FAQs
Why a Doberman Pinscher ?
While you will find many loyal owners of other breeds, you will be hard pressed to find many who would give up their lives for their breed...or vice versa. Dobermans are intensely loyal and intuitive: they can readily distinguish between friend and foe, and a well bred, well-socialized Dobe will be able then to act accordingly. The Doberman is sleek, noble, regal, and athletic. It is a short haired “wash and wear” breed. It is a medium-sized dog, compact, muscular and powerful. The correct Dobe temperament is “watchful, alert, determined, fearless, loyal and obedient.” (from The Official Standard of the Doberman Pinscher)
Are Doberman Pinschers good with children?
It depends—on the breeder, the owner, and the kids. Well-bred, well-socialized Dobes make wonderful companions for every member of the family, and Dobermans can be raised successfully with children. However, parents should be sure to locate a reputable breeder who is familiar with matching individual temperaments with the needs of the family, and who has consistently and widely socialized the pups. Generally speaking, Dobermans are
devoted companions to children if care is given to assure that the safety of both is met. A cautionary note: Dobes are protective of their families, so homes with children should make it a priority to introduce their Dobe to all visitors and playmates so that the Dobe understands the “extended
family.”
What is the difference between pet and show quality?
In a well-bred litter, the differences will be negligible. Reputable breeders try to breed to meet the official standard of the Doberman Pinscher Club of America (www.dpca.org) but usually all litters will have some pups who have minor flaws in conformation or subtle differences in personality which would prevent them from obtaining championships. The care and socialization is the same for all pups in the litter.
Should I get a male or a female or both?
Which gender you choose depends mostly on lifestyle and preference. Bitches (females), if not spayed, will usually have two “heats” a year during which they will have a discharge for approximately three weeks and will be attractive to males. At this time, great care must be taken to prevent accidental breeding. Any female which is bought purely for a pet (not show) should be spayed prior to her first heat.
Bitches generally are a bit more intelligent and can be more manipulative and protective, but this is only a generalization. Male Dobermans generally are a bit more affectionate (generalization) and a bit less manipulative. The have a habit of marking their territory by urinating and can become boisterous and very agitated when around a female in heat. Any male which is bought purely for a pet (not show) should be neutered prior to one year of age.
It is not a good idea to get two puppies at the same time. Raised together, they will tend to bond to each other more closely than to their family. Also, there is a chance that the two dogs will slip into a “pack” mentality and chase down smaller animals. The optimum time to add another dog to your family, should you desire, is at about three years of age. And many reputable breeders will never sell you a male if you already have a male Doberman in your household. While there are incidents of two males living together peacefully, it is widely believed to be a recipe for disaster down the road and a potential safety issue, both for the owners and the dogs.
Are Doberman Pinschers good with other pets?
They can be. Given the proper socialization and training, Dobes live well with cats and other small animals. Care should be taken to assure that the ever exuberant Dobe does not accidentally injure smaller companions.
Are Dobermans non-allergenic?
Dobermans have a short, hard, close-lying coat, which is generally non-allergenic. They do shed---short, hard hairs, which can irritate the skin on SOME people. The coat is easy to care for and requires minimal grooming or bathing.
Do Dobermans require much exercise?
In a word—YES! While Dobermans can and do exist as couch potatoes, their desire is for exercise, specifically exercise with YOU! Dobes are great outdoor companions and can participate in almost any activity. They need to regularly gallop and like nothing better than to romp with their housemates, canine or human.
What sorts of activities can I do with my Dobe?
Your activity list will only be limited to your imagination. Dobes are readily adaptable and trainable to most all activities: obedience, agility, rally, herding, therapy and service work, cart-pulling, tracking, and even hunting and ice fishing! Check out the American Kennel Club’s (www.akc.org) website for information regarding activities. There is also an organization, (Pilot Dobes) that successfully trains and places Dobermans as seeing-eye dogs. Dobermans are extremely intelligent and they bore easily. Left unattended for long periods of time, they will find things to amuse themselves—and those things (digging, chewing, barking, etc.) will probably not amuse you.
How long to Doberman Pinschers live?
NEVER LONG ENOUGH! Dobermans do have more than their share of health issues. The average life expectancy is thought to be approximately 9
years. There are Dobes who do live much longer, and a buyer should inquire of the breeder about the ages and causes of death in his/her line.
What are the health issues?
