[nagdu] Doberman guide dogs

[consuelo johnson]

I'm working a female davenman and she is very serious about her work.  She
has the natural ears as well.  We have been home for about a week and a
half.  She is not to sure about my boyfriend, but they are beginning to
bound with one another.
consuelo

-----Original Message-----
From: nagdu [mailto:nagdu-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Julie J.
Sent: Thursday, December 20, 2012 6:21 AM
To: NAGDU Mailing List, the National Association of Guide Dog Users
Subject: Re: [nagdu] Doberman guide dogs

John,

Here's what I know about Doberman's, which is from speaking with Doberman
owners and breeders.  I've never personally had one.

They are one person velcro dogs, meaning they aren't so interested in
meeting and greeting every new person they meet.  It doesn't mean that they
don't get along with people, just that they have a strong preference to
spend time with their family.

Dobermans are a working breed.  they were bred with a specific job in mind
and thrive when they have work to do.  They are also very intelligent.  The
combination suggests that they will not be happy as a guide dog if the only
place you go is down to the corner coffee shop a couple times a week.

Some Dobermans are bred for protection.  I'm looking for breeders who
specialize in breeding for therapy, service and search and rescue work
because protection is not a desired trait in these careers.  Also how the
Doberman is raised and trained will make a huge difference in how the
tendency toward protection comes through.

Like any other breed they can have difficulty playing well with others.  
One of the breeders I contacted said that they won't place a male in a home
with another male dog for this reason.  The next breeder I contacted said
this was only a problem with very specific Dobermans and that generally
speaking a neutered male raised and socialized well with other dogs will get
along just fine.  All the reading I've done leads me to believe breeder
number 2.  I didn't continue to investigate breeder #1, but I would guess
that she was focused on breeding the protective, security oriented variety
of Doberman.

Dobermans do have a negative reputation among the public.  I'm sure this
will be something to consider when choosing to work the breed.  If you
aren't comfortable with self advocacy and soothing or at least putting up
with people afraid of your dog, then it might not be the right breed for
you.  I am going to leave my puppy's ears natural.  They will be a smaller
version of a lab type of ear.  I prefer this look myself, but I also think
it will soften the appearance of the Doberman, hopefully making him a bit
less intimidating.

Julie


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