If you’re looking for a protector in dog form, you’ve found it in the Doberman Pinscher. This fearless, courageous dog is highly protective of their humans, becoming the most loyal companion you could ask for. Their dignified looks, sleek and powerful physique, and high intelligence mask the fact that underneath, this is a fun-loving, affectionate, and family-oriented dog. Always up for adventure, the Doberman is an energetic athlete who thrives on physical activity and being the centre of attention. They’re velcro dogs who bond strongly to their humans and are happiest by your side, whether that’s pounding the pavements or cuddling on the couch.
Doberman Pinscher Facts
Doberman Pinschers are large dogs, growing up to 71cm tall and weighing up to 45kg. Strong and powerful, their distinctive look is helped by their sleek short coat which only has 4 colour variations.
- Breed Group: Working
- Height: Female: 60-66cm, Male: 66-71cm
- Weight: Female: 27-40kg, Male: 35-45kg
- Life Span: 10-12 years
- Coat: Smooth, short
- Colour: Black and rust, red and rust, fawn and rust or blue and rust
What Does a Doberman Pinscher Look Like?
A Doberman Pinscher looks like the somewhat intimidating guard dog they were bred to be. These large dogs have a slender, athletic, muscular and powerful silhouette. But it’s not just their shape that’s distinctive, their sleek coat is too. Coming in just 4 colours, Dobies’ coats are solid black, red, fawn or blue with splashes of rust (brown) over their muzzles, feet and legs. With their wedge-shaped head and graceful, easy way of moving, these are regal-looking dogs.
Dobermans have hound-like ears - relaxed, long and floppy and their tails are long and curled, growing up to 30cm.
Doberman Pinscher
Doberman Pinscher Temperament: Surprisingly Sweet
Doberman Pinschers are named for Louis Dobermann (the last 'n' has been lost to history!) who first bred the Doberman in 19th century Germany. A tax collector, Louis wanted to breed a dog that was an imposing yet dependable protector, a faithful companion on his rounds. The Doberman, or ‘tax collector’s dog’ was born. Doberman's quickly gained a reputation as an excellent working dog, something they continue to do today as police and military dogs.
For this reason, Dobermans are known for their intimidating looks and for being excellent guard dogs, thanks to being highly intelligent, athletic and alert. They take their job seriously, which makes these dogs very protective of their families.
However, with proper training, socialisation and routine, Dobermans are fun, affectionate and loving family members. So loving in fact that Dobermans are velcro dogs who become very attached to their humans. They thrive on being the centre of attention and wherever their humans are is where they want to be. Dobermans suit active families well who will take them on daily adventures. Guard dogs they might have been bred to be but a Doberman is an indoor dog and won’t take kindly to be left outside alone. Very quickly you’ll find a Doberman becomes the heart of your home - and they wouldn’t have it any other way.
Keeping Doberman Pinschers Healthy: 5 Issues to Watch Out For
Most big dogs are prone to a range of health issues and Doberman Pinschers are no exception. Keep an eye out for these 5 issues to help your Doberman live a long, healthy life.
Bloat
Because of their deep chest, Doberman are at risk of bloat, also known as Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV). Serious and life-threatening, bloat causes their stomach to fill with gas and become twisted. Signs of bloat include pacing, a swollen or hard belly that might be painful to touch, restlessness, retching but not being able to vomit, excessive drooling and panting. Bloat needs immediate medical attention so get them to the vet ASAP. Help keep your Doberman safe from bloat by using a slow feeding bowl and not exercising them for at least 1 hour before or after mealtimes.
Hip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia can affect any dog, but it’s more common in larger breeds like Dobermans. It’s when the hip joint doesn’t fit properly, causing pain, limping and lameness. Although it can get worse over time, there are a range of treatment options from weight management to surgery. Hip dysplasia is inherited so responsible breeders should screen for it.
Heart Problems
Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is often seen in Dobermans. This disease affects the heart muscle, weakening it so it can’t pump blood effectively. Over time, the heart becomes large and Doberman are at risk of developing abnormal heart rhythms and even heart failure. Annual vet check ups can monitor the health of your Doberman’s heart and pick up any early signs. DCM is inherited so again, should be screened for in breeding dogs.
Von Willebrand Disease (VWD)
VWD affects your dog’s blood clotting ability. This leads to excessive bleeding when they’re injured or during surgery or birth. It’s unlikely you’ll know if your Doberman has it until they get badly injured, give birth or have surgery. It’s thought that over 70% of Dobermans are carriers of VWD, although not all suffer from it. As a genetic disorder, your vet can screen your dog for it.
Wobbler Syndrome
Larger dogs, especially Dobermans, are prone to Wobbler Syndrome, which is an issue with the spinal cord in their neck. Not only can it cause pain (a lot of it), it can affect their legs, especially the hind ones. Symptoms include weakness, a lack of coordination, lameness or stiffness in their legs, neck pain or stiffness and paralysis. Symptoms can appear once Dobermans are around 6 years old and it can be managed with medication or surgery. Sadly, there's no cure.
Caring for Your Doberman Pinscher Dog
Doberman Pinscher’s sleek, smooth short coat doesn’t need much to keep it looking its best. Instead, your time will be spent together - training, socialising and exercising to help your Doberman be the best they can be.
Grooming:
Low-fuss, low-care pretty much sums up a Doberman’s grooming needs. Low shedding, their coat just needs a brush a few times a week. A short-bristled brush or a grooming mitt is a good choice for a shiny, healthy coat.
Their ears should also be gently cleaned every few days. Use wipes or some cotton wool or a cloth with warm water. Baths aren’t a regular thing and should be done on an as-needed basis (like if they’ve taken an impromptu mud bath).
Trim their nails at least every month and brush their teeth every day to keep their guard dog gnashers in great shape. The good thing about a Doberman is that they love spending quality time with their humans so they should enjoy your regular grooming sessions
Nutrition:
Hard-working and energetic, Dobermans need top quality commercial dog food that gives them the energy they need to thrive. Make sure it’s suited to their life stage and large breed size: puppy, adult or senior. Feeding a mix of dry kibble and wet food not only provides a balanced diet but gives their teeth a clean at the same time.
Exercise:
As a large dog, a Doberman is packing a lot of large dog energy. These energetic athletes need a lot of exercise and free play every day to keep them physically and mentally stimulated - at least 1 hour. Long daily walks or hikes will form part of your everyday life together. As will time spent in a large, well-fenced area where they can stretch their long, powerful legs.
With their high energy levels, Dobermans suit high-paced activity like running and cycling. A few times a week they’ll love the exercise of running alongside you. Try to take it easy at first and build them up to your activity level. You can even try taking your Doberman swimming, most Doberman are water pups.
Keep Doberman mentally stimulated through games (they’re smart dogs and can easily pick up things like hide and seek and tug of war), puzzle toys or enrolling them in dog sports, like agility.
Training
The good news: Dobermans are intelligent dogs that learn and respond quickly and make fun, loving companions. They’re also easy to train. The not-so-good news: if not raised properly, Doberman can become pushy, destructive and unmanageable. They’re very strong, large, powerful dogs.
This means early socialisation, puppy training classes and obedience training is absolutely essential, starting from as young as possible. Investing in a dog harness is a good idea, as it can help give you more control over a dog that pulls a lot on the lead during walks. Although if this happens a lot, it’s a sign that your dog needs more training.
Sure, they might be large but Dobermans are sensitive dogs who require a calm, patient, gentle hand. Positive reinforcement works best. Seek out a qualified dog trainer in your area who can help you shape your Dobie into a well-mannered family member.