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About the Doberman

Sleek and powerful, possessing both a magnificent physique and keen intelligence, the Doberman Pinscher is one of dog kind's noblemen. This incomparably fearless and vigilant breed stands proudly among the world's finest protection and family dogs.

AKC standards as follows

  • Height: 26-28 inches (male), 24-26 inches (female)

  • Weight: 75-100 pounds (male), 60-90 pounds (female)

  • Life Expectancy: 10-12 years

  • Group: Working Group

History

The Doberman originated in Apolda, in Thueringen, Germany, in the late 1800s. It was developed by Karl Friedrich Louis Dobermann, a German tax collector who created elaborate crosses of different dogs to develop a breed that would be aggressive enough to protect him as he made his rounds in dangerous neighborhoods and whose appearance alone would be intimidating. Herr Dobermann also ran the local animal shelter and had access to many different dogs to use in his breeding program, although unfortunately he did not keep proper records to document the breed’s origin. Dobermans probably descending from shorthaired mixed-breed shepherd dogs, chosen for hardiness, intelligence and soundness, crossed with the Black and Tan Terrier, the smooth-coated German Pinscher and the Rottweiler. Other breeds that may have played a part in the Dobie’s background include the Beauceron, the Weimaraner, the black-and-tan Manchester Terrier and the Greyhound. 

The breed type was stabilized by 1899 and officially recognized by the German Kennel Club in 1900. By the 1920s, Dobermans were found throughout Europe, including Russia, and as far as South Africa and the United States. The breed is distinctive in appearance and attitude, and is now found world-wide. Its early reputation for ferocity preceded it to the United States. Dobermans are extremely intelligent and are fast-learners, making them well-suited for police, military and guard work. Dobies have been used for hunting and to track criminals. They also have been used for search-and-rescue, as therapy dogs and as guide dogs for the blind. The Doberman Pinscher Club of America was founded in February of 1921.

Personality

Individual personalities of Doberman Pinschers are varied. Some are outgoing and friendly, others are shy and reserved. Some are dominant with other dogs and chase cats and small dogs, while others are social butterflies at the dog park and have been known to cuddle up with kittens for long naps. Regardless of the individual, all Dobermans are steadfast and loyal companions, true friends to the people they love. They are fearless in the face of danger and make excellent guard dogs, but contrary to popular opinion, they are not attack dogs. Their method of protection is to keep intruders at bay, pinning them to a wall or corner until backup arrives. Despite their reputation for viciousness, most Pinschers are big softies at heart who love the companionship of people.

Sources: Petwave.com/ dpca.com/ akc.org/ 

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