What should be the upbringing and care of a Doberman? A complete description of the Doberman - a hardy protector, guard, bodyguard and friend. Caring for a Doberman.

The Doberman breed is a service breed, but sometimes its four-legged representatives can become good and faithful friends of a person. But for this you need to spend a lot of time training the dog, and most importantly, learn to take into account their inherent security and watchdog qualities.

The Doberman is a strong, lean dog with pumped up muscles and an exquisitely refined silhouette. Sometimes it is called an aristocratic dog, due to its graceful, well-proportioned posture. And he has such an aristocratic image because of his elongated, proud neck, his head held high, muscular thighs and a flat, toned stomach.

The dog of this breed has a pedigree that originates in Germany. And the breed was born at the end of the 19th century thanks to a man with the same name. While on night duty at the police station, and as a tax collector from the population, Friedrich Louis Dauberman decided to increase the efficiency of his work, as well as protect himself from attacks from debtors.

Doberman spent a long time looking for a suitable breed of dog that could become a reliable guard for him. But his search was in vain. And he decided to breed a completely new breed himself, the representative of which would become a faithful friend and guardian for him.

A unique result of Dobermann's long, painstaking work was a guard dog, which, thanks to its character traits combined with its refined and proud aristocratic appearance, quickly gained great popularity among dog lovers all over the world.

Appearance of a Doberman

This is a medium-sized dog breed with a proud posture and a very energetic character. Males reach about 70 cm in height at the withers, in females the height is slightly less - it ranges from 63 to 68 cm. Adult dogs - males weigh about 40-45 kg, in females the weight can be 10 kg less. Well-built Dobermans are squarely proportioned: their body length is equal to the height of the dog at the withers.

Dogs usually have a silky, shiny coat. Thanks to its short coat, all the Doberman's muscles are clearly visible. The animal's gait is light and graceful. Most often you can find these dogs tar, deep brown with clear red tan markings.

Doberman character

The Doberman breed has the following character traits:

• Excitement and fighting spirit - the goal is always achieved by the Doberman with insurmountable persistence; dogs of this breed always achieve their plans under any existing conditions.
• The developed instinct of a good hunter is manifested in the pursuit of any moving object, be it a yard cat, or a criminal escaping persecution.
• Devotion to the owner, who, with proper upbringing, is perceived as a reliable friend.
• Distrust and suspicion of strangers - sometimes this character trait can extend to the family in which the Doberman is raised. So, a dog usually chooses its main owner - most often a man. The rest of the family should not necessarily fear the ferocious anger of the animal, but remember that we are talking about a working breed with strong muscles and a bright, sometimes very impulsive temperament.
• High intelligence - pets are usually easy to train due to their insight and intelligence.
• Unbridled courage - Doberman dogs are always easy-going, very active and cheerful.

Provided the dog is surrounded by sincere care and affection, it will serve its owner faithfully and friendly, although at the same time it will consider itself a completely equal member of the family.

Doberman training

A responsible watchdog, a Doberman can be a balanced and fairly flexible dog in everyday life, but only with the necessary proper training.

The Doberman breed is distinguished by its intelligence and intelligence, making its representatives quite easy to train. They love the process of learning and easily grasp new commands from the owner.

If a Doberman puppy appears in the house, it must be accustomed to strictly designated places for its sleeping and eating.

The first commands that a puppy must learn are:

• The order “come to me”, hearing which, the pet, no matter how busy it is, runs to the person.
• The command “near”, hearing which, the dog walks next to the person even when the owner does not have a leash in his hands.
• The prohibition “fu”, hearing which, the dog immediately shifts his attention from the fact that just a couple of seconds ago he was so interested.

It must be borne in mind that dogs are smart enough to easily learn to understand their owner’s character. If the owner tends to be not very convincing in some commands, then the pet can easily begin to ignore them and pretend that he does not notice the owner’s requests.

Being very smart, the Doberman can be trained from a very young age. From the first days of arrival in the house, you can begin to teach the puppy certain commands. But more thorough education is carried out with the puppy, starting from 3 months. It is better to train your pet outside during long walks. There is a lot of space, and for a puppy it is a real open space.

Due to the fact that this breed is a dominant breed, it is important to show the puppy who is in charge from the first days of training. If the pet does not see the leader in the owner, then the owner’s commands will not be carried out unquestioningly. You can raise a reliable protector only by showing the dog who is the most important owner in the house.

How to choose a puppy

A reliable guard and loyal friend of the Doberman is not a cheap pleasure. The price of a puppy depends on its pedigree. Puppies of mothers and fathers known at international exhibitions are sold at a price of more than 20 thousand rubles.

