Joseph M. Sabol

How Did Dobermans Get to Be Dobermans?

No one knows for sure what combination of breeds make up the Doberman Pinscher. The Doberman was custom designed to suit the needs of the tax collector in the 1800's.

You may be aware that Doberman Pinschers were developed by Louis Dobermann in Germany in the 1800's. He wanted a specific type of dog to protect him as he went through the town collecting taxes. Naturally, he wanted a dog that would discourage anyone from trying to steal the tax money and to protect him from irate taxpayers. No one is certain what combination of dog breeds Herr Dobermann used to achieve  the final result, but there are several breeds that are thought to contribute to the awesome Dobermans we know today. Many of these breeds have several characteristics in common, characteristics you will recognize in a Doberman. The list of breeds includes:

German Pinscher - The German Pinscher is an ancient breed. It is a medium sized dog that comes in several colors. They can be  black and tan with markings like a Rottweiler and Doberman. They can also be all red, blue and tan or fawn, the same colors found in Dobermans. This is an intelligent dog with a high prey drive and they can be very strong willed. There body type is the same as a Doberman Pinscher.

Black and Tan Terrier- The Black and Tan originated  in England.  This dog can  also look like a Doberman but is smaller than a Doberman and bigger than a Miniature Pinscher. They are smart and energetic and very loyal. The Black and Tan  hunted rats, raccoons  and other rodents.

Rottweiler - The Rottweiler is  thought to be related to the Italian Mastiff. It was bred in Germany as a herding dog. Rottweilers are strong, powerful working dogs with intelligence and a protective nature. This dog was used during both the  World Wars.  They are always black with the tan or rust markings. This dog has a calm temperament and is very loving with his family. Like all working dogs, the Rottweiler likes to have something to do. They can be successful in competitive obedience and Schutzhund.

Beauceron - This is a French herding breed first referenced in the late 1500's. They look like a long haired Doberman, German Sheperd mix. Like the Doberman, they carry their ears cropped and erect.  They are highly intelligent, fearless, and high energy. They can be up to 110 pounds and are very territorial. This dog was also used in the military and the breed is now used in military and police work.

Weimaraner - The Weimaraner is a hunter/pointer. The breed is very athletic and needs lots of exercise. They have  a docked tail and long, hound ears. Weimaraners are happy, loving and affectionate. They are not territorial   but are reserved with strangers. They require firm training.

This list covers what is believed to be the origin of the Doberman Pinscher. As you can see, there are certain characteristics that all these breeds share. If you are familiar with Dobermans, you will see the best of these traits combined to be an awesome breed.  The Doberman shares intelligence, strength, stamina, high prey drive and a protective nature with all these breeds.  Over the years, breeders have refined the Doberman to have a more stable, family friendly temperament.    Dobermans are loyal, affectionate and comical family members that will protect you with their life.

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