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Doberman Pinscher |
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Description... |
 The
Doberman is a medium-sized, powerful dog. It has a wedge shaped
head, well arched neck smooth fitting shoulders, and a strong top
line. These dogs have a short, hard black or dark brown coat, but
they may also be fawn or steel blue in colour. They always have
rust markings above their eyes, on their muzzle, throat, chest,
legs and feet, and below his tail. Their ears are often cropped,
but may be left hanging.
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History...
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The Doberman Pinscher was developed in Germany by
Louis Dobermann from various guard dogs and terriers. Herr Louis
was a policeman as well as the local dogcatcher, and combined a
number of different breeds to create a loyal, obedient, fiercely
protective dog to accompany him on his nightly rounds. Oddly
enough, Pinscher actually means "terrier," but today's Doberman
bears no physical or temperamental resemblance to a terrier. These
dogs are most often used as guard dogs, military dogs, Schutzhund
dogs, home guardians and companions.
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Traits...
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 It
is important to avoid aggressive games, such as tug-of-war and
wrestling. The Doberman can become fiercely protective. It has a
very instinctual need to protect and guard, which cannot be
socialized out of this breed. Therefore, games that require
intelligence and skill are best, such as obedience and agility
competitions.
The sports of Shutzhund and Conformation Showing are two
common Doberman activities. A few Dobes have done well in tracking and
herding competitions, and some even like to retrieve.
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Good aspects...
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These dogs can adapt to the city, if given enough
physical and mental exercise, and plenty of obedience training.
They require very little trimming or clipping, and their short,
sleek coat requires only a quick weekly brushing. If accustomed to
people at an early age, they can be good family pets. However,
many are simply one-person dogs. They can be good with children if
raised with them. In addition, these dogs have a very high energy
level, and make the ideal companion for the active, experienced
owner.
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Health...
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Dobermans are susceptible to hip dysplasia, von
Willebrand's Disease, bloat, immune-deficiency disorders, severe
heart disease, and thyroid and liver disorders.
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Be aware...
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This breed is sensitive, and should not be hit nor
severely scolded, lest they become aggressive and resentful. They
are also active dogs and, although they can make good city pets,
can become restless if not given something to do. They also tend
to be aggressive with other dogs, especially other male dogs.
Their instinct as watchdogs often makes them wary of strangers. In
addition, these dogs will bite if hit or startled. If you buy a
Doberman from a bad breeder, you could wind up with a sickly or
aggressive Doberman, so be especially careful.
Dobermans can become very protective of the children in
their household and may mistake play for danger when friends are visiting.
Supervision is a must when a Doberman is around any children or around
people not living in the household with the Dobe.
If not given enough exercise both mentally and
physically, this breed can develop all sorts of behaviour problems.
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Summary...
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Ongoing companionship, socialization, and activity
are essential in keeping this breed relaxed and controlled.
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source: petcare information centre-
petcare.umn.edu
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