Dobermann

Origin

Germany

Attractive to:

A dog sports enthusiast, with experience of naturally protective breeds.

Not the best for:

Novices. Combining some very strong characters in its make-up (Rottweiler, Weimaraner, Manchester Terrier, Greyhound, German Shepherd), the Dobermann makes an incredibly loyal companion, but is too much for inexperienced first-timers who might not be able to give the Dobie the early socialisation and training it needs.

Aliases:

Dobermann Pinscher, Dobie, Dobe, Doberman

Cross between:

None

Size:

Large
People will amusingly say "You should put a saddle on it!"

Exercise Needs:

High (Two hours or more)
Without sufficient mental and physical exercise will probably do the wall of death around the living room!

Coat:

Smooth
Dogs that you mainly just need to polish! But be warned - short haired dogs moult all the time!

Shedding:

Moderate shedding
All canines drop some hair, think of it as dog glitter!

Life expectancy:

11 years

Good first dog?:

No