The graceful appearance and graceful movements of the Doberman will not leave any lover of purebred dogs indifferent.
This is not only a spectacular dog that attracts the close attention of others, but also a reliable friend of its owner, ready to intervene at any moment.
The Dobermann is admired for its intelligence, excellent tracking and property protection.
History of the origin of the Doberman dog breed
The Dobermann was developed in Germany and bears the name of the man who created the breed. Initially, the breed was conceived to help police officers. The dog had to be efficient and also combine mental qualities and physical endurance.
To create this breed, Dobermann attended many exhibitions, noticing certain qualities of the dogs. Finally, he decided on his choice and after some time he created a dog, which began to be in great demand.
Now there are no reliable sources left about who became the progenitor of the modern breed. There are only assumptions that the genes of pinschers, shepherds and Rottweilers formed the basis. The main thing is the result, and it turned out great.
Dobermans were originally called Thuringian Pinschers. And only after the death of its creator the breed received its name Doberman Pinscher, the second part of which was lost over time.
Health
Characteristic diseases
Although Doberman Pinschers are not susceptible to eye diseases such as cataracts and allergies , they do have several hereditary diseases.
In Europe, there is an increase in the incidence of heart disease (cardiomyopathy) and gastric volvulus.
American breeders are faced with the emergence of new hereditary defects in this breed: hypothyroidism (underfunction of the thyroid gland), Von Willebrand's disease (blood disease), Wobbler's syndrome.
Disadvantages that do not affect overall health include:
- defects of the dental system (lack of incisors and premolars, malocclusion);
— pigmentation defects (any spots not provided for by the standard).
The Doberman Pinscher is easy to train and then happily follows the owner’s commands.
Vaccinations
The first vaccination is carried out before teeth change.
Before 3 months of age, the puppy must be vaccinated against: - distemper; - leptospirosis; - parvovirus infection.
Before the first vaccination, puppies must be given anti-worm medications.
You can read about how to give your dog a pill here:
A sweeping, elastic step, an aristocratic posture and a proud head position - all this is the Doberman Pinscher
Appearance of Doberman dogs
The Doberman's body is medium in size, with well-developed muscles. The appearance of this dog is simply perfect. The first impression of Dobermans is grace and refined nobility.
The height of the breed at the withers is from 63 to 72 centimeters, depending on gender. A deviation of this indicator by 2 centimeters is already considered disqualification for participation in exhibitions.
Females weigh approximately 32 kilograms, and males about 40. The body is very proportionally built. The head is proportionate to the body.
The ears are set high and may or may not be cropped. The chest is well developed and convex. The tail, like the ears, is set high and can be docked.
The coat is usually black or brown, short and smooth. There is a white Doberman, but this is considered a deviation from the usual standards.
Varieties
Over time, varieties of this breed were developed, differing in certain external characteristics and a lesser tendency to aggression.
White Doberman
Until recently, white Dobermans were exotic and considered a deviation from the norm. Their white color is the result of a genetic mutation. Such dogs are very weak and carry a number of genetic diseases.
Albino Dobermanns cannot tolerate sunlight, which negatively affects the dogs’ performance, and their further breeding is considered inappropriate.
Pinscher
The Doberman Pinscher is a graceful dog, differing from the usual Doberman in its slightly smaller size, but it is not deprived of service qualities.
Despite the fact that this breed is still very young, it is already used with great success as bloodhounds and security guards in special services. However, in the absence of proper training, this species has a tendency towards excessive aggression.
Mini Doberman
This is an overly energetic and active dog, which is a miniature copy of the ferocious guard Doberman. Basically, mini Dobermans are bred for children or the elderly.
The most important thing is not to spoil your little pet, otherwise he will begin to use it skillfully, as a result of which the dog can grow up very capricious and restless.
Character of Doberman dogs
The character of a dog directly depends on its owner and upbringing. Previously, these dogs were famous for their aggressive nature, but over time, Dobermans have changed. A good breeder's dog will grow up to be absolutely calm and obedient, even friendly.
Dobermans are very confident and fearless. It is because of these qualities that the dog is considered a good bodyguard. Dobermans feel a person very subtly and require attention from him. They love it when family members take care of them and can be very affectionate.
The Doberman learns everything well, but in order to become his teacher, you need to earn his trust. But having earned it once, a person will know that the Doberman will remain faithful to him throughout his life. A person must have a stable emotional background.
The female sex of this breed is much more affectionate than the male sex. Bitches love children, become attached to them, and protect them. Males are more stubborn and willful. But both of them respect the owner, listen to him and respect him. Of course, with the right upbringing.
Upbringing
Due to their ingenuity, Doberman Pinschers learn everything perfectly even in puppyhood. There is no better pastime for them than studying and working.