When purchasing a baby from a nursery, the price will be slightly higher than that indicated when purchasing through a private advertisement. You can find puppies of this breed for less than 10 thousand. The main thing is that the animal’s health is normal, and the pet can be compared to the standards of this breed.

If you want to get a Doberman puppy, in no case can you deny its belonging to service dogs and the presence of the spirit of a real fighter. Therefore, it is not recommended to buy this breed through private advertisements from people who sell puppies without documents.

Sometimes unscrupulous sellers offer not a purebred representative of the breed, but a mixed breed, without mentioning this. The behavior of such a dog in the future is very difficult to predict.

There are a number of criteria that should be followed when choosing a puppy.

1. The baby's appearance should be clean and well-groomed.
2. The health of a Doberman puppy should not be in doubt (external signs of health: clean eyes, soft tummy, shiny fur, good teeth).
3. Adequacy of the puppy’s behavior (for example, loud, hysterical barking should alert future owners when choosing).
4. If the baby is already 1.5 months old, his docked tail should be healed.
5. The puppy must have all vaccinations according to age.

The Doberman is quite easy to care for. These dogs do not need to be constantly combed and carefully looked after for the condition of their coat. Once a week you need to moisten a soft cloth with water at a comfortable temperature and wipe the animal with it. Then comb with a stiff bristle brush. Dogs are bathed infrequently: once every six months. More frequent washing can disrupt the functioning of the skin's sebaceous glands. After going outside, you just need to wipe the dog’s paws.

The animal's ears and eyes need to be cleaned and examined regularly. If the length of the claws is not sufficiently sharpened, then from time to time they need to be trimmed. The dog's bedding should be regularly cleared of falling hair, and for the well-being of the pet it is important to keep its bowls and bowls clean.

Walking your four-legged friend should be at least two hours during the day. While walking with your dog, you need to play or train.

The Doberman is fed natural food or prepared food. If the dog is on a natural diet, then you need to pay attention to ensure that it is harmoniously balanced, based on lean beef, which is consumed by an active adult in the amount of 1 kg per day. This diet also includes vegetables and grain porridges.

Health and illness

The Doberman breed is most often long-lived. Their dog life is quite long: from twelve to fifteen years. Impulsiveness, good endurance and devotion to the owner throughout the dog's life.

Individuals with unclear coloration are usually characterized by poor health. Eye and ear diseases, skin ailments are more often characteristic of such dogs. Aging animals are sometimes diagnosed with oncology, heart and vascular diseases, and diabetes. Congenital anomalies are quite rare in this breed.

The high endurance of dogs, their keen intelligence and great devotion to humans contribute to strengthening the popularity of this breed, which it has acquired in many countries.

The Doberman is a dream for those who want to have a big dog. Graceful, strong, muscular males reach 72 cm at the withers, females are slightly lower. These dogs are valued all over the world for their beauty, excellent sense of smell and contact with humans. They are smart and easy to train if you find an approach to them.

A pet's character is formed by the age of 3 years. During this time, the dog must firmly understand that the owner is always right. This will require endurance and willpower from the owner himself.

The Doberman is officially recognized as the best wanted dog.

Cropped ears give a wary and serious expression to the dog's face. The first impression turns out to be correct - the Doberman is very smart, always tries to test the owner, to find his “weak spot”.

The breed requires serious, daily training. You need to work with the puppy as soon as he appears in the house. The general training course is completed by the age of 2, the protective guard service course by the age of 3.

Origin story

In the German Thuringia, the city of Apoldo, there is a monument to Dobermanns. This is where the history of the breed and the club of these dogs begins. This club is still thriving today.

The breed was developed by Friedrich Louis Dobermann at the end of the 19th century. Its purpose is to protect the owner from intruders.

As evil tongues say, Frederick was not a very successful tax collector; when he returned with money, bandits robbed him all the time. This man had a small dog kennel and decided to create the perfect breed of guard dogs. He succeeded.

A homogeneous population of Dobermans was formed by the end of the 19th century. At that time this breed was called the Thuringian Pinscher. In 1894, Friedrich Dobermann died, leaving no breeding documentation. But enthusiastic breeders continued the work, naming the breed in honor of its creator.

The first Doberman that came to Russia was named Tref. He solved thousands of crimes, helping police officers in the pre-revolutionary period. No one knows what happened to him after the revolution, but the main thing is that he left many of his descendants.

Lifespan

The weak point of Dobermans is the heart, you need to have preventive examinations with a doctor once a year. Otherwise, this is a healthy and robust breed with an average lifespan of 14 years.

