About the Doberman Pinscher

Outwardly magnificent and inwardly complex, the Doberman pinscher is a loving, loyal family companion and has served as police and military protection, search and rescue, and service and therapy dogs. 

In 1890, Karl Friedrich Louis Dobermann (1834-1894) of Apolda, Germany combined several breeds of dogs to create “Dobermann’s Pinschers”. This mixture combined the fire and lightning reactions of the terrier with the power and intelligence of the guard and herding breeds. The Doberman was bred for use in police and military work, and to be a medium-sized protector-companion in the home.

The Doberman breed was first registered with the American Kennel Club in 1908. Known best, perhaps, for its guarding qualities, the dog of yesterday’s scary movies has been transformed through years of meticulous breeding into a fun-loving, exceptional athlete and a watchful, protective, and above all, discerning companion who has no trouble accurately distinguishing between friend and foe. The key word is discerning.

Among the smartest canine breeds in the world, the Doberman Pinscher is breathtakingly perceptive, intuitive, and sensitive. Properly trained and socialized, your Doberman won’t just place itself between you and a visible threat. As owner after owner can attest, your Doberman will anticipate that threat to you and your child, sometimes in uncanny ways. Balancing that well-known guardian instinct is the world’s most loving heart and a sense of humor that will keep you laughing its whole life long.

Be aware that the Doberman pinscher is not for every person or every family. This is simply the reality of the breed. It is a demanding breed and re­quires constant attention and guidance from the entire family working together as one. Without careful research and study of Doberman characteristics and temperament, problems with behavior can occur. We want you to be successful for the lifetime of your dog. Consider joining our club and learning along with us what it means to have a Doberman in your life.

Living with a Doberman is a challenge on a daily basis. They are loyal, discerning and have a tremendous sense of humor. However, it is a demanding breed through its lifetime and requires constant attention and guidance from the entire family working together as one. 

Doberman breed standard

Energetic
Watchful
Determined
Alert
Fearless
Loyal
Obedient

The appearance is that of a dog of medium size, with a body that is square. Compactly built, muscular and powerful, for great endurance and speed. Elegant in appearance, of proud carriage, reflecting great nobility and temperament. 

Click here to read the full Doberman pinscher AKC breed standard. 

Our dogs in the community

Seamus (a Ravensown KO dog) was featured bigger than life in a Chewys mural, painted on the corner of Broadway and Pike in downtown Seattle during the spring of 2022.