Find the Right Breed of Dog for You
Dive into over 300 breed in our all inclusive online resource


Doberman Pinscher
Large Breed
The Doberman has been bred as a guard dog and is energetic and intelligent but also determined and fearless.
Breed standards
Country of origin
Germany
Weight
Males 40-45 kgs / 88-99 lbs; Females 32-35 kgs / 70-77 lbs(standards may vary)
Height
Males 68-72 cm/27-29 ins; Females 63-68 cm/25-27 ins (standards may vary)
Coat
The hair is hard short and thick, lying smoothly around the body
Markings
Brown or black. Red markings on the muzzle, cheeks, top of the eyebrow, the throat, forechest metacarpus, feet, inside of the back thighs, on the arms and below the tail.
Lifespan
Long, 15+ years
This noble breed is not vicious but finds comfort in family surroundings and enjoys being close to people, both physically and emotionally. Their protective, guarding instinct does not go away and provides a sense of security for the family to whom he will all always protect and watch over.
Temperament
A guard dog with a love for it's family and a desire to protect them, the Doberman makes a fantastic companion and working dog. They respond well to training but must be trained from a young age to ensure they do not become too wilful; they should also be socialised from a young age so they don't become too protective of their family. The owner of a Doberman must not be intimidated by the breed as they need to be shown who's boss; anyone likely to be intimidated may wish to consider another breed.
-
PoorChildrenGood
-
VeryCombativenessNot very
-
VeryDominanceNot very
-
Not veryFriendlinessGood
-
Not veryIndependenceVery
-
LoudNoiseQuiet
-
Not veryTrainabilityVery
Good to know
The Doberman is an elegant and loving breed that is highly protective of his territory and his family, particularly when he or his family is threatened. Normally quite calm in the home with its family.
- Makes a wonderful companion
- Extremely versatile and intelligent
- Excels as a guardian and watchdog
- Adapts well to most climates
- Does not require trimming or stripping
- Needs at least a good sized yard
- Not a dog recommended for novice owners
- Requires sufficient daily physical activity and mental stimulation
- Can be prone to congenital heart disorders