Doberman breed standard

In Russia, only 2 colors are allowed - black and tan and brown and tan. There are Dobermans of Isabella color, but they have poor health, so they are not allowed for breeding. Dobermans can have docked ears and tails or undocked ones. Docking is done on puppies up to 3 months old.

Since the breed was bred in Germany, it has truly German standards, and they are unchanged.

• head in the shape of a blunt wedge;
• the transition from the forehead to the muzzle is small, but clearly visible;
• the back is completely straight;
• dark eyes;
• ears are triangular, small, cropped or undocked, hanging;
• wide chest and toned stomach;
• tail docked, short or undocked, curled;
• short shiny coat;
• height from 66 to 72 cm;
• weight from 27 to 45 kg.

These are good service dogs with a balanced temperament. They also cope well with various everyday tasks after proper training.

Puppy selection criteria

The choice of a puppy will determine the owner's life for the next 10 to 15 years, so it is important to do it correctly. It's not just about the health of the animal, but also about character and temperament.

You cannot buy a Doberman on the market; this should only be done in a nursery. The breeder must be experienced and have a good reputation. It is advisable to take your time, look at several litters, find out the pedigree and achievements of the parents.

You need to talk to the breeder, describe to him the criteria by which the pet is selected. This is easier to do if you determine the purpose of the purchase in advance - breeding, participation in exhibitions, security and search service, or simply keeping it at home as a family pet.

Doberman puppies cost from 200 euros to 2 thousand, the price depends on the class of the animal. The best representatives of the breed are sold in Russia and Germany.

Before purchasing, it is useful to study the requirements of the standard in order to immediately see the disadvantages and advantages of the future pet.

You can chat a little with the puppy you like and watch him. Aggression in character is undesirable, just like cowardice. Signs of health - activity, good appetite, shiny, clean coat. It is advisable to buy a puppy no younger than 2 months old. You need to ask the breeder for a puppy card, find out if vaccinations have been done, and what food the baby prefers.

Purpose and character of the dog

Dobermans are beautiful dogs, strong, elegant, fit. These are good friends for their owners. They have excellent service qualities and are effectively used in search and rescue work.

Dogs are successfully used in the police service; they can be guide dogs, helping the visually impaired.

A well-trained Doberman Pinscher is a weapon in the hands of its owner. For example, in America such a breed is not allowed to be owned without special permission. During World War II, Dobermans were assistants to the American Marines, and they even erected a monument to them.

Dobermans love children very much, but leaving them alone is dangerous. Pets treat small animals well if they are raised properly.

Dogs are active and need serious exercise. They practice various sports - frisbee, agility, freestyle.

The Doberman dog grows well on high-quality dry food and also loves natural food. She eats about 900 g of dry food per day, this portion is divided into 2 or 3 meals. It is useful to diversify a dog's diet, including fermented milk products, vegetables, and beef.

Dobermans are active, bright dogs. You need to walk a lot with them, play sports and exercises, devote time to games, intellectual and physical activity every day.

From puppyhood, dogs are prepared for search work and taught to listen to basic commands.

This is a short-haired breed that does not need to be bathed often. Usually this is done once every 3 months. When a dog sheds, the whole house is covered with fine hair, you need to be prepared for this. After each walk, wipe your pet's paws.

They walk with the Doberman, putting on a muzzle and a collar with a leash. The duration of one daily walk should be at least 1.5 hours. In winter, the dog is put on a warm vest or overalls, but you can do without this by hardening the pet.

Doberman training

An experienced trainer will help you find contact with your dog; he will teach you how to establish mutual understanding and master basic commands. For success and obedience, you need to reward your pet with a treat, and be sure to praise it.

At the initial stage, when the puppy has no knowledge, training grows out of his need for food. For a tasty reward, he fulfills the simple requirements of the owner - to follow his hand, walk next to him.

Until the puppy has all its vaccinations, you cannot walk with it. Nothing distracts him from communicating with the owner. This time is good for initial training. You need to play a lot with the puppy and learn simple commands. He should never be forced; training should be based on good mutual understanding and contact.

The “place” command is easy to practice if the dog has its own bed. As a reward, a little food is placed there, and when the puppy follows the command, he receives a treat.

The dog must undergo a full training course. Training in protective guard service begins at 9 months.

The Doberman moves very quickly, he is swift, agile, jumps and runs well. He has a death grip, he grabs the victim with his mouth full and does not let go. But this has nothing to do with aggression; on command, the dog immediately releases the victim.

Advantages and disadvantages of the breed

When purchasing a Doberman, you need to calculate your strength. The disadvantage of the breed is that it is not suitable for people who are weak-willed, unsure of their abilities, or lazy. Training a dog will require a lot of patience and daily training. But if you spare no effort for the Doberman, you can get a wonderful friend and a reliable guard.

