Dobberman Pinscher

 

Louis Doberman of Germany developed a new breed of dog in the mid to late1800s. His goal, as a tax-collector and dog-catcher, was a service dog which would be protective, intelligent and agile. By crossing such breeds as the German Pinscher, Rottweiler, Weimaraner, English Greyhound and Manchester Terrier, he developed a dog with a distinctive coat colour that was hardy, intelligent, strong, courageous, quick, with guard instincts and hunting ability. From Germany, the breed spread to other countries, including the United States by the 1930s. He has been used as a working dog by the military and the police, as well as guard work, search-and-rescue, and guides for the blind. He also excell in obedience training.

The Doberman has a long, wedge-shaped head with powerful jaws. The eyes are almond-shaped, perferably dark brown, with a keen, alert expression. The bite is scissors. His ears are set level with the top of his skull and naturally hang down along the neckline but are more often cropped to stand in an upright position. His body is compact and muscular but not heavily boned. His length should equal his height. His neck is well-arched and well muscled. His topline slopes slightly from withers to croup. His legs are straight and powerful. His feet are compact and cat-like with well-arched toes. The tail is docked at the second joint. The coat is short, smooth, hard and lies close to the body. Coat colour may be black, red, fawn or more rarely blue, all with tan markings on the muzzle, throat, chest, legs and below the tail. The Doberman stands between 24 and 28 inches and weights between 65 and 85 pounds.

 

The Dobie is a highly trainable, intelligent dog. He is energetic, alert, loyal and fearless. His demeanor is one of nobility and pride. While being very affectionate, he needs to be well socialised with firm, though not harsh, control. He requires daily exercise.

 

References:

 

American Kennel Club Inc. The Complete Dog Book. 18th ed. New York: Howell, 1992.

http://www.i-love-dogs.com/

http://www.hoflin.com/