Shelter Dobermans may or may not have physical or psychological problems. Unless you are willing to take a chance that you will have some challenges with this dog, you should not go to a shelter. A Doberman is a large, strong dog that can be dangerous if he has been abused or neglected.
On the other hand, you may find a perfect sweetheart that someone gave up for reasons beyond their control. Your chances of finding a Doberman at a shelter may be better than you think. Sixty percent of all dogs at shelters are purebreds, according to one expert’s estimates. You can improve your odds by asking the staff to watch out for Dobermans and call you if they have one come in. Be sure to explain why you want a Doberman and that you have done your homework on the breed.
Keep watch of your local newspaper. You may find a Doberman advertised. Very carefully interview the person advertising the dog. Ask why he is getting rid of the dog, what is the dog’s history, if he is AKC-registered, if he has breeding papers, and if his shots are up-to-date (get documentation). Meet the dog and spend time with him before you commit. Dobermans are typically one-person dogs, and it may be difficult for the dog to consider a second owner.
Many Doberman rescues have cropped up. Some of these dogs have been abused, neglected, and abandoned. These dogs are much more likely to need extra help in adjusting to their new life. You will need extra patience and possibly professional advice in bringing one of these dogs into your home. If you don’t have much experience with dogs in general, don’t get a rescue Doberman.
Nearly all dog experts advise against getting any kind of dog from a pet shop. The fact is that pet shops get their stock from either puppy mills or sub-standard or leftovers from breeders. This doesn’t mean that they are necessarily bad dogs; however, if you’re paying for a purebred dog, you should get your money’s worth.
Pet shop pups also are difficult to housebreak. They have been kenneled so long that they believe the proper place to eliminate is wherever they happen to be standing.