The dignity of the breed is in its beauty and power. A trained dog will become an excellent bodyguard, protecting the owner and his family from intruders. Working with her is a pleasure; she understands what they want from her and tries to fulfill all the owner’s demands with great zeal.

If not properly maintained and cared for, the Doberman can get out of control and become aggressive. That is why he needs special attention and care.

Conditions of detention

The ideal option for keeping these dogs is a country house, but some also keep the dog in spacious apartments.

In the apartment

Those who dream of a “couch” pet should give up the idea of ​​getting a Doberman. Owners of tiny apartments are unlikely to be able to provide him with the necessary conditions. Before buying a puppy, you need to carefully consider where in the apartment the dog will sleep and relax. The corridor will not work, as the Doberman likes to be near people.

The overnight stay should be located as far as possible from drafts and heating devices. It should be well lit.

It should be borne in mind that during the period of teeth growth, the puppy may begin to spoil things in the house. To prevent this from happening, you need to provide him with his own toys.

In a private house

Dobermans feel great in an enclosure. The dog must be allowed to walk without a leash. This is especially true for young individuals who need to be given an outlet for energy. But this should be done in uncrowded places. This breed is not suitable for being kept on a chain.

During the cold season, the dog should be warm; it is better to place it in a private house. Reviews from owners indicate that it easily adapts to new conditions.

Care

Caring for a Doberman is simple - just wash it from time to time, comb its coat, and brush its teeth and ears.

1. Once a week, the dog is wiped with a damp towel, and every few months, washed with shampoo. If you bathe your Doberman too often, his skin's protective functions will be impaired.
2. From time to time it is recommended to examine the dog's oral cavity. If tartar occurs, your pet should be taken to the veterinarian.
3. Clean the ears once a week with cotton pads soaked in lotion or water.
4. If the claws do not grind well, they are trimmed (video author Anna Khanenchuk.

It is better to crop Doberman ears under the supervision of a veterinarian when the puppy reaches 2-4 months. During the rehabilitation period, it is necessary to provide him with proper care and ensure that the dog does not damage his ears during games. It is better to secure them with a frame until the seams are removed.

These dogs love both kibble and natural food. Half of the diet should be meat. Cereals, dairy products, bran, boneless sea fish and vegetables are also useful. During feeding, the animal's head should be at the same level as its back.

If the dog lives in the house, you need to wash his paws after a walk. The litter should be promptly cleaned of dust and dirt. The same goes for your pet's toys and dishes.

In winter, Dobermans should be taken out for walks only in warm clothes, this could be overalls. This is the only way to avoid frostbite. During walks, the dog must be wearing a collar with a wrist loop and a muzzle (due to its impressive size and strength, it can pose a danger to other people). Spending time in the fresh air should be long and interesting.

Do you find keeping a Doberman difficult?

Just look at this delightful and noble dog! Meet, this is a Doberman. His image simultaneously combines power, beauty and elegance, which cannot be said about most dog breeds. The Doberman has strong and strong muscles, which complement his appearance with extraordinary beauty. The color can be black or brown, but always with reddish-red opalines.

Graceful Doberman

Doberman in our house

But the external attractiveness of this dog is not the only positive side. The Doberman is very active and fearless, thanks to which he becomes an excellent guard and protector of his owner and his home, even to the point of self-sacrifice.

There is a widespread belief among people that this is a rather aggressive, ferocious and dangerous dog, especially for children. But this is just a stereotype that has developed over many years, starting from the Second World War, when the Doberman was used in the Marine Corps, or incorrect upbringing.

In fact, this is a very affectionate, devoted and loving dog.

Moreover, on the contrary, he becomes attached to children and protects them, and in no case will cause harm.

Grooming

This breed, unlike many others, does not require unusual care. The only thing that is necessary is to brush the coat once a week and wipe it with a wet towel.

It is not necessary to bathe a Doberman at home in a bath with shampoo more than several times a year, as this can adversely affect the protective function of the skin. When bathing, it is best to use and then wipe dry. It is quite enough for a dog to periodically swim in natural bodies of water.

Nutrition

A Doberman should eat twice a day, but not once, as this will seriously harm your pet’s health.

It is best suited for feeding, but do not forget about meat, since it is the source of vital proteins. Meat products should occupy a significant share in the diet, but it is also important to include vegetables and vitamins.

Upbringing

Since the Doberman has a athletic, athletic build, he cannot fully exist without constant physical activity. Therefore, do not be lazy, but go for a run together every evening and take a long walk in the fresh air. This will have a great effect on both him and you.

