About The Breed

The American Doberman is sleek and powerful, possessing both a magnificent physique and keen intelligence. The Doberman Pinscher is one of dogkind's noblemen. This incomparably fearless, and vigilant breed stands proudly among the world's finest protection dogs. Their bravery makes them a unique one of a kind dog. No task is out of their league. (And that includes the job of lap dog, even if you’re less enthused about it.) They are the 5th smartest breed of dog overall, and are extremely easy to train. So smart in fact, that Dobermans have been used for a variety of jobs and sports, including police work, scent tracking, coursing, diving, search and rescue, therapy, and guiding the blind.

First created by Karl Friedrich Louis Dobermann (by carefully mixing the German Pinscher, Weimaraner, Beauceron, and the Rottweiler) around 1890, a tax collector from Germany, as a protector and a domestic family pet. They are not as aggressive as they seem! They are wonderful family pets, that love to please their owners, love kids, and snuggle up on the couch. 

The Doberman Pinscher is known best for its guarding qualities. But the dog of yesterday’s scary movies has been transformed through years of meticulous breeding into a fun-loving, exceptional athlete and a watchful, protective, and above all, discerning companion who has no trouble accurately distinguishing between friend and foe. The key word is discerning. (information from DPCA.ORG)

Dobermans are nick-named “Velcro dogs” because they stick to their people. Heaven for a Doberman is leaning into you for a prolonged head rub. Balancing that well-known guardian instinct is the world’s most loving heart and a sense of humor that will keep you laughing its whole life long. (information from DPCA.ORG)

Among the top smartest canine breeds in the world, the Doberman Pinscher is breathtakingly perceptive, intuitive, and sensitive. Properly trained and socialized, your Doberman won’t just place itself between you and a visible threat. As owner after owner can attest, your Doberman will anticipate that threat to you and your child, sometimes in uncanny ways.

Dobermans are compactly built dogs, that are muscular, and fast. Standing between 24 to 28 inches at the shoulder. The body is sleek but, substantial, and is covered with a glistening coat of black, blue, red, or fawn, with rust markings, on their face, chest, and legs. Their coats are short, and shiny, which makes grooming a breeze! These elegant qualities, combined with a noble wedge-shaped head and an easy, athletic way of moving, have earned Dobermans a reputation as royalty in the canine kingdom.

A well-conditioned Doberman on patrol will deter all but the most foolish intruder.

Health Information

I know that buying a pure-breed, can cause some concern, especially when it comes to their health. I just want to make sure that you are aware of any health issues that may occur. I also, want you, as the buyer, to be assured that I do health testing on all of my mating pairs, both dam and sire, to ensure health, and quality of your puppy! 

Often times the symptoms or signs of disease/genetic condition do not appear until later in life. Some genes are carried or "hidden," meaning the dog does not have signs of it, but if bred with another dog carrying the gene, the offspring can inherit it. This is why it is important to test even seemingly "healthy" dogs so that you know what is there on a deeper level and what may be passed down.

These conditions are not meant to scare you from the breed or cause you to worry about your pet. It is meant to educate and inform so the best decisions for the breed and for our families can be made.

