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Doberman Pinscher
The Doberman Pinscher is a brave and powerful breed that is devoted and highly intelligent. This native of Germany makes a good family dog.
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Breed Facts
Finding a Doberman Pinscher
Physical Characteristics
- Muscular and very powerful
- Coat: Close-fitting hair comes in black, black and tan, blue-gray, red and fawn
- Short, thick, hard hair that is tight to the body
- Dark eyes
- Height: 24-28 inches
- Weight: 66-88 pounds
- Average lifespan: 12 years
Temperament
- Intense, energetic, extremely strong, great stamina, fearless, assertive
- Interaction with people: Very people-oriented; likes to be physically close to family members. Must be with family instead of living in backyard
- Training: Needs early socialization to prevent over-protectiveness. Females are more difficult to train than males
Medical Conditions
- Acquired cardiac disorders (including cardiomyopathy)
- Albinism (mutated gene that produces severe health and temperament problems)
- Bloat
- Hip dysplasia
- Hypothyroidism
- Ophthalmic disorders (including progressive retinal atrophy)
- von Willebrand's Disease (blood disorder)
- Wobbler's Syndrome (caused by malformed vertebrae)
While the listed ailments may be common in this breed, not all members of the breed suffer from these conditions. Responsible breeders screen for orthopedic and genetic diseases.
At Home
- OK for apartments with sufficient exercise
- Needs average-sized yard
- Prefers warm climates
Grooming
- Needs little grooming
- Average shedder
Other Facts
- Life-size Doberman bronze statue called "Always Faithful" is located in Guam at the war dog cemetery at the U.S. naval base as a permanent monument
- Ch. Cambria Cactus Cash was the father of 144 American Kennel Club champions
- Breed was featured in the 1976 film "The Amazing Dobermans"
Breed History
- Developed in 1860s by crossing German pinschers with Rottweilers, Beauceron, pinschers, greyhounds and English greyhound
- Creator was Louis Dobermann, a German tax collector who created the breed as guard dog
- Found favor as a guard dog in Europe and America
For more information about this breed and breeder referral contacts, please visit the Doberman Pinscher Club of America For breed rescue opportunities, visit DPCA Rescue
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