Is a Doberman the Right Breed For Me?
Doberman Pinschers can make very devoted and loyal companions if one is willing to put time and effort into the training and socialization of a Dobe. With a firm and loving owner, a Doberman will make a wonderful pal and protector for children, an obedient companion and loyal friend, and a loving member of the household. Unfortunately, not every person has the time or commitment necessary to properly teach the very intelligent Doberman what is expected and required of him. There are many things to carefully consider before choosing a Doberman as the breed for you.
Owning a Doberman, or any dog, requires a lengthy time commitment. A dog is for life, not just until it is inconvenient. Whether your Dobe is a puppy purchased from a breeder or a mature adult from a rescue or SPCA, there will be many learning experiences and obstacles to go through in the course of ownership.
Dobermans require firm yet loving training and guidance. Many Dobermans have dominant personalities and will try to "boss" around a permissive owner. To own a Doberman you must be one step tougher and smarter than your pet. Do not equate tough with harsh or abusive. Harsh owners need to look for another breed because Dobes are very sensitive and will not deal well with rough treatment. Abusive treatment will quickly result in a Doberman with a broken spirit and, quite often, aggressive temperament.
If you want a dog always on the go, look no further. Dobes are generally very active dogs that need something to do. Keeping our pets mentally stimulated is always a challenge. Dobes do best if they have a job to perform. Many Dobermans and owners excel at Obedience competition, Tracking events, and Agility training. Basic obedience training, at the very least, is mandatory for every Doberman Pinscher. Training assists owners in being "alpha" to their dogs. All dogs think in pack terms and need an "alpha" figure to guide them and provide discipline. Discipline does not mean punishment. Disciplining is providing firm and nurturing guidance, which all animals need.
If you are looking for an outdoor pet, do not consider a Doberman. When tied with a chain to a dog box, Dobes become surly and bored. A Doberman wants nothing more than to be a member of your family. He will not be satisfied with an occasional pat and kind word. He will demand and thrive on consistent attention on a daily basis.
Is your lifestyle one that will permit a goodly amount of time spent at home? If you travel quite a bit and plan on boarding your Dobe often, please consider that being kenneled will easily stress some Dobermans. Your Dobe may not eat while boarded and lose weight. While most owners board their dogs on occasion, a frequent traveler is best advised to consider a different breed, or make different arrangements, such as leaving the dog with family... I edited my profile with Thomas Myspace Editor V4.4 (www.strikefile.com/myspace)
