Our family really wants a dog since we are getting a new, bigger house pretty soon. We want a working dog with minimal shedding and coat care since my mom can't stand shedding (she had a Chow and a shepherd when she was younger) (oh and I'm the second oldest, in charge of research). I want to show my dog and do either agility or obedience or possibly IPO if we get a European dobe. The thing is, I am not quite sure if a doberman is right for our family. I'm in love with the breed because of their intelligence and unique appearance (I have a mild dislike for breeds that look like a generic 'dog'). We have a pretty big family with several children, the youngest is about to turn nine, the oldest gonna be 19 in a couple months. I have done my research on this breed and several others and know the energy and time that would be required to raise a good, civilized doberman. My friend owns a male doberman and I've been with her through the potty-training and everything, so I have some first hand observations. Both my parents have owned dogs before and all the children know how to gently handle animals because we have a chinchilla (it lives in the cage, doesn't run around). Knowing the above, would you say that a doberman is right for our family? If not, what breed would you recommend? Key points we are looking for: medium to large size, short coat, trainable, not a super popular breed like golden retriever, I want something unique that you won't see on the streets every other day.
Advice on Doberman breed
- Thread starter Emerald
- Start date
Anubis81
New Member
No offense meant, but here's what I find troubling.
You say you have a dislike for dogs that look generic.
And that you like the intelligence and character of the doberman. But you don't seem too sure that you 'want a doberman'.
It feels like you want a dog to show off. And that is OK I guess provided that you can handle the dog. The breed is the breed but each dog is an individual. Will your love for your non-generic looking dog fade away if he turns out to be a little devil? Will you have the patience to train him even when he appears untrainable? Or will you turn him over at the shelter?
Before getting a doberman or any breed of dog, I would question my own motives for owning one in the first place. Admiring the breed for x,y,z reasons is OK. Wanting a dog, any dog so long as it doesn't look generic, would make me not want to sell you a puppy. And I don't mean that aggressively, I would just seek to do what's best for the dog.
You say you have a dislike for dogs that look generic.
And that you like the intelligence and character of the doberman. But you don't seem too sure that you 'want a doberman'.
It feels like you want a dog to show off. And that is OK I guess provided that you can handle the dog. The breed is the breed but each dog is an individual. Will your love for your non-generic looking dog fade away if he turns out to be a little devil? Will you have the patience to train him even when he appears untrainable? Or will you turn him over at the shelter?
Before getting a doberman or any breed of dog, I would question my own motives for owning one in the first place. Admiring the breed for x,y,z reasons is OK. Wanting a dog, any dog so long as it doesn't look generic, would make me not want to sell you a puppy. And I don't mean that aggressively, I would just seek to do what's best for the dog.
bomary
Hot Topics Subscriber
Whatever you decide, it is really great to see you doing research before getting any puppy. (I didn't do enough.) There will be more answers to come from very experienced owners, but I just wanted to say "hi."
One great thing you have going for you is that from what I gather in your post, your family is on board with this, and it definitely takes a commitment from everyone the dog lives with.
Good luck...just thinking about puppies is fun!
One great thing you have going for you is that from what I gather in your post, your family is on board with this, and it definitely takes a commitment from everyone the dog lives with.
Good luck...just thinking about puppies is fun!
Hi and welcome to DCF!
It's great to see you are doing your research. Dobermans are'nt for everyone. They can be pretty overwhelming if not researched, correctly. Dobes need 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. If you can provide enough exercise to keep him satisfied, that's a great start.
They also need to be mentally challenged, keep their minds busy with interactive toys and games, hide and seek and such. I can tell you now, a bored Doberman will and can become destructive.
As for the coat, they have a short easy-care coat. I weekly groom my boys coat to keep it in top shape. It only takes a few minutes. I also check his ears and clean them if necessary, brush his teeth and daily, I wipe away any eye- boggers.
Calm, consistent leadership is a must with a dobe. I can't stress this enough!! They are highly family orientated. They don't cope well with stress, mayhem, loud noises, arguing.....so a high level of commitment as a whole family is a must.
You're definitely going about it in the right way by finding out what the breed is like before you attempt to get one. Only you can decide if you'd be a good home for a Doberman. I wish you all the very best in your search. It is a huge commitment, just make sure everyone is on board.
