A Complete Guide to Doberman Pinschers
The Doberman Pinscher (spelled Dobermann Pinscher in some countries) is an athletic breed of dog that is prized for its loyalty and intelligence. Throughout history, this breed has often been used as a guard dog or police dog.
Although it is similar in appearance, the breed of dog often called the Miniature Doberman Pinscher is not actually a Doberman. In fact, the Miniature Pinscher is a unique breed and it predates the Doberman Pinscher by 200 years.
Appearance
Height: Male Dobermans are typically 26 inches to 28 inches in height. Females are typically 24 inches to 26 inches in height.
Weight: Male Dobermans typically weigh between 75 pounds and 100 pounds. Females typically weigh between 60 pounds and 90 pounds.
Coat: A Doberman's coat is smooth, short and thick. Color may vary, but is typically dark.
Ears and Eyes: The development of a Doberman's ears depends on how they are treated early in the dog's life. Some breeders crop them to stand erect, but this practice is becoming less common (and is illegal in many countries).
Tail: Some breeders dock the tail of Dobermans when they are only a few days old, although this practice is banned in many countries. If not docked, the tail of a Doberman resembles that of a hound.
Disposition
Doberman Pinschers are highly energetic and extremely strong. They are also very affectionate. Behavioral problems may occur if the dog senses that it has authority over its owner, so it is essential that owners be firm, confident and consistent in their discipline. A Doberman must know its place in the pack (as a follower) at all times.
Related Search Topics (Ads):
AKC Group: Working
Training: Dobermans require regular human interaction and leadership. They are very easy to train.
Ideal Environment: Provided they receive enough exercise time, a Doberman can live in an apartment or condo. Dobermans are sensitive to cold weather, so they should not be left outdoors in cooler climates.
Health and Care
Feeding: A Doberman Pinscher should be fed two smaller meals a day, rather than one large meal. This will help reduce bloat. High quality dog food is advised, as it will provide your dog with all of the nutrients it needs to thrive.
Grooming: Doberman Pinschers have short hair and their coats do not require much maintenance. Regular brushing and the occasional shampooing with a good quality dog shampoo should be sufficient.
Exercise: Doberman Pinschers are very energetic and difficult to tire out. They require daily exercise. A long walk or a job should suffice.
Health Problems: This is a breed of dog that is generally healthy, but it is susceptible to health problems including bloat, cancer, hypothyroidism and Von Willebrands Disease (VWD).
Average Lifespan: The average Doberman Pinscher lives for about 13 years.
Find a Doberman Pinscher to Take Home
Prospective Doberman owners can provide abandoned, unwanted or abused Doberman Pinschers loving new homes by contacting local animal shelters and animal rescue organizations. Alternately, certified Doberman Pinscher breeders are a great place to look for Doberman Pinscher puppies for sale. The Primary advantage of purchasing a dog from a breeder is that dog's parentage can be screened and controlled.