Making the decision to add an animal to your family is always an exciting and happy time. Unfortunately, some people often get caught up in the excitement and fail to assess their family needs and how an animal can fit into their lives and how an animal could change their lives. Acquring any animal on the spur of the moment (at a flea market, walking past a pet store, as a present) is a bad decision. Having to find a new home for an unwanted animal, especially a Dobermann, is even worse. We are often asked to help find homes for Dobermanns who are no longer wanted, whether it be through people relocating, sickness or death of an owner, family changes or owners have simply found a Dobermann too demanding for their lifestyle.

By taking the time to research the breed (genetic health problems, blood lines, training needs) you will be able to make a more informed decision as to whether a Dobermann is the right dog for you, and more importantly, are you the right person for a Dobermann? Breeders from the DCQ are dedicated to their dogs, whether they live with them or have been purchased by someone else. They want to see their puppies and dogs go to the right home and are more than happy to spend time educating prospective purchasers. Take the time to go and see a breeder's stock (this will give you some indication as to what your puppy may look or behave like). Watch them participate in a conformation show or an obedience, agility or jumping trial. It's important to see not only cute puppies (who can resist them) but adult dogs too, as this is what you'll mostly be spending your time with.

One of the most important things is to wait. Don't jump at the first advertisement in the paper that has "purebred dobermann, no papers (contradiction), champion lines (yeah, but 6 generations ago), good with kids (what puppy isn't), only $300" ... you can more than likely bet that these so called breeders have taken no consideration of the genetic health of their dogs and they haven't been screened for HD, vWD, etc. Nor are they likely to participate in any recognised dog activities such as agility, obedience, showing (you need purebred and papered dogs for that, plus you need to be a Canine Control Council Member) and you're more than likely not to receive any 'after sales service' once you take the puppy home. Good breeders will be their for the lifetime of your dog, helping you when those little things go wrong or when you need advice on socialising or training your dog.

For further information on acquiring and caring for your Dobermann, please click on one of the links below.

Breeders