And of course if you decide that the Doberman is the right breed for you and your family, we'd love for you to keep in touch so we can follow your journey
It's great to see you are doing your research. Dobermans are'nt for everyone. They can be pretty overwhelming if not researched, correctly. Dobes need 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. If you can provide enough exercise to keep him satisfied, that's a great start.
They also need to be mentally challenged, keep their minds busy with interactive toys and games, hide and seek and such. I can tell you now, a bored Doberman will and can become destructive.
As for the coat, they have a short easy-care coat. I weekly groom my boys coat to keep it in top shape. It only takes a few minutes. I also check his ears and clean them if necessary, brush his teeth and daily, I wipe away any eye- boggers.
Calm, consistent leadership is a must with a dobe. I can't stress this enough!! They are highly family orientated. They don't cope well with stress, mayhem, loud noises, arguing.....so a high level of commitment as a whole family is a must.
You're definitely going about it in the right way by finding out what the breed is like before you attempt to get one. Only you can decide if you'd be a good home for a Doberman. I wish you all the very best in your search. It is a huge commitment, just make sure everyone is on board.
And of course if you decide that the Doberman is the right breed for you and your family, we'd love for you to keep in touch so we can follow your journey
Doing your research is a wonderful thing however you must also research the health conditions of the breed as the Doberman like many breeds is fraught with genetic health problems. Will you be able to provide the financial end of medical care if they become ill.
Having a pet is a huge responsibility, financially, emotionally and physically. Proper fenced outdoor area to run and play safely, training by the entire family. Dobermans must have mental and physical stimulation on a daily basis.
They are an intelligent breed and love being with their family all the time. They are an indoor breed and should not be left outside on their own.
They are notorious for chewing and swallowing objects, like socks, toys, rocks, grass, almost anything that could cause an intestinal blockage requiring surgery.
Health insurance on your dog is highly recommended.
What are you and your family expecting from this breed if you decide to add one to your family?
They require a strong leader, not abusive, but strong leader.
If you just want a status symbol for a dog, and cannot put in the time for training and caring that this breed requires then I would not choose this breed.
They are a Velcro dog and need to be with their family at all times. They do not do well being left alone for long periods of time.
Keep researching and try talking to people that have raised them. Ask to visit a Doberman Rescue to see the dogs and get to know them. Volunteer at the rescue so you can walk them and see them first hand.
Perhaps even think of adopting a rescue Doberman.
There are a lot of things to consider and by asking and researching you are on the right track.
Best of luck to you and if you do decide on this breed, please share your pictures and puppy/dog with us and all dogs are deserving of a great, loving home, regardless of breed, looks etc.
Having a pet is a huge responsibility, financially, emotionally and physically. Proper fenced outdoor area to run and play safely, training by the entire family. Dobermans must have mental and physical stimulation on a daily basis.
They are an intelligent breed and love being with their family all the time. They are an indoor breed and should not be left outside on their own.
They are notorious for chewing and swallowing objects, like socks, toys, rocks, grass, almost anything that could cause an intestinal blockage requiring surgery.
Health insurance on your dog is highly recommended.
What are you and your family expecting from this breed if you decide to add one to your family?
They require a strong leader, not abusive, but strong leader.
If you just want a status symbol for a dog, and cannot put in the time for training and caring that this breed requires then I would not choose this breed.
They are a Velcro dog and need to be with their family at all times. They do not do well being left alone for long periods of time.
Keep researching and try talking to people that have raised them. Ask to visit a Doberman Rescue to see the dogs and get to know them. Volunteer at the rescue so you can walk them and see them first hand.
Perhaps even think of adopting a rescue Doberman.
There are a lot of things to consider and by asking and researching you are on the right track.
Best of luck to you and if you do decide on this breed, please share your pictures and puppy/dog with us and all dogs are deserving of a great, loving home, regardless of breed, looks etc.
I agree that a standard poodle would be a good fit for your family.
I've owned lots of dogs and find a doberman puppy to be challenging. They're often really mouthy and not in a soft lab type of way. They have the nickname dobershark for a reason. They are generally not a good first dog.
My husband's best friend, however, owns a standard poodle and he is a very good family dog. They dont need to have that huge fluffy coat except in conformation; just a twice yearly shave. His is about 25" and 50lbs. I think I've posted a video of Nero and his dog playing. He has never broken skin and honestly they dont spend enough time with him. But yet he's pretty well mannered and obedient.