The Doberman is not designed to sit on a chain. This is a very intelligent and smart dog that needs to communicate with its owner. Leaving it without attention and care will cause serious emotional trauma and harm to your pet.

They say that the Doberman is not a dog for beginners. And indeed it is. Its owner must have such valuable qualities as: patience, activity and initiative.

When training a Doberman, emphasize that you are the leader and owner, not him!

If you lose sight of this important point, all your activities will not bear the desired fruit. He simply will not obey commands. Therefore, do not forget to assert your authority, at the same time, giving him your tenderness and affection. In the hands of such an owner, the Doberman will become a true loving and devoted friend.

Attitude towards other animals

If a puppy grows up in the same house with other animals, he will be very kind and forgiving towards them. But this is only for “our own people”.

He doesn't like guests, especially males and other people's cats. It is necessary to socialize him from childhood with other animals.

However, in general, the Doberman is characterized by weak to moderate aggressiveness towards dogs and humans. He has pronounced guard qualities, defender qualities and the ability to protect the territory.

Doberman offspring

Reproduction of this breed is a very painstaking and difficult process that not every owner is able to overcome. First of all, you need to choose a good partner who will complement your dog’s valuable qualities, and not reinforce existing shortcomings.

But in general, breeding Dobermans is a very thankless task, because, unfortunately, puppies may be born ugly, sick, or not born at all. There is a possibility that the mother will refuse to care for and feed the babies or, even worse, kill them.

However, if you still decide to take a risk for the sake of the puppies of these noble dogs, then start with step-by-step planning for whelping. Then, during pregnancy, take care of quality feeding for the expectant mother. After all, underfeeding increases the morbidity and mortality of puppies. The intrauterine development and future health of babies directly depends on the state of the dog’s body even before pregnancy - on the presence of vitamins in the diet, the presence of untreated wounds and worms.

Pregnancy in Dobermans lasts from 58 to 72 days, depending on the number of puppies (the fewer, the longer the pregnancy).

After whelping, when breastfeeding, make sure that the mother receives special food for the growing body. She must eat for two at once, absorbing a huge amount of vitamins and minerals from food. After all, the life of babies directly depends on the quality and quantity of milk.

Puppies nutrition

Puppies usually start feeding at three weeks of age, but if necessary, as soon as they open their eyes.

Feeding algorithm (per day):

1. One month old puppy (feed 6 times a day):

• meat – 100-250 grams;
• milk – 400-500 ml;
• cereals – 70-100 grams;
• yolk – 1 pc.;
• cottage cheese – 100-150 grams;
• vegetables – 130-150 grams.

2. 2-3 months (3-4 times):

• meat – 200-350 grams;
• milk – 300-400 ml;
• cereals – 120-150 grams;
• yolk – 1 pc.;
• cottage cheese – 100-150 grams;
• vegetables – 130-150 grams.

3. Five-month (2-3 times):

• meat – 500-600 grams;
• milk – 500 ml;
• cereals – 200 grams;
• chicken egg – 1 pc.;
• cottage cheese – 200 grams;
• vegetables (especially cabbage) – 150 grams.

4. One year old:

• meat – 700 grams;
• fish – 750-800 grams (once a week);
• milk – 500 ml;
• cereals – 300-400 grams;
• chicken egg – 1 pc.;
• cottage cheese – 500 grams;
• vegetables – 350-400 grams.

Raising a puppy

However, when taking care of your baby’s nutrition, do not forget about his psychological health and maturation. It is extremely important for the Doberman to socialize and get used to society. And you shouldn’t think that if this is a guard dog, then you don’t have to communicate with it. On the contrary, how she will perceive the world depends only on your help to understand this very world.

As soon as your Doberman is no longer a puppy, begin intensive training. But never forget that this breed is very sensitive and gentle. Mistakes should be corrected with love, and best of all, under the supervision of an experienced dog handler.

If you are still hesitating whether to get a Doberman, we hope that now your doubts will be dispelled! After all, he has amazing qualities, is intelligent, noble and, undoubtedly, will become your favorite affectionate Friend for over 10 years!

And remember - we are responsible for those we have tamed!

Having decided to own one, potential owners go through many options. In most cases, the question of choosing a pet depends on its character, appetite and the living conditions of the owner. Of course, everyone wants the dog to be energetic and loyal - there are many such lines. We will learn about one of them by getting acquainted with the “guest” of the review - the Doberman dog, and we will begin by studying its characteristics.

