How to Choose Which Type of Doberman to Get

When it comes to choosing a Doberman, there are a few things you need to take into account. The most important factor is what purpose you want your Doberman to serve. Are you looking for a companion dog? A watchdog? A guard dog? Once you know what you want your Doberman to do, choosing the right type of Doberman becomes a whole lot easier.

Having the right type of Doberman can make all the difference in the world. Here are a few things to consider when choosing a Doberman; let’s discuss this in detail:

Dobermans are beautiful, intelligent, and loyal dogs that make great companions. However, they are also powerful animals with strong protective instincts. As such, it is important to carefully consider whether a Doberman is the right breed for you.

Things to Consider When Choosing a Doberman

  • One of the most important things to consider is whether you have the time and energy to provide the dog with enough exercise. Dobermans need at least an hour of vigorous activity per day, and they do best when they have plenty of space to run. They also require regular training and socialization in order to prevent them from becoming aggressive.
  •  Another important thing to consider is whether you are prepared to handle the grooming needs of a Doberman. Although, dobies don’t shed that heavily, weekly brushing is a must. In addition, Dobermans are prone to ear infections, so regular cleaning is required.

Finally, it is important to be aware of the potential health problems that affect Dobermans. The breed is prone to conditions such as hip dysplasia and Von Willebrand’s disease, so it is important to choose a breeder who offers health guarantees. By taking the time to research the breed and understand your own needs, you can ensure that you choose the right dog for your family.

Types of Doberman

There are varieties of Dobermans to choose from. However, they are all known as Dobermans. The two main types of Dobermans are:

The American Doberman

American Dobermans are better-considered family dogs. They are well-mannered, intelligent, and have a great sense of loyalty. They are gentle with children and make great playmates. 

Size

Height

  1. 26 inches to 28 inches for males 
  2. 24 inches to 26 inches for females

Weight

  1. A male weighs between 75-100lbs.
  2. A female weighs between 60-80lbs.

Price

  • An American Doberman costs around $1500 – $2500.

Appearance

  • Head – The head of the Dog is wedged, and the muzzle is thin. The ears are cropped and erect. The eyes are almond-shaped and dark in color.
  • Body –The body is muscular and lean. The chest is deep, and the legs are straight.
  • Coat –They have a short, smooth, and shiny coat. It can be black, blue, fawn, or red.
  • Legs –The legs are thinner in bone structure when compared to the European Doberman.

Temperament 

The American Doberman is an energetic dog that is always ready to play. They are also very loyal and protective of their family. However, they may be less headstrong than the European Dobermans, lack confidence when meeting strangers, and usually stick to the owner’s side.

The European Doberman

The European Doberman is well-known as a working dog. They are used in law enforcement, the military, and guard dogs. They are also used in agility, obedience, and tracking competitions.

Size

Height 

  • 27 inches to 28 inches for males 
  • 25 inches to 27 inches for females

Weight

  • A male weighs between 80 to 105 lbs.
  • Females weigh between 65 to 85 lbs.

Price 

European Dobermans are more expensive than American Dobermans, costing between $2500 to $3500.

Appearance

  • Head –Euro Dobies have wider heads with a thick muzzle.
  • Body – They are more muscular than the American Doberman.
  • Coat – The coat is also short, smooth, and shiny. It can be black, blue, fawn, or red. 
  • Legs – The legs are thicker and longer when compared to the American Doberman.

Temperament

The European Doberman is an intelligent dog that is always alert. They are suspicious of strangers and can be quite aggressive if they perceive a threat. They need to be socialized early not to become too aggressive.

Surprisingly, European Dobies are also good as family dogs, especially in active families, and are quite forward when meeting strangers. In other words, they are very bold dogs compared to American Dobies. They make excellent watchdogs and will protect their family if they feel threatened. They also intervene immediately if they find their owners being threatened. However, these Dobermans don’t like sharing space and prefer more room. 

