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Doberman Dog Breed Introduction
Doberman (also referred to as Doberman Pinscher, Dobie, or Dobermann) is a medium-sized large breed of domestic dog that was developed in Germany in the late 19th century by Louis Dobermann. Traditionally, these dogs had docked tails and cropped ears. However, this practice has been abolished in most Commonwealth countries.
Dobermans are intelligent dogs that were ranked as the 5th most intelligent dog by Stanley Coren in the category of obedience command training. This breed has also been often stereotyped as being aggressive and ferocious. However, the aggression has been toned down by modern breeders.
Origin
In the late 1880s, a German taxman, Louis Dobermann developed the first Dobermans probably from a combination of several breeds such as German Pinscher, Beauceron, Weimaraner, and Rottweiler. This was after he got the idea of creating a breed that would protect him during his rounds. Louis also ran the Apolda dog pound and, therefore, he had access to many breeds of dogs.
He set out to create a breed that would exhibit impressive strength, stamina, and intelligence. Unfortunately, Louis passed on in 1894 without revealing the breeds that he used to create Dobermans. Following his death, the Germans named the breed Dobermann-pinscher in his honor. However, the word ‘pinscher’ was dropped a half-century later with the claim that the German word for terrier was no longer appropriate.
The British also dropped the name Pinscher a few years later. However, US and Canada still use the word but dropped an ‘n’ from Dobermann. Currently, the breed goes by the name of Doberman Pinscher in both Canada and the US. One of the earliest breeders, Otto Goeller, created the National Doberman Pinscher Club in 1899, five years after the passing of Louis. Otto is considered to have perfected the breed.
History
During the 19th century, tax collectors were never welcome visitors. This posed danger in their work of line as they were likely to experience attacks. This prompted Louis Dobermann to create a dog breed that would protect him during his rounds. The dog that he created was named after him following his death in 1894.
Prior to his death, Louis had not disclosed the exact breeds that he used to create Dobermans. However, historians believe that the component of Dobermans has been created by German Pinscher, Black and Tan Terrier, Rottweiler, and smooth-coated herding dogs. During the late 1890s, German breeders who continued with Louis’ work were more concerned with function rather than appearance. This led to the breeding of the only toughest, smartest, bravest, and quickest dogs.
At the time, the breed was known for being aggressive and headstrong. However, Otto Goeller is created for shaping Dobermans into a more usable dogs. Dobermans were also recognized as a breed in Germany in 1900. The first breed of this dog came to the USA in 1908. The Doberman Pinscher Club of America was formed in 1921 and adopted the German standards in 1922. During World War I the number of Dobermans greatly declined in Europe since there was shortage of food and people could not afford to domesticate large dogs.
The Dobermans that survived were owned by the police, military, and wealthy people. After 1921, nearly all the top German progeny and sires of this breed were brought to the US. After World War II came, Dobermans were at a risk in Germany. Many believe that Dobermans would be extinct if they had not been previously brought to the US.
Lifespan
Dobermans may live up to the age of 12 or 13 years. The average lifespan of this breed is 10 to 13 years with others living up to 9 years. The life expectancy of a Doberman varies from individual to individual depending on how well its owner takes care of it.
Average Lifespan
The average lifespan of Doberman dogs is 10 to 13 years.
Lifespan Female
Both male and female Dobermans have an average lifespan of 10 to 13 years.
Grooming
Dobermans have a single coat that is short, glistening, and smooth lying close to the skin. They are moderate shedders throughout the year and shed heavily during the two seasonal changes. Weekly brushing will keep the coat healthy and glossy using a ground mitt, rubber curry brush, or a short bristle brush.
During the seasonal shedding, daily brushing is recommended to confine the loose hair in the brush rather than around the house. Dobermans are generally clean and require a bathe once every three months unless your pet rolls in something stinky. Clip the nails at least once a month. Overgrown nails click on the floor.
Clean the teeth at least twice a week to remove tartar buildup using dog-formulated toothpaste and toothbrush. Dobermans’ ears should be wiped carefully out every few days using a little baby oil on a paper towel.
