BREED DESCRIPTION & INFORMATION

Doberman Pinscher
CH Saxony's Duchess Alexandria *Tess*
Photo courtesy:
Anrich Reg'd Doberman & Miniature Pinschers

Breed Registries:


Note: The breed registries indicated above are the most recognized all-breed registries. The breed may also be recognized by other registries not indicated here. For further details about dog registries, please see the document: Dog Breed Registries in North America.

* — The FCI is the World Canine Organization, which includes 84 members and contract partners (one member per country) that each issue their own pedigrees and train their own judges. The FCI recognizes 339 breeds, with each being the "property" of a specific country. The "owner" countries of the breeds write the standards of these breeds in co-operation with the Standards and Scientific Commissions of the FCI, and the translation and updating are carried out by the FCI. The FCI is not a breed registry nor does it issue pedigrees.


Origin:

Germany

Height:

Males: 27½ inches (70 cm) - Females: 25½ inches (65 cm)

Breed Profile:

The Doberman Pinscher was originally developed by Louis Dobermann in Germany. Several breeds, including the German Pinscher, Rottweiler, Manchester Terrier, Greyhound, and others, were used to create a protective, alert and agile dog. During World War II, the breed made a name for himself for his bravery under fire.

Although the Doberman was originally bred as a guardian, he is also an excellent tracker and is often used for Search and Rescue as well as Police work. Truly a versatile breed, Dobermans have been used as herding dogs, hunting companions, guide dogs and therapy dogs.

The well-bred Doberman is affectionate and obedient. He is a people dog who becomes extremely devoted and loyal to his family. He is known for his intelligence and his uncanny reasoning ability. He is energetic, watchful, trainable, and courageous. Caution needs to be taken when encountering other dogs — while some Dobermans will enjoy playing with other dogs, others do not. It should also be noted that male Dobermans are known to be territorial and normally will not accept other males in any situation.

The Doberman is either black, red, blue and fawn (also called Isabella). Rust markings appear above the eyes and on the muzzle, throat, forechest, legs and feet and below the tail. He has a wedge shaped head with a well arched neck that flows into his shoulders and blends into a firm topline. He has an air of nobility giving the impression of aristocracy with a fearless and inquisitive expression in his dark eyes.

Health Issues

Dobermans are generally healthy but, like all breeds, they are susceptible to certain health problems. The Health Issues document includes information on some of the known health concerns found in the breed.

If you are considering the adoption of a Doberman Pinscher puppy, or any breed, it is very important to be selective in choosing a responsible and reputable breeder. Ensure that the prospective puppy's parents have all health clearances. Breeding of any dog should not be done until after they have been proven to be free of evidence of significant hereditary diseases. (For more information on selecting a breeder, see the articles on the main Breed Listing and Breeders page.)

Additional Health Resources:

Only Natural Pet Store

Breed Standards

AKC Doberman DVD
19 min. DVD Edition, Published by the American Kennel Club
Discussion of the breed standard: good structure and movement, acceptable colors, correct head, size. Developed for breeders, exhibitors and judges.
— Available from Dogwise.com

Grooming Information

  • Grooming — This section of the Canada's Guide to Dogs website includes tips, articles and information covering all aspects of dog grooming along with a listing of Groomers from across Canada.

Training Resources

Early socialization is very important for the Doberman Pinscher breed. He has a natural instinct to protect and any socialization or obedience training will not deter this instinct. However, further guardian training is not necessary.

  • Training — For training information, see this growing section of the Canada's Guide to Dogs website for tips, articles, as well as listings of training centres across Canada.

Training Tools & Equipment
Choose from a wide variety of items from Dogwise.com



Additional Information

Select from the following links to view Breeder listings; Breed Clubs; Rescue Organizations; as well as Books and other Merchandise specific to the breed:

Breeders  /  Breed Clubs  /  Rescues  /  Books & More