— Breed of the Month —

The Doberman Pinscher

Back to Breed of the Month

Breed Traits and Characteristics

According to the American Kennel Club, here are some breed characteristic you can find in Doberman Pinschers. 

 

  • Height

    26-28 inches (male), 24-26 inches (female)

  • Weight

    70-100 pounds (male), 60-90 pounds (female)

  • Life Expectancy

    10-12 years

  • Coat Type/Length

    Smooth/Short

  • 100 Affectionate with Family
  • 100 Good with Young Children
  • 60 Good with Other Dogs
  • 100 Trainability Level
  • 100 Energy Level
  • 60 Barking Level
  • 80 Shedding Level
  • 40 Drooling Level

History

The Doberman was bred by Louis Dobermann, a tax collector in the town of Apolda, Germany, around 1890 for a specific purpose – protection from hostilities at collection time. While their exact lineage is largely a mystery, it is believed that Dobermann crossed Rottweilers, German Pinschers, Black and Tan Terriers, and several other breeds to create a dog suitable for his needs.

The Doberman’s intelligence and athleticism led to international recognition as a working dog. The United States Marine Corps selected the Doberman Pinscher as its official service dog, and the breed garnered fame during World War II for their contributions to the war effort. Today’s Dobermans are celebrated show dogs, excel as therapy or service dogs for the disabled, and continue to retain popularity as guard dogs and trustworthy pets.

Doberman Pinscher Personality & Temperament

The Doberman Pinscher possesses an ease of movement and regal appearance befitting their royal status in the canine kingdom. Originally bred as guard dogs, Dobermans are strong and athletic, with boundless energy and keen intelligence that makes them highly trainable. Equally loving and loyal, these compactly-built dogs are very popular pets – provided their owners can cope with their energy level.

Doberman Pinschers have sweet, appealing personalities and stable temperaments. They are extremely loving, loyal, and trustworthy, and even play well with other dogs – provided they can run the show! Dobermans are generally stable and trouble-free. Instances of timidity or aggression can be easily rectified if addressed early in their development, as their high intelligence means they respond well to training.

If you are thinking of purchasing a Doberman, it is important to source from a responsible breeder who is breeding for not only looks, but health and temperament as well. Rescues are also great options for prospective Doberman owners. Contact your local Bark Busters trainer today to learn about great breeders and rescue organizations near you!

Doberman Pinscher Physical Characteristics

Dobermans are a strong, whip-smart breed, with medium-size square bodies. Their appearance projects elegance and nobility, as well as a sense of endurance and speed befitting their energetic nature. They make excellent watch dogs, as they are constantly alert and observing their surroundings.

Class & Color

Class

  • Working Group

Color

  • Blue & Rust
  • Black & Rust
  • Black Brindle & White
  • Fawn & Rust
  • Red & Rust

Size & Life Expectancy

Size

  • Medium to Large
  • Height: 26-28 inches (male), 24-26 inches (female)
  • Weight: 75-100 pounds (male), 60-90 pounds (female)

Life expectancy

  • Doberman Pinschers typically live between 10 and 13 years.

Other Traits

  • Sleek, graceful physique
  • Angulated head with long muzzle, tapered at nose
  • Flopped ears and long tail (though some owners crop both)
  • Smooth, semi-coarse topcoat and a soft, fine undercoat

Bark Busters Trainer Jeff Drier on the Doberman Pinscher

Doberman Pinschers are renowned for their natural leadership qualities and protective natures – noble traits that can create dangerous situations if they misinterpret human behavior, make errors in judgment, or start to determine who is and isn’t welcome at home on their own.

Case Study

Take King, whose human family included two teenage siblings. Like most brothers and sisters, they would squabble and sometimes roughhouse with each other. King’s protective instincts would kick in, leading him to misinterpret their wrestling as something more serious. King would growl and bark at them, and one day even bit the son when he was wrestling with his sister. He fortunately escaped without serious injury, but it was clear to the family that King needed help.

