Are you on the market for a Doberman pinscher? If so, then you’ve come to the right place because below is the ultimate guide to the breed. Read on to learn all you need to know about the dog, and then you can decide whether or not a Doberman is right for you.
Appearance
Dobermans are known for being muscular and lean dogs. They usually have long tails and floppy ears, but some people have the dogs’ tails docked, and the ears clipped. The dogs are typically 24 to 28 inches in height while weighing between 60 to 100 pounds. Color-wise, their coats are usually black & rust, red & rust, or blue & rust.
Grooming
There is a lot of information about Doberman available online that says that they are easy to maintain, and a lot of grooming isn’t involved. Generally speaking, you’ll want to groom a Doberman at least once per week. You can use a grooming glove or a regular grooming brush.
Furthermore, spring and fall are when the dogs typically shed their coats. During the fall and spring seasons, you might want to groom the dog twice per week. Doing this will reduce the amount of loose hairs.
The only time you’ll need to bathe a Doberman is when they get really dirty. For their nails, trimming them once per month should be good enough. It is essential to stay on top of trimming their nails because Dobermans are very active and enjoy running around a lot.
Temperament & Personality
Doberman Pinschers are known for being fearless dogs, as well as entirely devoted to their owners. They’re also known for being laser focus. They may look like a fierce dog, but the truth is, by nature, they are sensitive and loving dogs. Many people consider them to be gentle giants, but they may become territorial when they are around dogs of the same sex.
However, if you train your Doberman properly to become socialized, they shouldn’t have any issues getting along with same-sex dogs. Also, be prepared for an active dog because they have a ton of energy, and they are highly intelligent, which is why sometimes they may show behavioural problems.
Although these dogs are large, they prefer to be indoors. Most Dobermans like to be inside with their families, laying on a dog bed or a large comfy couch. Just keep in mind that if you do not adequately train a Doberman, they can become very stubborn and exhibit dominating behaviour. This is why it is crucial to socialize them as soon as possible and ensure you stick to the training regime.
Training & Exercise
For starters, Dobermans require an owner who is hands-on and can be patient during training. Here’s a tip, you’ll want to make training both exciting and fun for your dog. Furthermore, they will not respond well if you constantly punish them for not listening to commands, so while you are training them, you should stick to positive reinforcement tactics. This includes giving them a treat when they listen or give them a lot of praise.
Another tip is to start obedience training from an early age. The younger the Doberman is, the easier it will be to get them to do what you want them to do. However, if you get a Doberman older, then remain patient, stern, and use positive reinforcement. Eventually, they will grasp what you’re trying to tell them.
Ideal Home Type
The ideal type of home is an active home, and they do very well in homes where their owners can spend a lot of time with them daily. Ideally, the owner should be hands-on, and they should have at least some experience with owning a dog or experience with dogs in general. If you know many dogs and have the experience, then a Doberman may be right for you.
Another good thing about Dobermans is they are suitable for families that have other pets and/or kids. Those who are singles or are very active tend to make good owners for a Doberman. If you’re active and enjoy doing things like jogging, then you’ll love owning a Doberman.
The only downside is Doberman dogs are not suitable for apartments. They are large dogs with a lot of energy; therefore, you should have sufficient space for them. It’s usually best to have a good-sized yard for them to play in or run around in, especially if you’re busy and can’t get them out for regular walks.
Now you know more about Doberman pinscher dogs. As you can see, they are great dogs to own, but you should be prepared to put in a lot of work when it comes to training. All you have to do now is consider the above information and then decide whether you should still get a Doberman.