Description and photo

• Origin: Germany.
• Group: Working. Used as a service, search or guard dog.
• Recognized by whom: ACR, AKC, ANKC, APRI, CKC, FCI, NKC, NZKC, UKC.
• Lifespan: 8–12 years.
• Litter: 3–8 puppies.
• Coat color: Black, brown, less often - brown with a yellowish tint or black with a blue tint.
• Wool length: Short.
• Shedding: Short.
• Dimensions: “At the withers” males grow to 68–72 cm, females are slightly inferior to them (63–68 cm).
• Weight: 40–45 kg (males), 30–35 kg (females).

The dog is also distinguished by a proud, upright posture, which seems to emphasize his confidence in his abilities. Add here the “signature” erect ears, and it will become clear why the Doberman service dog does not lose its popularity.
The breed standard also provides for the following features:

• A narrow head, the two upper lines of which run parallel and are separated by a clear transition from the forehead to the muzzle. The forehead line is lowered to the cheekbones with a slight transition. The head is clearly separated from the nape.
• Wide muzzle with tightly closed lips. 42 teeth have a scissor bite. The skin is stretched tightly, and the flat muscles are emphatically dry, almost sculpted.
• Dark eyes of medium size. Dogs with brown or bluish coats may have a lighter tint.
• The nose is the same tone as the overall color.
• The neck is dry and muscular, set high and in harmony with the proportions of the body and head.
• Well developed long withers (especially in males).

• A short, strong back, turning into a powerful loin and sloping croup. The ribs are lowered to approximately the ulnar line. From the edge of the sternum, the abdomen is expressively tucked in, and a characteristic undercut is visible from the side.
• The forelimbs stand at right angles. Plumb forearms are straight, elbows tucked to the chest. The round paws are brought together into a ball.
• The hind limbs are distinguished by well-developed muscles and a large stroke angle. Toes on paws are not dewclaws.
• Dobermans have free movements; they have a sweeping and light step. Both pairs of legs touch the ground at the same time, the front ones are carried far forward, while the rear ones provide the necessary force.

How the breed appeared

This line is considered young - its first representative was shown to the public in 1876.

These strong dogs owe their appearance to Friedrich Louis Dobermann, who worked in the modest position of a tax inspector.

It was he who came up with the idea of ​​breeding a new guard breed. According to one version, he was prompted to do this by the need to protect himself from intractable debtors.

This is probably just a legend - the breeder’s notes have not survived to this day, and one can only guess about the true motives.

It is believed that the prototype of all Dobermans was the miniature pinscher, which Louis intended to enlarge. This is true, but to get the first result the German had to work for a long time on crossing different breeds.
It is known for certain that in this process, in addition to pinschers, German and French shepherds (smooth-haired Beaucerons), English greyhounds, etc. took part. There was also an “admixture” of setters, pointers, Great Danes and various terriers.

The result was a dog similar to its miniature “ancestor”, but with impressive size and power. Dobermann's success was appreciated after his death (1894), assigning his surname to the entire breed.

Did you know? The first Dobermans were brought to the Russian Empire in 1902 - all of them were bought for police work. The animals quickly proved their professional suitability, and the dog named Tref became a detective legend; many newspapers of that time wrote about him.

Over the past 40 years, albinos have been actively bred, in which the usual brown or black fur is replaced with white. It looks impressive, but they soon found out that this is the result of a gene mutation, which seriously affects the dog’s health (especially the eyes).

Puppy selection criteria

Even before purchasing a pet, it is worth deciding for what purpose such an acquisition is being made. If you want to raise a “star” of exhibitions and shows, you will have to visit a lot of nurseries (at the same time forking out a lot of money), and in the future - provide enhanced. When you need a security guard for your home and just a loyal friend, the task becomes a little easier.
To become the owner of a healthy puppy, pay attention to such factors:

• Age(at least 9 weeks). Until this point, primary vaccination and prophylaxis must be carried out. The same applies to tail docking (in the first week of life) and ears. The seller is obliged to provide documents indicating all procedures with dates.
• General state. A clean, shiny coat is good, but try petting your puppy again while feeling the skin. In a healthy animal it is a little free, with some reserve for growth. Scars from cupping at this age will already heal.
• Take a closer look at the eyes. An attentive, clear look, along with the absence of dirt and mucus on the corners and inner folds, indicates that the baby is fine.
• Weight. A well-groomed puppy of this age will weigh 8–9 kg (females are lighter than males).

Important! In a trusted nursery you will be given a pedigree up to the fourth generation and the so-called AKC blue form for registration. If the puppy is “assigned” to the previous owner, they are given a white form, on which the previous data is indicated on one side, and the other remains blank- information about the buyer is entered there.

