Meet The Breeds: Doberman Pinscher

Also known as Dobie, the Doberman pinscher is a powerful, energetic dog developed in 1880 by Louis Dobermann. This breed of dog has been known to be highly fearless. As a result, a Doberman is one of the finest protection dog breeds in the world.

Although the Doberman pinscher is considered a loving and loyal companion, he also has a reputation as an attack dog. A good Dobie is a stable and friendly dog, but all that changes when you threaten his family. They are also likely to become ferocious or even aggressive if not exercised early.

Here is what you and your family should know about a Doberman pinscher if you’re considering getting one.

Origin and History of Doberman Pinscher

Louis Dobermann first bred the Dobermans in the 1880s in Germany. As a full-time tax collector, Louis also ran the Apolda dog pound, where he had access to many strays. He wanted an ideal breed that would protect him during his rounds. A kind of dog that would exhibit impressive strength, stamina, and intelligence.

No one knows for sure, but Doberman is thought to have created the Doberman pinscher using several different breeds of dogs. Some breeds believed to have been involved include Manchester terrier, German shepherd, Great Dane, German pinscher, rottweiler, and English greyhound shorthaired shepherd.

Otto Goeller perfected the breed five years later when Louis died. Goeller created the National Doberman Pinscher Club and refined the breed in the 1890s into the exact characteristics Doberman was looking for. The breed was named Dobermann-pinscher in honor of Louis Dobermann. Half a century later, they dropped the letter “n” from Dobermann’s surname.

Doberman pinscher became very popular within a brief period. The U.S. Marine Corps adopted him as their war dog during World War II, although they did not use these breeds exclusively.

In 2012 and 2013, the American Kennel Club rated Dobie as the 12th most famous breed in the United States.

Physical Characteristics of Doberman Pinscher

Male Dobies are approximately 28 inches tall and weigh around 70 lbs. Females are about 27 inches and weigh between 60 to 65 pounds. This breed has a long head that complements their sleek, muscular body. The tail is usually docked short, and the ears are often cropped to stand erect.

Doberman pinschers have different color variations. They come in red, blue, black, or fawn with rust-colored blotches all over their bodies. These dogs are prone to albinism. And affected ones are born with cream or white hair coats, pale eye color, and pink noses, eye rims, and lips.

Personality and Temperament of Doberman Pinscher

Contrary to what many people believe, Dobies are never aggressive without reason. They are natural protectors who never dilly-dally to act when they think their family is threatened. A super active dog, extremely loyal, super-intelligent, and fun-loving – that’s what you get for adopting a Dobie.

These dogs love to be busy, both mentally and physically. They are fast learners, so training them is pretty straightforward. As a trainer, you will need to keep your lessons fresh and exciting day after day. It’s pretty unbelievable, but Dobies have their own ideas of how they should do things. Nevertheless, they are not stubborn when you provide constant and kind leadership.

Doberman pinschers take a while to mature. They remain puppyish until they are about three to four years old. Like every other dog, their temperament is determined by several factors, including socialization, training, and heredity. They need early socialization to ensure that they grow into well-rounded dogs.

Health

The average life expectancy of a Doberman pinscher is between 10-13 years. They are vulnerable to many health problems. Not all of them can get diseases, but getting acquainted is crucial if you’re considering this breed. Common serious health conditions include:

• Hip dysplasia
• Progressive retinal atrophy
• Albinism
• Color mutant alopecia
• Von Willebrand’s disease
• Cardiomyopathy
• Wobbler’s syndrome
• Hypothyroidism
• Narcolepsy
• Gastric dilatation- volvulus

Caring for a Doberman Pinscher

As mentioned earlier, Doberman pinschers need a lot of exercises. They are best suited to a country home with a room to romp. Dobies will need a house with a securely fenced home for their own safety and that of other people. They should not be left alone for lengthy periods. They are not supposed to be chained either.

Consider buying your Dobie some mentally stimulating toys like Kong Shakers Honkers Flamingo to kick up the fetching fun. The low-tone squawk sparks excitement and keeps your super-active Dobie playing longer. You may have to join him sometimes, especially during his early years of socialization. Dogit Bomber Ball Toy is great for tugging and kicking around like soccer. Try using bomber for fetch games, and your Dobie will surely love it.

Doberman pinschers require regular veterinary checkups to spot any potential health problems early.

Grooming a Doberman Pinscher

Doberman pinschers are average shedders, meaning they require minimal grooming. Their hairs are very short and lie close to the skin. Weekly grooming using a Petkit Everclean Pet Massage Comb is sufficient. You may also need to bathe him occasionally.

Brush his teeth at least twice or thrice a week to remove debris that may lead to bacteria accumulation. However, daily brushing is recommended to prevent bad breath and gum disease. It would be best if you trim his nails at least once a month to prevent painful wear and tear alongside other problems. Giving your Doberman a nice big dental chew can help remove plaque and tartar. Try this long lasting Absolute Bites Whole Deer Antlers Dental Chew.

Feeding a Doberman Pinscher

How much your Dobie eats depends on his size, activity level, metabolism, and age. A highly active dog will require more food than a dormant one. The quality of food you buy also determines a lot.

Keep your Dobie in good shape by giving him high-quality dry food such as Absolute Holistic Freeze-Dried Raw Salmon Patties or wet food like K9 Natural Lamb Feast Can Dog Wet Food. It’s even a good idea to mix the two to offer various flavors, smells, textures, and nutrients.

You should be able to determine if your Dobbie needs more or less food by physically examining him. Place your hands on their back at the waist region. Spread your fingers downward and place your thumbs along your doggie’s spine. You should be able to feel their ribs without pressing hard. If you can see the ribs without touching them, then he needs more food. If you can’t feel the ribs, then it means your furry friend needs less food and more exercise.

Where Can I Adopt a Doberman Pinscher

Here are a few animal shelters where you can adopt a Doberman pinscher in Singapore.

1.     Action for Singapore Dogs (ASD)

Established in 2000, Action for Singapore Dogs’ main goal is to improve the lives of stray and abandoned dogs within the community. You can browse through their list of Doberman pinschers that need a loving home. You may also find a pedigree and get the chance to learn more about each pup.

2.     Animal Lovers League (ALL)

Animal Lovers League is one of Singapore’s largest and oldest registered animal charities. It’s home to around 500 dogs and cats who need affectionate pet parents. That can be you! Check out for a Doberman pinscher on their website.

3.     Causes for Animals Singapore (CAS)

CAS is a charity organization that focuses primarily on the needs of all strays and abandoned animals. They rescue, nurse, rehabilitate, and rehome homeless animals. They, too, have a long list of dogs for adoption. You can contact them on their website for more information.