The German Shepherd and Doberman Pinscher are closely related in appearance and temperament. Both dogs are active and require plenty of socialization and exercise but some German Shepherd characteristics make them less suited for apartment life. This article discusses the characteristics of the German Shepherd and Doberman Pinscher and answers some common questions about this combination. If you are considering adopting a Doberman here are some tips to help you find the best dog for your home.
Is a Doberman German Shepherd mix a good dog?
If you’re considering getting a Doberman Pinscher or a Doberman German Shepherd mix you need to understand its temperament before you get one. The first question to ask yourself is whether or not the dog is a male or a female. While the Doberman Pinscher is generally smaller and more compact than its German counterpart males are often more aggressive primarily due to their guarding instincts. However the breed is also known to be affectionate and loving and is often difficult to separate from its owner. While they are hardy and intelligent they are also prone to separation anxiety and should be socialized with people before leaving the house for extended periods of time.
Hip dysplasia is a common health condition in the Doberman German Shepherd mix. It is a hereditary disease but it can be mitigated through a good diet supplements and optimal body weight. While this is a serious concern it can be treated. During the initial stages you may want to check the dog’s hip score before making a final decision.
Can German Shepherd and Doberman mate?
Doberman and German Shepherd dogs have a similar personality so it is possible to mate them. German Shepherds are known for their powerful and imposing presence. German Shepherds are generally more loyal than other breeds and may even protect their owners. They both have very sturdy build and can be intimidating to attackers. If you’re looking for the ultimate protection dog a German Shepherd-Doberman mix might be perfect for you.
Whether these two breeds will get along together is debatable. Both dogs are big and strong and Dobermans are notoriously aggressive. Even though this kind of aggression is hard-wired it can be curbed with a little socialization and understanding. They are also very intelligent so you can train them to interact well with other dogs and kids. Despite their dominance these two breeds are generally well-suited for a family with children.
Are Doberman shepherds good family dogs?
A Doberman shepherd is an extremely energetic dog that must have at least 90 minutes of physical activity each day. This can be done by taking the dog for a walk visiting a dog park or even incorporating the dog into your workout routine. The Doberman doesn’t fit well in an apartment so it’s best to consider getting one if you have a large rural property and backyard.
A Doberman pinscher is also a very patient and friendly dog. But don’t play with it too rough especially if you’re not sure what it’s like. Children will have to learn how to behave around a dog and a Doberman will have to learn this respect as well. Otherwise it’ll never be as friendly as you’d like. If you’re thinking about getting a Doberman shepherd be aware that the breed is not recommended for families with small children.
What is the lifespan for a Doberman Shepherd?
The lifespan of a German Shepherd is about seven to ten years. This is lower than that of other large breeds such as Shih Tzus. If you plan to guard property for a long time a Doberman is likely to be a better choice. However this large dog breed does have certain health problems including problems with the joints. If you’re thinking of getting a German Shepherd consider some of these tips.
Proper diet and exercise are key to a Doberman’s longevity. A daily walk or outing to a dog park helps release pent-up energy. Annual checkups to the vet will ensure your dog is in good health and recommend dietary supplements or vitamins if needed. As a rule of thumb veterinarians recommend that you start screening your dog for heart disease at two years old. Hypothyroidism and von Willebrand’s disease are also common health issues among Doberman Pinschers.
