What do dobermans need

The ears are then taped to a hard surface for several weeks while they heal. This is done so that the ears will stay upright.

To learn more about the ear cropping procedure in dogs, go to Ear Cropping for Dogs. Ear cropping is an elective surgery for dogs. Ear cropping in the Doberman breed has long been routinely done to achieve a certain appearance. And while this routine procedure is not banned or regulated in the United States, it is becoming more controversial. Some states are considering legislation to ban ear cropping, but they have not yet done so.

Because the procedure is purely cosmetic, they believe it poses unnecessary risks to the dog. Ear cropping is becoming less common. Less veterinarians are willing to perform the surgery, and dog owners are becoming more aware of the controversial nature of the surgical procedure.

If your Doberman competes, you should know that the AKC says dogs without docked tails or cropped ears are just as likely to win at dog shows. One of the most serious breed-related health problems in the Doberman breed is cardiomyopathy, which causes an enlarged heart. The diseased heart muscles become enlarged and weak, making it harder and harder for the heart to pump blood. Eventually affected dogs die from heart failure. Early signs of the disease might include depression, coughing, exercise intolerance, weakness, respiratory distress, decreased appetite and even fainting.

However, many dogs with this condition are asymptomatic. To help catch this condition early, you should have your dog examined every year.

No dog with cardiomyopathy should ever be bred. In this condition, the vertebrae in the neck are malformed. This puts pressure on the spinal cord, which leads to weakness in the hindquarters and a wobbly gait. Sometimes complete paralysis results.

In general, the Doberman is a healthy dog with few medical concerns. However, the following diseases or disorders have been reported:. To increase the chances that you will be getting a healthy puppy, choose a reputable breeder.

Careful breeders screen their dogs for genetic diseases and breed only the best specimens. Still, there are no guarantees that the puppy will not develop one of these conditions despite good breeding practices. Have you been thinking about a Doberman pinscher with kids?

The Doberman loves human companionship but is not the best breed for small children. Despite being loyal and protective, if improperly bred or raised, the breed can be mean or aggressive. The Doberman is intelligent but can be domineering and is not the best breed for the first time dog owner.

When it comes to a Doberman pinscher with kids, there are many pros and cons to consider. For instance, Dobermans are no longer the vicious, aggressive dogs we see on TV. Many of these characteristics have been bred out of the breed, giving you a dog that is very loving, playful and affectionate — as long as you take the time to train your dog that way.

Some say that Dobermans are great with kids as long as they are raised together. Netherlands - Nederland. New Zealand. Norway - Norge. Philippines English. Poland - Polska. Puerto Rico English. Republic of Singapore English. South Africa. Sweden - Sverige. Switzerland Suisse. Switzerland Schweiz. United Kingdom. United Arab Emirates English. United States. For Dogs. For Cats. About Hill's. Media Press Releases Media Kit. Other Careers. Pet Care Center. Doberman At a glance. Size: Weight Range : Male: lbs.

Female: lbs. Height at Withers: Male: in. Female: in. Personality: Doberman pinschers are considered people-oriented dogs that are affectionate and sweet with people, if socialized and trained properly. Dobermans are highly intelligent , deeply loyal, and courageous canines. Because of his history as a guard dog, he requires a patient owner who will dedicate themselves to his learning.

According to the Doberman Pinscher Club of America , this is not a breed for everyone and any potential owner should do their research before bringing home any dog. Dobies need consistency in their schedule and thrive when offered lots of attention and positive reinforcement training from their family. It's important to begin training and socializing your Doberman when he's still a puppy. Because of the deep bond they feel for their family, Doberman pinschers are commonly referred to as "Velcro dogs," and will want to stick by your side.

Therefore, they can develop separation anxiety if left alone for too long. Preparing and planning is crucial in preventing separation anxiety. This includes spending ample time helping your Dobie be comfortable while alone at home, and creating safe spaces in your house where your dog can rest and relax when you leave for the day. Work with them to see it as a safe spot. Build up that familiarity to the kennel so they don't get upset when you walk away.

If you do decide a kennel will be beneficial to your Dobie, make sure it fits them properly , ensuring they stay comfy. In a perfect world, your Doberman will have a fenced-in backyard to play and exercise in.

However, what they want most is to be around their families, so Dobies can adapt to apartment life as well. But take note: These dogs aren't couch potatoes, and they're going to need daily mental and physical enrichment. A good run or a vigorous game of fetch combined with a neighborhood hike, sniffari a walk with lots of chances to stop and sniff , or other stimulating activities are required to keep him happy—and prevent any grumpy downstairs neighbors from hearing him jump around all day.

He'll also be more than happy to participate in training classes, agility, nose work , or flyball competitions as well. If their physical and mental needs aren't met, Dobies can gain weight relatively quickly , which can lead to health concerns, and they can also experience stress and anxiety. Dobermans can do well with other dogs and even cats if they're socialized properly and introduced at a young age.

This breed would do best in a home without small children, according to the DPCA. Because of their size and energetic personality, Dobies can accidentally knock down any kiddos, and can be startled by kids' loud noises. A perk of Dobermans: They were bred specifically to be low-maintenance fur-wise. Thankfully for their owners, this means their short coats will require very little management from you.

Give them a brushing once a week or so, and bathe them as needed , depending on how they smell and what they get into.

Otherwise, basic teeth , nail , and ear care should be all a Doberman needs. A Doberman pinscher needs to flex his muscles and keep his paws moving, so his owners should make sure they can keep up with his exercise regimen. If he has too much pent-up energy, he can suddenly be overcome with the urge to run and fall victim to zoomies —which makes having access to a fenced space super important.

Take him on daily walks or runs, weekend hikes , or just schedule some regular playtime in the yard. Again, consistent training is important for Doberman puppies. The DPCA recommends working with a professional behaviorist or a professional trainer who has experience with Dobermans. But because these dogs are so smart and enjoy learning, they can be quick to learn tricks and how to sit , stay , and come when called.

The average Doberman lifespan is 10—12 years, and, as with all dog breeds, there are certain health issues you'll need to keep an eye out for. Hip dysplasia is one of the most common issues Dobies deal with, according to the DPCA , but you should have their heart and thyroids checked regularly as well.

Another common concern for Dobermans is bloat , a gastrointestinal issue that can occur at any point in a dog's lifetime and carries about a 50 percent mortality rate. Doberman pinscher owners should educate themselves on the symptoms of bloat and talk to their veterinarian about ways to help prevent it.

Before bringing home a Dobie, the breeder should complete all the health testing recommended by the OFA.