Doberman Pinscher

Canis Lupus

Last updated: February 4, 2023
Verified by: AZ Animals Staff
© John Adams / Creative Commons / Original

A gentle, loyal and loving breed!


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Doberman Pinscher Scientific Classification

Kingdom
Animalia
Phylum
Chordata
Class
Mammalia
Order
Carnivora
Family
Canidae
Genus
Canis
Scientific Name
Canis Lupus

Read our Complete Guide to Classification of Animals.

Doberman Pinscher Conservation Status

Doberman Pinscher Locations

Doberman Pinscher Locations

Doberman Pinscher Facts

Diet
Omnivore
Common Name
Doberman Pinscher
Slogan
A gentle, loyal and loving breed!
Group
Mastiff

Doberman Pinscher Physical Characteristics

Skin Type
Hair
Lifespan
12 years
Weight
40kg (88lbs)

Doberman Pinscher as a Pet:

General Health
Energy Level
Shedability
Trainability
Intelligence
Tendency to Chew
Size
Family and kid friendliness
Yappiness / Barking
Moderate
Separation Anxiety
High
Preferred Temperature
Average climate
Exercise Needs
High
Friendly With Other Dogs
Moderate
Pure bred cost to own
$600 to $1000
Dog group
Working
Male weight
62-70 lbs
Female weight
60-65 lbs

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With a very powerful and sleek body type, the Doberman Pinscher is known to be one of the noblemen of the dog’s kind. It does not only have a great physique but is also very intelligent.

Pinschers are known to be extremely fearless and have been one of the finest protection dog breeds in the world. This breed of dog is known to have originated in Germany and was developed by Karl Friedrich Louis Dobermann in 1890. These dogs come in a variety of colors including black, rust, brown, white, blue, and red.

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The red Dobermans are especially considered to be attractive and amazing. The blue ones are a result of a special genetic pigmentation. These dogs also have a miniature version of the breed, known as the mini Doberman pinscher. However, the mini pinscher is a whole separate breed.

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The word ‘pinscher’ in German, means a dog’s habit of pouncing on and biting its prey. German pinschers are very closely related to Doberman pinschers and have the same body shape and size. They are also energetic and intelligent much like the Doberman pinschers and are trained for all kinds of canine work. This one makes a great working dog, especially the European Doberman- see how it compares to the American Doberman here.

3 Pros and Cons of Owning a Doberman Pinscher

If you are thinking of owning a Doberman pinscher as a pet, you might want to consider what does — and doesn’t — make it favorable.



Pros!Cons!
Protective behavior
A Doberman is very protective and often acts as a guard dog, and people often use it as a protection dog. These dogs are very protective of their owners and the families they live with.
Dominant
Even though they are affectionate, these dogs are also very independent as well as dominant which could mean that you might have a problem if you are a first-time owner.
Easy to train
These dogs are very easy to train and often find physical activity exciting. According to sources, if you choose a reward-based approach with a Doberman, you would not be disappointed. This is also known to be a great working dog.
Not very sociable
These dogs are not very social. So, while they are very affectionate towards their family, they could become very suspicious of strangers. It has also been observed that in some situations, the dogs could deliberately attempt to push strangers away from their owners.
Playful and affectionate
Dobermans are very affectionate and playful. They are usually extremely high on energy and are very friendly towards the children in the family. They are known to be good family companion pets.
Separation anxiety
These dogs have separation anxiety, primarily arising when the dog is left alone at home. The dog might start acting weird and would be emotionally distressed, but there are many remedies for anxiety relief.

Evolution and Origins

Doberman pinscher with erect ears laying in leaves

The Doberman Pinscher was first bred by a tax collector.

©DragoNika/Shutterstock.com

Health and Entertainment for your Doberman Pinscher

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Doberman Pinschers were first bred to provide support to tax collectors going about their business, since the line of work was a rather risky one. Karl Friedrich Louis Dobermann, tax collector, and also night watchman and dogcatcher, of Apold, Germany came up with the idea of a canine bodyguard of sorts which would not quake in the face of occasionally violent opposition.

To achieve that aim, he is believed to have bred the German Pinscher for speed and boldness, the  German Shepherd, for endurance and cleverness, the Rottweiler for strength, and the Weimaraner for a sensitive nose capable of picking up scents with ease.

