Doberman Pinscher

Genetic Predispositions and Health

Dobermans can suffer from degenerative myelopathy, progressive rod-cone degeneration, hip dysplasia, eye disorders, autoimmune thyroiditis, and heart conditions. Genetic testing for these and other conditions including deafness and vestibular syndrome of Dobermans, dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM1 and DCM2), narcolepsy, oculocutaneous albinism (OCA), and von Willebrand Disease I can assist veterinarians with diagnosis and proactive care, as well as help breeders identify affected and carrier dogs.

Personality and Behavior

Dobermans are known for their intelligence and protective instincts, which make them excellent guard dogs when properly socialized and trained. This breed is built strong, athletic, and alert. They are highly active and require regular mental and physical stimulation. They are also known to be adventurous, loyal, and obedient. Despite their sometimes intimidating appearance, they are usually friendly and very affectionate with their families, and can be good with children if they are raised with them. However, these dogs typically bond with one person. They may be reserved with strangers, so they need to be trained and socialized early on how to interact appropriately with other people and animals. Socialization and obedience training during puppyhood is crucial.

Herding Dog Lineage

A canine genetic lineage is a group of individuals or entire breeds that descended from common ancestors predating modern breed formation. Often these lineages are associated with a ‘type’ of dog with a unique historical working role and associated behaviors (e.g., herding, scent hunting, etc.).

Herding dogs are known for their high intelligence, trainability, and strong work ethic. These breeds originated in areas where managing livestock was an important part of daily life and had large pastoral lands. These breeds were specifically developed to help farmers and shepherds move, manage, and protect herds of livestock. Breeds within the herding dog lineage are agile and are known to have a natural herding instinct, where they like to keep their animals together. They are loyal and attentive to their handlers and are eager to please and are also highly aware of their environment. Many breeds within this linage have gone on to work as rescue and police dogs.

Example breeds with ancestry from this lineage include Border Collie, Cardigan Welsh Corgi, and German Shepherd.

Fun Facts

There is a life-size bronze statue of a Doberman in Guam at the war dog cemetary at the U.S. Naval Base in Orote Point. The monument is in memory of the Dobermans who lost their lives during World War II during the battle for Guam.

The Doberman originated around 1890 in Thueringen, Germany.

Their handsome looks and musculature has contributed to their fame as consisten winners in show rings, often winning awards such as Westminster's Best in Show.

References

https://www.fci.be/Nomenclature/Standards/143g02-en.pdf

https://www.ukcdogs.com/doberman-pinscher

https://www.ofa.org/recommended-tests?breed=DP

https://vgl.ucdavis.edu/panel/doberman-pinscher-health-panel

https://www.pawprintgenetics.com/products/breeds/114/

https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/doberman-pinscher/

https://www.petmd.com/dog/breeds/c_dg_doberman_pinscher