Warlock, King, Gladiator, or Goliath Dobermans

Some Dobermans have been bred for size and are called “Giants.” The most popular giant Doberman is the King Doberman.

The King Doberman

Karl Friedrich Louis Dobermann himself created the King Doberman. He wanted to create a dog with the strength of a Rottweiler, a Poodle’s loyalty, and a Greyhound’s stamina. The king Doberman is a giant among its breed. The average height of a king Doberman is 28 inches, while the average weight is 88 pounds. Males are typically larger than females. 

The king Doberman’s coat is short and sleek, with various colors, including black, brown, blue, and red. The king Doberman is an intelligent and loyal breed that makes an excellent guard dog. They are protective of their family and home but gentle and loving with those they know and trust. The king Doberman is the perfect breed if you’re looking for a large, courageous companion.

The Warlock Doberman

The Warlock Doberman is a giant breed created in the United States. Warlocks are the tallest of all the Doberman breeds, with an average height of 27.5 inches. Males typically weigh between 110 and 140 pounds, while females weigh between 65-95 pounds. The Warlock Dobermans have a short and sleek coat, available in various colors, including black, brown, blue, and red. 

The Warlock Doberman is a popular breed of Dog and is often used in law enforcement and security work. The breed is also popular for families with children, as the Warlock Doberman is known for being gentle and good-natured. If you’re looking for a large, courageous companion, the Warlock Doberman is the perfect breed.

The Gladiator Doberman

The Gladiator Doberman is a Staffy-type dog developed in the United Kingdom in the late 1990s. The breed was created by crossing the Staffordshire Bull Terrier with the Doberman Pinscher. The resulting offspring was a large, muscular dog with short legs and a short coat. 

The Gladiator Doberman is a versatile breed that can be used for various purposes, including agility, obedience, tracking, and even protection work. The breed is also known for its loyalty and affectionate nature, making them an excellent choice for families. While any major kennel club does not currently recognize the Gladiator Doberman, they are gaining popularity in the UK and other parts of Europe.

The Goliath Doberman

The Goliath Doberman is a giant breed of Dog that was developed. The breed was created by crossing various large dogs, including the Great Dane, the Rottweiler, and the German Shepherd. The resulting Dog was an impressive sight, with a powerful build and large size. 

The Goliath Doberman quickly became popular as a guard dog and watchdog, and it remains one of the most popular breeds for these purposes today. The Goliath Doberman is an intelligent and loyal breed that makes an excellent companion for those who can provide proper training and exercise. The breed is also known for its courage and protective nature, making it a perfect choice for families with small children.

Male or Female?

Male Dobermans

Male Dobermans tend to be more territorial and protective, while females are more affectionate and gentle. However, both sexes make excellent companion animals and guard dogs. Males are typically larger than females, with an average height of 27.5 inches, and also tend to weigh more than females, with an average weight of 95 pounds for males and 65 pounds for females.

Male Dobermans mingle with people more easily & quickly compared to female Dobermans. If given a chance, they have a strong sense of pack order and will become the “leader of the pack.” In a family setting, male Dobermans are more likely to protect their families and homes. Male Dobermans are also known for being more independent and stubborn than females.

Female Dobermans

Female Dobermans are typically more affectionate and gentle than males. However, both male and female Dobermans are excellent companion animals and guard dogs. Females are typically smaller than males, with an average height of 25.5 inches. Females also tend to weigh less than males, with an average weight of 65 pounds.

Female Dobermans are typically more reserved and suspicious of strangers. They also mature quicker than male Dobermans and often have a calmer demeanor. In a family setting, female Dobermans are more likely to be gentle and loving with their families. Female Dobermans are also known for being more obedient and trainable than males.

See Also: Are Male or Female Dobermans Better Guard Dogs?

Choosing their Lineage

Choosing where your Doberman comes from is a big deal because that is how you will know how they’ll behave in different settings and with other animals. Some Dobermans are bred for fighting and can be very aggressive, while others are bred for companionship and are very gentle. It is important to do your research and choose a reputable breeder who can provide you with information about the parents and grandparents of your potential puppy.

