I have a Doberman who seems to always have the nee... (2024)

Leerburg / Ask Cindy / Categories /Behavior Problems /I have a Doberman who seems to always have the nee...

May 20, 2011

Full Question:

I purchased "Your Puppy 8 Weeks" DVD. Very informative. During our life time my 4 children and myself have had an assortment of dogs. I just purchased a Doberman puppy in June of this year. This is the first Doberman that we have ever owned. I have had German Shepherds, Labradors, Great Danes, Rotts, also little dogs. My question to you is that my Doberman has, (I call it respect for "my" space, we raise and train horses. This is a must with horses.) If I am walking, she is right there. On top of you. I know that I shouldn't do this but, I do. When she lays on the couch with me, she has to lay on top of like my leg or something. Is this an issue? My daughter owns her sister. Which she is also just like this. We have found out, that even when we are outside sitting on the grass, hay bales, it is a must to them to be "touching" you. Two sisters, in completely different house holds, they both have this characteristic. One is an house hold with small children and mine is just with myself and my teenage daughter. She does this to anyone, or should I say to myself and my teenage daughter. I call it "hormonal," wanting to "launch." Is this the case? I have never had this issue with any other dog that I have owned. All, which were allowed in the house and to sit on the couch with me.

Thank you also for being a gift to dog lovers and the dogs they own!

Thank you,
Julie

I have a Doberman who seems to always have the nee... (3)

I have a Doberman who seems to always have the nee... (4) Cindy's Answer:

Having owned Dobermans for a good part of my life I will say that this is more of a breed tendency than anything. They aren’t called ‘velcro dogs’ for nothing. They want to be touching their people all the time.

It can be an issue though, because dogs like this can become a bit too dependent on their owners being close all the time. I teach my dogs to go lay down away from me when I ask. They can’t come up and touch me, lean on me or solicit petting without being invited. This is just part of being a good pack leader.

You can read more about being a good leader for your dog.

Pack Structure for the Family Pet is the video that picks up where the article leaves off.

I would direct you to the search function in the upper left corner of the web site for any additional questions you may have. If you type in your key words it will guide you to articles, Q & A’s and posts on our forum.

I hope this helps.

Cindy

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FAQs

What not to do with a Doberman? ›

As with any dog, your Dobermann should never be left on their own for more than four hours. Because they get so attached to their owners, you might find that your Dobermann can't even cope with this and may be destructive around the home to let you know they are unhappy.

What are Dobermans behavior problems? ›

But typically BEHAVIOR PROBLEMS follow improper training attempts or inappropriate or too severe discipline—or lack of bonding to the family because the Doberman is locked away and has not integrated itself within the family—and also the total lack of available time to spend with this Doberman that demands quality ...

Why do Dobermans follow you everywhere? ›

If your dog follows you everywhere then it's most likely a sign that they love and adore you. When dogs interact with someone they like, the hormone oxytocin is released. Oxytocin is often referred to as the 'love hormone' and makes you feel that warm glow when you're around someone you like.

What are Dobermans prone to? ›

Genetic health conditions that can affect the breed include hip dysplasia, dilated cardiomyopathy (enlarged heart), von Willebrand's disease (a clotting disorder), progressive retinal atrophy, albinism, and hypothyroidism. Responsible breeders screen their breeding stock for these health conditions via medical testing.

How do you discipline a Doberman? ›

Dobermans respond well to positive reinforcement—treats and praise to reward good behavior—rather than to training methods that involve harsh correction or physical punishment.

Is owning a Doberman hard? ›

requiring a higher level of owner commitment than many other breeds and I think that sums it up pretty well. There has to be a commitment to training, to exercising, to being a leader … and a strong commitment to the idea of never going to the bathroom by yourself ever again.

Why do Dobermans have a bad reputation? ›

The breed went on to begin working with the police department and the military. Why the bad reputation? Since Doberman created the bred to be strong and fearless for protection purposes, Dobermans Pinschers gained a reputation for being mean, overly aggressive dogs to strangers.

Do Dobermans have mental issues? ›

Doberman pinschers have a high prevalence of an analogous behavioral disorder termed canine compulsive disorder (CCD), which in many cases responds to treatments used for OCD.

At what age do Dobermans become aggressive? ›

Mature Adulthood (1 – 4 Years) During this period your dog may again become aggressive and assertive. For instance, he may become more turf-protective, by barking when someone comes to the door. Temper his protective behaviors by teaching him how to accept strangers into your home.

Do Dobermans pick one person? ›

Doberman pinschers are considered people-oriented dogs that are affectionate and sweet with people, if socialized and trained properly. They are loyal to their owners and are good with children if raised with them however, some Dobermans bond only to one person.

Why do Dobermans rest their head on you? ›

Plus, some dog breeds may be more likely to show affection by resting their head on their owners. Dogs like Great Danes, Dobermanns, King Charles Spaniels, for instance, are all breeds known to be cuddly and affectionate to their beloved Dog Owners.

Why do Dobermans nudge you? ›

“When a dog bumps or nudges you with their nose, it is usually because they want your attention or they want something from you.” Your dog probably learned to bump you with his nose. If you pet him every time he nudges you, he'll learn that it's an effective way to get your attention.

What is the life expectancy of a Doberman? ›

The Doberman lifespan is 10–12 years, and they're considered a healthy breed. But they can develop a few health issues pet parents should know to look out for.

What is special about a Doberman? ›

The Doberman Pinscher (Doberman) is a powerful and muscular member of the Working Group developed for police and military work and to be a protector and companion in the home. The breed originated in Germany and quickly gained popularity in other countries for its courage, intelligence, and loyalty.

What are the neurological issues with Dobermans? ›

Deafness with Vestibular Dysfunction (DVD), aka DINGS

In Doberman Pinschers, a neurological disorder causing deafness and balance/coordination issues, commonly referred to as DINGS, is associated with variants in two different genes.

What to know before owning a Doberman? ›

As large, active dogs, a Dobermann needs lots of exercise – at least 2 hours each day. They also need lots of ongoing training and should be well-socialised as puppies. Dobermanns are best suited to experienced owners who can invest the time their pet needs.

Are Dobermans afraid of water? ›

Dobermans have the strength, agility, and drive to be great swimmers. It's their bodies that aren't cooperating. That doesn't mean they can't swim, however. Given the chance and the right training, your Dobie can become a natural in the water.

Are Dobermans OK to be left alone? ›

While every dog, even those in the same species, will have a different tolerance to being alone, most Dobermans don't like being left alone and will usually start to get upset after about 8 hours.

References

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