Are Dobermans good dogs? A Comprehensive Guide

Some excel in advanced obedience competition, while others are hardheaded and will test to find their place in the pecking order.

Called Doberman Pinscher in some countries and just plain Dobermann (with two ns) in others, this athletic dog needs brisk walking every day and all-out running as often as possible. Too little exercise and too little companionship can lead to restlessness and other behavioral problems.

About the author: Michele Welton has over 40 years of experience as a Dog Trainer, Dog Breed Consultant, and founder of three Dog Training Centers. An expert researcher and author of 15 books about dogs, she loves helping people choose, train, and care for their dogs.

Keep in mind that the inheritance of temperament is less predictable than the inheritance of physical traits such as size or shedding. Temperament and behavior are also shaped by raising and training.

Some Doberman Pinschers are dominant with other dogs. Some are confirmed cat chasers, while others love small animals.

LIFE EXPECTANCY

A Doberman lives for about 10 to 12 years, on average, so this is worth considering when you choose to adopt a younger or older dog. However, even more important is the recommendation that families with young children really need to get a Doberman as a puppy. This combination inevitably means you will face a very hard discussion with your kids when they get older.

GROOMING NEEDS

A Doberman is an extremely easy breed to care for when it comes to grooming, so if you are looking for a low-maintenance dog in the grooming department, then this could be the pup for you. To simply keep his ears clean, you can gently wipe down the insides with a soft cloth to help protect against things like mites and infections, and regularly trim his nails and brush his teeth.

You only need to give a Doberman an occasional bath, and his short coat means extensive brushing is not necessary. However, a Dobermanan does tend to shed a lot, so a quick, daily go-over with a brush or grooming mitt can make a huge difference in keeping your house free from dog hair.

Doberman Pinscher Pros and Cons