Working Lines

Dobermans bred for working lines are typically more athletic and have higher energy levels. These dogs excel in obedience, tracking, agility, and protection work. Working line Dobermans are also known for their courage and loyalty.

Show Lines

Dobermans bred for show lines are typically smaller and have a more slender build. These dogs excel in activities such as conformation, obedience, and agility. Show line Dobermans are also known for their intelligence and trainability.

Pet Lines

Dobermans that are bred for pet lines are typically more gentle and easy-going. These dogs make excellent companion animals and are typically good with children. Pet line Dobermans are also known for their loyalty and affection.

Getting a Puppy Doberman

Dobermans are a lifetime commitment! When you are ready to get your puppy, you should keep a few things in mind:

1. Before getting a Dobie puppy, you must ensure that you choose a reputable breeder who can tell you about the history. 2. If you are planning to buy a Dobie puppy, then make sure to provide them with enough time to get along with the family members as they are more prone to separation anxiety. 3. Prepare yourself with the right equipment such as a water bowl, muzzle, crate, collar, and leash.

Pros and Cons of Buying a Puppy Doberman

There are both pros and cons to buying a puppy Doberman

Pros:

  • Puppies are typically more affordable than adult dogs. 
  • Puppies are less likely to have behavior problems. 
  • Puppies are easier to potty train. 

Cons: 

  • Puppies require more time and energy. 
  • Puppies need more socialization and training. 
  • Puppies are more likely to have health problems. 

Getting an Adult Doberman

If you are planning to add an adult Doberman to your family, you should keep a few things in mind:

1. Check their family history, or make sure you choose a reputable breeder or rescue who can provide you with information about the Dog.
2. Be prepared to provide your Dog with plenty of socialization and training. Dogs that are not properly socialized and trained can grow up to be fearful and aggressive.
3. Be prepared to commit to taking care of your Dog for the rest of your life.
4. Many Dobermans doesn’t get along with stranger or cats; hence before getting a Doberman, be sure to consider the temperament of the Dog.

Pros and Cons of Buying an Adult Doberman

There are both pros and cons to buying an adult Doberman. 

Pros:

  • Can easily be potty trained
  • Less hyperactive compared to puppies
  • Adult Dobermans are already aware of basic commands.

Cons: 

  • They may have bad habits that you are not aware of
  • They might have unknown causes for their actions.
  • You are likely to miss out on bonding stages.

Choice of Color

Dobermans come in various colors, but the most common are black, red, and blue. Black Dobermans are the most popular, but all colors are equally intelligent and trainable. It is important to note that albino Dobermans exist but are rare and should not be bred. Albino Dobermans typically have health problems and do not live as long as other color Dobermans.

The different colors available are:

  • Black
  • White
  • Red
  • Brown
  • Blue
  • Fawn or Cream

Black Doberman

The most popular color of Doberman is black. Black Dobermans are elegant and regal-looking dogs that make great companion animals. They are also very intelligent and trainable. Black Dobermans are also rare, which makes them a coveted color.

White Doberman

White Dobermans are one of the most popular color variations of this breed, but there is some debate over whether they should be considered a separate breed. White Dobermans were first bred in the early twentieth century, and they have since become sought-after pets around the world. While some believe that White Dobermans are simply albino versions of the standard breed, others assert that they are a separate breed altogether. 

White Dobermans are typically larger than their Standard counterparts and often have blue eyes. Some people believe that White Dobermans are more intelligent and easier to train than other color variations, but no scientific evidence supports this claim. Regardless of their coloration, all Dobermans make loyal and affectionate companions.

Red Doberman

The red Doberman is a beautiful and regal-looking dog. Bred in Germany, the red Doberman was once the favorite of wealthy families and royalty. However, the red Doberman fell out of favor after World War II, when many people associated the red color with communism. Today, the red Doberman is making a comeback, thanks to breeders who are working to promote the unique beauty of this Dog. 

