Myths and Legends About the Doberman

You've probably felt a bit wary of Dobermans yourself, since their bad reputation has taken a real toll on public opinion. However, all these myths and legends about Dobermans have been thoroughly disproven by science.

The 1970s marked this breed's peak popularity. Its athletic, elegant bearing, combined with its loyal, brave temperament, made it the trendy dog of the moment. Breeding didn't always involve careful selective crosses, and buyers didn't always inform themselves about the care its temperament called for.

Debunked Legends About the Doberman

As we mentioned, around 1970 the Doberman, or Dobermann Pinscher as it's still called in the U.S., was a highly sought-after dog for its physical and behavioral traits. Owners' lack of knowledge meant they didn't know how to train or mentally stimulate them, which led to aggressive behavior born out of the animal's frustration.

Amid World War II, in the 1940s this breed became very popular in the U.S. as a guard dog. Nazi propaganda spread the idea that the German Shepherd was Hitler's favorite dog, to which the U.S. military responded by adopting the Doberman as its working dog in the Pacific War.

1. It Was a Breed Created by Hitler to Kill Jewish People

While it's true that the SS heightened these dogs' aggression during World War II, it's completely false that they were created by the German dictator or genetically engineered for the purpose of turning them into killers of Jewish people.

In fact, this breed was created in 1860 in the German region of Thuringia by Karl Friedrich Louis Dobermann, who crossed several breeds (Weimaraner, Beauceron, Greyhound or English Sighthound, Manchester Terrier, German Pinscher, Stoppelhopser, Metzgerhund, and Rottweiler). Despite its fierce look, it's a very loyal, affectionate, protective dog.

Dobermann worked as the King's tax collector, carried out court-ordered seizures, and ran the municipal dog pound. He drew on his knowledge of dog breeds to create a new one that would be fierce, brave, and intelligent enough to protect him while he carried out his duties. That's how this beautiful breed was born.

2. At 2 Years Old, They Go Crazy and Attack Their Owner

Another widespread myth is that once they reach maturity, Dobermans attack their owner in a fit of madness. This isn't true. What actually happens is that, due to their dominant character, they'll always try to challenge authority within their household. In fact, in males this can happen well before a year and a half of age.

3. They Go Crazy Because Their Brain Outgrows Their Skull

Some claim that between 4 and 7 years old they go crazy because the brain outgrows the skull. Others claim the unruly, erratic behavior is caused by the skull bones squeezing the brain as it grows. None of this is true — if it were, the dog would die.

In the early 20th century, when this breed became popular both in Europe and the U.S., no one bothered to figure out what care they needed to stay healthy and balanced. Breeders and owners were more focused on looks. So, the lack of mental stimulation and proper training did the rest.

Many of these dogs were abandoned by their owners because their behavior wasn't what they expected. What owners didn't realize was that the dogs were bored and frustrated from not being able to exercise, tackle mental challenges, and feel useful within their pack.

4. Once They Learn Something, They Can't Change

This is another of the big lies surrounding Dobermans. Did you know they're one of the most intelligent dog breeds around? They learn faster than many other breeds. So, by relying on play, discipline, and positive reinforcement, you can retrain them in record time.

That said, it's not the right dog for people with no experience in dog training, or in other words, for those who have never had a dog before. If it senses any weakness in you, it'll take over the household and make life difficult for everyone. To avoid this, you need to be firm and consistent when it comes to training.

Some Fun Facts About the Doberman

Even though Karl Friedrich Louis Dobermann is credited with creating this breed, it was Otto Göller who was responsible for giving it the consistent look we know today. In 1900, the breed was recognized by the German Kennel Club, and its dedicated club was founded in 1925. The American Kennel Club recognized it in 1908.

As you can see, misinformation does a lot of damage, and even today this noble dog still suffers the consequences of its bad press. We hope we've cleared up some of these false myths and legends about the Doberman. If you enjoyed this article, feel free to leave us a comment or share it on your social media.