History

The Doberman Pinscher’s history goes back to the late 19th century, when Louis Dobermann, a tax collector, felt the need for a guard dog to accompany him during his trips to areas that were infested with robbers. He started a dog breeding process with breeds such as Rottweiler, Manchester Terrier, and Beauceron to achieve qualities like alertness, aggression, intelligence, massiveness, looks etc. After Louis Dobermann died, another breed was added to the bloodline, the Greyhound, which gave the Doberman Pinscher added height, stamina, and the speed. A near extinction during the World Wars, but subsequent importing of these dogs into America, shielded the breed from going into oblivion. The dog is popularly known as Doberman.

Appearance

A muscular, medium-sized body with a square profile, the Doberman Pinscher has a broad chest, short back, straight legs, cropped and erect ears, and short and close-fitting coat in black, black & tan, red, fawn etc. The Doberman Pinscher’s tail is usually docked in puppyhood, but it can be left to grow naturally. The same applies for its ears. Strong, scissor bite teeth and dark eyes are its other features.

Color

Allowed colors in the Doberman Pinscher breed include black, red, blue and fawn. Black is the most common color and the most recognizable.

Personality

A wonderful guard dog, the Doberman Pinscher is highly intelligent, energetic, and alert. The breed is very easy to train and has great amounts of strength and stamina. It is naturally fearless and loyal, and loves a confident and courageous owner. Dominant by nature, this breed needs to identify the boss. Protective of their owners, Doberman Pinschers are not as aggressive as they are made out to be. Positive, encouraging and effective handling will ensure a good tempered dog, which is great with kids and gentle with patients during therapy.

Health Concerns

Dilated cardiomyopathy, Wobbler disease and Willebrand's disease are the most common health concerns in Doberman Pinscher. Other health issues are hip dysplasia, cancer, hypothyroidism, progressive retinal atrophy, cataracts etc.

Recognized By

CKC, FCI, AKC, UKC, ANKC, NKC, NZKC, APRI, ACR