Dobermann
Animal welfare relevant breedLife expectancy
11 years
Age adult
34 months
Height (Shoulder height)
70 cm
Weight
45 kg
Coat texture
short-haired / smooth / stiff/rigid / dense
Coat color
black or brown with rust-red markings
Common illnesses
dysplasia of the hip joint / thyroid diseases (mostly hypothyreosis) / von Willebrand disease
Food expenses per month in €
about € 84
Suitable for children
Rather yes
Needs a garden
Rather not
Hunting motivated / needs alternative employment
Rather yes
First dog suitable
Rather not
Allergy friendly
Rather not
Athletic
Very atletic
Attention
Needs much attention
Care and grooming
Low grooming effort
Eager to learn
High
Exercise
Needs a lot of exercise
Nature
quick and eager to learn / vivacious / alert / active / intelligent / protective / confident
Bred for
watchdog / guard dog
Common illnesses
dysplasia of the hip joint / thyroid diseases (mostly hypothyreosis) / von Willebrand disease
Dog type according to FCI
pinscher and schnauzer - molossoid - swiss mountain and cattledogs
FCI description
Section 1 Pinscher and Schnauzer. These were once farm dogs that kept house and stables free of mice and rats. They also protected against intruders and accompanied the carts. They are often independent, suspicious of strangers and vigilant.
Section 2 Molossoids. These great dane-like dogs were used in the war as fighting dogs and in the Middle Ages for big game hunting. Later for guarding large estates. They are big, defensive dogs who protect and defend their family. They need a loving education early on and must not be armed in any way, otherwise the strong animals get out of control. Also the mountain dogs were typical house and yard dogs which are ready to defend but little aggressive. With same-sex conspecific, they get along however usually less well because of its distinctive precinct-behavior.
Section 3 Swiss Mountain Dog. These worked as herd prodection dogs or guard dogs in alpine valleys or pulled milk carts. They are independent, territorial and guarded house, yard and livestock.
Many dogs from this group grow very big, have a strong personality and need patient training. They can become great partners for life if you have enough space and time. Others are small, but still stubborn and want to be challenged so that their activity and vigilance can be lived out and not used against others.
Short description
The Dobermann needs an experienced dog owner and a firm but not very trict training. The very active and flexible dog needs sufficient physical and mental exercise. Then he can be a nice and loving companion. Thanks to his temper and intelligence he is suitable for many different dog sports, like agility, obedience and tracking. Moreover, he can be used as a therapy and guide dog for blind people. The Dobermann does not tolerate strange dogs in his territory, therefore, he needs early socialization. Often he shows his distinct hunting instinct. He is very headstrong, but at the same time also sensitive. Generally, he as a friendly nature, and is very attachd to his family, loyal and child-friendly.
This information is indicative and adheres to the breed standard. Each animal is an individual and has a personal character, as well as its own needs. Thus, a breed is not a guarantee of certain behaviors, etc.