These sleek hounds derive their name from the enterprising tax collector and from the German word Pinscher, which means terrier.

Doberman Pinscher on isolated background

Adult Dobermans can weigh between 60 – 70 lbs

©Dmytro Zinkevych/Shutterstock.com

Size and Weight

Male Doberman pinscher dogs are about 27 to 28 inches tall and weigh about 70 pounds while female Doberman pinschers are usually 25-27 inches and weigh about 60 to 65 pounds.

HeightWeight
Male27-28 inches tall70 lbs., fully grown
Female25-27 inches tall60-65 lbs., fully grown

Common Health Issues

Doberman Pinscher on isolated background

Doberman pinschers are prone to hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, and Von Willebrand’s disease

©Dmytro Zinkevych/Shutterstock.com

There are several health issues that Dobermans suffer from, including cervical vertebral instability and dilated cardiomyopathy. Cervical vertebral instability affects the vertebral column and neck. The result is a wobbly gait hence its nickname “wobbler syndrome”. Dilated cardiomyopathy is a condition that impacts the heart, thinning the ventricle and preventing it from pumping blood correctly.

Doberman pinschers may also fall ill with Von Willebrand’s disease, which prevents the blood from clotting as it should. It is caused by a lack of a protein that the platelets need in order to clot.

The most common health concerns with this dog include:

  • Cervical vertebral instability
  • Dilated cardiomyopathy
  • Von Willebrand’s disease
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Hypothyroidism

Temperament

dog food for Dobermans

Doberman pinschers are affectionate and energetic

©Anastasiia Dovgan/Shutterstock.com

Temperament-wise, the Doberman pinscher is known to be very energetic and is very alert. It is also very loyal to its owners. Plus, the dog is known to be very intelligent and is usually also called “beauty with brains.” Learn more about the smartest dog breeds here.

This dog makes a great family companion, and it is usually very difficult for it to live in kennels. With its outpouring of affection, these dogs like to be with their families inside, despite the plentiful energy.

To make sure that this energy doesn’t become destructive, they must get a lot of physical activity. If you live in an apartment and don’t get out much, it may not be the right dog for you.

How to Take Care of a Doberman Pinscher

If you are looking to buy a Doberman pinscher, there are a few things that you should know about taking care of it. Providing this dog with the right home and nutrition will promote a longer lifespan and a significantly more harmonious home.

The Best Dog Food for Doberman Pinschers

Doberman Pinschers

Doberman Pinschers may require a legume-free diet due to their susceptibility to heart disease

©Jenson/Shutterstock.com

Doberman puppies that are up to three months of age should ideally be fed about 3 to 4 times a day. For adults, however, the feed should be broken into two as one big portion could be difficult to digest.

Ideally, your Doberman pinscher should be fed foods that are easily digestible. Their main feed includes chicken, beef, brown rice, lamb, and sweet potatoes, which can be served with dry dog food or prepared by the owner. Check out the dangers of legumes in dog food, and try a legume-free diet to lessen this heart disease-prone breed’s chances of heart failure. We compiled a list of all the best food for Dobermans, and encourage you to have a look here.

So at A-Z Animals, our top pick for the best Doberman Pinscher food is Diamond Naturals Light Dry Dog Food Lamb Meal and Rice Formula with Lean Protein.

Firstly, the calcium, chondroitin sulfate, and glucosamine from real lamb support resilient bones and joints since Doberman Pinschers can have cervical vertebral instability and hip dysplasia. The taurine is optimal for your dog’s heart. Plus, L-carnitine ensures maximum nutrient absorption.

Try Diamond Naturals Lean Protein Dog Food, available on Amazon and Chewy.

Overall Best
Diamond Naturals Light Formula Dry Dog Food
  • Made in the USA using quality ingredients from trusted domestic and global sources.
  • Real pasture-raised lamb protein as the #1 ingredient, supports the needs of less active and overweight dogs.
  • Omega fatty acids for skin and coat health
  • Vitamins and minerals from superfoods, including fruits like blueberries and oranges.
  • Includes probiotics, antioxidants and prebiotics to support healthy digestion, immune system health and overall wellness.
  • No corn, wheat, artificial flavors or colors.


