Doberman Pinscher
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Appearance
| Doberman Pinscher Quick Summary | |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | Doberman |
| Origin | Germany |
| Size | Large |
| Height (at withers) | 24-28in (61-71cm) |
| Weight | 65-90lbs (30-41kg) |
| Hair Colour(s) | |
| Lifespan | 8-13 years |
| Energy Level | Medium |
| Litter size | 3-8 |
| Shedding | Medium |
| Grooming | Low |
| Barking Tendency | High |
| Exercise requirements | Medium |
| Ease of training | High |
| Suitability for kids | Low |
| Animal compatability | Medium |
| Aggression levels | High |
| Distress if left | Medium |
The Doberman Pinscher is a large and powerful yet graceful dog with an alert demeanour. It has a well-proportioned chest area with a toned neck supporting a powerful muzzle. The short hound-like ears were once removed at 12 weeks before this was outlawed. The coat is short and sleek and comes in a variety of colours including black, grey, black and tan, fawn, red, and white.
Temperament
Doberman Pinschers are noble, alertand very loving dogs with even and well balanced temperaments. They are creative and intelligent and very quick to learn, and often excel at obedience training as long as it is positive. Plenty of physical and mental stimulation must be provided, otherwise they can grow bored and restless, which can result in destructive behaviour. As they can be stubborn and strong willed, owners need to be confident and assertive and so perhaphs they are suited more to those with some experience of owning dogs. Also, take note that these dogs do not like being teased or treated roughly. Doberman Pinschers get along on well with children they have been raised with, but are not suitable for small kids due to their large size. They will get on with other pets too, but will probably be dominant over them, and may chase smaller animals such as cats or rabbits. Around strangers they tend to be reserved. These tendencies can be curbed through early socialisation. Dobermans are fearless and protective of loved ones and will fight when provoked, and will not back down unless trained to, which makes them effective as guard dogs - the very thing they were bred for.
History & Skills
Doberman Pinschers originate from Germany and are a relatively new breed. Taking their name from the person that developed them, one Louis Dobermann, they are believed to be a mix of Pinschers, German Pinschers, Greyhounds, Rottweilers, Beaucerons, and English Greyhounds. This fusion was carried out during the 1860s, when Louis Dobermann was trying to create a reliable bodyguard come guard dog for his own protection.
Breed Specific Ailments
Doberman Pinschers tend to live between 8-13 years and are often healthy, but some of the health related problems noted in this breed inlude cancer, bloat, vWD, thyroid problems, hip dysplasia and liver problems. Because of the fusion of their neck vertebrae and the compression of the spine, Dobermans are prone to cervical spondylitis, also known as wobbler syndrome.
Grooming
Doberman Pinschers are medium shedders with low grooming requirements. Their coats only need occasional brushing to keep them looking good, plus the odd wipe down with a damp cloth. These dogs may shed more heavily on a seasonal basis, which means grooming may need increasing during these times.
Exercise & Environment
Doberman Pinschers tend to live indoors as they are sensitive to cold. They will need a decent daily walk and preferably access to a yard or garden area.