DISPELLING DOBERMAN MYTHS

Common Myths about Doberman Pinschers

Written by: Jean A. Clark

MYTH: Dobermans turn on their owners.

FACT: When properly bred, raised, socialized, and trained; Dobermans are loving, loyal, family oriented dogs who will never think of doing such a thing. The only reason a Doberman would turn on anyone is due to abusive treatment. This is not something that is unique to a Doberman. Any animal, humans included, will defend themselves when threatened.

MYTH: Dobermans may be good dogs when they're young, but when they're older their skull stops growing but their brain doesn't. Then their brain swells against the skull and they attack people.

FACT: This is physically impossible. A Doberman is a canine just like a Golden Retriever. They have the same bone and nerve structure. When any canine's head stops growing, so does his brain.

MYTH: If you want a Doberman to be protective, you have to make it mean.

FACT: A Doberman is naturally protective of his family and home. Nothing needs to be done to enhance that aspect. If you abuse a Doberman to try to make it mean, the process will backfire and your dog will only protect himself from you.

MYTH: If you want a Doberman to protect you from strangers and intruders you have to keep it away from people except your family.

FACT: A Doberman that is not properly socialized will probably NOT protect you. He will be very scared of strange things and people. Every Doberman MUST be properly socialized. Taking your pup to lots of places, such as the pet store, shopping centers, obedience classes, vet offices, will help him gain confidence in strange surroundings. You should introduce your pup to as many different people as possible and see that he responds in a friendly manner. Protective instincts are natural and will not be affected by introducing your dog to friends or people he meets on the street. As long as you feel comfortable with a person, by all means, introduce your Doberman.

© July 1998-2002 by Jean A. Clark. Reproduction in part or whole prohibited without express written permission of original author.

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