Our trainer reviewed King’s behavior and developed a plan to teach King that it was the parents’ job, not his, to police the kids. Being a typical Doberman, he was very smart and took to the re-education very quickly. The family soon reported that King had vacated his duties as policeman and was no longer reacting to the teens’ dustups, instead letting the parents handle any disputes at home.

Like any breed, Dobermans can make poor decisions and mistakes in judgment. Your local Bark Busters trainer can quickly help establish new patterns of behavior – often in just a single session.

Tips for Potential Doberman Pinscher Owners

Doberman Pinschers are susceptible to certain health risks. Responsible breeders will screen breeding stock for medical conditions inherent to the breed.

Dobermans are extremely active and require space for play and exercise, making them poor choices for apartment-dwellers.

Early socialization and basic obedience training are important to establishing patterns of good behavior with your Doberman.

The Doberman is an energetic athlete who needs a lot of exercise and free play. Taking your dog for long walks and hikes is great for their wellbeing.

We are always available to help you develop a consistent, compassionate approach to good behavior for your Doberman Pinscher. Learn more about our services and schedule an appointment with one of our trainers today!

Connect with Us!

Need help training your Doberman Pinscher? Call 1-877-500-BARK (2275)or enter your zip code.

Please begin by confirming your zip code.

Doberman Pinscher Health & Grooming

Health

The breed is usually healthy, but can be susceptible to bloat (a digestive condition), heart ailments like hip dysplasia and enlarged hearts, and a spinal condition called wobbler syndrome. Potential owners should purchase from responsible breeders, who typically genetically test their breeding stock for these issues.

Grooming

Dobermans are brush-and-go-type dogs that require little care for their short coats. A few minutes brushing and one wash per week should be enough to remove the soft, fine undercoat hairs that can shed or contribute an unpleasant smell if left alone. The American Kennel Club recommends monthly nail trimming, regular teeth brushing, and wiping out their ears with a small amount of baby oil on a paper towel every few days.

Tips for Every Dog Owner

Welcoming a New Baby Bark Busters Home Dog Training

Welcoming a New Baby

Bringing a new baby into a home with a dog requires thoughtful preparation to ensure a smooth transition and foster positive bonds. Here are strategies to mitigate negative behaviors, reduce stress, and ensure your baby’s safety.
Bark Busters 2024 Holiday Gift Guide

2024 Bark Busters Holiday Gift Guide

The Bark Busters 2024 Holiday Gift Guide is here! Discover 12 amazing gifts for dogs and their parents, from fun to practical and everything in between.
Dogs_HolidayFun

Holiday Safety Tips for Your Dog

The holiday season is a joyful time to gather with family and friends, decorate around the home, and enjoy traditions old and new. While the season can sometimes get a little hectic for everyone, including our pets, don’t stress – we’ve got you covered with tips and tricks to make the holidays fun, safe, and festive for your dog and all its favorite humans.
Winter Safety Tips for Your Dog Bark Busters Home Dog Training

Winter Safety Tips for Your Dog

Whether you live somewhere with freezing temperatures or reside in a milder climate, winter can bring some challenges for dogs. Fortunately, a few simple precautions can keep your pet safe and cozy.
GoldenRetriever_FallLeaves

Thanksgiving Safety Tips for Your Dog

Thanksgiving is a holiday that all family members can enjoy – including your dog. Follow these tips to make sure everyone can indulge and celebrate safely.
Dog in Halloween Costume

Halloween Safety Tips for Your Dog

Halloween has something for everyone! But what’s fun for humans can sometimes be confusing – and even dangerous – for our pets. Learn more!
Girl and Dog off to School

Back to School Tips for Your Dog

As summer winds down and school begins, everyone in the household – whether two- or four-legged – begins to adjust to new routines. Abrupt changes to day-to-day life can affect our canine companions but with training and the right combination of food, shelter, and entertainment, everyone can quickly and smoothly adapt to the new normal.
General puppy tips Bark Busters Home Dog Training

General Puppy Tips

Ensure your puppy's growth and happiness with this guide on meeting their basic needs, understanding behaviors, and beginning early training.
Bringing home a puppy Bark Busters Home Dog Training

Bringing Home a Puppy

Prepare your house with this checklist: find a vet, get essential supplies, puppy-proof your home, and set up a safe space for your pup.