While the red Doberman is not as popular as its black-and-tan counterpart, it is still a loyal and loving companion that makes an excellent addition to any family.

Brown Doberman

Brown Dobermans are a new color variant of the popular Doberman Pinscher breed. Brown Dobermans have the same characteristics as traditional Dobermans, but with one key difference: their coat is brown. Major kennel clubs do not currently recognize Brown Dobermans, but they are slowly gaining popularity among dog enthusiasts. While Brown Dobermans are not yet as common as their black and tan cousins, they are still a popular choice for those looking for a unique pet. 

Brown Dobermans make great companion animals and are very intelligent, making them easy to train. If you’re looking for a true one-of-a-kind pet, a Brown Doberman may be a perfect choice.

Blue Dobermans

Blue Dobermans are a relatively rare color variation of the Doberman Pinscher breed. Unlike traditional black and brown Dobermans, Blue Dobermans have a blue-gray coat caused by a recessive gene. Blue Dobermans are just as intelligent and energetic as their darker-colored counterparts, but they may be prone to certain health problems due to their unusual coloring. For example, Blue Dobermans are at an increased risk for deafness and skin infections. 

Blue Dobermans are also often sold at a higher price than other colored Dobermans, so prospective owners should be prepared to pay more for this unique dog breed.

Fawn Or Cream Doberman

Fawn or cream Dobermans are a beautiful and unique variation of the popular Doberman breed. While most Dobermans are black and brown, fawn, or cream, Dobermans have a coat that is significantly lighter in color. These dogs are often mistaken for Golden Retrievers or other light-colored breeds, but they are a very distinct and rare type of Doberman. 

Fawn or cream Dobermans are just as intelligent and loyal as their darker-colored counterparts and make excellent family pets. If you’re looking for a beautiful and unique dog, a fawn or cream Doberman might be a perfect choice.

Conclusion

When choosing the right Doberman for your family, it’s important to consider your needs and preferences. Do you want a traditional black and brown Doberman, or are you looking for something different? Consider the coat color, size, and personality of each type of Doberman before making your final decision. With so many kinds of Dobermans to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect match for your family.

FAQ

What is the difference between a brown Doberman and a traditional black and brown Doberman?

The main difference between a brown Doberman and a traditional black and brown Doberman is their coat color. Brown Dobermans have a brown coat, while traditional black and brown Dobermans have a coat that is black and brown. Major kennel clubs do not currently recognize Brown Dobermans, but they are slowly gaining popularity among dog enthusiasts.

What is the difference between a fawn Doberman and a cream Doberman?

Fawn and cream Dobermans are two different color variations of the same dog breed. Fawn Dobermans have a lighter coat, while cream Dobermans have a coat that is even lighter in color. Both fawn and cream Dobermans are rare and often mistaken for other light-colored dog breeds.

What is the best type of Doberman for families?

All types of Dobermans make excellent family pets, but some may be better suited for families with children than others. For example, Blue Dobermans are known to be particularly gentle and patient, making them a great choice for families with young children. Fawn and cream Dobermans are also excellent family pets, but they may be more prone to health problems than other types of Dobermans. Brown Dobermans are also a perfect choice for families, as they are known to be loyal and protective of their loved ones. Ultimately, the best type of Doberman for your family will depend on your individual needs and preferences.

Jason Morgan

Jason Morgan

I'm Jason Morgan, founder and author at DobermanWiki.com. I just love Dobermans - they're the best dogs in the world! I got my first Doberman, Max, when I was just a pup myself. Max was my loyal friend and protector for over ten years. Since then, I've been working hard to learn everything I can about these amazing dogs. I started DobermanWiki as a place to share all that knowledge with other Doberman enthusiasts like me. My goal is to help every Doberman owner have the best possible relationship with their dog. I'm always happy to chat with other Doberman owners, so feel free to reach out anytime!

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