The Doberman Pinscher

Temperament and Versatility

WWII Dobe in Okinawa

Dobermans are intelligent and athletic dogs, and are well suited for a variety of dog sports and working applications. Dobermans were the dog of choice for US military use in World War II; approximately 75% of the dogs in the War Dog Platoons were Doberman Pinschers, many provided by the DPCA or lent by their owners for the war effort. In 1994, a memorial featuring a life-sized bronze statue of a Doberman was dedicated at the U.S. Naval Base in Guam honoring the efforts and sacrifice of the 25 Dobermans who gave their lives liberating Guam in 1944.

Today the breed continues to uphold this life-saving heritage: Dobermans can often be found working in Search and Rescue, narcotics detection, law enforcement and animal-assisted therapy programs.

Dobe heeling

Dobermans are also frequent participants in many dog sports. The breed's athleticism, physical endurance, focus and intelligence make them ideal competitors in competitive Obedience, Agility, Tracking, Schutzhund and many other events.

But it's not all hard work for the Dobes! As always, Dobermans also have a place in many homes as cherished companion animals. Often nicknamed "Velcro dogs" for their tendency to follow close at heel, lean on a person's leg or climb in a lap whenever possible, Dobermans are prized as family pets.

Dobe and baby

Perhaps most importantly, the versatility of the breed means that a Doberman can be several of these things at once. Many Dobes transition comfortably from the show ring to the competition field to the therapy room to the home throughout their careers, excelling at each of these pursuits.