Dobermann:

This breed is known for its outstanding intelligence, strength and excellent guarding ability. Dobermanns have not only a strong, harmonious build but also a sharp mind, which makes them ideal protectors and companions for people who value both security and a loyal friend. They learn quickly and suit active owners who can give them the physical and mental challenges they need.

Dobermann —

The Dobermann was developed in the late 19th century in Germany by Karl Friedrich Louis Dobermann, a tax collector who needed a dog to protect him on his rounds. His aim was a dog that combined the best qualities of guard and working breeds: protective of its owner, yet intelligent and obedient enough for other tasks. He crossed several breeds, believed to include the Rottweiler, the German Pinscher, the Manchester Terrier and others. The breed quickly became popular for its guarding ability and remarkable intelligence. Today Dobermanns work as police and service dogs and are also loyal family companions.

Breed history

Appearance

The Dobermann is a large dog with a beautifully balanced, muscular body. Height at the withers ranges from 63 to 72 cm and weight from 32 to 45 kg, depending on sex and build. These dogs are powerfully built, with a deep chest and strong legs.
The Dobermann's coat is short, dense and glossy, giving it a sleek, elegant look. It is usually black or brown with rust-red markings on the legs, chest and head. In the UK, ear cropping is illegal and tail docking is banned for this breed, so British Dobermanns have natural ears and tails.

Character and behaviour

The Dobermann has a strong protective instinct and needs guidance and training from its owner. These dogs are intelligent, loyal and very attached to their family. They can be reserved and wary with strangers, but with their owner they are affectionate, faithful and devoted. They love being the centre of attention and are eager to please, which makes them excellent partners in training.

Dobermanns are very energetic and need plenty of physical and mental activity: regular exercise, training, games and walks. Without enough exercise and stimulation a Dobermann can become bored and start behaving badly. They can get on well with children and make excellent family dogs, but their protective instinct means they should be supervised with young children and other animals. In Ireland, the Dobermann is on the list of restricted breeds: in public it must be muzzled and kept on a short, strong lead by someone over 16 who can control it.

Care and grooming

Caring for a Dobermann is fairly simple but needs attention in a few key areas. The short coat is easy to look after: regular brushing removes dead hair and keeps it shiny, and baths are needed only now and then. Exercise matters most: this breed needs regular, vigorous training, play and walks to avoid restlessness and destructive behaviour. Without enough exercise the dog can become nervous and irritable.

It is also important to keep an eye on the Dobermann's health, with regular vet check-ups and vaccinations, and to check the teeth, ears and eyes. The breed is prone to some inherited conditions, especially dilated cardiomyopathy (a heart disease), von Willebrand's disease and hip dysplasia, so choose a breeder who health-tests their dogs.

Pros and cons of the breed

cons

Need for activity

They need constant physical and mental exercise and are not suited to people with a sedentary lifestyle.

pros

Intelligence and trainability

They are easy to train, intelligent
and quick to learn.

Dobermann —

This is the perfect choice for people looking for a highly intelligent dog with excellent guarding ability that can be a loyal companion in an active life. Dobermanns need attention and proper training, but in return they become reliable and devoted friends. If you are ready to give your Dobermann the exercise, mental challenges and love it needs, it will be an excellent companion and protector for many years.