ABOUT THE BREED

The Dobermann is a distinguished breed recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) for its unique characteristics and historical significance.

​

1.0. Country of Origin

Germany.

​

2.0. Date of Publication of the Original Valid Standard

14th February 1994.

​

3.0. Utilization

Companion, protection, and working dog.

​

4.0. F.C.I. Classification

Group 2: Pinscher, Schnauzer, Molossian type dogs, Swiss Mountain and Cattle dogs. Section 1: Pinscher and Schnauzer undergoing working tests. With working trial.

 

5.0. Brief Historical Summary

The Dobermann is the only German breed named after its original breeder, Friedrich Louis Dobermann (January 2nd, 1834 – June 9th, 1891). Mr. Dobermann, believed to be a tax collector, offal abattoir manager, and part-time dog catcher, selectively bred dogs known for their sharpness and aggression. The most significant contribution to the breed's development came from the "Fleischerhunde" ('butcher’s dogs'), which were a precursor to today's Rottweiler, mixed with a type of Shepherd from the Thüringen area. In the 1870s, Mr. Dobermann bred these dogs to create a breed that was not only alert but also possessed a strong protective instinct. These dogs were often used as guard and police dogs and were also employed in hunting to control large vermin. Their extensive use in police service led to the nickname 'Gendarmen Hunde' (country constable dogs). The Dobermann was officially recognized as a Police Dog at the turn of the next century. 

​

6.0. General Appearance

The Dobermann is a medium-sized, powerful, and muscularly built dog. Despite its substance, the lines of the body exhibit elegance and nobility, and its movement is graceful. It is especially suitable as a companion dog, protection dog, working dog, and a family dog. 

​

7.0. Important Measurements and Proportions

• Height at the withers:

  • Males: 68 to 72 cm.

  • Females: 63 to 68 cm.

• Length of body:

  • Slightly longer than the height at the withers.

• Depth of chest:

  • Approximately 45% of the height at the withers.

 

8.0. Temperament / Behaviour

The Dobermann is friendly and calm, very devoted to the family. It has a medium temperament and medium sharpness (alertness) is desired. A medium threshold of irritation is required with a good contact to the owner. Easy to train, the Dobermann enjoys working and shall have good working ability, courage, and hardness. The particular values of self-confidence and intrepidness are required.

​

9.0. Head

• Shape:

  • In proportion to the body, with a slight wedge shape.

• Skull:

  • Flat, with a slight median furrow.

• Stop:

  • Moderate.

• Muzzle:

  • Strong, tapering slightly towards the nose.

• Nose:

  • Black.

• Eyes:

  • Medium-sized, almond-shaped, dark brown.

• Ears:

  • Set high, carried erect.

​

10.0. Neck

Strong, muscular, slightly arched, and of medium length.

​

11.0. Body

• Back:

  • Straight and strong.

• Loin:

  • Short and strong.

• Croup:

  • Slightly sloping.

• Chest:

  • Deep, reaching the elbows.

• Ribs:

  • Well sprung.

• Underline and Belly:

  • Slightly tucked up.

​

12.0. Limbs

• Forequarters:

  • Straight, parallel, with strong bone.

• Hindquarters:

  • Strong, with well-developed muscles.

• Feet:

  • Oval, with tight toes.

​

13.0. Gait / Movement

The Dobermann moves with a free, ground-covering stride, demonstrating good reach and drive.

​

14.0. Skin

Tight-fitting, without folds.

​

15.0. Coat

• Hair:

  • Short, dense, and hard.

• Colour:

  • Black with rust-red markings.

​

16.0. Size and Weight

• Males:

  • Height: 68 to 72 cm.

  • Weight: 40 to 45 kg.

• Females:

  • Height: 63 to 68 cm.

  • Weight: 32 to 35 kg.

  • ​

For a comprehensive understanding of the Dobermann breed standard, refer to the official FCI document.

​

PLEASE CLICK THE FOLLOWING LINK FOR THE OFFCIAL FCI HANDBOOK.