  •  Dilated Cardiomyopathy- commonly known as DCM- An inherited, irreversible heart muscle disorder . It affects Dobermans more than any other breed. DCM can cause ventricular arrhythmia, or erratic heartbeats, and sudden death. Normal heartbeats are interrupted by rapid beats that fire too closely together, subsequently shorting out the heart, and the dog faints. Cans can be carriers of the disease and never be affected. 
  • OFA CARDIO Evaluation  is done by a cardiologist that will involve an auscultation (listening to the heart for irregularities and murmurs) as well as a Doppler Echocardiograph which is basically like a live ultrasound of the heart showing its size and function of blood flow. KS Dobermans does this test on all breeding dogs in their program and register the results with the OFA. 
  • HOLTER MONITOR TEST is when a vest is strapped to the dog for 24hrs to monitor the heart, the recording is sent to a lab to interpret the data. KS Dobermans offers all families access to this monitor. 
  •  Deafness and Vestibular Syndrome- commonly known as DINGS- Deafness with vestibular dysfunction, or DINGS, is a neurological disorder resulting from improper development of the inner ear. This includes both the cochlea (the part of the inner ear that produces nerve impulses in response to sound vibrations) as well as the vestibular labyrinth (the elaborate set of interconnected canals of the inner ear assisting with balance, among other functions). In affected dogs, improper development of the cochlea prevents proper transmission and amplification of sounds from the ear to the brain. The vestibular labyrinth, which is directly connected to the cochlea, provides information regarding motion, spatial orientation, and head position to the brain. An affected dog may have vertigo, dizziness, balance issues as well as spatial orientation issues. Symptoms can present as mild to severe, but are early onset and can be progressive. Not a lot is known about DINGS, but there a two types of DINGS. KS Dobermans does this test on all breeding dogs in their program and register the results with the OFA. 
  • Von Willebrand's Disease- commonly known as vWD- Von Willebrand's disease is the most common inherited bleeding disorder of, both humans, and dogs. It is caused by a deficiency in the amount of a specific protein needed to help platelets (the blood cells used in clotting) stick together and form clots to seal broken blood vessels. The deficient protein is called von Willebrand factor (vWF). Without this protein bleeding risk of bleeding is increased. However, most dogs do not show signs of the disease until later in life. 
  • VWD Test - is taken by DNA swab, to determine if the dog is clear, carrier, or affected. KS Dobermans does this test on all breeding dogs in their program and register the results with the OFA. 
  • HIP DYSPLASIA is an abnormal formation of the hip socket that, in its more severe form, can eventually cause crippling lameness and painful arthritis of the joints. It is a genetic (polygenic) trait that is affected by environmental factors. The Doberman, being an athletic-active-large enough-size-breed with hip dysplasia too common of an occurrence, needs screened for this condition.
  • OFA HIPS Test for the hip screening is called "OFA Hips" and is done when the dog is (minimum) 2yrs old, although preliminary but not official screenings may be done prior. An x-ray is taken at the vet office and sent to the OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) where it is graded by multiple veterinary specialists to be excellent, good, fair, borderline, mild, moderate, or severe. (Only excellent, good, and fair are considered to be within the normal limits and given an OFA number within the OFA database). KS Dobermans does this test on all breeding dogs in their program and register the results with the OFA. 
  • ELBOW DYSPLASIA - is a polygenetic disease in the elbow of dogs, similar to the hips. It can eventually lead to crippling lameness and painful arthritis of the joints. It is not as critical of a screening compared to the hips, but since the test is available breeders are encouraged to include it.
  • OFA ELBOWS Test for the elbow screening is called "OFA Elbows" and is done when the dog is (minimum) 2yrs old, although preliminary but not official screenings may be done prior. An x-ray is taken at the vet office and sent to the OFA where it is graded by multiple veterinary specialists as either normal or dysplastic. KS Dobermans does this test on all breeding dogs in their program and register the results with the OFA. 
  • Hypothyroidism - means that the thyroid gland is not producing enough hormone to adequately maintain the dog's metabolism. It is easily treated with thyroid replacement pills on a daily basis. Thyroid testing (T3, T4, TSH and autoantibodies) should be performed on an annual schedule. Finding autoantibodies to thyroglobulin (T4 autoantibodies) is an indication that the dog has "Hashimoto's Disease". Low thyroid dogs, manifested by a high TSH and a low T4, should be treated and monitored on a regular basis. Every cell in the body is affected by the thyroid so it is important that it be properly functioning.
  • Thyroid Test - This is a sample is taken at the vet office and will either be tested/interpreted in their own lab or sent to another lab. The OFA will certify thyroid results. KS Dobermans does this test on all breeding dogs in their program and register the results with the OFA. 
  • Progressive Retinal Atrophy - is an inherited eye condition in Dobermans. Clinically, visual acuity is diminished, first at dusk, later in daylight. The disease progresses over months or years, to complete blindness. KS Dobermans does this test on all breeding dogs in their program and register the results with the OFA. 
  • CERF - Is a screening test is available and can be performed by a veterinary ophthalmologist. CERF (Canine Eye Registration Foundation) will certify eyes for 12 months from the date of evaluation. KS Dobermans does this test on all breeding dogs in their program and register the results with the OFA. 
  • Wobblers - is a neurological condition suspected to be inherited. Dogs suffer from spinal cord compression caused by cervical vertebral instability or from a malformed spinal canal. Extreme symptoms are paralysis of the limbs (front, hind or all 4). Neck pain with extension and flexion may or may not be present. Surgical therapy is hotly debated and in some surgically treated cases, clinical recurrence has been identified. There is no test for this disease.
  • Albinism - "White Coated" and "White Factored" Dobermans should NOT be bred. These dogs are *TYROSINASE POSITIVE ALBINOS*. In 1996, the AKC established a tracking system (the letter "Z" will be part of the registration number) allowing breeders to identify the normal colored Dobermans which may carry the albinistic gene. 
  • CDA - Color Dilution Alopecia or CDA is a form of follicular dysplasia (FD), it is a skin/coat condition that results in hair loss and thinning coat condition. CDA is mostly on blue or fawn Dobermans. Special consideration should be made about owning a blue or fawn Doberman. They often develop CDA or if they don't, the coat condition at best is much thinner than blacks or reds. Their skin is sensitive from light and sun exposure must be monitored. There is also a known higher occurrence of low/hypothyroid condition associated with blues and fawns, it is possible for black or red Dobermans to develop CDA also, but not very common.

