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Doberman Pinschers

Doberman Pinscher

Country of Origin: Germany

Height: Males 26–28.5 inches, females 24–27 inches

Weight: Males 88–99 pounds, females 70.5–77 pounds

Coat: Smooth, short, hard, thick, close lying; imperceptible undercoat on neck acceptable

Colors: Black, red, blue, fawn; rust markings

Other Names: Dobermann

Registries (With Group): AKC (Working); UKC (Guardian)


ORIGIN AND HISTORY


Karl Friedrich Louis Dobermann was a tax collector who worked in a dangerous area and needed a tough, smart, and reliable protection dog. In the late 1860s, he decided to create his own personal guardian, a dog who would look much like a large Miniature Pinscher. Breed type was fixed in an amazingly short period. Herr Dobermann went to the old German Shepherd type for hardiness, intelligence, and soundness, and he brought in German Pinscher blood for quick reaction and terrier fire. The Weimaraner donated hunting abilities and a fine nose, as well as the dilute colors. Added to the strength, guarding instinct, and courage of the Rottweiler, the breed needed only the Greyhound for speed and the Manchester Terrier to give it a short, sleek coat.

The Doberman Pinscher’s racy, muscular appearance exudes athleticism and confidence. Herr Dobermann’s dog has excelled in all aspects of service to humankind, including search and rescue, therapy, police dog work, guide work for the blind, and much more.


PERSONALITY PROFILE


Today’s well-bred Doberman Pinschers are intelligent and loyal, as playful as Herr Dobermann’s dogs were intimidating. They are athletic and powerful, light footed and aristocratic.


CARE REQUIREMENTS


Exercise: The Doberman needs a good deal of exercise to expend energy and stay in shape, but he is as happy getting it from playing a game of chase or hide-and-seek as going for training sessions on the end of a leash.

Grooming: The sleek, shiny coat of the Doberman is easy to care for—a soft brush and hound glove are all he needs.

Life Span: The average life span of the Doberman is 10 to 12 years.

Training: The responsive, alert, highly trainable Doberman is eager to learn and please. He needs a fair leader—one who will encourage his abilities while setting firm limits.


Find a Nylabone chew, treat, or toy for your Doberman Pinschers or large dog!

Excerpt from World Atlas of Dog Breeds, 6th Edition. © 2009 TFH Publications, Inc.
World Atlas of Dog Breeds

World Atlas of Dog Breeds Book


Other Books on this Topic:
The Doberman Pinscher (Terra Nova)


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