Doberman Pinscher Puppies

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The Obedient, Alert, and Confident Doberman Pinscher

The Doberman is large, muscular, and intelligent. They have a reputation for being aggressive, but if they are socialized early they are loving and affectionate. Their size, fearlessness, and intelligence make them great protectors and watch dogs.


Doberman Pinscher At a Glance

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Doberman Pinscher At a Glance

  • Size: 25"-27", 65-90 lbs.
  • Lifespan: 10-13 years
  • Energy Level: high
  • Coat: Smooth and short
  • Shedding: moderate
  • Hypoallergenic: No
  • Dog Group: Working
  • Common Nicknames: Dobie, Doberman

Doberman Pinscher Breed Guide

Learn More About Doberman Pinschers

  • Temperament

    The Doberman Pinscher is an obedient, alert, and confident companion. These dogs are very loyal to their owners and will not hesitate to protect their family or home. However, Dobies are rarely aggressive without reason. Dobermans are extremely active and require a good deal of physical and mental stimulation to keep their energy level at bay. Without enough exercise, Doberman Pinschers can become hyperactive or destructive. Training a Doberman is on the easier side since they are fast learners and eager to please. Still, they're sometimes stubborn, so it's important that they receive firm, but kind, leadership. With strangers, the Dobie is typically reserved, but not aggressive. All in all, if you're searching for an active, loyal, and trustworthy companion, look no further than the Doberman Pinscher.

  • Health

    Dobermans are a sturdy breed, but they are susceptible to bloat, a digestive condition common in larger breeds. They can also be affected by genetic conditions like hip dysplasia, dilated cardiomyopathy, von Willebrand's disease, and progressive retinal atrophy.

  • Activity Level

    Dobermans are energetic and need a lot of exercise and playtime. They love long walks and hikes, and having a large fenced in area for them to free play is important for they mental and physical health. If Dobermans don't get enough exercise they can become destructive, and even aggressive.

  • Grooming

    Dobermans are fairly low maintenance, but a regular grooming routine will keep their coat shiny and healthy. A daily brushing with a bristle brush or grooming mit is a great way to bond with your Doberman, and will keep their coat in tip top shape. Their ears should be wiped out regularly with a damp towel or or paper towl with baby oil.

  • Shedding

    Dobermans will shed moderately year round, but their loose hair is easily managed with regular grooming practices.

  • Appearance

    Dobermans are large dogs with a long head and a sleak, muscular body. They have a short and shiny coat that can be black, red, blue, or fawn, and often features rust colorings around the face. Their ears are typically cropped to stand erect, and their tail is usually docked short.

  • History

    The Doberman Pinscher was developed in Germany during the late 19th century by a man named Louis Dobermann. Dobermann worked as a tax collector, a dangerous job because of bandits in the streets. Coincidentally, Dobermann was also the town dogcatcher, so he often took a pup along for protection while he was making his rounds. Eventually, Dobermann began breeding dogs in attempt to create the ideal companion and protector. The result was an early form of the Doberman Pinscher. It's uncertain exactly which dogs Dobermann used to create the breed, but many believe that the Dobie is a mix of Rottweilers, German Pinschers, and Black and Tan Terriers. After Dobermann's death, German breeders continued his work of breeding Doberman Pinschers, and the breed arrived in America in 1908. Over time, the Doberman Pinschers popularity continued to grow. In fact, it was named the second most popular breed in the United States in 1977.