 

KS DOBERMANS  - AMBER LYNN - EISEN - BRITT ENJOYING LIFE

BASIC CARE OF THE DOBERMAN PINSCHER

Written by: Theresa Mullen
DPCA Public Education Committee 

In a summary, a Doberman needs:

  • To live with his family INSIDE the home—interacting and living next to and with all the family members.   He is NOT AN OUTSIDE DOG—under ANY circumstances!   He must be a family companion and protector in the home WITH the family.   Did I say INSIDE the home with the family?  Just wanting to make the point that the Doberman is not for outside living.
  • A warm, safe, dry, comfortable place to live, including an extra large dog crate/kennel for training, housebreaking and when left alone. Blankets/comforters or other soft suitable material for the dog to rest/lay on is necessary to prevent sores/pressure sores/elbow and joint swellings.——
  • Premium or Super Premium food—excellent quality dog food for the Dobermans life time is critical.  Dogs are carnivores and require high quality meal in their diet.   Premium foods that contain  large amounts of good meats is necessary for good health.  These type foods are usually not found on the grocery store shelves, although Purina One and IAMS and Pedigree are available if you cannot find a specialty store that carries a big array of dog foods.  WATER is essential at all times.  Most people feed their dogs once or twice a day, depending on their schedules.   Feeding routines are flexible—just like our schedules.
  • Kind discipline, training and Obedience make for a wonderful and happy pet.   The Doberman needs training to know what he can and can’t do in the home, around people and outside interacting with the world.  They are intelligent and are easily trained and a joy to live with when properly taught—-but they can be pushy, destructive and a real renegade if not managed and trained.   They are truly like a child—in the respect that  it is up to you, the owner, to see to it that they are not allowed to become unruly.   They can be a problem if not trained, as can ANY highly intelligent guard breed.
  • Quality Veterinary care.  Vaccinations, boosters, worming, HEARTWORM testing and preventative, flea & tick medications, health testing such as Thyroid, vWD and heart checks all are helpful in keeping your Doberman healthy and free from disease.
  • They need care to keep them clean and healthy.   The teeth need to be examined and cleaned if necessary.   The toenails need to be Dremeled or Clipped when needed—usually once or twice a month.
  • The coat needs to be examined and the Doberman bathed when needed.
  • The ears should be wiped out with a little “baby oil” and a paper towel and the over all condition of the coat and body should be looked at every day for anything suspicious.
  • They need exercise for good health and to release penned up energy. This makes for a happy and well adjusted Doberman.   They are a very high energy breed and need to be active and allowed to exercise and play.   A large FENCED YARD is critical to the well being of your Doberman.   No matter how well trained your Doberman is, they are still DOGS with instincts that often over-ride their training.   When they see a “rabbit” or something that catches their attention, they can put themselves in the pathway of danger, like a car, with horrible consequences.  DON’T GET A DOBERMAN WITHOUT A FENCED YARD.  Most reputable breeders will NOT sell a puppy if you do not have the yard fenced.
  • Dobermans need the love, respect and interaction with their family to be truly happy dogs.   The breed is one that was “MADE” specifically to live
    with and be with the family.   He is their protector and living with his family makes him MORE loyal and protective and ready to come to your rescue. He cannot live in the basement, garage, yard, kennel or any other isolated place away from his *PEOPLE*.   The Doberman needs love and touching and your hand on his head or a pat on his side.   He will NEVER be the dog he can be unless you let him be with you and let him love you back.  Love him, take care of him, train him and let  him know what you want him to do—-he will be the dog of a lifetime—-the dog only a Doberman can be.

*Shared with permission from Theresa Mullen who is a respected and well know in the world of Dobermans.  She is an educator and coach to those who seek to become the best breeder.  She runs a Facebook Group called Everything Doberman Confirmation that provides education and connection with owners all over the world. 

