Dobies 101

Working group

Athletic, active and devoted to family, the Doberman Pincher is a different dog from those once known as “Devil Dogs” for their courage as World War II sentries. While Dobermans can still be found in military and law enforcement jobs, today’s dogs are generally friendlier towards strangers.

Dobies are also versatile and can be found as service dogs, dog sports competitors and, of course, as companions adaptable to city and suburbs alike. Dobermans are intelligent, eager to please and playful, but they do not do well with harsh handling. Early socialization and manners training lay the foundation for a confident adult.

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Family-friendly breed finally shed "Devil Dog" rep.

The Doberman needs regular exercise and is an ideal companion for runners.

Energy level
Energy LevelEnergy Level
Bark level
  • bark-very-vocalVery vocal
  • bark-talkativeTalkative
  • bark-as-neededAs needed
Size
24 to 28 inches tall
Group Size Large

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Mature adult Dobie

5 years to 7 years

Risk level for common Dobie conditions

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Cardiomyopathy

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Hypothyroid disease

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Cruciate ligament tear (knee)

Senior Dobie

8+ years

Risk level for common Dobie conditions

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Cardiomyopathy

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Bone cancer

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Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV)

Dobie puppy

0 to 1 year

Risk level for common Dobie conditions

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Foreign body ingestion

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Gastritis

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Trauma

Young adult Dobie

1 year to 4 years

Risk level for common Dobie conditions

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Cardiomyopathy

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Foreign body ingestion

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Hypothyroid disease

Mature adult Dobie

5 years to 7 years

Risk level for common Dobie conditions

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Cardiomyopathy

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Hypothyroid disease

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Cruciate ligament tear (knee)

Senior Dobie

8+ years

Risk level for common Dobie conditions

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Cardiomyopathy

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Bone cancer

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Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV)

Dobie puppy

0 to 1 year

Risk level for common Dobie conditions

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Foreign body ingestion

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Gastritis

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Trauma

Young adult Dobie

1 year to 4 years

Risk level for common Dobie conditions

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Cardiomyopathy

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Foreign body ingestion

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Hypothyroid disease

2-Doberman pinscher laying down GettyImages-462496783

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3-Fun fact Doberman pinscher GettyImages-1241525012

During WWII, a famous Doberman Pinscher named Kurt served as a war dog. He was a messenger and scout dog for the U.S. Marine Corps, saving lives with his keen senses. Kurt showcased the Doberman's intelligence and loyalty, becoming a celebrated hero in the Pacific theater.

Doberman Pinscher coat care and colors

The coat of the Doberman is easy to care for: Sleek and short, all it needs is weekly brushing and an occasional bath. While most Dobermans are black with rust accents, the breed comes in other colors, all with the same rust accents. In addition to black, Dobies can be steel-blue, red or a fawn color known as Isabella. Rarely, Dobermans come in white, although it’s not a recognized color.

Many predominantly black dogs have black nails, making it sadly too easy to hit the vein in the middle of the nail, called the quick, during trims. Grinding the nails instead of clipping may be the best way to avoid bleeding. Make nail trims easier in adult dogs by acclimating puppies to having their feet handled.

Dobie exercise & training

Full speed ahead

Exercise level

The Doberman Pincher is built for athletic endeavors, and they need daily exercise. They’re a superb running companion and excel in dog sports such as agility.

Class star

Trainability

Teaching good manners to a Doberman isn’t difficult, but keeping this smart breed engaged might be. Reward what you want and keep adding new things to learn.

Dobie fun facts

Top girl names for Dobies

Top boy names for Dobies

Nationwide loves Doberman Pinschers of every name, from Aaron to Zog the Destroyer

Other breeds like Dobies

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