Pets

Is a Doberman a good family pet?

Before deciding to add a dog to your family, you should have a family conversation and determine if you can devote time and energy to your newest member. Any puppy takes a lot of work and you have to remember that your puppy will grow up and be with you for many years. If you are considering getting a specific breed, chances are, if you have children, you would not consider a Doberman Pinscher.

Thanks to film and television, Dobermans have a reputation for being fierce watchdogs. Naturally, you wouldn’t think that a Doberman would be the best family pet. It is understandable to have concerns. Dobermans are working dogs bred for protection, however the breed has evolved over the years. Dobermans can be wonderful pets for families with children, but as with any breed, you should do your research before purchasing.

It is best to have a Doberman as a puppy, as socialization will be such an important aspect of their upbringing, and any puppy, regardless of breed, should have basic puppy kindergarten classes. Your Doberman puppy will learn to blend in with other family pets and will want to get to know all the neighbors and their pets, as well as family friends. Dobermans love to be with their people, right in the middle of everything. They are not suitable to be tied up or locked in the backyard. They will not do well if left home alone for long periods of time.

There are a few things to keep in mind if you choose to get a Doberman. One thing you may not realize is that Dobermans have a very high prey drive. This means that they will want to chase small animals and are likely to run away if given the opportunity. In addition, they are very sensitive dogs, so they will capture the moods of the family, whether happy or sad, and they are especially sensitive to stress.

Today’s Doberman is bred to have a stable temperament and good health, however they are prone to certain disorders, including VonWillebrand’s, which affect the ability of blood to clot. This can lead to serious blood loss from injury or surgery. Puppy parents should be screened for VonWillebrands and also Wobbler syndrome, which is a narrowing of the cervical vertebrae that affects the dog’s ability to walk.

If you want a fun, active, and sometimes comical addition to your family, you should consider a Doberman. They are loving, loyal, and easy to train. They will protect you and your children instinctively. If you decide to add a Doberman to your family, you will discover why they are known as the “velcro dog.”