to keep – especially if you want to buy top-of-the-line nutrition which is certainly deserved.
Dobermans make great pets! Yet, if you’re unsure about the breed (but still want a large dog), you may consider another gentle giant, such as a Beauceron or German Shepherd.