• Number of puppies in the litter. A one-time “brood” of 4–5 (less often 6) dogs is considered optimal.
• Character. Males are more impulsive and active, while females are flexible and more willing to make contact.
• Pedigree. A smart breeder will always let you see the mother of the puppies. If the dog does not show aggression and has a good appetite, then there is no need to worry about the offspring. Naturally, she will try to protect them, but without excessive zeal.

And in vain - keeping a puppy in isolation can make him timid, and violating his diet, on the contrary, will only make him angry. And this becomes a problem for the new owner, who does not understand why a clumsy and funny Doberman puppy grew into a naughty killer dog.

Where will the Doberman live?

An active dog needs space. The ideal option would be private house with a large plot.

It is impossible to accustom such a handsome man to a leash. This will do more harm than good - your appetite will immediately disappear, and the apathy that has appeared will at some point turn into an outburst of anger.

It is advisable that the area be fenced. The fact is that an inquisitive puppy can run out into the street and get hit by a car. Many breeders simply will not sell a dog if they find out that the yard is “through”.
In the warm season, there are no particular difficulties - the animal sleeps calmly in the open air, guarding the entrusted area. But when cold weather sets in, you will have to prepare a large, insulated one for wintering (short wool does not protect against frost). There is no need to close it - your pet needs it frequently.

Did you know? In 1907, a regimental kennel for military field dogs began operating in Peterhof. At the beginning of the First World War, 300 of its “graduates” were sent to the front, where they performed guard and relay functions, and also helped to establish communications.

Neighborhood with other dogs can result in difficulties, because Dobermans, regardless of age, are wary of their “colleagues”. Therefore, it is better for the dog to be alone, this will eliminate such conflicts.

Dog care

No special conditions are required here, but regularity is extremely important. In short, care comes down to, not to mention frequent “walking”.

Grooming

There are no problems with a short, straight “coverage”. In most cases, the dog independently shakes off all the debris and dust that gets there.

In this regard, a minimum of effort is required on the part of the owner in the form of weekly combing. The manipulation is done carefully and specially. It should not be too hard so as not to accidentally scratch the skin.

“Duty” water procedures in the form of rubbing with a wet towel are done every week. This simple method moisturizes the skin, while simultaneously removing dead skin and removing dried dirt.
A more thorough “bath” using a special shampoo is carried out once every 2–3 months (although many increase the break to six months). It looks like this:

• before bathing, the coat is combed;
• Apply the shampoo carefully, trying not to get it into your eyes;
• After the foam is washed off, the wool is thoroughly wiped with a dry towel.

Note that liquids for “human” hygiene are not suitable here - they have a completely different rigidity, and they are designed for a different skin density.

Eyes, ears, claws

The eyes of these dogs are deep-set, which is why mucus accumulates in the corners, forming a persistent “sourness.” Knowing this, the owners inspect this area daily. Having seen deposits, carefully wipe the area with pieces of soft cloth (changing them for each eye).

Do not disdain to take a closer look at the color of the discharge. Gray or yellow mucus can be removed using Optrex. If they appear too often, along with redness of the eyes, then immediately go to the veterinarian.
Ears are checked every week. At the same time, they are thoroughly wiped, removing accumulated dirt or grease. For such purposes, take fabric (cotton or wool) or cotton pads lightly moistened in a special lotion. Cleaning is done to a shallow depth, without using sharp objects.

When wax plugs appear, veterinary ear drops or other oil-based cleaners intended for animals are used.

The claws grow very quickly - they have to be trimmed once a week (maximum one and a half weeks). The difficulty is that through the black claws it is impossible to see the vein running in the claw. To prevent bleeding, trim the very ends using guillotine scissors. For puppies, they even use manicure files with a fine cut.

Did you know? There is a small monument to the Doberman on the island of Guam. On its base are the names of 25 dogs who served in the US Marine Corps and died in the performance of their duties.

It happens that through negligence a vein is cut. Don't panic - immediately treat the cut with permanganate.
While working on the claws, take a look at the paws as well. Most often, various seeds and thorns get stuck into the pads, which must be removed immediately. Such inspections should be daily. By wasting time, you risk your dog's health - an undetected cut or crack can turn into a swollen blister in a few days.

Walks

They are extremely necessary for an athletically “tailored” agile dog with fairly long legs.

Daily walks are required. They can take place in different ways, but they definitely stimulate physical activity.
Consider the age of the pet. A puppy will only need short trips to the park or the street together, while a grown-up Doberman will be happy to accompany you on a run. For an adult animal, pace no longer plays a special role - they can easily run next to a bicycle.

But there are also some nuances. For example, when meeting other dogs, not only natural curiosity may appear, but also some aggression. This fact will have to be taken into account.

