How to Help an Abused Doberman

A doberman that has been abused in the past can exhibit a range of behavioral problems a result. The dog may be extremely timid to the point that it will crouch in a corner or run away when approached. Alternatively the dog may show signs of aggression, such as growling and barking. All of these behaviors stem from the dog's lack of trust in people. If you have rescued an abused doberman you can help to rehabilitate the dog by practicing the recommended actions, while being patient and consistent. Rehabilitating an abused dog can be a long but rewarding process. The doberman can be an affectionate and loyal companion when treated correctly, according to DogBreedInfo.com.

Things You'll Need

  • Crate
  • Scented house training pads
  • Treats
  • Leash
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Contain the doberman in a single room of the house when you first bring it home from the rescue center. Choose a room that will provide a calm and quiet atmosphere to help the dog to settle in to its new home. Provide a crate with bedding for the dog on one side of the room. Place specialized scented dog potty training pads on the floor at the opposite end of the room. The smell on the pads will encourage the dog to pass waste onto them. Remember that accidents are likely to happen if the dog is nervous and it should not be punished for accidents.

    • 2

      Spend time with the doberman to allow it to become used to you. Sit on the floor and read a book in the presence of the dog as this will give the dog chance to get to know you without feeling threatened. Practice calling the dog to you regularly, using a soft tone of voice. Reward any kind of positive behavior, such as looking at you or taking a step forward with a special treat and lots of positive reinforcement.

    • 3

      Build the doberman's confidence by reinforcing desired behaviors that the doberman exhibits, whether its coming to sit by you, or simply acting in a calm, balanced manner. Pet a timid dog by stroking under its chin rather than the top of its head and hold its tail up (if it has not been docked) to encourage the doberman to feel more confident.

    • 4

      Avoid attempting to sooth the doberman when it practices undesirable behaviors, such as anxious barking or avoiding people. Do not excuse the dog for behaving aggressively because it has been abused in the past, as this will have an extremely negative effect on the dog and it's rehabilitation. Address growling or neurotic behavior, such as obsessing or focusing on an object by saying "ah ah ah" in a firm tone of voice, to communicate that the dog's reaction is unwanted.

    • 5

      Introduce the dog to new things gradually, including rooms of the house and the backyard, people and other pets. Be patient and don't rush the dog when trying to get it to move from one place to another. If it is unwilling to move attach a leash to the doberman's collar and apply slight tension to encourage the dog's brain to move forward.