 Doberman
Pinscher
Description:
The Doberman
Pinscher is named after its creator Louis Dobermann.
Dobermann was a German tax collector who also
ran the local animal shelter in his area. A skilled
breeder, he set out to create a medium-sized working
dog that would accompany and protect him during
the day on his travels. Most educated guesses
suggest that crosses of the Rottweiler, the German
Pinscher, the Manchester Terrier and perhaps the
Greyhound were used to perfect the breed by 1899.
At first the breed was unpopular with most dog
fanciers but did catch the eye of those interested
in a medium-sized security dog. Further refinements
were made and the breed was officially recognized
in Germany and then shortly after in America in
1908. Americans are credited with developing the
handsome and reliable Doberman we know today.
The breed thrives well in both city and country
if he is provided with daily exercise.
Height:
27.5"
(69.8cm) for dogs, 25.5" (64.8cm) for bitches
Weight:
66 - 88 lbs (29.5 - 39.3 kg)
Coat
Type:
The glossy Doberman coat is short, dense and hard.
It is smooth and lies flat on the body. Grooming
needs are minimal. Colors include solid black,
red, blue, or fawn with rich tan markings. Grooming
needs are minimal. NOTE: White color in a Doberman
is not only a disqualifying fault, but a serious
health issue for the individual dog and a threat
to the integrity of the breed. White dogs are
Tyrosynase Positive Albinos; this condition causes
marked photosensitivity (squint or shut eyes in
sunlight) and increased risk of solar skin damage
including cancer. To help to eliminate this recessive
gene from the Doberman gene pool, the American
Kennel Club has traced back to the original dog
that carried this trait; further the AKC includes
the letter Z in all litters that trace back directly
back to this dog, as well as to litters with a
white parent. You can help by not buying or breeding
from litters with a Z in the litter registration
number.
Temperament:
Originally
an ill-mannered breed, the Doberman today is credited
as a keen, loyal, friendly and obedient family
pet. He does, however, maintain his watchful,
determined, and alert instincts.
Special
Interest:
Champion
Dictator of Glenhugel, one of the breed's most
renowned stud dogs, is remembered for passing
along two distinctive traits. The first was an
excellent temperament, the second, which has been
found in tenth-generation descendents, was a cowlick
at the nape of the neck. Dogs with this cowlick
are said to have the "mark of Dictator."
Classifications:
AKC: Group 3 - Working Dogs
CKC: Group 3 - Working Dogs
KC: Non-Sporting - Working Group
FCI: Group 2
ANKC: Group 6 - Utility
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