Your Doberman will be a lifetime commitment — don’t rush impatiently to acquire the first dog available
Photo by Dee Knighten
Doberman Pinschers are not for everyone. This is a dog that requires lots of work on the owner’s part to raise a well-rounded, happy Doberman.
These dogs are not meant to live away from their human pack, nor can they mentally or physically tolerate living outdoors. They are very intelligent and need daily mental and physical stimulation or they can become bored and destructive.
If you’re planning to adopt a Doberman, you need to be willing to commit, for at least the next ten years, to providing the proper activity and stimulation to keep your Doberman happy. This is a highly active breed, if you’re looking for a couch potato, you will not find it in the Doberman breed. They need to be socialized at a very young age; if they are not, they can potentially be fearful or aggressive as they grow up to be adults.
Rescue groups usually have dogs 15 months of age and older — dogs that were once puppies but became no longer convenient. Sometimes they do have puppies, so preregister, and make it known what you are looking for. The dogs in rescue foster homes will have been “test driven.” The rescue group should be able to give you information as to the dog’s background and to its behavior in rescue. If you decide to give a rescued Doberman a second chance, please, do not adopt on impulse. Don’t fall in love with a nicely posed picture or a carefully written hard-luck life story. Your Doberman will be a lifetime commitment — don’t rush impatiently to acquire the first dog you find available.
Most Doberman rescue groups are independent organizations run by volunteers. Unlike city or county shelters, these rescue groups are not generally open to the public and do not keep regular business hours for drop-ins or drop-offs.
If you are interested in adopting or surrendering a Doberman, you should always call first to discuss your situation and requirements. Often the number listed will be a volunteer’s private home or cell number — please be respectful of their time and expenses. Often the Dobermans in foster care will be located in foster homes spread throughout the area served, so unless arrangements are made, do not expect to view the whole “stock” in one visit.