Grooming Brush
During the moderate shedding season, the Dobermans coat should be brushed at least once a week to keep the coat healthy and glossy. Daily brushing is key during the heavy shedding season which occurs at least twice a year. Brush your Doberman’s coat using a rubber curry brush, grooming mitt, or a short bristle brush.
Shedding
This is a single-coated breed that sheds at low to moderate levels throughout the year. Heavy shedding may occur during the seasonal change in spring and fall. The shedding of Dobermans is manageable through regular brushing that confines the hair in the brush that would otherwise spread around the house.
Coat
It is a single-coated breed that lacks an undercoat that helps in protecting the dog against harsh weather conditions. However, some of the Dobermans may have an invisible gray undercoat on the neck. These dogs should put on a jacket or coat during winter to keep them warm.
Coat Type
Dobermans have a smooth, glistening, and short coat that is close to the body. It is a single coat that lacks an undercoat. This coat type is kept glossy and healthy through regular brushing and occasional baths at least once every three months.
Hypoallergenic
Dobermans are not hypoallergenic even though they lack an undercoat that tends to shed more. This breed sheds at low to moderate levels throughout the year spreading dander around the house. Dander is an allergen that causes allergic reactions in people suffering from dog allergies. Allergens are also present in saliva. Dobermans may also tend to produce a bit more drool at designated meal time or around food that may occasionally increase to the point of causing dripping. This is not helpful for dog allergy sufferers since saliva will drop on the surfaces.
Dog Doberman Training
Dobermans are intelligent dogs that are easy to train and respond to training quickly. While training your dog, socialization is key starting in puppyhood, since these dogs are strong and may become unmanageable, destructive, and pushy if not raised properly. Socialization exposes your Doberman to other dogs, places, people, sight, objects, smell, surfaces, and sounds such as baby crying sounds, sirens, vacuum cleaners, washing machines, lawn mowers, door bells, and whistles.
Housetraining is attainable through consistency, commitment, and creating a schedule for meal time and potty training. Crate training also helps in housetraining. At the age of 8 weeks, Doberman puppies should be taught the come command to respond when called upon as it won’t be long before the dog outruns the owner. While teaching the come command, avoid grabbing or raising your voice as it will unintentionally teach the puppy to avoid you.
Teach your Doberman basic commands like stay, down, and sit as well as loose-leash walking from an early age. Teach your dog one command at a time until it understands before moving to the next command. Enrolling your dog in puppy classes is highly recommended as it is the responsibility of the owner to raise a well-mannered, happy, and canine citizen companion.
Potty training is also effective through consistence. This will be achieved by taking your puppy out immediately it wakes up, 20 minutes after meals and drinks, before bedtime, and every one to two hours during the day. Use of positive reinforcement methods such as treats and praise goes a long way in making training easy. Avoid the use of harsh corrections methods. Short training sessions of about 10 minutes are recommended.
Doberman Training Protection
Dobermans were originally bred by Louis Dobermann to give him protection while he was collecting taxes. Up to date, some dog owners possess this breed for protection. For having an effective guard dog, training is recommended.
Protection training in Dobermans is extremely crucial since irresponsible training may lead to a dangerous and aggressive dog. Protection training is not for dogs that are anxious, over-friendly, fearful, or nervous. This kind of training involves advanced obedience training that relies on the level of the dog owner’s control that ends with an altercation.
A good protection-trained Doberman should be able to make snap decisions, respond when the owner is in danger, release on command, and return to the owner once the incident has been downscaled. A Doberman can only be relied on as a protection dog after a year or more of training.
For effective protection training, determine whether your dog is toy motivated or food motivated in order to start obedience training. Other requirements for this training include a bodysuit, a sturdy muzzle, a six-foot leash, and whenever possible, get advice from a professional trainer in order to prevent injuries.
Doberman Training Commands
Training commands help in raising a well-mannered Doberman. Some of the basic commands that your dog may be trained include, come, sit, stay, and lie down, wait, heel, leave it, etc. The come command is crucial in training your dog to come to you when called upon especially while walking off-leash. A protection Doberman should be taught other commands like release command by using the term ‘all done’ or simply ‘okay’. Apart from the release command, a protection dog may also be taught to bark on command and also attack on command.