We also pondered wiems and gsp but decided against them because of our cat.
I've owned lots of dogs and find a doberman puppy to be challenging. They're often really mouthy and not in a soft lab type of way. They have the nickname dobershark for a reason. They are generally not a good first dog.
My husband's best friend, however, owns a standard poodle and he is a very good family dog. They dont need to have that huge fluffy coat except in conformation; just a twice yearly shave. His is about 25" and 50lbs. I think I've posted a video of Nero and his dog playing. He has never broken skin and honestly they dont spend enough time with him. But yet he's pretty well mannered and obedient.
We also pondered wiems and gsp but decided against them because of our cat.
CRDobe
Well-Known Member
For first time owner I would highly suggest an adult rescue. There are so many Dobes out there in Doberman-specfic recues through no fault of their own.
A reputable rescue takes the time to really get to know/evaluate their dogs and can make a great match tailored to you and your family. As others have said, raising a Doberman puppy correctly can be quite a challenge.
And I second the idea of a Standard Poodle - very smart, awesome family companions and protectors,
and in temperment very different from their miniature cousins
A reputable rescue takes the time to really get to know/evaluate their dogs and can make a great match tailored to you and your family. As others have said, raising a Doberman puppy correctly can be quite a challenge.
And I second the idea of a Standard Poodle - very smart, awesome family companions and protectors,
and in temperment very different from their miniature cousins
Welcome from Minnesota!
It's great you're doing your research and from the sound of your plans, a Doberman might be a great fit as long as you're dedicated to the training and exercise they need.
They are a noble looking breed with lots of intelligence, loyalty and want to please so there's nothing wrong with being attracted to a certain breed for those reasons.
Make yourself at home and take a look around the forums to get a better idea if the breed is suitable for you.
It's great you're doing your research and from the sound of your plans, a Doberman might be a great fit as long as you're dedicated to the training and exercise they need.
They are a noble looking breed with lots of intelligence, loyalty and want to please so there's nothing wrong with being attracted to a certain breed for those reasons.
Make yourself at home and take a look around the forums to get a better idea if the breed is suitable for you.
Poppy
Well-Known Member
Personally I wouldn't get a rescue since I have children...I want to raise the puppy with my children and not have to deal with potential issues that could come with a rescue that was not properly socialized/trained as a young puppy...her youngest is 9 so not super young but still young enough that I think getting a puppy would be best..also I like to know the temperaments of the parents and lineage if I am getting a dog as a family pet...just my opinion in this area.For first time owner I would highly suggest an adult rescue. There are so many Dobes out there in Doberman-specfic recues through no fault of their own.
A reputable rescue takes the time to really get to know/evaluate their dogs and can make a great match tailored to you and your family. As others have said, raising a Doberman puppy correctly can be quite a challenge.
And I second the idea of a Standard Poodle - very smart, awesome family companions and protectors,
and in temperment very different from their miniature cousins
Thank you everyone for your feedback. Some of you mentioned how dobermans get destructive when bored, I complete agree. Recently my friend's doberman chewed up my sandals cause we left him alone downstairs while we did our hw in her room.
Also, some people mentioned dobermans have a high energy level, how would they do on a 2-4 hour hike? We'd bring water and food for him of course.
Also, some people mentioned dobermans have a high energy level, how would they do on a 2-4 hour hike? We'd bring water and food for him of course.
Also, I am meeting with a breeder this week at a show. We've been emailing each other a bit, so I found out all the basic information like whether she has euro or American dobes, which sports she shows them in, how often she breeds, info about raising and caring for puppies, health, etc. I'm kinda nervous cause I'm not a very big people person. Do you guys have any tips on what else I should ask/say/do? I'm going there mainly to see her dogs in action, but I know conversation will be inevitable.
That would be a bit much for a pup, but once their growth plates have closed they can start doing more things like that.
Lots of short walks, short training sessions and lots of mental exercise helps keep them more content and less likely to be bouncing off the walls.
You have a good list going there.
Does the breeder crop and dock the pups before sending them home?
What kind of health testing to the parents have?
What kind of contract do they have and will they be there to support you for the life of the dog?
