Exquisite Dobermans: A Guide to Training, Care, and Ownership
Beginning Your Journey with a Doberman
Welcome to the world of Doberman companionship—where intelligence meets devotion, and love comes wrapped in strength and elegance. At Exquisite Dobermans, we don’t simply provide you with a puppy—we entrust you with a lifelong partner.
Dobermans are more than pets; they are deeply connected companions who rely on their owners for guidance, protection, and purpose. Raising a Doberman requires more than affection—it demands commitment, consistency, and thoughtful leadership. This guide is designed to equip you with the knowledge and tools necessary to raise a well-adjusted, confident, and happy dog.
Whether your Doberman comes from our program or another reputable breeder, this resource will help you grow into a thinking owner—one who understands the breed, anticipates its needs, and rises to the challenges of responsible ownership.
A Partnership Built on Respect and Responsibility
Welcoming a Doberman into your life is the start of a shared journey—one filled with discovery, discipline, and deep connection. Success comes not through shortcuts but through patience, understanding, and daily effort. Your dog will look to you for clear direction, emotional stability, and unwavering care.
Let this guide be your trusted companion as you step into the rewarding role of Doberman ownership.
The Bond and the Challenges of Ownership
· A Heartfelt Commitment: Owning a Doberman is a promise—to love, protect, and advocate for your dog through every stage of life. From energetic puppyhood to the quiet dignity of their senior years, your role includes managing health, navigating behavioral changes, and sometimes making tough decisions with compassion and courage.
Your Doberman Health Choices: Think Critically, Act Wisely
Your Doberman’s health hinges on the decisions you make. Applying logical judgment, critical thinking, and a deep understanding of your dog’s normal behavior are essential in choosing the best path forward. Whether facing a minor concern, a serious symptom, or routine care, asking the right questions helps prevent panic, unnecessary expenses, and emotional choices that may not benefit your dog.
Start with a Baseline
Build a clear understanding of your dog’s usual behavior and health. This baseline lets you quickly spot when something is wrong. Ask yourself:
· What has changed?
Some issues are minor and resolve easily, while others may require surgery or intensive care. In some unfortunate cases, no amount of diagnostics or specialist care can alter the outcome. Remember, every decision ultimately rests with you—you are your dog’s best advocate.
Ask the Hard Questions
· Is my dog in severe pain?
· What caused this pain or symptom?
· What is the most likely diagnosis?
· What is the prognosis?
· Will further tests change the treatment or outcome?
· Could rest and comfort be a better first step?
· What physical activities can my dog safely do or not do?
· How old is my dog?
· Does my dog have other existing health issues?
Every situation is unique. Reacting purely on emotion without considering these questions can lead to costly testing and treatments that may not improve the outcome.
Know Your Options
Veterinary care is important, but not always urgent or expensive. Many medications can be sourced over-the-counter or through reputable pharmacies outside of your vet’s office. Routine care like vaccinations and wellness exams may be available at local clinics or pet store services at a lower cost. Always assess your situation carefully and explore all available alternatives.
Scenario: Limping After Exploring
Imagine your Doberman returns from exploring your wooded acreage walking on three legs. When he left, he was fine. Now ask:
· Is he in severe, acute pain or just slightly uncomfortable?
· Is there swelling, bruising, or an open wound?
· Is he resting calmly, alert, eating and drinking normally?
· Does he wag his tail when you look at him?
If he seems comfortable and not distressed, it may not be a severe injury. Could it be a broken leg? Possibly—but consider:
· What will the vet likely do if I take him in now?
· Does the vet have X-ray and treatment capabilities?
· If not, will I be referred elsewhere and have to repeat exams?
· Will a specialist redo imaging and tests anyway?
In some cases, visiting a clinic lacking full capabilities might only delay care and add expense. If your dog isn’t in visible distress, limiting activity and monitoring closely for improvement can be a wise first step. This isn’t about avoiding care—it’s about choosing the right care at the right time.
Reach Out, Research, and Reflect
Never underestimate the value of your own research and advice from others. Connect with fellow Doberman owners, breeders, or people who have faced similar issues—sometimes the most useful insights come from trusted experience. Use available tools—search engines, AI programs, or online forums—to explore symptoms and possible causes.
For example, searching something like:
“Dog was fine this morning, came back limping on three legs, no open wounds, alert and wagging tail,”
can reveal patterns or advice that help you feel more confident in your next steps.