Dobermans suffer mostly from the three C’s---cardiomyopathy (heart disease), CVI- cervical vertebrae instability (a spinal degeneration) and cancer. Other diseases plaguing our breed include hypothyroidism, chronic active hepatitis (a degenerative liver disease), and color dilution alopecia (thinning
of the hair coat.) Puppy buyers should inquire carefully about health issues affecting dogs in the breeder’s pedigree and what health testing has been
done.
Do Dobermans bark a lot?
They can. Although most, if properly raised and trained, will bark to alert their families of perceived threats. Inappropriate barking can be curbed with
proper training.
Are Dobermans easily trained?
Yes. For Dobermans, obedience training is a must! In fact, a Doberman bores easily, so training sessions should be short. Dobes master commands
very quickly, but should be trained in a firm, fair, and non-punishing manner. Your breeder or local vet can help you locate a good, effective trainer or
class.
Should I breed my Doberman?
Breeding good, well-adjusted, healthy Doberman Pinschers is a challenge. You first should determine whether your dog or bitch closely meets the conformation
standard (see the official DPCA standard) and is free of disqualifying faults and negative genetic traits. Is s/he a worthy specimen of the breed? Has s/he
proven his/her worth in a variety of recognized evaluative competitions? Breeding is expensive, both monetarily and emotionally. To meet all expenses, including emergency ones, the DPCA recommends that you have at least $4000 saved before you consider breeding. Reputable breeding seldom makes a profit. Often you will just cover your expenses. The health of the bitch is always at stake as well as the health of the puppies. Screening homes to provide proper placement is time consuming and frustrating. You will also need to give up many weeks of social events and employment time in order to adequately care for the dam and the pups. You need to have plans in case the puppies all do not sell at 8-10 weeks. And reputable breeders will always guarantee to take their dogs back should circumstance dictate. Do you have the facilities to make that guarantee? Breeding should be left to the people who have done it for years and who have successful track records. It is MUCH easier (and cheaper) to buy a good puppy from a reliable breeder.
My breeder wants me to sign a contract. Should I?
Breeders usually have contracts to protect their puppies from neglect, abuse, and irresponsible breeding. Reputable breeders will guarantee to provide
support and assistance as well as a continuing interest and commitment to the puppy and its owner(s). As with any contract, you should be totally comfortable with all the terms and conditions before you sign. Read it carefully and ask questions.
Where can I find a good breeder?
The best place to start is with the Doberman Pinscher Club of America (DPCA) (www.dpca.org). There you will find a wealth of information regarding the breed as well as a list of Doberman chapter clubs. Contact your local club and attend a meeting. The website www.infodog.com will
list upcoming shows in your area where you can meet breeders, exhibitors and their dogs. Research the breed carefully and ask lots of questions (See
Questions to Ask Breeders)
Should I get a Doberman from a rescue organization?
ABSOLUTELY! If you have no intention of showing and subsequently breeding your Dobe, adopting a rescue Dobe is a wonderful way to gain a loving companion. Rescue organizations rehome thousands of Dobermans each year. Some have been abused and/or neglected, but many other have been turned in because their owners have neither the time nor the desire to train them correctly. You will find all ages and colors in rescue, and, if the thought of having a mischievous puppy underfoot is not appealing, rescue can provide you with a more mature Dobe. Especially in need are those senior Dobes who deserve to live out the remainder of their lives in the company of a loving, attentive family. The Pine Tree State Doberman Pinscher Club works closely with Doberman Rescue Unlimited (www.dru.org) in Sandown, NH.
Are there any negatives to owning a Doberman?
Though most Dobe owners will tell you they would never be without a Dobe, Dobermans are NOT for everyone. They are high energy, powerful, and extremely intelligent. And, depending on your lifestyle, may be too much in need of your companionship. If you want a dog to lie quietly in front of the fire while you watch TV, then perhaps a Dobe is not for you. They will DEMAND your attention and INSIST on being with you if at all possible.
Sadly, Dobermans are also the victims of unenlightened and prejudiced Breed Specific Legislation (BSL) and are targeted by some insurance
companies as potentially “vicious” dogs, thus disqualifying owners from procuring insurance. In a few communities, the owning of a Doberman is
prohibited. Prospective buyers should always check with their individual insurance companies before bringing home a puppy. And myths still abound in the general public regarding the temperaments of Dobermans as a breed. Owners should commit themselves to raising the best representative of the breed they are able and to educating the general public about the true nature of a well-bred, well-socialized and well-trained Doberman.
What if I have other questions?
By all means, contact the Pine Tree State Doberman Pinscher Club ([email protected]) and our Public Education Coordinator will be happy to speak with you in person or via e-mail.