Hear from Bark Busters Clients Who Have a Doberman Pinscher

Had a Doberman that was misbehaving. Marcus did a wonderful job working on his issues. Now we can go for walks. The barking and charging has stopped. Now its our turn to work.
Scott has been helping us with a reactive Doberman who also has very high anxiety. After seeing her get worse we did private and group training classes but those used shock collars and we didn’t know then that we were making things so much worse and more traumatic for her. We then tried one of the top rated animal behaviorists; but they were the polar opposite. The more we paid the less they did. I felt hopeless and knew we would lose her if we had anymore biting incidents with her. I found Bark Busters and was immediately drawn to the fact that they do not use shock collars, clickers, treats or any things else you have been taught to keep your pup in line. The lady on the phone was fantastic and answered all my questions and told me about Scott. I honestly was surprised he was not working with famous people at how good he looked on paper. Scott came to our home and was so calm and patient. He listened and empathized; but then he got to work. The exercises we did during our FIRST session were already making a complete difference. He helped us with exercises and guided us as needed and left us with tips, tricks and tools to use until his next visit. He also made himself readily available if we were in crisis or needed help of any kind. I have had too many nights crying thinking I am going to have to put my Doberman baby down and now I feel such excitement and a newfound sense of confidence. Scott is honest and straightforward and will not tell you what you want to hear. He understands our crisis and how close we were to giving up. Scott is an all around professional and while he is our last ditch effort to save our dog, I full confidence that he will help us keep her happy, healthy and safe for a long time to come. Thanks Scott and thanks Bark Busters.
I would like to start out by saying i have had 9 dobermans in my lifetime, most lived to be between 12 and 3 actually to 15 years. I thought i had seen it all. Never needed a trainer. Well our newest puppy challenged us. Our pup extreme high energy, very excitable, and out of control with puppy biting and jumping like a kangaroo. I had to resource to a trainer. No success the first 2 trainers and their methods, so we tried barkbusters. Chris, came to our home, and had immediate success on one command with our puppy, at the time 5 months old. I have to compliment the training methods suggested by Chris and barkbusters because they were successful, and totally humane. But the key as to anything is consistency. I am not going to say we are over the hump just yet since we are approaching 9 months and getting challenged daily with his new teenage doggy interests and challenges, but the overall experience was well worth it, Chris was great, and the best thing??? He is just a text, call or email away forever, and very quick to respond to our ongoing needs if necessary. highly recommend!!
I have two dobermans ages 3 1/2. I needed to learn how to be the leader of this pack. The skills Sharon taught me were/are very effective with my boys. In addition, we worked on their backyard behavior. In the first session she had my boys greeting the neighbors dog with out aggression. Sharon knows dogs and is very patient when teaching her clients. This was well worth the investment. I am so happy I made the appointment. I would definitely recommend her services. Thank you Sharon.
We learned why our dog was behaving in the way that annoyed us and how to correct his behavior. We have hope that we will enjoy him more!
Orlando was absolutely amazing. As a dog owner all you want to see is happiness from your dog and Nala has been smiling non stop for the duration of Orlando's visit. I'm super happy and impressed with his knowledge and cant wait to move forward with the exercises.
Orlando really helped us today in a very short amount of time, very practical exercises that worked immediately.
The instruction was clear and I was able to get answers to my questions. I feel confident that I can work with my dogs on this successfully.
Very happy to get all the info. Lots of things I thought I was doing right, were not. Now I feel I can handle (with John's help) my precious Emma!
John was very knowledgeable regarding all aspects of training our puppy. After our first session we saw a huge improvement and were so pleased. Thanks John!
