Before purchasing your Doberman Pinscher, you must give some thought to the personality and characteristics of this breed to determine if this is the right dog for you. This breed will not suit the laid-back owner who will not give the dog the daily exercise and attention that he requires, not to mention specialized training. The Doberman Pinscher, for all his regal bearing and superior intelligence, deserves to be owned and loved by an owner who understands the breeds unique characteristics, by a person who has studied up on the breed and who is willing and able to offer the dog the training and stimulation he needs to become the super dog that Herr Dobermann intended. Are you the right person to put the red cape on your superhero dog? You should answer the following questions before purchasing a Doberman:
1. Do you have the time to give to a dog? He will need care, companionship, training and grooming. This is almost like having a child, except that the dog remains a child and will always require your care and attention.
Time for a dog does not mean that you cannot work and own a dog. Your pet will need quality time, though, just like a child does. He must be fed two times a day and exercised several times a day. He needs to be petted and loved, and he will like to go for rides in the car with you. You must work with him to have an obedient dog who has good manners. Your dog should have at least two good outings a day, and that means a walk or a good romp in the morning and the evening. Never let him out loose to run the neighborhood.
2. Do you have a fenced-in yard for your Doberman? This is not a breed that you can leave tied out on the porch or allow to run free. He must have a secure outdoor area in which to run and exercise, with at least enough space for you to throw a ball and for your dog to run with it.
Remember, it is your responsibility to keep the yard clean of feces. When walking your dog, it is essential to carry a plastic bag or two to pick up droppings. These can be easily dropped in a handy trash receptacle on your way home.
3. Have you owned a dog previously, and did that dog live a long and happy life with your family? This will give you a good idea of what a dog expects from you and what you must do for your dog. In addition, the Doberman is smart and needs an owner that is equally as smart, or smarter, than he is!
4. Do you understand that your neighbors may not be pleased with your bringing this imposing breed into the neighborhood? You should talk to your neighbors about adding a Doberman to your household. Give them some information on the breed and reassure them that you are purchasing a temperamentally sound puppy from a responsible breeder and that you will give this dog the time, the care and the training that he will need.
5. Will you take the time to attend training classes and learn to train your dog to be an acceptable canine citizen? This is a breed that must be trained at an early age. Check out the obedience classes in your area, before bringing your puppy home, to see which type of training you prefer, as trainers vary in their training methods.
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