Exercise
This is an energetic athlete that needs at least two hours of exercise in a day distributed throughout the day in small sessions. Dobermans will enjoy going for hikes or long walks with their owner. It is recommended to have a large fenced area where your dog may run to meet both physical and mental needs. Your dog may also participate in canine sports such as agility, obedience, tracking, etc.
Doberman Temperament
- Intelligent.
- Loyal.
- Alert.
- Confident.
- Athletic.
- Loving.
- Devoted.
- Protective.
Barking
Dobermans were bred as protection dogs implying that they may tend to bark more as compared to other breeds even to guests who are ushered into your home. Barking may be frequent, especially while on guard or alerting the owners. Training Dobermans to stop barking comes in handy in getting the much-needed silence and peace.
This may be possible by teaching your dog to bark on command using high-value treats and toys for positive results. Barking for Dobermans is also a way of communicating. Meeting his needs such as food, water, potty time, giving him attention, and exercise will help in taming unnecessary barking.
Growl
Growling in Dobermans may be a sign of aggression, giving a warning, or a wake-up call to behavioral issues. A dog is likely to growl after her more subtle cues were misunderstood or ignored. A Doberman may also growl while protecting her food, litter, or a valuable resource. Growling may be exhibited by a dog that has experienced trauma in the past, a sign of pain, or if the dog is legitimately frightened.
Aggressive
These dogs were initially bred as guard dogs and thus are often stereotyped as being aggressive. Dobermans were bred for the traits of being fearless, large, intimidating, and the willingness to defend their owner from attackers, however, obedient and restrained only to do so on command.
These traits came in handy in the dog’s role as a war dog, personal defense dog, or police dog. Fortunately, the aggression of Dobermans has been toned down by modern breeders over the years.
A well-socialized Doberman is loyal, affectionate, loving, alert, and intelligent. However, Dobermans also rank among the more likely breeds to exhibit aggressive behavior towards other dogs and strangers. Dobermans are less likely to show aggressive behavior towards their owners.
Biting
Puppies of this breed tend to naturally nip and bite at their littermates while also naturally using their mouths to explore new objects, people, and textures. Even though biting is completely natural in puppies, it should not be allowed to avoid raising an adult Doberman with serious biting issues. Biting is also rampant while the pups are teething.
Puppies should be trained not to bite through a combination of techniques including physical correction for the most stubborn of cases, bite inhibition, and redirection. If a Doberman bites the owner, it may be a way of seeking attention which should be addressed giving the pet toys and food puzzles to keep your dog occupied.
Bite Force Psi
Dobermans have a bite force of 305 PSI. This is not surprising since they were bred as guard dogs that had to attack following a command.
Rottweiler Vs Doberman Bite Force
Rottweilers have a stronger bite force of 328 PSI as compared to Dobermans which have a bite force of 305 PSI.
Doberman Size
Both the weight and height of Dobermans vary among kennel clubs. According to AKC, a female Doberman has a height of 24 to 26 inches ( approx. 61 to 66 cm ) and a weight of 60 to 90 pounds ( approx. 27 to 41 kg) while the male counterpart has a height of 26 to 28 inches ( approx. 66 to 71 cm ) and a weight of 75 to 100 pounds ( approx. 34 to 45 kg ). On the other hand, FCI states that a female Doberman has a height of 25 to 27 inches ( approx. 63 to 68 cm) and a weight of 71 to 77 pounds ( approx. 32 to 35 kg) while the male counterpart has a height of 27 to 28 inches ( approx. 68 to 71 cm) and a weight of 88 to 99 pounds( approx. 40 to 45 kg).
Height
According to American Kennel Club, a male Doberman should have a height of 26 to 28 inches ( approx. 66 to 71 cm ) while the female counterpart has a height of 24 to 26 inches ( approx. 61 to 66 cm ). However, according to Fédération Cynologique Internationale(FCI), male Dobermans should have a height of 27 to 28 inches ( approx. 68 to 71 cm) while the female counterpart has a height of 25 to 27 inches ( approx. 63 to 68 cm).
