Doberman Pinscher Puppies
History, size, colors, and temperament of the Doberman Pinscher — and how to tell if a Doberman puppy is the right fit for your household.
Where the Doberman Pinscher comes from
The Doberman Pinscher was developed in the town of Apolda, Germany, in the late 1800s by Karl Friedrich Louis Dobermann, a tax collector who wanted a loyal, alert companion and protector. The breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1908 and is one of the most recognizable working breeds in the United States.
Size and appearance
| Male | Female | |
|---|---|---|
| Height at shoulder (adult) | About 26–28 in | About 24–26 in |
| Typical adult weight | About 75–100 lb | About 60–90 lb |
| Typical life expectancy | About 10–12 years | |
| Coat | Short, smooth, close-lying; minimal grooming | |
Figures are general breed references (AKC breed standard and common breed sources). Individual dogs vary.
Doberman coat colors
The AKC breed standard recognizes four colors, each with rust markings: black & rust, red & rust, blue & rust, and fawn (Isabella) & rust. Coat color does not affect temperament.
Light cream ("white") Dobermans are not one of the four standard colors. Their coloring is associated with a form of albinism, and these dogs can be more sensitive to bright sun. If you are considering a light cream puppy, ask us about the parents and registration, and talk with your veterinarian about sun protection and eye care.
Temperament in a sentence
Dobermans are intelligent, energetic, loyal, and people-focused. Well-bred, well-socialized Dobermans are typically affectionate with their families and watchful with strangers. Read more on our temperament and training page.
European vs. American Dobermans
You will often see "European" and "American" Dobermans described as having different builds and working drive. We publish lineage details for a specific puppy only when we can document the parents' pedigrees. Ask us about the parents of any puppy you are considering.
Ears and tails
Some Doberman puppies have cropped ears and docked tails, and some are left natural. Cropping and docking are veterinary procedures and are regulated or restricted in some places. Ask about any individual puppy and check your local rules.
Is a Doberman puppy right for you?
- You can provide at least an hour of exercise and activity every day as an adult dog
- You are ready for consistent, positive training and early socialization
- Your dog will live indoors with the family
- You can budget for quality food, veterinary care, and possibly pet insurance
- Your home insurance and housing rules allow the breed (check before buying)
Have a question about a puppy?
Tell us which puppy you are interested in and where you live. We will reply with current availability, answers to your questions, and delivery options for your area.