There are all sorts of stereotypes about different dog breeds, and while some are true, others are purely fiction. People have spread rumors about Dobermans, and we’re here to dispel these common myths. Find out what some people believe about Dobermans and the actual truth.
Myth: They’re Aggressive
In most dog-centric movies, the villain is a Doberman because of the dog’s fearsome appearance, pointy ears, and muscular frame. Many people also assume that the Doberman may turn on its owner or handler someday. This should never happen, especially if you care for and socialize your dog. At some point, a myth gained traction: Dobermans would turn on their owner once the canine’s brain grew too big for their skull.
Not only is this myth false, but it’s the total opposite of the truth. Like any dog, Dobermans require proper socialization with people and other animals. And this isn’t too hard because the breed is highly affectionate and loves people. Dobermans have a unique way of knowing how to read a person’s body language and other human emotions. These gentle and patient dogs have an undying love for their family and stand by their human pack no matter what!
The Reality: They’re Family Dogs
If any dog is a perfect fit for a family, it’s a Doberman. Long ago, people bred these dogs with the purpose of personal protection in mind, so they’re incredibly loyal to their pack. Your Doberman will stand guard and protect the family from potential threats.
Create a Nurturing Environment
Your puppy needs to know that they can trust you. Irregular feeding schedules, hostility, or other forms of neglect can break the trust your puppy has in you, leading to abnormal behavior. Dobermans get a bad reputation because a handful of dogs may act out; these dogs are often abused in puppyhood. If you give your Doberman a loving home, they’ll stick close to your side and shower you with plenty of affection.
Myth: They Hard To Train
Dobermans aren’t hard to train. They’re brilliant, and working with this beautiful dog shouldn’t be too difficult if you’re a skilled owner. Try out different tactics or rewards if you have difficulty training your Doberman. Some dogs like a tasty treat, but others prefer verbal praise. What’s most important is that you give your dog a “high-value” treat—the thing they want most. Since dogs have unique personalities, this differs from canine to canine.
You should enroll your dog in obedience school as a puppy for the best results since this helps them learn their place in your pack. Your Doberman needs to know that you’re the boss, and you expect them to respond to your commands. You may also want to contact the owner you bought your Doberman from for a few tips.
Why is proper training so important? Because highly intelligent breeds like Dobermans can outsmart their owners if they don’t learn to obey. This can create dangers for the dog or lead to unruly behaviors as the two of you battle for dominance.
Myth: There’s One Type of Doberman
Yes, we typically say “Doberman,” but that doesn’t mean there’s only one type. In fact, there are two types of Dobermans: American Doberman Pinscher and European Doberman Pinscher. Although they have some similarities, you can tell them apart upon closer inspection. For instance, the American Doberman has a narrower head and longer body. European Dobermans are taller and built to work.
What’s a Min Pin?
Many may assume that a Min Pin or Miniature Pinscher is a miniature Doberman because it is visually like the larger breed. However, these breeds are not related to one another, so the only similarity is the markings on their coat.
Myth: You Can Get a Puppy Anywhere
Technically speaking, you can get a puppy anywhere, but that doesn’t mean you should. Sadly, not all breeders follow ethical practices, so the puppies in their litter could be sick. Quality breeders, on the other hand, ensure all dams and sires are in top condition before breeding, which means health-testing both parents.
Dobermans are at higher risk of having Von Willebrand disease, dilated cardiomyopathy, hip dysplasia, and more. Reputable breeders know this and work hard to prevent pups from developing these issues through selective breeding. This means a responsible breeder will ensure you get a strong and healthy puppy with which you can spend years together.
Adopt From a Trustworthy Breeder
Joie de Vivre Dobermans has European Doberman puppies for sale. Each of our pups comes from parents who are health-tested, brilliant, gentle, and protective of their family. We’ll help you pick out the right match for your family. And we’re happy to help if you ever need advice or help training the European Doberman puppy you buy from us.
Myth: They Have a Lot of Energy
Another Doberman myth you need to stop believing is that they’re a big ball of energy. Although Dobermans can be energetic, this isn’t the breed’s natural behavior. Each breed of dog belongs to a different class, and Dobermans are working dogs. This means they rely on completing tasks to feel happy.
If you don’t engage your dog in regular exercise or work their mind, they may begin acting out because of all the repressed energy they’ve pent up. Keep your dog happy by:
- Going for regular walks or hikes
- Training them in new commands
- Having them guard your property
Again, keeping your dog engaged makes them happy, especially when you have a working dog like a Doberman. They’re always looking for a task, and if you assign nothing to them, they may seek out negative things on their own.
Owner Tip
An under-stimulated Doberman may become destructive and destroy furniture or other belongings. Understandably, you may get frustrated with your dog if this occurs, but it isn’t exactly their fault. For example, your Doberman may know not to chew on shoes, but without mental and physical stimulation, that rule could go out the window.
Learning new commands keeps their active mind occupied. Likewise, activities like walking give them a physical and mental workout; neither is more important than the other.
Is a Doberman for You?
Although you may love a Doberman’s majestic, natural beauty, that doesn’t always mean that this is the ideal breed for your lifestyle. Think about your interests and how much time you can set aside for training. Highly intelligent breeds like the Doberman require an owner willing to socialize and train them. If your lifestyles align, then a Doberman is the perfect four-legged addition to your family.