Female Height
There are two height ranges for this breed according to AKC and FCI. FCI states that a female Doberman should have a height of 25 to 27 inches ( approx. 63 to 68 cm) while AKC states that a female Doberman has a height of 24 to 26 inches ( approx. 61 to 66 cm ).
Weight
Doberman weight standards vary among kennel and breed clubs. FCI states that an ideal weight for a male Doberman is 88 to 99 pounds ( approx. 40 to 45 kg) while the female counterpart should have a weight of 71 to 77 pounds ( approx. 32 to 35 kg). On the other hand, AKC states that a male Doberman should weigh 75 to 100 pounds ( approx. 34 to 45 kg ) while the female counterpart should weigh 60 to 90 pounds ( approx. 27 to 41kg).
Female Weight
Even if the weight of a female Doberman varies among breeders clubs and kennel clubs, at least they all agree that a female Doberman is slightly smaller in terms of size as compared to the male counterpart. FCI standard states that the weight of Female Dobermans is 71 to 77 pounds ( approx. 32 to 35 kg) while AKC gives the weight range of 60 to 90 pounds( approx. 27 to 41kg).
Male Weight
A Male Doberman has a weight of 75 to 100 pounds ( approx. 34 to 45 kg ) according to the American Kennel Club(AKC). However, FCI(Fédération Cynologique Internationale) states that the male Dobermans should have a weight of 88 to 99 pounds ( approx. 40 to 45 kg).
Types
They are two types of Dobermans:
- American Doberman bred in the United States.
- European Doberman bred in Europe.
The American Doberman is calmer and more even temperament as compared to the European Doberman. Therefore, American Dobermans are considered more suitable for show rings and as companion dogs while the latter is more of a working breed. However, there is a third type of Doberman that is controversial, Warlock Doberman.
This type was associated with any large Doberman following the breeding of a large specimen, Borong the Warlock in 1955 by Theodosia and Henry Frampton. Borong was a huge success in the show ring and become legendary as a sire. After the desire for stronger and larger Dobermans hit its pinnacle, Dobermans crossed with other large dogs like Rottweiler and Great Dane and became known as Warlock Dobermans.
Health Issues
Dobermans are prone to a number of health issues with Dilated cardiomyopathy being the major cause of death among this breed. Nearly 40% of Dobermans are diagnosed with Dilated cardiomyopathy followed by German Shepherds with a total of 13%.
Roughly, a quarter of Dobermans that develop the disease die suddenly from seemingly unknown causes while fifty percent die of congestive heart failure. Female Dobermans suffering from Dilated cardiomyopathy die of sudden death while their male counterpart tends to develop congestive heart failure.
Apart from Dilated cardiomyopathy, other health issues that this breed is likely to suffer from include Canine compulsive disorder, hypothyroidism, hip dysplasia, prostatic diseases such as prostatic cysts, bacterial prostatitis, benign hyperplasia, and prostatic adenocarcinoma, von Willebrand’s disease, and cervical vertebral instability (CVI).
Common Health Issues
- Von Willebrand’s disease.
- Dilated cardiomyopathy (enlarged heart).
- Hip dysplasia.
- Hypothyroidism.
- Albinism.
- Progressive retinal atrophy.
- Cervical vertebral instability (CVI).
- Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus Syndrome.
Doberman Allergies
Dobermans are susceptible to allergies caused by different allergens. Some of the common allergies that cause inflammation in this breed include:
- Skin allergies – these allergies may be a result of genetic diseases such as hypothyroidism, canine acne, and canine generalized demodicosis. Skin allergies in Dobermans may also be a result of food, contact, and environmental allergies.
- Environmental allergies – the allergens that cause environmental allergies in Dobermans include grass pollen, fleas and ticks, house molds, grasses, molds, dust and dust mites. Environmental allergies may manifest as swollen eyes, runny nose fits of sneezing, itchiness in the paws, armpit, muzzle, groin, ankles, between the toes, and around the eyes.
