Dobermann

The Doberman originated in the German state of Thuringia and was first bred by Karl Friedrich Louis Dobermann. Working as a tax collector, Dobermann was often threatened and as a result decided to breed a dog which could protect him during his work. The result was a larger, less refined dog than today’s Dobermann (or Doberman), named the Doberman Pinscher in honour of its creator. The modern Dobermann was later developed by Otto Goeller and Philip Greunig.

It is believed that the Doberman is a mix of several different dog breeds, including the German Pinscher, the Beauceron, the Rottweiler, the Thuringian Sylvan Dog, the Greyhound, the Great Dane, the Weimaraner, the German Shorthaired Pointer, the Black and Tan Terrier (forerunner of the Manchester Terrier or English Terrier as it is known in Australia), the Old German Shepherd Dog and the Thuringian Shepherd Dog. It is uncertain, however, to what extend each breed was used to create the dog we see today.

The “Tax Collector’s Dog” quickly gained an international reputation as a masterful working dog. Dobermans have excelled as guard dogs and police dogs, at military K-9 duty, as therapy dogs and service dogs for the disabled, as search-and-rescuers, and in competitive dog sports. During World War II, the U.S. Marine Corps adopted the Doberman as its official War Dog. Sadly, twenty-five of them died during the battle for Guam.

Despite their loyal and brave service, after the war the breed nearly became extinct. Werner Jung, who searched all over Germany for the right dogs, is credited with single-handedly saving the breed.

Dobermanns are very energetic and need a lot of exercise and free play. A long walk, hike or jog every day and having a large fenced area where they can run is vital for their physical and mental well-being.

Keeping their minds active is important. Dobermans are very intelligent, learn easily and respond quickly, so teaching them a new trick or command is not difficult. Participation in canine sports such as obedience, tracking, and agility will provide the mental stimulation and physical exercise that is so important for this breed and strengthen the bond between dog and owner.

Early socialisation from puppyhood is essential for Dobermans, as is obedience training. Puppy training classes are highly recommended as well. With a reputation as being aggressive, it is every Dobermann owner’s responsibility to ensure that their dog is raised to be a happy, well-behaved companion.

Dobermanns require firm and consistent leadership from all members of the family. They are very strong dogs and can become pushy, destructive, and unmanageable if not raised properly.

Their of loyalty and protective instinct makes them excellent guard dogs, if the owner wants to focus on developing this trait.

As they have very short hair, Dobermanns require very little grooming and shed an average amount.

A quick daily going-over with a short-bristled brush or a grooming mitt will keep their coats shiny and healthy.

They do not need to be bathed often.