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Pinscher Insurance

Like any other animal that you would have as a pet, Doberman also suffers from a host of problems that could require insurance. However, as an owner, you need to identify the needs and issues of your Doberman so that you can pick the right kind of insurance for your dog that will have it covered when needed.

Some veterinarians offer payment plans and personalized programs that also help with these insurance costs.

Maintenance and Grooming

The Doberman is not a high-maintenance pet but will need regular grooming for sure. Tasks include the removal of “eye boogers,” brushing the dog’s teeth, removing any excess hair and brushing its fur, and thoroughly cleaning its ears.

Besides that, you would also need to regularly bathe your dog and trim its nails to keep it healthy, safe, and clean. These dogs do not shed too much, so regular brushing is more of a luxury than a necessity.

Training

These dogs are easy to train and quickly pick up new skills. They are smart and intelligent and don’t take much time in starting to pick up commands. However, the training needs to be consistent and you have to spend a lot of time with your Doberman puppy for it to be used to it.

Usually, the right way to go about it would be to take your Doberman puppy out for about half an hour and start using a simple command. If you take your puppy to the same spot every time, it will start recognizing the scent and will start picking up commands in no time.

Exercise

Dobermans need a lot of physical activity every day. They are energetic animals and need exercise to get out their energy. Otherwise, they could turn into aggressive pets with behavioral issues. This dog needs a lot of room to roam, so apartment living may not be ideal. In case your Doberman is injured or stressed, a muzzle would be a great idea. This device would help the dog to do regular activities like eating, drinking, and panting but will restrict the distressed behavior.

Puppies

Red Doberman puppy

Doberman pinscher puppies should be fed a minimum of three meals per day

©M. Peterson / Creative Commons

Doberman Pinscher puppies are cared for in much the same way as adult Dobermans. However, they are more sensitive than the adult version of this breed, and they need more care. They should be fed 3 to 4 times, unlike adults that should be fed twice each day.

Children

This dog is very good with children and is known to be playful. It is a family companion dog and is great with children and young adults.

Dogs Similar to Doberman Pinschers

Some dogs are very similar to Doberman pinschers. These breeds include:

  • Ibizan Hound: These dogs are very affectionate towards children. However, they can also sometimes turn very aggressive if threatened. Overall, the breed is considered intelligent and incredibly energetic.
  • Pointer: This is a well-built dog — just like the Doberman pinscher. The German pointer was originally bred as a hunting dog in the 19th century, giving it a strong and sturdy physique. It also is incredibly gentle and loyal to the children in the family.
  • Rottweiler: These dogs are especially like Doberman pinschers and are very attached to their owners. They need to be kept inside the house with the family and usually don’t like to live in kennels.

Famous Doberman Pinschers

Doberman Pinschers have been a part of several movies. Some of them include The Amazing Dobermans, America’s Sweethearts, Beethoven, and Father of the Bride to name a few. Some celebrities who have owned this breed including Bea Arthur, Jean-Christophe Novelli, Bela Lugosi, Tanya Roberts, and Raquel Welch.

Here are some popular names for Doberman pinscher:

  • Max
  • Bella
  • Lola
  • Apollo
  • Zeus

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Doberman Pinscher FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) 

How much does Doberman pinscher cost to own?

You can buy 6 to 9 Doberman Pinscher puppies for about $600 to $1000. The annual cost could range from $2000 to $3000.

Is Doberman pinscher good with kids?

Yes, these dogs are great with kids and are playful and energetic around them. They are known to be affectionate creatures and are known to be family companion dogs.

How long does a Doberman pinscher live?

These dogs usually live for about 10 to 13 years.

How fast can Doberman pinschers run?

These dogs can run at a speed of 32 mph.

Is a Doberman pinscher a good family dog?

Yes, these dogs are known to be great family companions and are very friendly and compassionate towards their owners.

Are Doberman pinschers aggressive?

The Doberman pinschers are usually friendly. However, if they are withheld from exercising, their energy can pent up and cause them to be aggressive and initiate other behavioral issues as well.

How long do Doberman pinschers live?

These dogs usually live for about 10 to 13 years.

How big do Doberman pinschers get?

Male Doberman pinschers are usually 27 to 28 inches tall and weigh about 70 pounds. However, the female ones are about 25 to 27 inches tall and weigh about 60 to 65 pounds.

