The Doberman Pinscher

• History of the Doberman Pinscher
• Temperament and Versatility
• The AKC Breed Standard
• Choosing a Doberman Pinscher
• Additional Resources

History of the Breed

The Doberman Pinscher was developed in the late 19th century by Louis Dobermann of Thuringen, Germany. Dobermann, a tax collector, wanted a dog capable of protecting him on his collection rounds. Several contemporary breeds are believed to have been combined to produce the Doberman Pinscher, including the German Pinscher, Old German Shepherd, Weimaraner, and Black and Tan Manchester Terrier.

The Doberman was first presented in a dog show in 1876, and the first breed club was organized in Germany in 1899. The Doberman Pinscher breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1908. During the early 20th century, the breed was widely used as a police and war dog, and also gained popularity as a companion animal.