So You Want To Own A Dobermann?

SO, YOU WANT TO OWN A DOBERMANN

ORIGINS AND HISTORY

The Dobermann originated in the late 1800’s and took its name from Herr Louis Doberman who’s breeding experiments were reputedly involved in the Dobermann’s early development. Although no official records were kept, the Old German shepherd, the German Pinscher, and later, the black & tan Manchester Terrier, the black English Greyhound and the Weimaraner are all believed to have contributed to the only working dog bred to be a human companion, that we have come to know today as

the Dobermann.

GENERAL APPEARANCE

A square bodied, medium sized dog, the Dobermann is elegant with a proud carriage reflecting great nobility and temperament. They are alert, determined, energetic, loyal, and obedient. Males are approximately 69cm (27”) tall at the shoulder, females 65cms (25 1/2”), weighing around 32 - 36kg, with a life expectancy of approximately 10-12 years.  The Dobermann comes in four recognized colours, black, brown, blue and fawn, all with rust markings on the face, chest and legs. The blue and fawn colours are less common.

PURPOSE AND USES

The Dobermann was originally bred to be a sharp and protective dog to accompany Herr Louis Dobermann on his tax collecting route. Today, the Dobermann is mostly used as a family dog and protector of the home. They are also used successfully as service dogs, guide dogs, therapy dogs, sniffer dogs and search and rescue dogs.

TEMPERAMENT

Naturally very protective, the Dobermann is also a trustworthy family member and companion. They demand respect, are energetic, determined, fearless, loyal and obedient. Dobermanns require an owner, able and willing to carry the responsibility of training him / her to be a good canine citizen.

GENERAL CARE & MAINTENANCE

As the Dobermann is a short-coated dog, hygiene and grooming are minimal. Regular grooming with a brush, mitt or damp cloth and the occasional bath will keep the coat and skin clean, shiny and healthy. The ears should be gently cleaned and toenails trimmed on a weekly basis. Vaccinating and worming are routines that will be done throughout your Dobermann’s life. When you buy a puppy from a reputable breeder at 8 weeks of age the immunisation and worming program will already have been commenced. The breeder should give you an immunisation card and details of worming stating when they are next due.

Dobermanns are a family dog and benefit greatly from being an active family member and participating in family activities.

Dobermanns can easily suffer from heat exhaustion during our long hot summer months - Never leave him in a car on a

warm day even with the windows down the interior temperatures can rise to 20° above the outside temperature. Do not have snail or rat bait lying around the garden or house. These are very attractive to dogs and can prove fatal. Should you suspect your dog has consumed one of these contact a vet immediately. The Dog Control Acts of the various Local Council list your responsibilities as a dog owner. You are obliged to register your dog with your local council and provide adequate food, shelter and control over your dog at all times.

TRAINING & EXERCISE

The Dobermann is highly intelligent and benefits greatly from being worked both mentally and physically. Basic training is

highly recommended and can begin as early as possible with the teaching of discipline, good manners and socialization.

The Dobermann Club of Victoria can assist with contacts for obedience and show training. A large well fenced living area

and daily walks are essential to maintain both good muscle tone and mental stimulation.