I think most of us here with dobies are not big on being a people person. At least I am not, as I much prefer the company of my animals over that of people. There are no hidden agendas with dogs. They are intuitive, sensitive to mood changes and just want to please.
Make a list of all the questions you want answers to and bring them with you, along with a notebook and pen to record the answers. You will be wanting to review those notes after you leave.
Be brutally honest with your questions because there are NO silly, stupid or ridiculous questions.
You are on a mission to gain knowledge and educate yourself on the breed so ask all kinds of questions.
I would expect the breeder to have proof of health testing on the the parents, grandparents, and be willing to share that with you.
I would want to see both parents, the kennel where they are housed, the condition of the kennel or home.
Ask if the pups are raised inside from birth, if they are socialized with adults, children other animals while they are growing. Ask if they crop and dock before they go to their new home. Ask if they will crate train your pup until it is ready to leave.
Ask about health guarantees, and will they take the pup back if god forbid something occurs that prevents you from keeping the pup.
Most reputable breeders will answer yes to these questions.
Ask about trainers they might recommend and also about the contract they will have you agree to with regards to spay/neuter at a certain age. Will the registration be available to you without conditions, restrictions.
Let the breeder know this will be your first experience with a Doberman and what you plan to do with it, whether conformation showing, agility or IPO. They will be able to choose the right pup and temperament for you and your family as you have younger siblings.
Find a good veterinarian, one that
is a conventional and holistic Dr. and one that is experienced with the breed.
Never be afraid to ask any questions, as all give you more insight into what you are about to take on.
Lastly get health insurance on your puppy. It runs anywhere from $30. to $65. a month depending on the plan and company you go with.
Just one incidence of swallowing something and having to have a blockage surgically removed will cost you up to or more than $3000.00. That is far more than what your insurance would be for a several years.
Again good luck and keep us looped in on your journey.
I have found that once you have a Doberman you will always have a Doberman.
Make a list of all the questions you want answers to and bring them with you, along with a notebook and pen to record the answers. You will be wanting to review those notes after you leave.
Be brutally honest with your questions because there are NO silly, stupid or ridiculous questions.
You are on a mission to gain knowledge and educate yourself on the breed so ask all kinds of questions.
I would expect the breeder to have proof of health testing on the the parents, grandparents, and be willing to share that with you.
I would want to see both parents, the kennel where they are housed, the condition of the kennel or home.
Ask if the pups are raised inside from birth, if they are socialized with adults, children other animals while they are growing. Ask if they crop and dock before they go to their new home. Ask if they will crate train your pup until it is ready to leave.
Ask about health guarantees, and will they take the pup back if god forbid something occurs that prevents you from keeping the pup.
Most reputable breeders will answer yes to these questions.
Ask about trainers they might recommend and also about the contract they will have you agree to with regards to spay/neuter at a certain age. Will the registration be available to you without conditions, restrictions.
Let the breeder know this will be your first experience with a Doberman and what you plan to do with it, whether conformation showing, agility or IPO. They will be able to choose the right pup and temperament for you and your family as you have younger siblings.
Find a good veterinarian, one that
is a conventional and holistic Dr. and one that is experienced with the breed.
Never be afraid to ask any questions, as all give you more insight into what you are about to take on.
Lastly get health insurance on your puppy. It runs anywhere from $30. to $65. a month depending on the plan and company you go with.
Just one incidence of swallowing something and having to have a blockage surgically removed will cost you up to or more than $3000.00. That is far more than what your insurance would be for a several years.
Again good luck and keep us looped in on your journey.
I have found that once you have a Doberman you will always have a Doberman.
I would ask to see the health test records of the site and dam, I would ask to see both parents registration paper work and look to see if WZ is before the registration number, if it is walk away and I would like to know of the parents are both titles in something.
I'll keep your advice in mind though it won't be applicable to our first meeting since it will be at a show. What is WZ though? I know to watch out for Z or X factor cause that means white dobe, but I've never heard of WZ before
The Z is what you need to be aware of. The W is the first letter in the registration. Just make sure the second letter is not a Z as that indicates a Z factored dog that has albino lines in its parentage.
I think I said that right. Someone correct me if I am incorrect.
I think I said that right. Someone correct me if I am incorrect.
Yes that is correct. Most non Z factored Doberman's registration numbers start with WS in the AKC.
