DOBERMAN PINSCHER Breed Standards
The Doberman Pinscher was developed near the end of the 19th century by Louis Dobermann of Thuringen, Germany. Dobermann was a tax collector, and he needed a dog capable of intimidating and subduing the people who frequently made tax collection difficult. Dobermann cleverly combined a variety of breeds – including the German Pinscher, Old German Shepherd, Weimaraner, and Black and Tan Manchester Terrier – with the goal of creating a sleek and powerful new breed. By 1900, the Doberman Pinscher had evolved into a dog very similar to what we see today, though future breeding of the dog would continue to eliminate “roundness” and accentuate the breed’s swift lines.
SKILLS: The appearance is that of a dog of medium size, with a body that is square. Compactly built, muscular and powerful, for great endurance and speed. Elegant in appearance, of proud carriage, reflecting great nobility and temperament. Energetic, watchful, determined, alert, fearless, loyal and obedient.
SIZE: Height at the withers: Dogs 26 to 28 inches, ideal about 27½ inches; Bitches 24 to 26 inches, ideal about 25½ inches. The height, measured vertically from the ground to the highest point of the withers, equalling the length measured horizontally from the forechest to the rear projection of the upper thigh. Length of head, neck and legs in proportion to length and depth of body.
COAT: Smooth-haired, short, hard, thick and close lying. Invisible gray undercoat on neck permissible. Color and Markings - allowed Colors: Black, red, blue, and fawn (Isabella). Markings: Rust, sharply defined, appearing above each eye and on muzzle, throat and forechest, on all legs and feet, and below tail. White patch on chest, not exceeding ½ square inch, permissible. Disqualifying Fault: Dogs not of an allowed color.
CARE REQUIRED: Dobes need little grooming and are average shedders.
CHARACTER: Energetic, watchful, determined, alert, fearless, loyal and obedient. The judge shall dismiss from the ring any shy or vicious Doberman.
Shyness: A dog shall be judged fundamentally shy if, refusing to stand for examination, it shrinks away from the judge; if it fears an approach from the rear; if it shies at sudden and unusual noises to a marked degree.
Viciousness: A dog that attacks or attempts to attack either the judge or its handler, is definitely vicious. An aggressive or belligerent attitude towards other dogs shall not be deemed viciousness.
Exercise: The Doberman is very energetic and needs thorough frequent exercise.
SOCIAL BEHAVIOR: Will do okay in an apartment if sufficiently exercised, but does best with at least an average-sized yard. Dobes are very cold sensitive and are not an outside dog. That is why police in areas where it gets cold are not able to use them.
TRAINING: The Doberman is naturally protective and does not need additional "protection" training to be a fine guard dog. In fact he should be thoroughly socialized when young to prevent over-protectiveness. Mental stimulation is important for a truly well-adjusted and happy Dobe. The Doberman must be consistently and thoroughly trained to be a good pet. Training should be through positive reinforcement. Dobes can be good family dogs if of good temperament, well trained and raised with children from early puppyhood.
