The Doberman Pinscher can live in an apartment but will need frequent vigorous exercise or she may become hyper. A properly fenced in yard, suburban area or farm is best. She is not an outside dog in cold climates as she is cold sensitive. She should be extensively socialized as a puppy or she may become over protective. She makes a fine natural watch dog and guard dog. She is highly intelligent and trains easily. She can tolerate older children but be careful. As a reminder, never leave a young child unsupervised with a puppy or dog. She craves being physically close to her human family. She may require an experienced handler and she may fight with other dogs.

*Approximate Adult Size. The approximate adult size (two years old or older) of the male Doberman Pinscher is 26 to 28 inches to the withers (highest point of the shoulder) and 66 to 88 pounds. The female ranges from 24 to 26 inches to the withers and 66 to 80 pounds.

*Special Health Considerations. Most dog breeds have certain inherited health problems associated with that specific breed and the Doberman Pinscher is no exception. Be on the look out for bloat (Gastric Dilation-Volvulus, the second leading killer of dogs, can kill within the hour, this space is too limited for a complete explanation but you should read up on this). Feeding more then once a day and avoiding exercise right after meals may help guard against bloat, canine hip dysplasia (genetic based looseness in the hip joint that can lead to arthritis pain and lameness), Von Willebrands disease (a problem with blood clotting), skin problems, liver disease, fatty tumors, Wobbler Disease and hypothyroidism (sluggish thyroid gland which can result in weight gain). This disease list is an informative guideline only. Other diseases may also be significant threats, please contact your veterinarian for a complete list.