Snarling and barking, teeth bared, the dog presents a frightening image. (Actually, Dobermans are used so often in movies because they are easily trained and look athletic. Could an Irish setter or poodle be trained to look scary?) Therefore, it is assumed that these dogs would not make good family pets.
This line of thinking leaps in logic. I don’t envy the burglar who breaks into a home shared by a Doberman; however, the dog is doing his job. He is protecting his family. Like any breed of dog, the Doberman has the intelligence to distinguish between his family and a burglar. Unlike many “family dogs” who merely bark, the Doberman happens to have the size, agility, strength, speed and protectiveness to make sure the intruder is sorry he came.
Louis Dobermann engineered the breed to bond very closely to the dog’s owner and family. The dog is happiest when he is near those he loves, his family. He responds to human interaction with curiosity, playfulness, and love. No strangers are permitted to come near his family, unless he is convinced that they are not a threat. What an ideal companion and protector for children or frail elders.
Playful by nature, Dobermans love the energetic activity of children. As with any other breed, Dobermans do not enjoy being teased and tormented by children; however, it is amazing what they will put up with. If they tire of a child’s attention, they will usually pull away and leave the child alone.
In contrast, frail elderly people also appeal to the dog. Dobermans are content to sleep all day, and enjoy quiet times with someone available to rub their ears and muzzle. The dog’s sweet disposition and attentiveness make them good company for housebound elders, providing the dogs are exercised by a friend or family member. Dobermans can sense when things are wrong, and tend to watch over people who are ill or weak.
I have observed Dobermans gently nuzzle six-month-olds, endure the poking of curious toddlers, romp with school-aged children and carefully lay their heads in elders’ laps. Although reserved and cautious with strangers, Dobermans are completely devoted to their family, including children and elders.
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