In the USA, the breed is known as Doberman Pinscher. The name is drawn from the original German breeder, Louis Dobermann.

Hr Dobermann originally bred the Dobermann as a personal guardian. While the actual breeds originally used are not known, it is likely the Rottweiler and Manchester Terrier were prominent. The word “Pinscher”, since dropped from the name, is German for terrier.

Since WWII, the Dobermann has been selectively bred to enhance its qualities as the ideal companion dog and its protective nature.

Originally the breed possessed a very fierce character, however in the Post-War era it has been successfully developed as a companion and show dog. Indeed, the Dobermann has no peer as a guard and companion. He/she is extremely loyal, attentive, and gentle, until aroused.

Dobermanns make ideal subjects for all duties dealing with close human contact. Their nature means they can be employed in duties ranging from guarding, to search and rescue, to seeing-eye dogs. In police and military service they have made their mark, including fame with the US Marine Corps.

In the obedience ring their prowess is legendary. They react much quicker than many other breeds, and display great pride and self-assurance.

For this latter reason, Dobermann males do not always mix well with other canine males.

The Dobermann is intensely loyal to its family, and will demand your attention. His or her priority in life is to be with you, love you, and protect you, 24 hours a day. Wherever you are, there he or she is. You will usually find your Dobermann attached to you somehow, head on your knee, sitting on your foot, leaning up against you or laying beside you.

Today the Dobermann is unquestionably a working dog and a great athlete, with a business-like temperament. He/she is a guard, protector, and companion to their humans.

The Dobermann Head

The Dobermann head should be in proportion to the body. It should be long, well filled out under eyes and clean cut, with good depth of muzzle. Seen from above and side, resembles an elongated blunt wedge. The upper part of the head should be flat and free from wrinkle. The top of skull should be flat, slight stop; the muzzle line extending parallel to top line of skull. Cheeks should be flat, lips tight. The nose should be solid black in black dogs, solid dark brown in brown dogs, solid dark grey in blue dogs and light brown in fawn dogs.    

The Dobermann should have a medium size, muscular and elegant, well set body.It should be of proud carriage, compact and tough; and capable of great speed. The ideal height for Dogs is 69 cms (27 ins) at the shoulders, for Bitches it is 65 cms (25? ins)