Why a Doberman Pinscher ?
While you will find many loyal owners of other breeds, you will be hard pressed to find many who would give up their lives for their breed...or vice versa. Dobermans are intensely loyal and intuitive: they can readily distinguish between friend and foe, and a well bred, well-socialized Dobe will be able then to act accordingly. The Doberman is sleek, noble, regal, and athletic. It is a short haired “wash and wear” breed. It is a medium-sized dog, compact, muscular and powerful. The correct Dobe temperament is “watchful, alert, determined, fearless, loyal and obedient.” (from The Official Standard of the Doberman Pinscher)
Are Doberman Pinschers good with children?
It depends—on the breeder, the owner, and the kids. Well-bred, well-socialized Dobes make wonderful companions for every member of the family, and Dobermans can be raised successfully with children. However, parents should be sure to locate a reputable breeder who is familiar with matching individual temperaments with the needs of the family, and who has consistently and widely socialized the pups. Generally speaking, Dobermans are
devoted companions to children if care is given to assure that the safety of both is met. A cautionary note: Dobes are protective of their families, so homes with children should make it a priority to introduce their Dobe to all visitors and playmates so that the Dobe understands the “extended
family.”
What is the difference between pet and show quality?
In a well-bred litter, the differences will be negligible. Reputable breeders try to breed to meet the official standard of the Doberman Pinscher Club of America (www.dpca.org) but usually all litters will have some pups who have minor flaws in conformation or subtle differences in personality which would prevent them from obtaining championships. The care and socialization is the same for all pups in the litter.
Should I get a male or a female or both?
Which gender you choose depends mostly on lifestyle and preference. Bitches (females), if not spayed, will usually have two “heats” a year during which they will have a discharge for approximately three weeks and will be attractive to males. At this time, great care must be taken to prevent accidental breeding. Any female which is bought purely for a pet (not show) should be spayed prior to her first heat.
Bitches generally are a bit more intelligent and can be more manipulative and protective, but this is only a generalization. Male Dobermans generally are a bit more affectionate (generalization) and a bit less manipulative. The have a habit of marking their territory by urinating and can become boisterous and very agitated when around a female in heat. Any male which is bought purely for a pet (not show) should be neutered prior to one year of age.
It is not a good idea to get two puppies at the same time. Raised together, they will tend to bond to each other more closely than to their family. Also, there is a chance that the two dogs will slip into a “pack” mentality and chase down smaller animals. The optimum time to add another dog to your family, should you desire, is at about three years of age. And many reputable breeders will never sell you a male if you already have a male Doberman in your household. While there are incidents of two males living together peacefully, it is widely believed to be a recipe for disaster down the road and a potential safety issue, both for the owners and the dogs.
Are Doberman Pinschers good with other pets?
They can be. Given the proper socialization and training, Dobes live well with cats and other small animals. Care should be taken to assure that the ever exuberant Dobe does not accidentally injure smaller companions.
Are Dobermans non-allergenic?
Dobermans have a short, hard, close-lying coat, which is generally non-allergenic. They do shed---short, hard hairs, which can irritate the skin on SOME people. The coat is easy to care for and requires minimal grooming or bathing.
Do Dobermans require much exercise?
In a word—YES! While Dobermans can and do exist as couch potatoes, their desire is for exercise, specifically exercise with YOU! Dobes are great outdoor companions and can participate in almost any activity. They need to regularly gallop and like nothing better than to romp with their housemates, canine or human.
What sorts of activities can I do with my Dobe?
Your activity list will only be limited to your imagination. Dobes are readily adaptable and trainable to most all activities: obedience, agility, rally, herding, therapy and service work, cart-pulling, tracking, and even hunting and ice fishing! Check out the American Kennel Club’s (www.akc.org) website for information regarding activities. There is also an organization, (Pilot Dobes) that successfully trains and places Dobermans as seeing-eye dogs. Dobermans are extremely intelligent and they bore easily. Left unattended for long periods of time, they will find things to amuse themselves—and those things (digging, chewing, barking, etc.) will probably not amuse you.
How long to Doberman Pinschers live?
NEVER LONG ENOUGH! Dobermans do have more than their share of health issues. The average life expectancy is thought to be approximately 9
years. There are Dobes who do live much longer, and a buyer should inquire of the breeder about the ages and causes of death in his/her line.
What are the health issues?
