Breed of the week - The Dobermann
- Nov 3, 2024
- 2 min read
The Dobermann is a German breed of medium-large working dog of pinscher type. Dobermanns were first bred in the 1880s by Karl Friedrich Louis Dobermann, a tax collector who ran a dog pound in Apolda in present-day Thuringia in central Germany. With access to dogs of many breeds, he got the idea to create a breed that would be ideal for protecting him. He set out to breed a new type of dog that would exhibit impressive stamina, strength, and intelligence.
The ears were traditionally cropped and the tail docked, practices which are now illegal in many countries (list available FYI). Two different color genes exist in the Dobermann: one for black and one for color dilution. There are nine possible combinations which can result in four different colors: black, blue, red, and fawn.
The Dobermann Pinscher has been ranked amongst the most intelligent dog breeds in experimental studies and expert evaluations. Although they are considered to be working and strong guards dogs, Dobermanns are often mistakenly stereotyped as being ferocious and aggressive. Nothing can be further from truth. They make great family dogs and are very good with children. They are often titled as "velcro dogs" because they are so very loyal and super affectionate to their owners.
A 2024 UK study found a life expectancy of 11 years.
Did you know ? Several famous individuals have owned or still own Dobermanns, including President John F. Kennedy, Rita Hayworth, Silverster Stallone, Mariah Carey, Jennifer Anniston, Victoria Principal, Robert Kardashian, and many many more. They all value Dobermann's intelligence, sensibility and loyalty as pets. Dobs were also a real cast members in series as Columbo ("How to Dial a Murder, 1978) and of course Magnum P.I alongside Tom Selleck and John Hillermann ("Higgins") in the series (1980-1988).
Xoxo, Alice
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