The Doberman Pinscher

The stately Doberman Pinscher is one of the most recognizable breeds of dogs due to its muscular grace, its intelligence, and its loyalty. Because of these characteristics, the Doberman has long been used as police and guard dogs, although in recent years, the breed has become more common as a family pet. They are one of the most popular breeds to keep as a pet.

Behavior

The Doberman Pinscher is distinguished by its loyalty and its desire to please its owner, which make it ideal as both a guard dog and as an alert and protective family pet. It is common for Dobermans to have their ears cropped, which improves their hearing. This procedure was originally due to the Doberman's traditional role as a guard or police dog. Likewise, it is common for the dog's tail to be docked, again a holdover from when a long tail was thought to impede the breed's work.

Because of generations of breeding as a guard dog, the Doberman can be a somewhat aggressive breed, although this aggressiveness is tempered by its loyalty and eagerness to please. However, Dobermans are protective and will attack a person if it feels that the person is threatening its owner.

Health

Like many breeds of dogs, Dobermans have certain specific health concerns. Though they have a long lifespan of 10-14 years, Dobermans frequently suffer from dilated cardiomyopathy (a heart disease), back problems, von Willebrand disease (a bleeding disorder), and hip dysplasia (which can result in lameness).

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For more information about veterinary care, and other questions about animal health care, contact your Houston Vet Clinic.