Anyone here has a doberman?

Question

I want to buy one but im kind of scared that dobermans are agressive dogs (?) if you have a doberman, then please answer my question and tell more about it! Thanxxx

Ok first of all, its not that i don't know anything about the breed! i just wanted to know if they are agressive cos iv'e heard a lot of bad stories about them and about this stuff you can't read in "breed" books, otherwise i know a lot about this breed and other ones, so don't just start yelling your big mouth at me if you don't know my situation!!! for people other who answered my question- thank you.

Answer 1

Why exactly do you want to get a doberman if you're scared they may be aggressive? You should really look into what it takes to own one. I have a 2 yr old female and I love her to death, but they take a lot of work. You have to have time available to devote to only them. They need a lot of exercise, going for walks isn't going to cut it. Either get them into agility or you need an area where they can run. Apart from that, I think they're the best breed out there. They aren't naturally aggressive, like any other dog it solely depends on what you do with it and how you socialize it. Mine has been going to our local dog park nearly every day since I bought her when she was 11 wks old. I got a red and didn't have her ears done, which makes it interesting when people think she looks so sweet and they pet her then ask me what type of dog she is. When I tell them she's a doberman they are amazed at how well behaved and mellow she is. The key to having a well mannered, even tempered dog is lots of socialize and different situations. Take the dog with you wherever you go whenever you can. Expose it to as many different situations as possible. Maybe I over socialized mine, or we haven't been a situation where she felt the need, but she has never been protective of me around other people or even in my home. I live in an apt and my landlord and other ppl in the apt can come in whenever they want, as long as they call her name and pet her when they come in. Never had a problem with people coming in while I've been gone. They are very intelligent dogs and are extremely easily trained, however they are very needy as well. They are called 'velcro' dobes for a reason, they will follow you from room to room, doesn't matter what you are doing, they want to be with you. Mine lays behind me leaning against my legs while I do dishes or when I'm in the bathroom getting ready in the morning.

This is the best comprehensive description about them I could find. They are a great breed, but make sure you research before buying, and don't go for the 'giant' or 'king' size. Dobes are supposed to be a medium sized dog, look for a reputable breeder(and they will not be advertising in the paper, check out www.dpca.org). Look for someone who breeds for temperment as well, and please spay/neuter.

Bred for a century to be an outstanding guard dog, the Doberman Pinscher is intense and energetic with tremendous strength and stamina. Versatile, highly intelligent and very easy to train. Determined, fearless and assertive, but not vicious. Noble, loyal and affectionate with the family. It likes to be physically close to the family members. Devoted and watchful, this is a very people oriented breed. The Doberman needs an owner who is willing and able to discipline the dog without being afraid of him. All family members should learn to handle the dog properly, as Dobermans can be pushy if allowed to have their own way too much. The Doberman is naturally protective and does not need additional "protection" training to be a fine guard dog. In fact he should be thoroughly socialized when young to prevent over-protectiveness. Mental stimulation is important for a truly well-adjusted and happy Dobe. The Doberman must be consistently and thoroughly trained to be a good pet. Training should be through positive reinforcement. Dobes can be good family dogs if of good temperament, well trained and raised with children from early puppyhood. Best with experienced owners. Female Dobes are a little more stubborn to train than the male. Although the Doberman has the reputation of being a very aggressive dog, this is just not the case. For example, Dobes make great therapy dogs. They are sweet and gentle with nursing-home patients - tippy-toeing over IV tubing and walking at the resident's speed (which can be very slow), while at the same time will fiercely defend his master if it becomes necessary. These dogs are like big, protective babies. Doberman Pinschers have many talents including tracking, watchdogging, guarding, police work, military work, search & rescue, therapy work, competitive obedience and schutzhund. Aggression towards other dogs is accepted in the AKC standard. Though generally a dominant breed, Dobermans vary greatly in temperament. Some are even very submissive. Some individuals are family dogs, and some bond only to one person. The Doberman has been bred to work with man, and he needs this interaction often. They must be with family, and not abandoned to the backyard.