There aren't enough words to express our gratitude, appreciation and respect for Theresa and what she has done for us. Our journey with Theresa began a little more than 2 years ago. Our Lucy and our neighbors' dog Roma became aggressive to the point of fighting. Theresa came to our rescue!! After a couple of months of her training us and the dogs, the aggressive behavior was resolved totally, until a week ago when unfortunately Lucy and Roma got into a really bad fight "over a ground squirrel". Resulting in our having to keep the 2 of them totally separated. No longer being able to allow them outside together. Needless to say, we were devastated. Because Bark Busters has a Lifetime Guarantee Service, we contacted Theresa, explaining our situation and she immediately scheduled a time to come out and evaluate the situation. She thankfully came today and after talking with us, she and my neighbor walked Lucy and Roma (with halter and leashes) so she could observe their attitude toward each other. Then she talked with us about her plan to help bring Lucy and Roma past their aggression/fear of each other. It will be a work in progress BUT, I have NO doubt with Theresa"s guidance and help we will get there!! So you see she's not only a true professional, but a friend and Blessing to us all. Please, no matter what your issues/situation with your fur babies is, don't feel hopeless and do not hesitate to contact Theresa at Bark Busters you will be as thankful as we are that you made that call. ❤️
We had a great experience with Deb. Our new rescue pup has severe separation anxiety to the point that we cannot leave without her panicking and hurting herself with her desperate behaviors to get loose from her pen or crate and find us. Within a couple of hours of working with Deb, we saw some small glimmers of hope. Using her techniques we were able to get nearly 30 mins of Penny starting to settle in her pen. We will keep practicing and working up to more time so I’m no longer a hostage in the home!
Deb is pleasure to work with. Her training is simple to follow and if you follow through, you will get results. We have only had one session with Deb and are getting the results we hoped for. Our Bernedoodle is very active and strong willed, but he is adapting very well. Highly recommend Deb.
Very thorough session discussing our dogs concerns and steps to improve their behaviors. We have our homework and we are looking forward to the behavior modification.
We are beyond impressed with Amber. Our dog is going to make tremendous progress. I am very excited to continue our training.
Got a better understanding of how to correct some of our dogs behavior. Can't wait until they get along.
Amber was thoughtful, professional, and profoundly interested in our dogs. She taught us so much in such a short time. It was immediately effective.
It was amazing with Orlando! We are so shocked now that Demi was willing to listen. We are excited to see what the next couple of weeks have in store! Can't wait for the next lesson.
Very pleased had our Mia respond right away. Explained dog talk to us and helped us understand. Orlando was amazing, highly recommended.
Jared is absolutely wonderful. He listens carefully to the specific challenges we have faced and has us practice behavior modification using his practical techniques. The dog is responding well and we look forward to working further with Jared.
El Servicio muy bueno. Luis me explicó con mucha claridad y mi perro respondió al entrenamiento. Para resaltar la amabilidad, puntualidad y profesionalismo
Winnie and I live in a condo and she barks every time someone walks by the windows and was just awful if the doorbell rang or a knock. Todd helped me understand why she was barking that she has strong impulse behavior and gave me exercises and methods to decrease and stop her behavior in just a couple of days of consistent practice Winnie is better and I have a lot less concern. Thanks Todd!
John was great! He was very patient and great at explaining everything. His passion for dogs and families is evident.
Very enlightening experience! Our dogs are already responding well.
I am so grateful that I chose Bark Busters. Our first meeting was three hours, and we got so many techniques and videos and handouts that I can use to remember them and practice them. Joshua is an excellent trainer!
It was very good.
Kyle can help you!
There are many things about working with Kyle that are mentionable. He was always on time and respectful of our role as the pack leaders when he came into our home. He was observant, demonstrated techniques and gave recommendations and suggestions. Barkley LOVED him and Kyle was always willing to get on Barkley’s level for training and giving some pets!
We just had someone to our home that said, ‘Wow! Barkley has come a long way!’ We are fortunate to have such a great-natured dog, but Kyle trained us how to be his leaders and we are all so much better for it.
Kyle is super responsive and available. He cares about what he does and he cares about helping you. Let him!
We are so excited to see the results with our dogs! In one session we already notice a difference.

Need Dog Training Assistance with Your Doberman Pinscher? Find Your Local Trainer Now!

CALL TODAY 1-877-500-BARK (2275)

Please begin by confirming your zip code.