Dobermans as pets: handle with care

Q: I am really interested in getting a Doberman Pinscher, but am not so sure after talking to a few people about it. All I hear is, “So you want an attack dog?” or “Dobermans shouldn’t be around kids.” I just think it’s a beautiful breed. What’s your opinion? — Mary W., Kansas City, Mo.

A: I think you’re talking to the wrong people, first of all. Pick up the local phone book or hop onto the Internet and look for kennel clubs or Doberman Pinscher clubs in your area. The American Kennel Club (AKC) can help you with this search. The people best suited to giving reliable information about this breed are enthusiastic owners and breeders, and you will find them at these clubs.

Expect some very pointed questions from members of these clubs about your intentions in obtaining a Doberman. There are people out there who want to train them as guard dogs for their homes — or worse, make them fighting dogs. However, club members will also tell you about the great characteristics of the breed, including the Doberman’s intelligence, loyalty and steady temperament. They’ll give you details about these dogs that you might not see in books, as well as personal anecdotes about life with the Doberman. You’ll learn about reliable breeders in your area (and perhaps about unreliable ones).

In addition, learn all you can about the breed, its training and feeding requirements, and common problems, including illnesses. Find out how much time you have to commit to a new pet, and whether that time is enough to accommodate an energetic dog like the Doberman. With a few weeks of research, you will be able to decide whether this dog is the perfect one for you.