The Doberman Pinscher is a beautiful and powerful medium-large dog with a strong guarding and protective streak. It is a very adaptable breed, capable of fitting into many different family settings and environments.
If you ever take one for a walk, don’t be surprised if they move from your front to back, and left to right as you walk. That is their protective nature, keeping you guarded when out and about.
Dobermans are an intelligent and active breed, with a sleek and elegant appearance. They need plenty of stimulation and exercise on a daily basis. While they can be socialized very well, the guarding nature never leaves them and they excel in this role. This breed is a member of the American Kennel Club working dog group.
History Of The Doberman Pinscher
The Doberman Pinscher, can trace its roots back to 19th Century Germany, specifically to the village of Apolda in Thuringia state around 1890. Bred by Louis Dobermann to be a powerful guardian and protector, it is in these roles that the breed has excelled since its conception.
After Louis Dobermann’s death in 1894, the breed continued to evolve, with many German breeders focusing on refining the Doberman into a more versatile and trainable companion. Official recognition by the German Kennel Club came in 1900, marking the Doberman Pinscher as a distinct breed. The breed’s journey to the United States began around 1908, where it quickly gained popularity.
With the breakout of the Second World War in the 1930’s, the powerful and courageous Doberman Pinscher found itself adopted by the US Marines as their official war dog. While it wasn’t the only dog they used in this role, it is the one they chose that stood out in the role.
Around the mid 20th Century, the word ‘Pinscher’ was dropped from the name, in every country other than the USA and Canada. The word Pinscher means ‘terrier’ in German, and it was believed this was no longer appropriate for the breed.
Breed Origin
As touched on above, the Doberman Pinscher originated in Germany in 1890. The original breeder, Karl Lewis Dobermann worked as both a tax collector and stray dog catcher in Apolda. He needed a strong, protective companion to guard him on some of his hostile routes. He had lots of different breeds in his dog pound, and had the idea that he could breed the perfect guardian from some of the dogs in his care.
The breed’s exact lineage and mix remains speculative, but it’s believed to include elements of the Rottweiler, German Pinscher, Beauceron, Weimaraner and possibly the Black and Tan Terrier. There is also the possibility of a mix including the Greyhound and Manchester Terrier, which was documented separately in the creation of this breed.
It was only after Dobermann’s death in 1894 that the breed officially took his name, and it would be recognised by the GKC at the turn of the century.
Quick Facts
- Loyal and Protective – The Doberman Pinscher is widely recognized for its loyal and protective nature. It was bred for this very purpose as a guard dog, but also makes an excellent companion dog.
- Athletic and Energetic – They have a very athletic build, particularly the males that can be particularly muscular. They are highly energetic and excel in various dog sports, but they do need lots of exercise to maintain their mental and physical health.
- Intelligent and Trainable – Dobermans are among the most intelligent dog breeds, making them highly trainable. They respond particularly well to positive reinforcement and are more than capable of learning complex commands and tasks.
- Sleek Coat with Minimal Shedding – Dobermans have a sleek, short coat that is easy to maintain and only needs minimal grooming. They are easy to keep clean and tidy.
- Versatile Working Dog – Beyond being excellent guard dogs, Dobermans are versatile in various roles, including police work, search and rescue, and therapy work, thanks to their intelligence, trainability, and keen sense of smell.
- Socialization is Key – Early and consistent socialization is crucial for Dobermans to ensure they grow up to be well-rounded and sociable dogs. They can be reserved with strangers but are generally affectionate with family members.
Characteristics Of The Doberman Pinscher
You might hear the Doberman Pinscher go by the name of just ‘Doberman’ but it’s the same dog. It’s only in the USA and Canada that the full breed name of Doberman Pinscher is still used. Everywhere else has dropped the ‘Pinscher’ from the name but either name refers to the same breed. You might also here them being called by their nickname ‘Dobie’, or as Blue Doberman which is just a particular color and not a separate breed.
Doberman Pinschers typically have litters of between 6 to 8 puppies. These strong pups are very lively, usually ready to be homed around 8 to 10 weeks of age. This ensures they have enough time with their mother and littermates to learn essential social skills.
