Introduction
When it comes to a canine breed with a sleek yet robust structure, the Doberman pinscher appears to the list. They are medium-large dogs with deep chests as a recognized trait.
Doberman pinschers are athletic and vigorous dogs with excellent strength as well as toleration. That is why Dobermans used to act as the official dog of the Marine Corps throughout the World War II. Just like German Shepherd Dog, Dobermans are used by law enforcement agencies and paramilitary forces.
In short, the Doberman pinscher is courageous, intelligent, and faithful dog breed. Hence, they make an ideal choice for guard dogs. Apart from being fearless, Dobermans are great companions as well.
How to Take Care of Doberman Pinschers?
Doberman pinschers feature a smooth, brief hair coat, so they do not need heavy grooming. Brushing the breed once every week is enough. Otherwise, owners can also massage their Dobermans’ coat using a wet towel. Frequent bathing is also not needed. Whenever the dog releases odor or gets dirty, owners should take them for a bath.
In case a Doberman’s ears remain natural without any cropping, then owners must pay extra attention. Otherwise, its ears may get dirty. Moreover, a monthly regimen of trimming its nails is also necessary to prevent tearing or breaking of nails.
Activities
Most Doberman pinschers show excellent energy level. Hence, they call for high amount of exercise to remain healthy. Dobermans show athletic nature, so a few running or brisk walking activities can help them stay fit and fine.
Moreover, Dobermans are very intelligent and sharp dogs with fast learning capability. However, owners need to ensure proper training to develop good behavior in them. Adequate socialization is also necessary to maintain a good temperament.
Keeping the Doberman pinschers on a leash during a walk is crucial. They can show hostile attitude towards other canines, which do not belong to their family. Doberman pinschers get defensive in case they feel their owners come under threat. However, this trait may prevent a Doberman pinscher to enter a dog park. Moreover, many individuals fear Doberman pinschers. Hence, keeping the canine on a leash would relax them.
The owner’s yard must be well fenced to ensure security of the Doberman. As a result, it can walk around and play, as per its convenience. Nevertheless, Dobermans cannot tolerate cold weather well. Therefore, owners should not let them outside every time. Doberman pinschers want to spend time with the respective owner’s family. They do not want to be lonely outside.
Diet & Nutrition
Owners should serve two meals every day to their Doberman pinschers. It should consist of dry dog food of 3 ½ cups per day. The serving amount depends on various factors, such as the age, size, activity level, and so on of the Doberman pinscher.
Owners can also serve two smaller meals instead of one heavy meal to their Dobermans. Thus, it could be possible to prevent GVD (gastric dilatation-volvulus). It is a condition, where gas converts into bloating.
It is also essential to keep checking the weight of the canine to prevent obesity, which could otherwise lead to various health problems. Owners must talk to an experienced veterinarian about their Doberman pinschers’ nutritional requirements to get customized recommendations.
Adoption of Doberman Pinschers
Do you want to adopt a Doberman pinscher? Then, you can start your search in The Doberman Pinscher Club of America. The breeder referral list of The Doberman Pinscher Club of America comes with breeders from everywhere in the USA. It also features the types of the services offered by the breeders, such as studs, puppies, health testing, etc. The Doberman Pinscher Club of America offers a rescue directory as well.
Common Health Issues
Doberman pinschers may experience some hereditary health issues. Some of the health problems in this regard are as follows:
Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM): This condition enlarges the canine’s heart muscle. Thus, the heart becomes malfunctioned.
Caudal Cervical Spondylomyelopathy: It is a neurological ailment, which affects the spine of the canine near its neck.
Von Willebrand’s Disease: It is a deficiency of a specific protein, which helps platelets to clot properly.
Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV): GDV is also known as gastric torsion or bloat. This condition makes the stomach of the canine twisted throughout a short axis.
More Information
Dobermans need proper training to tackle different surrounding situations and to get along well with kids. Besides, they act as excellent therapy dogs. They are usually submissive and protective. The first bred Doberman (originated in Germany) was known to be a ferocious guard dog. Nevertheless, Dobermans are very gentle but not aggressive.
Doberman pinschers like to be around people, as they are kind and affectionate. However, proper training and socializing are essential to ensure the same. Some of these dogs befriend only one person.
Doberman pinschers belong to the working group. The height and weight are 24 to 28 inches and 65 to 100 pounds respectively. These dogs have smooth yet short coat in various colors, such as red, black, fawn, or blue with rust spots. Small white patches are also seen sometimes in Dobermans. The life expectancy is 10 to 12 years.
In short, Doberman pinschers are athletic and courageous. They are very sharp and faithful dogs.