- Food allergies – a Doberman affected by food allergies is likely to have itchy skin as well as gastrointestinal symptoms.
Doberman Skin Allergies
Dobermans are prone to skin allergies which pose the risk of secondary infection. Skin allergies make your dog lick, scratch, and bite the skin opening up the skin for bacterial and yeast infections that may require treatment. Some of the diseases that Dobermans suffer from predispose them to skin allergies. Hypothyroidism which leads to inadequate production of thyroid hormones by the thyroid gland results in scaly dry skin as well as dry hair and hair loss.
Environmental and Food allergies may affect the skin exhibiting signs of skin allergies. Some of the common signs of skin allergies include chronic ear infection, itchiness on the paws, face, legs, belly, hind end, and sides, dry flaky skin, dandruff, hives, and constant licking in the affected areas.
Skin allergies in Dobermans may be manageable by using a hypoallergenic, sulfate-free, and organic shampoo that is made with ingredients such as tea tree oil or hydrocortisone. Antihistamines, topical creams, and Organic hot spot sprays will also help with skin allergies.
Doberman Food Allergies
Dobermans may suffer from food allergies although in rare cases. A true food allergy is accompanied with a wide range of symptoms ranging from skin issues to gastrointestinal stress. Some of the signs of skin issues include facial swelling, pruritus, itchiness, dermatitis, hives, crusting lesions, and hot spots. On the other hand, gastrointestinal stress include acute vomiting and/or diarrhea.
Apart from food allergies, Dobermans may also suffer from food intolerance. This is a gradual response to an offending ingredient in the diet of a Doberman including beef, chicken, dairy products, corn, eggs, fillers, soy, wheat, chemicals, preservatives, flavors, fish, turkey, pork, etc. Signs of food intolerance include poor skin and coat, foot infections, itchiness, ear infections, vomiting and diarrhea. Food allergies are managed better if the owner works with the Vet to determine the cause behind this condition.
Mating
Mating in all dogs occurs when the female is experiencing the heat cycle which may last between 2 to 4 weeks. However, the heat cycle of Dobermans lasts up to 3 weeks. This breed also experiences the first heat cycle between the age of 9 to 12 months while others have their first heat cycle at the age of 15 months.
Although, mating is recommended when the dog is at least two years old. This will allow the genetically linked faults to express themselves. Before mating your dog, ensure that both Dobermans have been genetically tested to ensure they are not suffering from genetic diseases.
Some of the other breeds of dogs include:
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.
Pug.
Pregnancy Length
A Doberman has a gestation period of 63 days which is approximately two months.
Litter Size
The average litter size for a female Doberman is 6 to 8 puppies if whelped with no complications. The litter is normally very playful and healthy. However, the puppies tend to mature at a slow rate as compared to other breeds.
Speed
Dobermans are athletic dogs that may run up to a speed of 32 miles per hour( approx. 51km/h).
Neck Size
The neck size of an adult Doberman is 18 to 24 inches ( approx. 46 to 61 cm).
Eyes
Dobermans have moderately deep-set eyes that are almost almond-shaped with an energetic and vigorous expression. The eyes have a uniform color that may range from medium to darkest brown colors in black coat-type dogs. However, blue, fawn and red coat type Dobermans have eye colors that blend with those of their markings.
Eye Problems
The most common eye problems that a Doberman is likely to suffer from include Cataracts, cherry eye, retinal dysplasia, and progressive retinal atrophy.
Eye Infection
Eye infections in Dobermans may be caused by viral or bacterial infections. Bacterial eye infection is caused by unicellular microscopic living organisms. This condition may also be a result of trauma to the eye, dry eye disease, and viruses which provide the perfect opportunities for bacteria invasion and growth since there is a compromise with the local defenses of the eye.
Eye injury from an ulcer or scratch may cause bacterial infections resulting in an eye infection. Eye bacterial infections in Dobermans may also result from foreign bodies such as hair or fur sticking into the eye, plant material, dust, or debris which may sweep bacteria into the eye resulting in an eye infection.