Important! Two-month-old puppies usually undergo a series of simple tests to determine how trainable they are and whether they are suitable for working with people. A simple example: move a little away from the dog, make sure that he notices your movement, and watch his reaction (no need to call him). If he runs up, you’ll work together without difficulty.

Making up a diet

The Doberman Pinscher loves to eat, and the very description of the breed suggests this conclusion.

Particular attention is paid to “young animals” under the age of 1 year. They require an extremely balanced diet that will cover the needs of a growing body and at the same time replenish “energy” losses.
Here is an example of such a diet:

• A one-month-old baby is fed 5–6 times a day. This number of approaches is divided into 450–500 ml of milk, 200–250 g of meat, 75–100 g of cereals, 100–150 g of cottage cheese, up to 150 g of vegetables and one chicken egg yolk.
• At the 2-3rd month of life, food intake is no longer so frequent (3-4 times). 50 g of vegetables and cereals are added to the “ration”, and 100 g of meat.

Important! In hot weather, wet wipes are done especially often. Short hair does not at all guarantee special “heat resistance” (especially in black dogs).

• A five-month-old dog eats a maximum of 3 times a day. For one day she will need up to 600 g of meat, 0.5 liters of milk, 200 g of cottage cheese and cereals. There are slightly fewer vegetables - 150 g, and for dessert once a week they give a whole chicken egg.
• A one-year-old pinscher will already require 700 g of meat and 500 g of cottage cheese daily. 300–400 g of cereals and vegetables are eaten. They begin to gradually add fish (700 g are given no more than once a week). This scheme will continue in the future.

The appetite, as you can see, is truly brutal. But when you get acquainted with this list, the question arises: what exactly should you give your dog? It's not a secret.
For normal development the following are suitable for food:

• lean raw beef or not particularly rich pork (it will have to be thoroughly boiled);
• cottage cheese;
• curdled milk and kefir;
• omelette;
• millet;
• buckwheat or rice;
• cereals;
• bran;
• boiled fish without bones and “guts”;
• raw carrots and cabbage in the form of salad.

There are also dishes that are best avoided. Among them:

Breed training

Rumor ascribes to these dogs a ferocious disposition. This is only partly true. Dobermans are aggressive only in cases where the owner is in danger, while in “peaceful life” their character is characterized by restraint.

Other virtues include fearlessness, sharp intelligence, loyalty and attentiveness. They also get along well with children.

In order to fully develop all these qualities, it is necessary to raise a puppy from the very first days of its arrival in the house. Fortunately, they learn willingly and with genuine interest. The owners will have to remember a few simple rules:

• First of all, accustom the puppy to its new home and family. Without this you cannot start.
• Be patient - you can’t raise your voice, much less be cruel. This is especially true for babies, who are very sensitive and may not respond to basic commands until 3–4 months of age.
• Give the dog loads commensurate with its age. So, during the period of changing teeth, you cannot practice gripping exercises.
• Don't forget to praise your puppy.
• Please note that working with a Doberman will be constant, and any long break will result in a “gap” in training.

Important! Meal breaks are contraindicated. Also, you cannot “finish off” the daily norm in one go.- this will lead to stomach problems.

Many owners, having soberly assessed their capabilities, turn to kennel clubs. There is a reason for this - in most cases, home training does not go beyond mastering 2-3 commands, and to continue, the help of a professional is required.

But you shouldn’t sign up for the first section you come across. Some instructors promise to turn a dog into a real protector in a couple of weeks. And they do it, sometimes forgetting about practicing “submission” exercises. As a result, another uncontrollable “monster” that does not listen to the owner. To avoid this, contact trusted breeders.

Possible diseases

Body features and an active lifestyle leave their mark on the well-being of the four-legged “rocket”.

Veterinarians can easily name the sores inherent in this breed. Most likely, among them will be:

• broad type cardiomyopathy;
• dysfunction of blood vessels;
• dysplasia of the hip and ulnar ligament;
• volvulus, noticeable by bloating;
• cataract;
• hair loss;
• melanoma;
• hypothyroidism (abnormal activity of the thyroid gland);
• von Willebrand disease is a rare genetic disorder that causes internal bleeding.

The “risk group” includes old dogs that exhibit illnesses acquired over their entire active life. Most often these are various heart defects and disorders of the musculoskeletal system.

Excessive care often leads to illness. Overly caring owners often increase the portions for their pets, thereby provoking obesity.

Now you know that the nimble and heavy Doberman is not as scary as people think. We hope that before adopting a puppy, our readers will compare their capabilities with its appetites and the costs of raising it. More respect and kindness!