Dobermann
#38
Wamiz's Top Breed

The Dobermann is a German dog, mostly known for its qualities as a guard-dog. However, it would be reductive to say that this is their only function, they are above all a very affectionate pet, they are very sensitive and faithful. They fit in well to their social group and show great love for those around them, emphasising their protective and loyal instinct.
Key facts about the Dobermann
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Origins and history
The breed was born between 1850 and 1870 in Apolda, Thuringia, thanks to tax collector, Frederic Louis Dobermann, who wanted a guard dog completely different from those that already existed. His work was continued by other breeders, who introduced other more controversial breeds, for example the Pinscher, Weimaraner, Rottweiler and perhaps certain Terrier breeds. The Beauceron is likely an important influence as we can still clearly see traces of this breed in the physical appearance of the Dobermann.
Physical characteristics of the Dobermann
Adult size
Female : Between 25 and 27 in
Male : Between 27 and 28 in
Weight
Female : Between 71 and 77 lb
Male : Between 88 and 99 lb
Coat colour
Definite black, brown, blue or fawn (Isabella) only, with rust red markings. Markings to be sharply defined, appearing above each eye, on muzzle, throat and forechest, on all legs and feet and below tail.
There was also the blue Dobermann, but this variety died out due to genetic defects.
Type of coat
Their coat is short.
The hair is close to the body, smooth and rough to the touch. This dog doesn’t have an undercoat.
Eye colour
They have dark eyes. The brown Dobermann may have a lighter iris.
Description
The Dobermann is a big dog, robust and muscly, built elegantly they carry themselves nobly and with pride. Their head is long and takes the shape of a blunt wedge. They have parallel skull lines and a slight stop, their muzzle is deep and wide. Their eyes are medium in size and oval in shape. Their ears used to be cropped to make them stand upright. Now, they fall on the sides of the head and lie close to the cheeks. They have a short and solid back. Their limbs are perfectly straight.
Good to know
We hear a lot of nonsense about this breed: the most well-known is that they go crazy around the age of seven because their skull narrows (from a scientific point of view this is one of the most bizarre stories and has never been reported by dog lovers.) Luckily today, this has been rebuked and we very rarely hear about dogs that have gone crazy with “untameable ferocity”.
Varieties
Temperament
Behaviour of the Dobermann
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Compatibility
Price
The price of a Dobermann varies according to their origins, age and sex. On average, a Dobermann registered with the KC is about £1000.
The average budget needed to meet the needs of a dog of this size is about £50 / month
Grooming
This is a short-haired dog that doesn’t require maintenance. Their coat only needs to be brushed weekly to keep it shiny and beautiful.
Their ears need regular maintenance especially since they are no longer cut and hang down to the cheeks.
Shedding
The Dobermann (or rather their owners) are lucky that they don’t lose much hair. When they do moult it is very light as they don’t have an undercoat.
Nutrition of the Dobermann
This large dog isn’t difficult to feed, however it takes them a long time to reach full-size, so it is essential that the puppy has a correct diet.
Mass produced food, like dog biscuits, are suitable for this dog, but it should be of high quality to meet the needs of such an energetic dog that is so active.
Regarding their size, two meals a day is advised (a light one in the morning and a larger evening meal). These meals should be eaten in a calm environment to avoid bloating which is often seen in these lively breeds.
Health of the Dobermann
Life expectancy
Life expectancy is around 11 years.
Strong / robust
This dog is largely in good health. Dobermanns are hardy dogs as long as the temperatures aren’t too extreme.
Withstand heat
Most dogs aren’t comfortable in extreme heat and the Dobermann is no exception. Make sure they have a cool spot and water when it is too hot out.
Withstand cold
This dog doesn’t like the cold and damp as they don’t have an undercoat. They shouldn’t stay outside when temperatures aren’t good.
Tendency to put on weight
The energetic Dobermann is only likely to put on weight if they don’t spend enough time exercising as much as they need to.
Be careful, a dog of this size should not be affected by obesity.
Common illnesses
- Dilated cardiomyopathy (heart muscle disease)
- Von Willebrand disease (blood clotting problem)
- Panosteitis (abnormality of bone cells called osteoblasts)
- Wobbler syndrome (malformation of cervical vertebrae)
- Coxofemoral dysplasia (hip displacement)