A Doberman suffering from an eye infection may exhibit the following signs; swelling of the eyelids, pawing at the eye due to pain or itchiness, squinting caused by light sensitivity or increased blinking, redness, a clear discharge caused by viral infections, or a thick yellowish discharge that may be caused by a bacterial infection. Dobermans may also suffer from viral infections that may be caused by the Canine distemper virus.
Viral infections in dogs are accompanied by additional signs such as fever, nasal discharge, and lethargy. A Doberman suffering from an eye infection may experience multiple signs at once like a squinty eye that is red. This is due to the reaction of the immune system with inflammation which may cause swelling, redness, and/or discharge.
Eye Boogers
Eye discharge or eye boogers in Dobermans may be a result of viral infection which results in a clear discharge, dry eye diseases which results in a cloud or yellowish discharge, or bacterial infection which causes a thick yellowish discharge. Boogers may be cleaned using a warm damp cloth gently around the eye.
Eyes Red
Eye redness in Dobermans may be a result of eye infection either caused by viral or bacterial infections. Other causes of red eyes in this breed may include injury, allergies, a foreign object in the eye, and if the eye is the host of eye conditions such as dry eye and glaucoma.
Ears
The uncropped ears of Dobermans are naturally floppy, wide, and proportionally long in relation to the size of the head. Dobermans with uncropped ears are also perceived to possess a gentler and less aggressive appearance as compared to their cropped counterparts. However, some of the Dobermans have cropped ears that are erect. According to the American Kennel Club and the Doberman Pinscher Club of America, Doberman ears are cropped and carried erect.
Ear Infection
Chronic Ear infections in Dobermans may be a result of skin allergies. Infrequent ear cleaning may result in the accumulation of debris or wax which creates an environment for the growth of yeast or bacteria which will eventually lead to infections. Floppy ears in dogs cover the ear canal providing a humid environment for bacterial and yeast infections. Dobermans natural ears are floppy-shaped.
The most common symptoms that Dobermans exhibit while suffering from ear infections include ear scratching, head shaking, dark discharge, itchiness, redness, odor, and whining. Dogs may suffer from three types of ear infections including otitis interna, otitis media, and otitis externa.
The most common type of ear infection is otitis externa where the infection affects the layer of cells located in the external portion of the ear canal. Ottis media causes inflammation to the middle ear canal while otitis interna causes inflammation to the inner ear canal.
Cropping Ears
Cropping Doberman ears is a surgically done procedure on puppies between the age of 8 to 12 weeks to attain cropped and stand erect ears. This procedure should be done when the puppy is still young before the hardening of the ear cartilage.
Ear cropping is a required standard for AKC and the Doberman Pinscher Club of America. However, this practice is illegal in some of the commonwealth countries. Ear cropping in dogs is also considered a purely cosmetic procedure that is somehow controversial.
IDC(International Doberman Club) and FCI( Fédération Cynologique Internationale) have written off the cropping ear standard for Dobermans. Furthermore, Cropped Dobermans born after 2016 are not allowed to participate in FCI and DCI shows.
Ears Cropped Styles
The Show Crop – this is recommended ear cropping style for Dobermans that participate in AKC conformation shows. This cut has long and curved ears that take many months to stand erect along with a year of proper after-care. The show cut also exposes the inside of the ear.
The Military Crop – this is an ear cropping style that is also referred to as a pet crop cut. This is the easiest and shortest for training the ears to stand erect. Dobermans with this ear cut have wide ears at the base.
The Medium Crop – as the name suggests this the ear cut is between the show and military cuts length.
Hair Loss
Dobermans are susceptible to suffering from hypothyroidism, where the thyroid gland fails to produce enough amount of thyroid hormone needed in the body. This condition results in hair loss, dry hair, scaly, and dry skin. Hair loss in Dobermans may be spotted along the back. Hair loss in fawn or blue-colored type Dobermans may not only be a result of hypothyroidism but also color mutant alopecia. Other cause of hair loss include mange, allergies, stress, and hormonal changes.
