Ahaaaa...obviously we are not on the same page...seems like you are in the category of those who want a dobermann just for the looks and not for what they really are.
When i say superrior character i do not mean the ability to work as a service dog..going by your theory, there are better dogs than GSD's, so whats the point of getting a GSD when you can get a Belgian Mallinois??
............to be frank,i dont think the breed will miss the people of your category!!! (no disrespect intended)
I see that we are talking apples and oranges then. The ability to work (or a dogs "work ethic") is what I think of when someone refers to the "character" of working or hunting breeds.
Hunters may have personal preferences for the Blue Lacy over the Black Mouth Curr; or they may choose the German Jagdterrier over the Jack Russel Terrier. When choosing between those breeds the look or appearance isn't generally a reason to choose one breed over the other. Same with the GSD and Malinios- the 'look' is similar enough to be waayyyyy down the list of things to consider when choosing between them. Specific bloodlines or a KNPV vs. IPO pedigree will have far more importance when choosing between those breeds rather than the dogs appearance.
When comparing very different looking dogs like the Dobermann and GSD, the appearance is a bigger factor. There is a limit though on how much extra effort in training or risk of health problems, etc, etc one is willing to take just for looks or minor differences in personality. At some point it's just not worth it.
For me that point is the loss of the cropped/docked look. There are only a few reasons to justify training differently or worrying about health issues and a short life span of the Dobermann. Much, if not most of what the Dobermann has to offer can be found in a GSD except for short hair and his regal, aristocratic appearance.
I love my Dobermann and wouldn't trade him for a GSD or any other dog, but someday when he's dead and gone I will be faced with choices among the breeds. GSD's and Malinios of good (working) character are easy to find. There has to be some kind of compelling reason to choose a Dobermann instead. Loss of the cropped and docked look means a very significant reason will have disappeared.