*Doberman Pinscher Club of America

Behavior

Written by: Theresa Mullen
DPCA Public Education Committee

The Doberman is a highly intelligent breed.  He is, by virtue of his physical prowess and mental excellence,  one of the most formidable of all the working guard breeds.   He is a finely tuned protection “weapon”, capable of doing considerable harm and damage to his foes.   Because of his temperament and physical superiority, the Doberman must be “managed” properly from puppyhood.   This means kindly and patiently and respectfully nurtured along—issuing appropriate discipline when necessary to make the point or correct undesirable behavior.

Because many people don’t research and study the Doberman breed and the characteristics of his temperament, problems with behavior can occur.
Be aware that **THE  DOBERMAN  IS  NOT  FOR  EVERY  PERSON  OR  FAMILY**. This is just the reality of the breed.   It is a demanding breed and requires constant attention and guidance from the family.   With the mobile society we live in, where often two people are working and out of the home for long periods of time everyday, the possibility that the Doberman will not be nurtured properly is a distinct possibility.   This sets the scenario for trouble to follow.

The first year is ABSOLUTELY CRITICAL to the proper development of correct behavior patterns and the establishment of the *ORDER* that must be present in the family—which is the *people* call all the shots—the Doberman must comply and follow their lead.   The family CANNOT be held hostage by an improperly raised and trained Doberman who thinks he is the ALPHA and is running “the show.”    Poor behavior, lack of discipline and even dangerous displays of aggression toward family members and other acceptable people is the consequence of mismanagement of the Doberman in some manner.

Of course, there are exceptions, where the Doberman has a physical cause for behavior problems.   But typically BEHAVIOR PROBLEMS follow improper training attempts or inappropriate or too severe discipline—or lack of bonding to the family because the Doberman is locked away and has not integrated itself within the family—and also the total lack of available time to spend with this Doberman that demands quality efforts to train.

BEFORE you purchase a Doberman—do your *HOMEWORK.*   Study the breed—read everything available on Dobermans.   Study and read about training methods and how Dobermans are different than the great majority of breeds.   TALK to reputable breeders—go to AKC Dog Shows and establish contacts, so you can spend some time around Dobermans to observe and see how they act and react.   Observe Obedience classes and how they’re taught.

Get all the details worked out on how you are going to handle a Doberman puppy coming into your home, including the proper usage of a portable wire crate/kennel to use in the training process.  Do all of this BEFORE you go look for a puppy.

If you have very small children—babies, toddlers and young school age children—getting a tiny Doberman puppy is NOT  GOOD!!!   BABIES  AND DOBERMAN  PUPPY  BABIES  ARE  NOT  A  GOOD  MIX!!!   Doberman puppies are high energy, bundles of **SHARP  TOENAILS  AND  NEEDLE TEETH**!!    Young children can be absolutely terrified by nipping puppies and the puppy can be absolutely terrified by running, screaming  children that cause their mom’s and dad’s to harshly discipline the puppy for normal puppy behavior.    This sets the scene for a very bad experience for both toddler/child as well as the young Doberman puppy and is frequently the start of major BEHAVIOR PROBLEMS  that will follow.

The puppy gets locked up more because the kids are afraid and pretty soon the puppy is in the basement or garage or even worse—outside—and the puppy grows up with no family socialization–no house time–fear of children and possibly adults.  MAJOR PROBLEMS start and are magnified once the puppy becomes an adult and the critical “imprinting” period of puppyhood is passed.

Many older puppies (6 months to 12 months) and young adolescent adults end up in Shelters, Humane Societies and Rescues across the Country because people cannot handle their Doberman.   Or their Doberman is aggressive—or they are using the wrong training methods and they are afraid of their Doberman.   Any number of scenario’s can cause behavior problems in the Doberman.

Make sure you seek the advice and counsel of a Professional Behaviorist, a Professional Trainer who has experience with Dobermans,  and seek advice from experienced breeders who can point you in the right direction for help.
Dobermans are formidable guard dogs that have the potential to do harm.   Do not wait to seek Counsel to correct offensive/dangerous behavior.

*Shared with permission from Theresa Mullen who is a respected and well know in the world of Dobermans.  She is an educator and coach to those who seek to become the best breeder.  She runs a Facebook Group called Everything Doberman Confirmation that provides education and connection with owners all over the world. 

*Doberman Pinscher Club of America