Hair Loss Treatments
Hair loss treatment is prescribed after the veterinarian takes blood tests and skin scrapings to make a diagnosis. If the thyroid levels of your Doberman are low, synthetic thyroid hormones are prescribed for your pet to take them daily for the rest of his life. Fortunately, most Dobermans respond well to this treatment and the hair starts to grow back about 4 to 6 weeks. Hair loss due to color mutant alopecia though not curable, the vet recommends the use of anti-bacterial cleansers to ease skin irritations.
Doberman Names
Dog owners may give their Dobermans names based on their character, origin, coat color, movies, celebrity Dobermans, nature, historical figures, and food. Some dogs may be given theme-colored names such as Inky, Blackberry, Jet, Midnight, etc. Remember to give your pet a name that you are comfortable calling out loud even in public places such as parks. Dog owners should avoid naming their pets names that are used by other household members or guests that frequent their homes to avoid confusion.
Names Male
- Oliver.
- Gus.
- Jax.
- Bo.
- Cooper.
- Duke.
- Buddy.
- Thor.
- Duke.
- Rocco.
- Titan.
- Boss.
- Luther, etc.
Names Female
- Nyla.
- Lola.
- Stella.
- Daisy.
- Luna.
- Zoe.
- Bella.
- Nova.
- Elsa.
- Greta.
- Ella.
- Duchess, etc.
Doberman Colors
The coat color of Dobermans is determined by two-color genes that exist in this breed, one for color dilution (D) and one for black (B). The combination of these genes results in four different phenotypes that are recognized by AKC Blue, Red, Black, and fawn( Isabella). The traditional colors of this dog occur when both the dilution and color genes have at least one dominant allele ( i.e BbDd, BbDD, BBDD, or BBDd) and are commonly referred to as black and rust, black, or black and tan.
The coat colors of brown, red, or red rust occur when the black gene has two recessive alleles but the dilution gene has at least one dominant allele ( i.e bbDd, bbDD). The blue color coat in Dobermans occurs when the color gene has at least one dominant allele and the dilution gene has two recessive alleles (i.e Bddd or BBdd). The fawn color in this breed is the most common and occurs when both the color gene and dilution gene have two recessive genes (i.e bbdd). In Summary, the acceptable coat colors in Dobermans include:
- Fawn.
- Black.
- Red.
- Blue.
- Black & Rust.
- Fawn & Rust.
- Blue & Rust.
- Red & Rust.
Rare Colors
The least common coat color in Dobermans is Fawn which is a diluted red. However, they are White Dobermans which are not recognized by professional breeders but continue to be bred by unethical breeders who market them as rare. White Dobermans are prone to suffer from long-term medical issues including complete deafness or poor hearing, complete blindness or poor vision, and cancers.
Doberman Tail
The natural tail of a Doberman is long and carried high above the back. However, Dobermans that participate in AKC conformation shows have short tails as a result of docking. This is a procedure of surgically removing the majority of the tail shortly after birth. AKC prefers a tail that is docked approximately at the second joint appearing to be the continuation of the spine. FCI and IDC have banned participation of Docked Dobermans born after 2016 in the confirmation shows.
Tail Docking Length
The procedure of tail docking in Dobermans is done near the second vertebra or at the second joint which is approximately 2 to 3 inches ( approx. 5 to 8 cm).
Teeth
Adult Dobermans have 42 sets of permanent teeth that are white and strongly developed. Pups of this breed have a set of 28 deciduous teeth. For maintaining clean and healthy teeth in this breed, brushing twice a week using a dog-formulated toothpaste is required. Failure to do so may lead to teeth problems such as gum inflammation and periodontal disease.
Head
Dobermans have a long and dry head that looks like it is blunt-wedged shaped when viewed from profile and frontal views.
Head Tremors
Head tremors cause rapid head shaking that is seemingly uncontrollable. Also referred to as Head bobbing, is a common condition in this breed that may involve subtle head twitching. At times, head tremors may be accompanied by teeth chattering.
Muzzle
Due to the stereotypes associated with Dobermans, many people often believe that they should have a muzzle on especially during walks. However, this is not always the case in reality. A Doberman may need a muzzle when it is overly aggressive or you are not sure of how it will react in a new situation. A dog should also be muzzled when it is in pain since it is likely to bite or nip.