What is the scientific name of Doberman pinscher?

Doberman Pinscher goes by the scientific name Canis lupus familiaris.

Are Doberman Pinschers herbivores, carnivores, or omnivores?

Doberman Pinschers are Omnivores, meaning they eat both plants and other animals.

What Kingdom do Doberman Pinschers belong to?

Doberman Pinschers belong to the Kingdom Animalia.

What class do Doberman Pinschers belong to?

Doberman Pinschers belong to the class Mammalia.

What phylum to Doberman Pinschers belong to?

Doberman Pinschers belong to the phylum Chordata.

What family do Doberman Pinschers belong to?

Doberman Pinschers belong to the family Canidae.

What order do Doberman Pinschers belong to?

Doberman Pinschers belong to the order Carnivora.

What genus do Doberman Pinschers belong to?

Doberman Pinschers belong to the genus Canis.

What type of covering do Doberman Pinschers have?

Doberman Pinschers are covered in Hair.

What is an interesting fact about Doberman Pinschers?

Doberman Pinschers are a gentle, loyal, and loving breed!

How long do Dobermans live?

The average lifespan of a Doberman is between 10 and 13 years old.

What are the key differences between Great Danes and Dobermans?

The key differences between Great Danes and Dobermans are appearance, characteristics, and health factors.

What is the difference between a Cane Corso and a Doberman?

The main differences between a Cane Corso and a Doberman are size, appearance, temperament, and origin.

The most notable difference is in their personalities. Whereas the Doberman is protective and alert, Cane Corso is reserved, independent, and even gentle. In fact, beneath its tough exterior, it is quite the affectionate dog.

What are the key differences between Beauceron and Doberman?

The main differences between the Beauceron and the Doberman are coat, appearance, and personality.

The Doberman has a much more diverse range of colors than the Beauceron, which rarely strays from the popular black and tan combination. There is also a noticeable difference in their personalities which stems from the Beacueron’s history as a livestock dog compared to the Doberman’s history in providing humans with protection.

Which is a better guard dog: Doberman Vs German Shepherd?

The Doberman is the better guard dog due to its size, trainability and adaptability, and temperament.

The Doberman and the German Shepherd are both versatile breeds able to adapt to nearly any situation and anyone with enough training and socialization.

What's the difference between a Doberman and a Weimaraner?

The Weimaraner is shorter than the Doberman, though the Weimaraner tends to weigh more. Additionally, the Weimaraner comes in gray or silver only, while the Doberman comes in a variety of colors.

What's the difference between a Doberman and a German Pinscher?

The Doberman grows far larger than the German Pinscher. Additionally, the German Pinscher was originally bred to hunt rodents, while the Doberman was originally bred for protection. Finally, the German Pinscher lives a longer life on average compared to the Doberman.

What are the differences between a Manchester Terrier and a Doberman Pinscher?

The main differences between a Manchester Terrier and a Doberman Pinscher are breed origin, appearance, size, hair type and color, and temperament.

Thank you for reading! Have some feedback for us? Contact the AZ Animals editorial team.

Sources
  1. Rover, Available here: https://www.rover.com/blog/best-doberman-names/
  2. Brittanica, Available here: https://www.britannica.com/animal/Old-English-sheepdog
  3. American Kennel Club, Available here: https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/doberman-pinscher/
  4. DogBreeds911, Available here: https://www.dogbreeds911.com/large-dog-breeds-doberman.html
  5. Wikipedia, Available here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dobermann
  6. Mayo Clinic, Available here: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dilated-cardiomyopathy/symptoms-causes/syc-20353149
  7. Pet Care RX, Available here: https://www.petcarerx.com/article/how-to-feed-a-doberman-pinscher/502
  8. Doberman's Owner's Guide, Available here: http://www.dobermanownersguide.com/doberman-care/doberman-grooming/
  9. Pet Life Today, Available here: https://petlifetoday.com/pet-training-series-how-to-train-doberman/
  10. Canna-Pet, Available here: https://canna-pet.com/training-a-doberman-pinscher/
  11. Doberman's Den, Available here: https://dobermansden.com/famous-doberman-owners/
  12. Doberman Planet, Available here: https://www.dobermanplanet.com/famous-dobermans-in-movies-and-television/

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