Dobermans suffer mostly from the three C’s---cardiomyopathy (heart disease), CVI- cervical vertebrae instability (a spinal degeneration) and cancer. Other diseases plaguing our breed include hypothyroidism, chronic active hepatitis (a degenerative liver disease), and color dilution alopecia (thinning
of the hair coat.) Puppy buyers should inquire carefully about health issues affecting dogs in the breeder’s pedigree and what health testing has been
done.
Do Dobermans bark a lot?
They can. Although most, if properly raised and trained, will bark to alert their families of perceived threats. Inappropriate barking can be curbed with
proper training.
Are Dobermans easily trained?
Yes. For Dobermans, obedience training is a must! In fact, a Doberman bores easily, so training sessions should be short. Dobes master commands
very quickly, but should be trained in a firm, fair, and non-punishing manner. Your breeder or local vet can help you locate a good, effective trainer or
class.
Should I breed my Doberman?
Breeding good, well-adjusted, healthy Doberman Pinschers is a challenge. You first should determine whether your dog or bitch closely meets the conformation
standard (see the official DPCA standard) and is free of disqualifying faults and negative genetic traits. Is s/he a worthy specimen of the breed? Has s/he
proven his/her worth in a variety of recognized evaluative competitions? Breeding is expensive, both monetarily and emotionally. To meet all expenses, including emergency ones, the DPCA recommends that you have at least $4000 saved before you consider breeding. Reputable breeding seldom makes a profit. Often you will just cover your expenses. The health of the bitch is always at stake as well as the health of the puppies. Screening homes to provide proper placement is time consuming and frustrating. You will also need to give up many weeks of social events and employment time in order to adequately care for the dam and the pups. You need to have plans in case the puppies all do not sell at 8-10 weeks. And reputable breeders will always guarantee to take their dogs back should circumstance dictate. Do you have the facilities to make that guarantee? Breeding should be left to the people who have done it for years and who have successful track records. It is MUCH easier (and cheaper) to buy a good puppy from a reliable breeder.
My breeder wants me to sign a contract. Should I?
Breeders usually have contracts to protect their puppies from neglect, abuse, and irresponsible breeding. Reputable breeders will guarantee to provide
support and assistance as well as a continuing interest and commitment to the puppy and its owner(s). As with any contract, you should be totally comfortable with all the terms and conditions before you sign. Read it carefully and ask questions.
Where can I find a good breeder?
The best place to start is with the Doberman Pinscher Club of America (DPCA) (www.dpca.org). There you will find a wealth of information regarding the breed as well as a list of Doberman chapter clubs. Contact your local club and attend a meeting. The website www.infodog.com will
list upcoming shows in your area where you can meet breeders, exhibitors and their dogs. Research the breed carefully and ask lots of questions (See
Questions to Ask Breeders)
Should I get a Doberman from a rescue organization?
ABSOLUTELY! If you have no intention of showing and subsequently breeding your Dobe, adopting a rescue Dobe is a wonderful way to gain a loving companion. Rescue organizations rehome thousands of Dobermans each year. Some have been abused and/or neglected, but many other have been turned in because their owners have neither the time nor the desire to train them correctly. You will find all ages and colors in rescue, and, if the thought of having a mischievous puppy underfoot is not appealing, rescue can provide you with a more mature Dobe. Especially in need are those senior Dobes who deserve to live out the remainder of their lives in the company of a loving, attentive family. The Pine Tree State Doberman Pinscher Club works closely with Doberman Rescue Unlimited (www.dru.org) in Sandown, NH.
Are there any negatives to owning a Doberman?
Though most Dobe owners will tell you they would never be without a Dobe, Dobermans are NOT for everyone. They are high energy, powerful, and extremely intelligent. And, depending on your lifestyle, may be too much in need of your companionship. If you want a dog to lie quietly in front of the fire while you watch TV, then perhaps a Dobe is not for you. They will DEMAND your attention and INSIST on being with you if at all possible.
Sadly, Dobermans are also the victims of unenlightened and prejudiced Breed Specific Legislation (BSL) and are targeted by some insurance
companies as potentially “vicious” dogs, thus disqualifying owners from procuring insurance. In a few communities, the owning of a Doberman is
prohibited. Prospective buyers should always check with their individual insurance companies before bringing home a puppy. And myths still abound in the general public regarding the temperaments of Dobermans as a breed. Owners should commit themselves to raising the best representative of the breed they are able and to educating the general public about the true nature of a well-bred, well-socialized and well-trained Doberman.
What if I have other questions?
By all means, contact the Pine Tree State Doberman Pinscher Club ([email protected]) and our Public Education Coordinator will be happy to speak with you in person or via e-mail.