Muzzle Training
Muzzle training should be introduced using a positive reinforcement method such as reward and praise. While introducing your dog to a muzzle, you should never introduce it while in a hurry as it will associate it with anxiety and fear. For effective muzzle training, start showing your dog the muzzle. You may hold it while playing a game. This will create positive associations with the device.
Go ahead and let your dog sniff it while encouraging him to get closer. You may put a treat like peanut butter in the muzzle so that your dog may lick it. Continue to put the treat into the muzzle until the dog puts their nose into the muzzle to lick it. After the dog finishes licking the treat, take the muzzle off him as soon as possible, then praise him. After some time, increase the time that you leave the muzzle on until when you may completely latch the muzzle on.
Doberman Food
Dobermans are athletic and muscular dogs that require a high quality diet to maintain optimal physical condition and also keep their coats glistening. This breed also requires dog foods that are easily digestible and palatable. While purchasing dog food for Dobermans, ensure the food has been approved by you American Feed Control Officials. The diet of your pet should also be supplemented with fatty acids such as safflower or flaxseed oils. Some dog owners of this breed prefer to feed their dogs raw food diets.
Doberman Feeding Guide
The amount of food that your dog feeds on depends on the age, level of activity, size, if your dog is neutered or spayed. A male adult Doberman should feed a total of 4 to 7 cups a day fed in two servings while female counterparts may feed a total of 3 to 6.5 cups a day fed twice a day. Senior dogs also have their specific feeding amount. A senior male Doberman feeds a total of 3 to 6 cups a day while the female counterpart feed 2.5 to 5 cups a day. Puppies of this breed should feed at least three times a day a total of 1/4 cup to 1/2 cup per serving.
Nose
These dogs have different nose colors based on the coat color. Black dogs have solid black noses, red-colored Dobermans have dark brown noses, Fawn colored dogs have a dark tanned nose, and blue-colored Dobermans have a dark gray nose.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How To Keep Doberman Coat Shiny
The coat of a Doberman is kept healthy and glossy through regular brushing using a grooming mitt, rubber curry brush, or a short bristled brush.
Are Doberman Hypoallergenic
No, even though Dobermans lack an undercoat that is more likely to shed more, they are not considered hypoallergenic. This is because they shed throughout the year at low to moderate levels and heavily during seasonal change which spreads dander around the house. This breed is likely to drool during feeding times to the point of dripping saliva on the surfaces. Saliva also contains allergens that affect people suffering from dog allergies.
Are Doberman Aggressive
A well-socialized Doberman is likely to be sociable with other familiar humans and dogs unless when under threat. However, these dogs rank among the more likely dog breeds to exhibit aggressive behavior toward other dogs and strangers.
How To Measure Doberman Height
The height of a Doberman is measured from the base of the neck or withers to the ground.
What Is The Rarest Doberman Color
The rarest color in Dobermans is Fawn which occurs when the color(B) and dilution(D) genes have recessive alleles i.e. bbdd.
Why Dock Doberman Tail
Tail docking is a practice that existed way before Dobermans were created. The historical reason for docking the tails of Dobermans was to reduce the risk of tail injuries as well as to prevent the tail from getting in the way of the dog’s work. Some continue to dock their Dobermans because it is a required standard for dogs participating in AKC conformation shows. Furthermore, tail docking is a common practice in Japan, Russia, and the USA.
Why Crop Doberman Ears
Ear cropping in Dobermans is done to increase functionality for both effective sound localization and the traditional guard duty. The practice of ear cropping in this breed has also been associated with making it intimidating, fearless, and fierce. Others also argue that ear cropping makes Dobermans less susceptible to ear infections. However, this is yet to be scientifically proven.
Doberman Quick Facts
- AKC standard requires a Doberman with a docked tail and cropped ears.
- Stanley Coren ranked this breed the 5th most intelligent dog as documented in his book The Intelligence of Dogs.
- Dobermans have been stereotyped as being aggressive and ferocious since they were initially bred for these traits.