Your Responsibility as an Advocate
Ultimately, you hold the reins. You know your dog better than anyone. Be their voice. Approach decisions calmly and logically. Balance emotion with clear thinking and informed action.
You don’t need to panic, nor do you need to spend recklessly. You just need to think critically and advocate wisely.
Core Commands Every Doberman Should Know
A well-trained Doberman begins with consistent, clear communication. Mastering the basics sets the foundation for all future behavior. Here are the essential commands your Doberman should learn early on:
1. Sit
This command helps establish focus and impulse control.
How to teach it:
Gently guide your puppy into a seated position by lifting their chin while pushing back and saying, “Sit.” Immediately praise and reward once they respond correctly.
2. Stay
“Stay” teaches patience and reinforces trust in your leadership.
How to teach it:
With your puppy in the sit position, hold your hand out, palm facing them, and say “Stay.” Step back gradually, increasing the duration as they succeed. Always return to your dog to release the stay—never call them out of it.
3. No
This is a correctional cue, not a punishment. Use it to redirect and guide.
How to teach it:
Use a firm, calm “No” when your Doberman displays unwanted behavior. Immediately redirect them toward the correct action or command, followed by praise when they comply.
4. Come
A critical command for safety and responsiveness.
How to teach it:
Call your dog with enthusiasm using their name and the command, “Come!” When they arrive, have them sit in front of you and hold the position. This teaches a composed return, reinforcing obedience and attentiveness.
Incorporating Training into Mealtime
Training doesn’t stop at designated sessions—it’s a part of daily life. Feeding time is a perfect opportunity to reinforce discipline and self-control.
Step-by-step feeding ritual:
1. Ask your puppy to “Sit” and “Stay.”
2. Lower the food bowl slowly. If your puppy moves before you give permission, calmly say “No,” reset, and repeat the command.
3. Only release them to eat with “Okay” once they remain seated until given the signal.
4. Follow up with praise like “Good boy!” or “Good girl!” to reinforce the behavior.
Using Treats and Rewards Wisely
Positive reinforcement is powerful—but should be used intentionally.
· Training Treats: Small pieces of cheese or other dog-safe snacks work well for teaching early commands like “Come,” “Sit,” and “Stay.”
· Gradual Phase-Out: Once your Doberman understands the behavior, begin replacing treats with verbal praise and physical affection.
· Structure Matters: For the “Come” command, don’t just reward the act of coming. Reward the full behavior: come, sit, and stay calmly in front of you.
Creating an Environment for Success
Setting your Doberman puppy up for success starts with structure, patience, and a safe, predictable environment. By establishing the right routines early, you’ll pave the way for a well-mannered and confident companion.
Crate Training: Building Confidence and Structure
Crate training is not just about containment—it provides your puppy with a safe, quiet place to rest and recharge.
· A healthy puppy can typically remain crated up to 8 hours overnight without accidents, which signals strong house-training potential.
· Use the crate as a positive space, not a punishment. Place it in a low-traffic, quiet area and make it inviting with a comfortable bed and a safe chew toy.
Potty Training: Routine and Consistency
Potty training hinges on timing and consistency.
· Immediately after removing your puppy from the crate, carry them directly to their designated outdoor potty area. This prevents mid-trip accidents and reinforces the right location.
· Praise and reward them when they go outside to build a strong positive association.
Supervision: Preventing Problems Before They Start
Whenever your puppy is outside the crate, constant supervision is essential. Puppies are naturally curious, and without guidance, they may chew inappropriately or have accidents.
· Keep them in a puppy-proofed area with easy-to-clean floors. Use baby gates or exercise pens to manage their space.
· Gradually expand their freedom as they demonstrate reliability with potty habits and behavior.
· Remember: puppies sleep 18 to 20 hours a day, so your supervision windows are short—but vital.
Behavior Correction: Teaching Through Clear Communication
Correcting unwanted behavior isn’t about punishment—it’s about guiding your Doberman toward better choices. Your goal is to clearly communicate boundaries while reinforcing positive habits.
Immediate Correction: Redirect and Replace
Timely feedback is critical when addressing inappropriate behavior.
· Use a firm, calm “No” paired with a physical cue—such as removing the item or redirecting your puppy’s attention—when they chew or engage with something off-limits.
