Doberman Pinscher

Doberman Pinscher History

Though a relatively new breed, the history of the doberman pinscher is an interesting story. In Germany, during the second half of the 19th century, a certain Herr Louis Doberman, tax collector by profession and part-time dog breeder, made frequent journeys through Thuringia with a large amounts of money on him. Thus, he conceived the idea of producing a strong, powerful, and agile guard dog which would be able if necessary, to defend him from thieves. For years, Lewis Doberman work at his crossing the very robust French Berger de Beauce with terriers, then with Greyhound's, and finally with the Weinmaranger. Around 1870, he succeeded in producing an intelligent and beautifully shaped animal, and one that was very aggressive. One of the first owners of a Doberman declared "one must be either brave or stupid to keep one of these dogs in the house".

Officially exhibited in a dog show and 1876, the dog was immediately given the name of his breeder: Doberman. Subsequently perfected by another great German dog fancier, Otto Goller, the Doberman became more elegant, less aggressive, faithful, and very good at withstanding damp climates. The breed quickly became popular in Germany and appeared in all the dog shows around Europe.

Dobermans in the Military and Police

Apart from his aesthetic beauty the Doberman was particularly liked for his tenacity with which he defended his friends and their property. Like the German shepherd, the Doberman was adopted with excellent results by the police, the army. In World War II, the Doberman Pinscher was the official dog of the U.S. Marines, who used them to dislodge snipers from trees and ravines in the Pacific islands.

Dobermans as Guide Dogs

Dobermans require good training