Dobermans are classy-looking dogs, but don’t be fooled by that snooty air. They are as lively and playful as any other dog. With their big sad eyes, long pointy noses and ears of black velvet, they have a style all their own. Doberman puppies are frisky and boisterous, but they do need a firm hand to stop them taking over.
Like any other puppy with proper training, this one can turn into a Wonder Dog, but the Doberman is not for the faint-hearted and should never be considered as pet in a family is made up of several small children.
Home alone… and bored
The Doberman is related to the Rottweiller and other breeds which, traditionally, have been known to have an aggressive streak, so as with pitbull puppies, the importance of being properly handled cannot be over-stressed.
The Doberman puppy (or to give it it’s full name, the doberman pinscher puppy) does not like being left home alone and once bored, he will start to howl. And go on howling until he is no longer alone.
The howling is a form of separation anxiety. Being a panic disorder it may be associated with other signs of stress, including pacing, parking, excessive salivating, scratching at walls, doors and the furniture. Even leaving a nasty mess on the carpet.
Calming classical music
Boredom is another cause for concern with doberman pinscher puppies. The way to get round this is – if he has to be left alone for a short period – to leave the radio on, tuned in to soothing sounds. Research has shown that soft tones of classical music are great for calming down an anxious dog… as well as an anxious human.
Another way to ease the boredom is to keep plenty of toys within reach, or give him access to a window where he can watch the world go round and be there to greet you on your return.
But remember always… this breed of dog needs a lot of training and his owner should make it clear from the start who is leader of the pack.
Use positive methods
Doberman owners are advised to bond with their dogs by positive methods.
Shouting at them will at best make them anxious, at worst, bring out that aggressive streak inherent in the breed. There is no getting away from the fact that Dobermans are dangerous in the wrong hands.
But don’t be harsh. The aim is not to dominate these puppies but to guide and direct them in order to build a partnership. Love, devotion and mutual respect are what you want.
Originated in Germany
The Doberman Pinscher originated in Germany when Louis Dobermann, a tax collector from Apolda decided he needed a dog to protect him as he did his rounds.
Herr Dobermann wanted an alert, intelligent companion who would keep him company and be aggressive should the need arise.
It is believed that he developed his guard dog from crossing the German Pinscher, the Rottweiler, the Beauceron and the Manchester terrier.
Official recognition
The German Kennel Club, appreciating the quality of this new type of dog, officially recognised the breed.
Louis Dobermann died late in the 19th century. Shortly afterwards the National Doberman Pinscher Club was organised in Germany.
In 1908, Dobermans were taken to America and in 1921 the Doberman Pinscher Club of America was founded.
Two world wars almost made the breed extinct, but thankfully they’re back with us again. Fighting fit and raring to go.
Bred to guard and protect
But do keep it prominently in mind… these are very powerful dogs. Bred to guard and protect, it is in that specialty that they come into their own. Anyone reading a shop window notice announcing ‘doberman puppies for sale’ should tread warily. Before giving serious consideration to adopting one of these animals, the potential owner should read up absolutely everything they can get hold of on the breed. Libraries, bookshops and on-line outlets have plenty of books explaining how to rear a Doberman.
Do your homework
Please read as many of these as possible before taking on a dog which may not be suitable for your individual circumstances and may therefore have to end up in a rescue centre.
It is only fair to the dog to do your homework before taking him home.
Indeed, this is a wise philosophy when considering any puppies for sale. Not just Doberman puppies.
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