Home » Plants & Animals » Dobermans » Reasons to Own a Doberman, Part 3

Reasons to Own a Doberman, Part 3

© Deborah J. Myers

This is the third in the series on Reasons to Own a Doberman. There are plenty of reasons to invest your time and heart in this noble breed; however, you should be aware of what it’s really like to have a Dobe in the family.

DOGGED WALKERS It is true that as a large breed dog Dobermans have plenty of energy for walking. As an exercise companion, a Doberman will keep pace with you all day. People who live in very sunny or very cold climates should take some precautions when exercising their Dobermans outdoors.

Red and black Dobermans’ dark coat color absorbs sunlight and can make the dog experience heat stroke if the owner isn’t careful. Fawn and blue Dobermans’ light coat color puts them at risk for sunburn. A simple way to prevent either scenario is to exercise the dog before 10:00 a.m. or after 5:00 p.m. during the summertime. Canine sunscreen can also help the lighter Dobes cope with summer rays.

Wintertime presents its own complication for Dobes of any hue: cold. Dobermans’ thin coats aren’t suited for very cold weather; however, a dog sweater should keep her toasty. Consider covering her ears, or check them every few minutes to make sure they aren’t unduly cold. Dobermans tend to shake when too cold; however, you should feel the ears to make sure they’re okay.

A DOG WELL-TRAVELED

Dobermans enjoy going everywhere with you by car, plane, or whatever it takes to be by your side. More and more hotels allow dogs and the breed’s naturally aloof nature makes them easy to control in public and appear much more calm than a very outgoing dog.

Like any other breed, Dobermans must become acclimated to travel to behave well in strange situations. This doesn’t mean you have to go on vacation every month when you first get your Doberman; however, trips to local places other than the vet’s office will help.

If you live in a small town, you’ll probably be able to take your dog to more places; however, some bigger cities are allowing pets in large pet-related businesses and home stores.

Do not leave your dog in a parked car on a hot day. The temperature can escalate so quickly that he can suffer heat exhaustion, even with the windows down.

On cooler days, your dogs still shouldn’t be left in the car. Some people enjoy taunting dogs they don’t know. This is bad training for your dog. If your dog hurts someone you could possibly be liable. As absurd as it sounds, people can sue in these situations.

The copyright of the article Reasons to Own a Doberman, Part 3 in Dobermans is owned by . Permission to republish Reasons to Own a Doberman, Part 3 in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.