Information on Doberman Pinscher Puppies

Temperament

• The Doberman pinscher was bred more than a century ago to be a guard dog. A dog of this breed is strong, assertive and energetic as well as very protective of its owner. Doberman pinschers are also loving and sociable. They like to be treated as members of the family and do not enjoy being left alone for long periods of time. If they are, they will often misbehave and problems can arise. Doberman pinscher puppies must be thoroughly socialized and introduced into a family while they are young to prevent them from becoming overly protective of their owners and developing a negative disposition.

Caring For

• Doberman puppies should be fed a high quality diet. A premium dry kibble formulated for large breed puppies is usually recommended. The Doberman is a highly active breed and needs plenty of exercise. An open, enclosed area where the puppy can run freely every day is an ideal setting. Engaging in games such as fetch and catch are excellent ways to keep your pup moving.

  The key to a friendly Doberman is socialization at an early age. Doberman puppies should be exposed to a variety of positive experiences, people, animals, sights and sounds. This will make the dog less suspicious and anxious. Keep your puppy properly groomed on a consistent basis. Bathing, brushing, trimming the nails, brushing the teeth, and keeping the ears clean are essential in keeping the Doberman healthy and tidy.

Training

• Using a kennel is an effective way to train a Doberman puppy. The kennel should be a sanctuary for the pup. It should never be used as a place of punishment. Kennel training will teach the puppy that potty breaks are only for outside and will keep the puppy out of trouble when no one is available to carefully watch him.

  Basic obedience commands need to be taught like "no," "leave it," "sit," "wait" and "release." It is also important to teach the Doberman puppy to walk at heel position while on a leash. Rambunctious behavior like play biting and jumping up must never be encouraged or rewarded.

Puppy Proofing the Home

• Doberman puppies, like most puppies, can be destructive to items found around the house, like furniture. This is usually nothing more than a nuisance but there are certain items that should be stored out of reach because they can be toxic or harmful to puppies. These items include candy, cleaning solutions, small objects, medications, house plants, electric cords, machines, tools and anything sharp, heavy, hot or fragile, like glass. Trash cans should also be stored out of reach because they can contain small objects or foods that are harmful.