How to Make Your Doberman Happier

Known for being gentle and loyal, Doberman Pinschers make good family pets that interact well and learn easily. Also suitable for working, Dobermans are found working with military and police, but are loving, people-oriented dogs that can be made happy when included in a family. Many of the Doberman's needs are similar to other breeds of dogs, but Dobermans also have unique traits that need addressing in order to keep them at their happiest.

  1. Elements

    • Doberman Pinschers do not have a heavy, thick coat of fur. The Moyers Doberman Domicile warns against leaving Doberman dogs outside in the elements for this reason, especially during cold winters. You can keep your Doberman happier inside the home and close to you during extreme temperatures, as very cold weather can shorten his life or even abruptly end his life. Dobermans prefer to be close to their family members, so they are at their happiest inside your home with you.

    Diet

    • A quality diet can lengthen your Doberman's life while making her healthier and happier. High-quality food is more expensive, but also more concentrated, so you do not have to feed her as much. In return, she will experience less gas and fewer bowel movements. Do not give your dog chocolate, onions, or grapes, as they all act like poison to dogs. Never give her chicken or pork bones, either, because they can splinter and lacerate the digestive tract of your Doberman, which can lead to death. Look for dog food that is meat-based, not grain-based, but avoid beef, which can be hard on a Doberman's system. For treats, Dobermans enjoy apples and carrots, either cooked or raw.

    Exercise

    • Exercise is essential for the happiness of this breed, with DobermanGuide.com recommending a minimum of one hour of exercise every day. Dobermans enjoy activities that involve jumping and running, which is good exercise any time, but especially when your pet has been misbehaving. A good, hard run improves the attitude of most Dobermans, but if you lack the energy to run with your dog, an outdoor session of fetching a ball or stick can have the same effect. Another treat that Pinschers enjoy is to swim with family members. Without regular daily activity, Dobermans can become ill easily.

    Training

    • Solid training produces more obedient and happier dogs. Without a good training base, your dog may become a nuisance, requiring a kennel to keep her under control when company visits, and making communication difficult for her. Dobermans are very strong-willed, making the original training challenging, but once they learn, they stay obedient and focused. Dobermans respond well to training with affection as a reward, where affection is withheld from the dog after poor behavior. Companionship and family interaction are the main components to your Doberman's happiness.