by Ally Hart

Created on: May 05, 2009

Dog Breeds: Doberman Pinschers

They stand tall and proud on strong lean muscles with ears like radars and a bite as tough as their bark but yet with a loyal heart of gold, they are our Dobermans. A wonderful pet despite the rumors.

When one hears the name "doberman pinscher" they often think of those vicious, teeth baring guard dogs with a bad reputation for being unfriendly. Like any breed, without understanding judgement can easily be made although well bred, well trained Dobermans are the complete opposite to what the uneducated think.

Dobermans originate from Germany named after their creator Louis Dobermann. Several breeds were used to create this incredibly brave and agile breed such as German Pinscher, Rottweiler, grey hound and Manchester Terrier.

The Doberman was originally bred with guard dog in mind but also an animal that would be loyal to his family and protect his people. Doberman's have been used as well for police search and rescue for their acute hearing, sense of smell and determination. They grow approximately 25 1/2 - 75 1/2 inches in height and weight between 60-100lbs.

They have long thin legs and a thick muscular body, one of the fastest running dogs ever bred. A long snout hiding beautiful ivory teeth sharp enough to scare any burglar.

Personality wise doberman's truly are a "mans best friend". They take to one human as a "master" like most dogs but they adapt well to family environment as well taking command from any family member if properly trained. Doberman's can become aggressive when threatened or approached by someone outside their family circle including other animals although most doberman's are known to be great with other dogs especially ones smaller than them.

Doberman's have very acute hearing which makes them great guard dogs. They hear just about everything and by instinct will let their master know by either whining or barking. Your own alarm without the monthly cost (except food!)

Doberman's come in 4 colors; black, blue, red and fawn (also known as isabella, which I myself own) with rust color above the eyes, muzzle, neck, legs and under the tail. They have beautiful glossy short hair when propetly groomed as well.

Cropping maintenance of the ears, tail and thumbs are recommended for this breed. There are several different crops such as the military or long cut which stand taller and thinner, short cut or show which is a medium cut for show dogs.

Males have a tendancy to be more dominent like any breed but both sexes can be difficult to train due to stubourness. They usually outgrow the puppy behaviour by 4-6 years old.

Doberman's who are raised with children are amazing pets and very protective when it comes to family.

With your own patience and determination your doberman will be the best family pet you can have.

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