Origin
Germany
Lifespan
10–13 years
Weight
27–45 kg
Height
63–72 cm
Personality
Colors & Patterns
Black and Rust · Red and Rust · Blue and Rust · Fawn (Isabella) and Rust
Dobermann
About This Breed
The Dobermann (or Doberman in North America) is a medium-large breed of domestic dog that was originally developed around 1890 by Karl Friedrich Louis Dobermann, a tax collector from Germany. Dobermanns are known as excellent guard dogs and police dogs. With proper training and socialization, they are loyal, loving family companions. They are highly intelligent and respond well to training. They are athletic dogs with great endurance.
Characteristics
Scores describe general breed tendencies, not an individual animal. A higher score means more of the named trait or need; it does not always mean better.
Life with a Dobermann
Origin
| Origin | Germany |
| Group | Working |
For the breed’s history, see the reference sources and Wikipedia link below.
Size and coat
| Weight | 27–45 kg |
| Lifespan | 10–13 years |
| Height | 63–72 cm |
| Colors & Patterns | Black and Rust · Red and Rust · Blue and Rust · Fawn (Isabella) and Rust |
These are approximate adult ranges. Individual animals may be smaller or larger.
Temperament
| Personality | Alert · Loyal · Intelligent · Confident · Fearless |
Usually active. Make time for play, exercise, and activities that keep it interested.
Often seeks company and attention. Allow time together and help it get used to short periods alone.
Coat care
Usually needs relatively little coat care. Brush as needed for its coat and shedding.
Some shedding is expected, and it may change with the season.
Living together
Often adjusts to changes fairly well, though a gradual introduction still helps.
Often gets along with children, but an adult should still supervise their time together.
Introduce other pets gradually and watch how each animal responds.
Training and activities
May learn quickly. Keep sessions varied and practice calmly around distractions.
Choose walks, sniffing games, and play to suit the dog’s age and health. Allow rest as well.
A lifespan range is not a prediction for an individual animal. Breed scores cannot diagnose illness or replace a veterinary assessment.
More from breed and care sources
Excerpts from the linked sources. Read the original for full details.
Breed Overview
The Doberman Pinscher is thought to have been first bred by Louis Dobermann, a German tax collector, in the late 1800s. According to the Doberman Pinscher Club of America (DPCA), he likely crossed Old German Shepherds (a now-extinct breed different than today’s German Shepherds), German Pinschers, Black and Tan Manchester Terriers, and Greyhounds. The Doberman Pinscher is a loyal dog known for being intelligent and alert. While often kept as a family dog, this breed is also commonly used for security, police work, and search and rescue.
Care Guide
Doberman Pinschers are energetic dogs. They are also curious and intelligent, and so require an active lifestyle that keeps them both physically and mentally stimulated. Without consistent exercise, Dobermans will seek out their own entertainment, which can lead to destructive and unwanted behaviors. Due to their high energy level, they are not always an ideal pet for families with very young children. Doberman Pinschers are also known for loyalty and love of family, and this can lead them to be wary around new people. Pet parents must train and socialize their Doberman puppy early and consistently. Doberman dogs have a strong prey drive, so they may not be the ideal pet for families with other small animals in the home, such as guinea pigs, rabbits, or cats. And it’s important to keep your Doberman on a leash or inside a fence when they’re outside, as they may chase after neighborhood squirrels.