The price for a Doberman puppy can vary widely based on pedigree, breeder reputation, and other factors. On average, potential owners can expect to invest between, $1500 and $2500 for a puppy. It’s really important to purchase a pup from a reputable breeder. One who can provide health clearances for both puppy parents to ensure the health and well-being of your future companion. If you don’t do this, it’s at your own risk and it only encourages poor breeding.
Appearance
The Doberman Pinscher is a medium-large, powerful breed. Males typically standing 27 to 28 inches tall at the shoulder, while females are slightly smaller, between 25 to 27 inches. Their weight is proportionate to their height, usually falling between 80 to 100 pounds for males and 70 to 80 pounds for females. They have a characteristically sleek, muscular physique that hides nothing about the breed’s strength and agility. They generally reach full maturity by the age of 2 years.
The Doberman’s appearance is distinguished by its athletic build, a noble, wedge-shaped head, and alert, intelligent expression. Their ears and sometimes cropped and will stand erect if that is the case. Otherwise they hang down, framing the face from the side. The tail is also sometimes docked when they are pups, in countries where that is permitted.
They are a sight to see when they are on the move, with a vigorous but balanced gait. Their legs are perfectly designed for speed and endurance, with tight, compact paws and well-arched toes. I remember racing my old Doberman ‘Robo’, we would play with a soccer ball on my friends farm when it was quiet. I would hoof the ball as far as I could and never had chance against the speed and the power. Awesome doesn’t even come close.
| Male | Female | |
| Height | 68 – 72 cm (27 – 28 in) | 63 – 68 cm (25 – 27 in) |
| Weight | 40 – 45 kg (88 – 99 lb) | 32 – 35 kg (71 – 77 lb) |
Coat
This breed is renowned for its smooth, short coat that hugs the body close. It is a dense coat, with straight, short hairs. It has a lovely satin sheen in the darker colors. They shed less than most other breeds, making them pretty easy to maintain.
Color
The Doberman Pinscher’s coat comes in colors of black, red, blue, or fawn with rust-colored markings on the face, chest, and legs. In total, there are five different Doberman colors, and four coat color combinations recognized by the AKC.
Temperament
Dobermans, as we’ve mentioned throughout this post, are known for their loyalty, intelligence, and protective nature. They form very meaningful and strong bonds with their families. Despite their reputation and appearance they can be very affectionate and playful companions. Early socialization and training is an absolute must though, to harness their protective instincts and ensure they are well-behaved members of the family.
They can be wary of strangers and unfamiliar animals, it’s in their nature. But they trust their owner fully and when well trained and socialized they will be very assertive and alert, but well behaved.
Lifespan of a Dobermann
Several studies have been carried out on different population samples and in different locations, and the results vary across these studies. However, all studies show a collective life expectancy between 9 and 11 years. This is fairly standard for a larger breed, but a little lower than average across all breeds of dog.
Known Health Issues
Color Mutant Alopecia (CMA) – Occurs from a genetic defect affecting the way pigment is distributed in the dog’s hair shafts. Abnormal pigmentation (melanin) clumping in the hairshafts makes the hair brittle and can lead to hair loss in the diluted colored parts of the dog coat. (Blue or Red – that produces the Fawn color). The symptoms of CMA can occur at any time from four months up to three years of age.
- Treatment – This condition is incurable and further skin infections and inflammation are possible, needing medication.
Von Willebrand’s Disease – this is an inherited blood disorder that prevents blood from clotting normally. It causes sudden and excessive bleeding such as nose bleeds, gum bleeding, or too much bleeding after surgery.
- Treatment – There is no cure only a blood transfusion will help with excessive blood loss.
Hip Dysplasia – an abnormality where the ball and socket of the hip joint are not a neat fit. Excessive movement can lead to further damage to the limbs, extreme pain possible bone disease such as arthritis.
- Treatment – Regular veterinary check-ups and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help manage the condition. Dogs with Hip Dysplasia should not be bred.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy – a degenerative disease of the retinal visual cells that can progress ultimately to blindness.
- Treatment – There is no known treatment that reverses the damage done by PRA. Some vitamin supplements may delay the progression to blindness but can’t prevent it indefinitely.
Wobbler’s Syndrome – Formally known as Cervical Vertebral Instability (CVI), affects Dobermans, leading to spinal cord compression at the neck’s base. This condition causes a wobbly, uncoordinated gait, hence the name. Symptoms include neck pain/stiffness, weakness, and partial or complete paralysis.
