Doberman pinschers have been stuck with a bad reputation. Portrayed as fierce guard dogs in many Hollywood films, they were stereotyped as unfriendly and dangerous. But the truth is Doberman pinschers are wonderfully loyal, hard-working, intelligent and active dogs, and thrive when they have something important to do.
Here are some interesting facts you may not know about the Doberman pinscher.
1. They Know What It Means to Be Loyal
Doberman pinschers are one of the most loyal dog breeds. That means once they attach themselves on to you, they are loving and protective. You are their human, after all.
2. They Were Helpful During World War II
Doberman pinschers are highly trainable, and therefore are excellent dogs in high-pressure situations. In WWII, they were trained to guard sleeping troops, lead soldiers through the jungle, and give warning barks if there were enemies hiding close by.
3. It’s Just a Nickname
You may have heard both “Doberman” and “Doberman pinscher”, but is there a difference between the two? Nope. It’s just a shortened name for the same dog.
4. They Know How to Work Hard
Doberman pinschers are considered part of the “working group” of dogs, which includes other larger dogs like Alaskan malamutes, boxers, and Great Danes. Being part of the working group means these dogs love being trained, are protective, and are always looking for a job to do.
5. They Have German Roots
Doberman pinschers were bred in the late 1800s by the German tax collector, Karl Friedrich Louis Dobermann. He wanted a dog that would help protect him against the bandit-infested areas where he collected taxes from.
6. No One Quite Knows What a Doberman Pinscher Is
Karl Friedrich Louis Dobermann did not take good notes on what breeds he combined to make the Doberman pinscher. Because of this, no one quite knows what the magic formula was that created this iconic breed. There is speculation they come from Rottweilers, Manchester terriers, and a mix of many other breeds.
7. Dobermans Face Different Show Dog Standards in Europe
Interested in showing your majestic Doberman pinscher in a competition? Europe and America have different standards for show dogs. For instance, in Europe, Doberman pinschers are not allowed to have any white spots, while in the US they’re allowed within a certain size restriction on the chest.
8. Good Apartment Dogs, Better House Dogs
Doberman Pinschers are comfortable in apartments as long as they get plenty of exercise and social interaction. However, they may do better in a house with a backyard. More importantly, they love being around humans, so be sure to spend a lot of quality time together!
9. Doberman Pinschers Are Super Smart
Highly adaptable, these dogs take direction well and love unique challenges. According to the American Kennel Club, they are in the top ten smartest breeds of dogs. Whether it’s tracking, going through obstacle courses, swimming, search and rescue for the police, therapy, and guiding the blind, there is no job too intimidating for a Doberman pinscher to tackle.
