Dobermans & Children

According to the American Kennel Club, the Doberman Pinscher is an intelligent, strong and muscular dog that is extremely loyal to his family. Due to its strength and innate drive to protect its family, consider some aspects before bringing a Doberman into your family or allowing him to be around children. With the proper training and socialization, your Doberman can safely be around kids as well as provide a loving friend and companion for your children.

  1. Aggressive Behavior

    • According to the Everything Doberman Online Community, Dobermans may see children as puppies and exhibit aggressive behavior toward them. It's important to socialize your Doberman as a young puppy and teach him not to act aggressively toward children. Quick and rapid movements can send any dog into an aggressive mode, so expose your Doberman to a variety of situations in which she can learn to ignore children. Always do so in a safe and controlled environment or under the supervision of a trainer to ensure the children are safe.

    Protective Behavior

    • Dobermans were originally bred for their protective nature. This can reassure you that your Doberman will provide the family with ample protection should the need arise. However, it can also pose a problem with children. If the Doberman feels protective of your child, it may display protective aggression toward other animals or humans it perceives as a threat to your child. Teach the dog at an early age, via training and basic obedience, that it should not react to these instincts.

    Walking on a Leash

    • Dobermans are very strong animals, and therefore proper leash training is crucial if a child wants to walk his dog. Buy a strong collar and lead and take the Doberman to obedience training before letting a child walk the dog. Proper training before this will help ensure the child stays safe and injury-free.

    Establishing Leadership

    • Dobermans are naturally obedient, so it's important to establish yourself as a pack leader. The dog should be taught to respect its family members, including children. In the wild, dog packs have an alpha dog, and establishing yourself as such gives you and your family control over your animal. Doing so also reduces behavior problems in your dog and reduces issues with children. Allow your child to help train your animal and participate in its daily care activities, such as feeding and bathing. Be sure to supervise your child during these activities.