· Immediately offer an appropriate alternative, such as a chew toy or bone, to show what’s acceptable.
· Remember: you’re not just stopping the behavior—you’re teaching what’s right.
Distance Correction: Safe Tools for Reinforcement
When your puppy is out of reach and engaging in unwanted behavior, a squirt bottle set to a stream can be an effective way to interrupt the action without startling them too harshly.
· Always follow up by redirecting and rewarding appropriate behavior, helping your Doberman understand what earns praise.
Managing Nipping: Early Correction for Long-Term Success
Nipping is a natural behavior in puppies, especially during the teething phase. For Dobermans, who are highly interactive and energetic, it’s a common part of early development. However, addressing it early and consistently is essential to prevent it from becoming a lasting habit.
Why Puppies Nip
Doberman puppies nip for several reasons:
· Curiosity: Exploring the world with their mouths.
· Play: Engaging in social interaction with you or other animals.
· Teething: Easing discomfort as their adult teeth come in.
While normal, nipping must be corrected early—if left unchecked, it can evolve into more serious behavior known as biting in adulthood.
How to Correct It
You have options when it comes to correcting nipping, but no matter the method, consistency is the key. Dobermans are intelligent and quickly pick up on patterns.
· Respond immediately and clearly to every nip.
· Redirect their attention to an appropriate chew toy or behavior.
· Avoid play that encourages mouthiness (like roughhousing with hands).
Need Help? We’re Here for You
· For a video demonstration on effective nipping correction, feel free to contact us directly.
· Struggling with this stage? You’re not alone. Join us for a free training session at our facility, where we’ll walk you through hands-on techniques.
· If you can’t do it alone, contact a professional trainer who understands Doberman behavior.
Exercise and Mental Stimulation:
• Dobermans need both physical and mental stimulation.
• Physical: Regular, vigorous activities like fetch or running. Get them running to wear them down; playing fetch with a ball or frisbee or having them play fetch on the stairs, can be effective.
• Mental: Interaction with other dogs is the best of both worlds. It offers both physical and mental stimulation. Challenging toys can be beneficial. When no other dog is present, you must provide this stimulation.
Socialization and Behavior at Home: Building Good Habits Early
Your home is your Doberman’s first training ground. The way you guide them in everyday interactions—cuddling, meeting guests, or responding to excitement—lays the foundation for lifelong behavior. Here’s how to encourage calm, respectful conduct from day one.
Cuddling: Calm Connection After Activity
Cuddling is a powerful bonding experience, especially in a Doberman’s early months.
· Schedule cuddle time after exercise and bathroom breaks, when your puppy is calm and more receptive to affection.
· If nipping occurs during cuddle sessions, interrupt gently and redirect to a toy or appropriate chew item. Physical closeness should always be associated with calm, respectful behavior.
Jumping and Rough Play: Stop It Before It Starts
While jumping may seem harmless as a puppy, it quickly becomes problematic as your Doberman grows.
· Discourage jumping from day one using a firm “No” and stepping away to remove attention.
· Redirect their energy into sitting or staying for praise or petting.
· Avoid roughhousing that encourages wild or mouthy behavior, especially with hands or clothing.
Guest Introductions: Set the Tone for Success
New people can be exciting—and sometimes overwhelming—for a young Doberman.
· When guests arrive, keep your dog crated or in a separate safe space until everyone is settled.
· Introduce your dog calmly, and only if they are under control.
· Teach your Doberman to sit and stay before greeting guests, and only allow petting when calm behavior is maintained. This teaches respect and reinforces your leadership.
Training Philosophy: Foundation First, Progress with Purpose
Effective training begins with clarity, consistency, and respect. At the heart of our philosophy is the belief that a well-behaved Doberman is built on a strong foundation, not flashy tricks. Our approach prioritizes meaningful behavior over entertainment—because a calm, cooperative dog is a joy in every setting.
1. Master the Basics First
Before moving on to advanced commands or fun tricks, your Doberman should have a solid grasp of the essentials:
· Sit
· Stay
· No
· Come
These core commands build structure and prevent confusion during future training. They’re the foundation of clear communication and everyday obedience.
2. Behavior Comes Before Tricks
Focus on establishing respectful behavior before teaching novelty commands.
A dog who understands boundaries, calmness, and self-control is far easier to train in more advanced or specialized skills. Behavior management should always come first.
