Doberman Pinscher
Average sizes and life
expectancy of the breed.

Height
26-28 inches (male)
24-26 inches (female)
Weight
75-100 pounds (male)
60-90 pounds (female)
Life Expectancy
10-12 years
Breed Traits & Characteristics
About the Breed

Owning a dog is not just a privilege; it’s a responsibility. They depend on us for, at minimum, food and shelter, and deserve much more. When you take a dog into your life, you need to understand the commitment that dog ownership entails.
Health
Recommended Health Tests From the National Breed Club:
- Hip Evaluation
- Thyroid Evaluation
- Von Willebrand's Disease DNA Test
- Cardiac Exam
- Ophthalmologist Evaluation
Grooming
Exercise
Training
Dobermans are very intelligent, learn easily, respond quickly, and make loving and fun companions. However, they are very strong dogs and can become pushy, destructive, and unmanageable if not raised properly. Socialization starting in puppyhood is imperative, as is obedience training. Puppy training classes are highly recommended as well. It is every Doberman owner's responsibility to ensure that the dog is raised to be a happy, well-mannered companion and canine citizen. The Doberman should always live inside the home with his people, rather than outdoors.
Nutrition
Feeding excellent-quality dog food throughout his lifetime is critical for the Doberman. The Doberman puppy should be fed an age-appropriate diet approved by the dog's breeder or veterinarian. Treats can be an important aid in training, but giving too many can cause obesity. Learn about which human foods are safe for dogs, and which are not. Check with your vet if you have any concerns about your dog's weight or diet. Ample amounts of clean, fresh water should be available at all times.
History
Since the creation of money, one thing has always been true everywhere and at all times: The tax collector is never an invited guest. In some parts of Germany in the 19th century, the reception was outright hostile. Louis Dobermann, a tax collector and dog breeder from the municipality of Apolda, was well aware of this. He planned to create a powerful, dependable guardian to follow him about.
The pinscher that carries Dobermann’s name today (without the extra “n” that was omitted somewhere along the way) was a larger, less polished version of the dog. The German Pinscher, Rottweiler, Black and Tan Terrier (the predecessor of the Manchester Terrier), and smooth-coated herding dogs are mentioned as being parts of Dobermann’s new breed.
The “Tax Collector’s Dog” immediately became known around the world as the best working canine. Dobermans have proven themselves to be excellent search-and-rescue dogs, police and military K-9s, therapy dogs, service dogs for the disabled, and athletes in dog sports. The U.S. participated in World War II. The Pacific Marine Corps Dobermans brought the breed considerable prominence. During the fight for Guam, 25 of these devoted “Devil Dogs” lost their lives.
Doberman Pinschers are dependable victors in the ring thanks to their proud gait and powerful excellent features. In 1952 and 1953, a dog by the name of Storm won Westminster’s Best in Show twice.