Despite the readiness for training, it is worth paying attention to the condition of the pet. If he is tired or bored with classes, you should not burden him. Otherwise, next time he may become stubborn.
Also, you cannot use physical force and rudeness towards the dog, otherwise this may add unnecessary anger to his already difficult character.
How do Dobermans treat strangers?
Dobermans are very wary of strangers, feeling they are a threat. She will warn a stranger with a loud bark. If he does not leave, the dog will try to reach him to bite or hit him. But he will attack only as a last resort.
Dobermans prefer quiet environments, so loud noises, screaming or crying can frighten him. They also do not like people under stress.
The protective instinct of this dog begins to work when the familiar atmosphere is disturbed by an extraneous sound or person. This quality of the Doberman makes him examine the entire territory until the irritant is found.
When this object is found, the Doberman will try to drive it away from its territory. Often begins to show aggression without first calculating his strength. Therefore, early training is mandatory for representatives of this breed.
Advantages and disadvantages
The positive qualities of the Doberman include:
- Excellent power capabilities;
- Loyalty and devotion, the ability to protect oneself and the owner;
- Excellent training ability;
- Lack of any specific grooming due to short coat.
However, there are some disadvantages:
- In winter, the dog must be provided with warm clothing;
- The training process should be approached very seriously in order to avoid serious problems with your pet in the future.
Caring for a Doberman dog
This breed is best suited for keeping indoors. In apartment conditions, the dog will not have enough space, especially since its protective qualities are best demonstrated over a large area.
It is also not suitable for people who spend a lot of time at work and do not like to move a lot. Dobermans require long walks and a lot of exercise.
Dogs of this breed have a hard time moving. This characteristic of the Doberman can even cause stress in the dog.
The Doberman is not a chain dog. It would be best for him to build an enclosure where he can sit when guests come. If the dog will live in the enclosure permanently, then you need to insulate the booth for the cold season. Dobermans have too short coats to survive mild frosts.
There should always be a separate place for eating and 2 bowls - one for food, the other for water.
The photo of the Doberman shows that the coat is short and without undercoat, so the dog does not shed. You can bathe a Doberman once every six months. The fur can be combed with a massage brush to remove old hairs.
Eyes should be washed weekly, as should ears. If necessary, clean the fingertips from dirt and file the claws. Teeth need to be cleaned of plaque.
Color variations
According to the standard, only two colors are considered acceptable for Dobermans: black and tan and brown and tan. At the same time, on the main black or brown background there are tan marks of a rusty-red hue.
In addition to standard colors, Dobermans also have coat colors such as blue and tan or Isabella and tan .
In addition, sometimes white albino Dobermans are born, whose birth is associated with genetic failures.
Diet for Doberman dogs
Dobermans, like any dogs, should not be given sweet or salty foods. If you feed your dog natural food, it must be balanced.
Up to one and a half years old, you can feed your dog chicken eggs and meat, steamed vegetables, berries and fruits, and then switch to dry food. But don’t forget to give treats in the form of natural food.
Lifespan
How long your dog will live depends only on you. It is important to choose the right food, give your dog all vaccinations on time, and take proper care of your pet.
For Dobermanns, it is necessary that they receive a certain dose of physical training every day - this will keep their muscles and brain in good shape..
If you comply with all the necessary conditions, and the dog lives with you without needing anything, then in this case the life expectancy will be maximum.
NOTE!
Healthy and well-groomed Dobermans live 12-15 years.
With poor maintenance and nutrition, the number of years of life can be significantly reduced.
How long do Doberman dogs live?
The lifespan of a Doberman is 11-13 years. To create good offspring, the breeder must exclude family ties, and also introduce the bitch to the male so that they can accept each other.
A female gives birth to 8 puppies in a litter. For the first month of life, puppies must be with their mother so that she can feed them milk. This will be the basis for good health of puppies.
Final thoughts
I am often asked for my opinion on Dobermans living in various situations and I can tell you that I have no hesitation in recommending Dobermans for families. They have so many qualities that make them work incredibly well in families and even with small children.
My decision to buy a Doberman for my family was the perfect decision for me. When I leave home, I like to know that my dog is there with my wife and kids.
When we have a big family and it's a big chaotic scene with lots of kids tugging and tugging at our dog, I'm so happy I have a gentle giant.
Do you know which Doberman is best for your family? To find out, read my article Doberman boy or Doberman girl - who is better to get?
How much do Doberman puppies cost?
Different breeders have different prices, and they also vary depending on the region. On average, you can pay 25,000-35,000 rubles for a puppy with a pedigree. Without documents you can buy a puppy for 5,000 rubles.
Different breeds have their own costs. For example, a mini Doberman can be purchased with documents for 10,000 rubles. Show dogs will be more expensive - about 30,000 rubles.