3. Rely on Proven, Real-World Techniques
The methods outlined in this guide are grounded in years of hands-on experience and tailored to the Doberman’s unique temperament.
Every interaction is an opportunity to teach. With consistent guidance and the right approach, your Doberman’s intelligence will drive steady, natural learning.
Training isn’t about dominating—it’s about leading with confidence, fairness, and clarity.
House Training: Patience and Practical Solutions
Accidents are a natural part of raising a young puppy and should never cause frustration or harsh reactions. With time and consistent training, your Doberman will learn proper bathroom habits—though occasional mishaps may still happen. Here’s how to manage accidents calmly and effectively:
Handling Accidents
· Cleaning Up Urine:
The most effective way to clean up urine is with an old bath towel. Place the dry towel over the puddle and press down firmly with your foot to absorb the moisture. Afterward, rinse the towel in a rinse cycle before washing it thoroughly to remove any lingering odors.
· Cleaning Up Feces:
Use two large, inexpensive putty knives or drywall scrapers—available at any hardware store—to carefully scoop up solid waste. Scrape the knives against each other to remove residue before sanitizing them with towels used for cleaning the area.
· Sanitation:
Always follow up accidents by disinfecting the area with pet-safe cleaners to maintain a hygienic, odor-free home environment.
A Flexible Approach
These tips are based on years of experience, but every home and puppy is unique. Feel free to adapt these methods to what works best for your lifestyle and space.
Observation and Selective Correction: Training with Understanding and Intent
Successful training starts with truly knowing your Doberman. Before applying corrections, take time to observe your puppy’s natural behaviors, responses, and body language. This insight allows you to tailor your approach to their unique personality and needs.
1. Observe First, Correct Later
Spend quality time watching how your puppy interacts with their environment and people. Understanding the why behind their actions helps you address behaviors thoughtfully rather than reactively.
2. Correct What Matters Most
Not every behavior requires immediate correction. Focus your efforts on actions that are genuinely problematic, unsafe, or disruptive. Over-correcting can cause confusion, fear, or negative associations with training.
Example: If your puppy is chewing as part of exploration, avoid correcting every chew. Instead, intervene only when they choose inappropriate objects, then redirect them to approved chew toys.
3. Balance Correction with Positive Reinforcement
When you do correct unwanted behavior, always pair it with positive reinforcement. Show your puppy what you want them to do—if you correct nipping, reward gentle play or chewing on toys. This builds clear communication and motivation.
4. Consistency Is Crucial
Dogs learn through patterns and repetition. Ensure corrections are consistent in timing, tone, and method—across all family members. For example, if jumping up is not allowed, everyone should correct it the same way to avoid mixed signals.
5. Consider the Context
Not all behaviors are created equal. A nip during playful interaction might call for a different response than a nip seeking attention. Sometimes, redirecting your puppy’s energy or focus is more effective than correction alone.
6. Practice Patience and Timing
Use corrections sparingly and with calm patience. Immediate intervention isn’t always necessary—sometimes a moment of quiet observation reveals the root cause of a behavior and helps you craft a more effective training plan.
· Learning From Your Puppy: Training is a true partnership. Your Doberman teaches you just as much as you teach them. By paying attention to their reactions and learning style, you can adapt your approach to better meet their needs and strengthen your bond.
· Emotional Decisions, Practical Choices:
- Love Leads, Wisdom Guides: While your heart may push for immediate action, wise care requires weighing the costs, necessity of treatment, and overall quality of life for your pet.
- Aging Gracefully: As your Doberman grows older or faces chronic health challenges, prioritize comfort and happiness—sometimes that means focusing on quality of life rather than simply extending it.
Our Breeder’s Promise
At Exquisite Dobermans, our goal is to set you and your new companion on the path to a lifetime of happiness and fulfillment. We offer guidance, share our knowledge, and support you every step of the way—while acknowledging that some health challenges are unpredictable and beyond anyone’s control.
We encourage you to approach ownership with both heart and mind, ensuring your Doberman’s life is rich with love, attentive care, and joy.
· I understand that owning a Doberman requires commitment to training and agree to either personally train my dog or seek professional assistance.
· I pledge to embrace pet ownership with a balance of love and responsibility, recognizing the unpredictable nature of life’s journey. I commit to providing the best possible life for my Doberman, nurturing a deep emotional bond while making informed, practical decisions.