Answer 2

No breed is 100% aggressive, nor is any breed 100% stupid, or smart etc. Every dog is unique. But i love my 1 1/2 year old female soooo much. The doberman is ranked as th 5th smartest breed, usually taking only 5 repititions or less to learn a new command. you can look that stuff up, exactly where, i forget, but try a search for "dog intelligence". If you are not a very commanding, forcful person, or are still feeling scared of dobermans when you grt one, you will be walked all over by it. they require a master that is absolutely un-intimidated and in complete control. A fearful owner can not control a doberman, and when others are fearful of your dog (which they will be, for no reason other than its breed, as you have even demonstated), how can you reassure them if your scared? The time it takes is more than most people have.I only got mine after my fiancee and i had his for a year, so i knew what it would require. I dont work, so i can devote enough time to her. You will never get to go to the bathroom alone again! Mine is at my feet right now, she has a bed under my desk so she is comfy, which they must be, or you will hear it from them. NOT an outside dog, for sure. We have a boxer, also, so the yard is fenced, and the doghouse is HUGE, w/a skylight, ventilation fan, and heater, all on a remote control. none of which was necessary before my dobie! As for $, they arent cheap. Ear cropping alone, if you choose to do it (I didnt, my baby has small, cute ears anyway) runs about $800.00 altogether, and some vets wont do it. Is your car big enough to comfortably fit a large dog? again, mine has a bed for any time she might have to wait for me in the car, w/her food, water and toys, too. SHe is harnessed in when driving, but enough room to stretch and move isimportant when parked. Dobermans are a big, big undertaking. Go to dogbreedinfo.com, they have a test to help you determine the right breed for you, and info on dobermans, breeders, etc. Just be absolutely sure before going ahead w/a purchase. If you decide to own one, a doberman is the best thing in the world. Icouldnt live without one ever again.

Answer 3

I've had Dobermans in my life over the last 15 years. The two I currently have bring my grand total up to 5 and I honestly can't see me ever sharing my home with another breed.

None of my 5 have ever shown any sign of aggression towards me or people I invite into my home. They have all been very sweet and loving dogs.

BUT -- a Doberman is not for everyone. They are often refered to as "The Velcro Dog" because they are extremely needy and clingy. They HATE to be left alone and as a result can often be destructive. Key to this is giving your Dobe LOTS of attention and exercise when you are home with them.

They are a very bright breed, but can be difficult for the layman to train - but training is essential for a Doberman. They need a job and love to be told "Good Dog!!" -- so early training from their guardian -- in a manner that speaks to authority NOT abuse is VERY important! If you don't have the time to commit, get another type of dog. Dobermans purchased on a whim are why there are so many Doberman Rescue organizations in the United States stuffed full with very needy DobeKids.

Furthermore, if you have any concerns about this breed, I would BEG you not to get one. It's people like you that are often times are the basis of exactly what you are concerned about -- ignorant people getting the wrong dog for their lifestyle.

Answer 4

I have ahd Dobermans for 17 years.
They are assertive dogs and require a lot of time training and working with them. You need to establish that you are in charge and if you do not they will take over your home.
It takes a dedicated owner who is not afraid to lay down the law with them. They are smart and will take advantage of anyone who lets them get away with it.
They test all members of the house and know exactly where they fall in the pack order of the home. Anyone less assertive about their place will be below the dog.
If you are a first time dog owner this is a tough dog to master.
They requre huge amounts of exercise and training and lots of time with the owners. They are demanding.
That said I love the breed and will own one forever.

Answer 5

A doberman is the only dog I don't trust. They are very smart and easy to train, but I have heard too many stories of the very good doberman who never hurt anyone suddenly biting the face off a child. Also, when they do bite they have more pounds pressure in their bite than any other dog so they do horrible damage. I would not have one, but if you do make sure the dog is trained and don't trust it by kids.

Answer 6

yes dobermans can be agressive though like all dogs they always love their owners and can be wonderful pets I grew up with one from the age of 1 till 11 yrs old and never had a problem just make sure you train them right same as any dog

Answer 7

If you are "kinda scared"...DON'T get ANY dog!!!!

You'd let a PEKE bully you into being a doormat!!!
You'd NEVER be able to handle a strong dog like a dobe!
Get a goldfish.

Answer 8

Why do you leave it.

Answer 9

NO