- Treatment – Anti-inflammatory medications and restricted activity to surgical interventions aimed at decompressing the spinal cord or stabilizing the affected vertebrae.
Other health issues include Hypothyroidism – a thyroid gland disorder, and heart muscle problems such as Cardiomyopathy.
Daily Life
Food and Diet
A high-quality kibble, or wet food high in animal protein and aminos, measured and divided into two meals a day is recommended. Spreading these even meals high in nutrients, helps maintain their muscular physique and overall health. As a medium to large sized dog, 3 to 4 cups per day, spread into these two meals should be plenty as a guide. Quantities may need to vary though depending on their life stage and their activity levels.
Exercise
They are a very active and energetic breed and need a lot of exercises every day. They also need lots of play sessions and mental stimulation to keep them physically and mentally fit. Walks at least twice a day should keep them from getting agitated or bored, but always on a leash. Even the most loyal Doberman should not be off the leash in public. If they do get loose of the leash, in my experience with ‘Robo’ they do eventually come back, but they are far to fast to catch, and they love to run. They would ideally suit a large fenced yard where they can run, but not where they can escape.
Family Compatability
The Doberman is one of the most obedient dog breeds for an owner that trains them properly. They are easy to train and want to please their master. When trained correctly in command and obedience this can make them a great family pet. They need to be trained from a very early age though to keep their guarding instincts in a positive pattern.
In families with young babies, they should not be left alone with children. They can be overly protective and anything they perceive as a threat they will respond to. That being said, they are often a loving member of the family. Reliable, protective while also affectionate. They can also get on well with other pets.
They are not suitable for apartment homes, or families in the city. Too much noise and hustle can keep their alert instincts switched on and busy. They need space and plenty time outdoors to adapt well to family life.
Training
Training should begin early, focusing on positive reinforcement techniques. They are incredibly intelligent and love to know who the boss is. Command and obedience training is essential as it helps them to understand their place in the hierarchy. This is critical for family dogs and also for good guard dogs that will respond on command. They are quick to learn, but the training should be consistent and repetitive. They respond well to praise and reward.
Socializing
Socialization to expose them to different people, animals, and situations will help to foster a well-rounded temperament. This should also start early, to help them get used to different situations as ‘normal’. If you don’t invest in this early on, they can remain very cautious and potentially aggressive toward strangers, other animals and potential visitors to the home. They can be a very intimidating dog if not well socialized. A dog like this needs a responsible owner that knows how to be in command.
Grooming
Doberman Pinscher’s are really easy to groom. They have a short, sleek coat with straight hairs and brushing is very easy. They don’t need much grooming, but a good brush at least once a week is good practice anyway because it’s good bonding time with your dog.
Regular bathing is advised, but not too often as they carry essential oils in their coat that are needed to keep their skin healthy. Once a month I would say, unless they are particularly smelly after a good, long and muddy walk.
Routine care of their nails, ears, and teeth will also help to keep them in top condition. You can measure by eye how regularly you need to maintain their nails. It’s keeping an eye on these things that often helps you spot any other health conditions early, before they have a change to develop.
Breed Traits
| Positive Traits | Negative Traits |
| Nobel-looking, athletic physique | Dangerous dog reputation |
| A loyal and protective companion, especially of young family members | Mischievous and destructive if bored or left alone |
| Alert and obedient – good guard or watch dog | Needs lots of exercise |
| Adaptable and aware of pending danger | Very strong physically and mentally – not advisable for first time dog owners and should be not be left alone with small children. |
| Likes to be very close to its owner | Some countries require this breed to be muzzled in public |
Breed FAQs
How much does a Doberman Pinscher puppy cost?
You should expect to pay anywhere between $1500- $2500 from a reputable breeder. A breeder that can provide adequate health certification is advisable to make sure you are investing in good stock.
Are Dobermans Hard To Own?
They are a dominant breed, and need an experience owner. They may be a bit too hard to handle for first time owners as they are both powerful and intelligent. They need to know who the boss is.
Summary
The Doberman Pinscher is a breed that commands respect and admiration. Their nature first and foremost is to protect. Beyond this they are affectionate, loyal companions capable of forming deep bonds with their families. With proper care, training, and socialization, the Doberman Pinscher is an absolute pleasure to own. But a dog of this size and character needs an experienced and capable owner.