The Doberman Pinscher is an intelligent, elegant and loyal domestic dog that has been around since around 1890, when it has been developed by Karl Friedrich Louis Dobermann. Its original function is that of a guardian dog and it can be used for security purposes, by the police and by the military. It is also appropriate for family life and companionship.
Appearance-wise, these dogs are of medium-large size, they are square-shaped and very muscular. With a compact, athletic figure, they have great endurance, good speed and strength. They present a long head, almond-shaped dark eyes, erect ears and powerful jaws. Their chest is deep and broad, they have strong legs and thick short hair. The Dobermans smooth coat is black, red, blue or fawn with markings of rust and occasionally a white patch on the chest. White Dobermans can also be found, but very rarely and they are more vulnerable to diseases.
The Doberman Pinscher can be considered a fairly new breed, created from several other breeds. These are considered to be: Pinscher and German Pinscher, Rottweiler, Greyhound and English Greyhound, Beauceron and German Shepherd. It is said that his creator, Louis Dobermann, wanted to obtain a watchdog breed because he found himself in dangerous areas as a tax collector and hence he felt that he needed protection.
Where its temperament is concerned, the Doberman is a very energetic and alert dog, with high intelligence and great loyalty and obedience towards its owners. Typically, it is considered to be aggressive and ferocious. Given that it was meant to serve as a protection dog, traits such being intimidating, fearless and ready to jump in the defense of its owners were desired for it. However, it should also have been obedient enough not to become aggressive unless it was commanded to. It did well as a police or military dog but it was not perfectly adapted to being a companion, hence modern breeders have worked on toning down its aggression. Now Dobermans are considered to be desirable house dogs, given their intelligence, loyalty and responsiveness to training. They can actually be great with children as well as with other pets that are kept around the house. It is recommended that they are introduced to them at early ages though.
Dobermans are known to be healthy and strong dogs; however, there are some health problems that they are prone to, such as cardiomyopathy, Wobblers syndrome, osteosarcoma, narcolepsy and von Willebrands disease. It is recommended that, before buying a puppy, the breeder be asked about the lineage of the dog so that health problems in its family are known.
Being and active breed, the Doberman will need to exercise a lot in order to be happy and to stay healthy. They are great as running and walking companions. Also, involving them in competitions will keep them in shape and provide them with a useful mental challenge.
Although stereotyped to be aggressive and a dog to be feared, the Doberman Pinscher is good companionship and a dog that can be well trained and adapted to living within a family.
