The saying “appearances can be deceptive” is very true for the Doberman Pinscher. This dog looks ferocious with fierce eyes and an imposing personality but has a loving and pleasing nature. It is a big, lean dog with a powerful chest and a bullet shaped head. The Doberman Pinscher is a member of the working group of dogs and was once bred as a watch dog or police dog, originally to protect a tax collector. They are known as alert and loyal companions.
While training a Doberman Pinscher keep in mind that your Doberman needs a lot of exercise and is much happier in a fenced yard than inside the apartment. What it lacks in energy it makes up with its immense endurance capabilities. Dobermans often do not realize their own strength and being highly energetic can knock your child down. So, you need to be careful if you have children and a Doberman puppy. Remember that your puppy will get in to something only if you allow it. Don't create an environment for your Doberman where he would have opportunities to do something that you would not want him to do.
Known for being devoted family dogs, it is not difficult to train them. They will do anything to please their owners., and take pride in helping their owner. Your Doberman will love you unconditionally. Here are a few Doberman Pinscher training tips:
- Teach him the five basic commands of sit, stay, heel, down and come in a systematic manner. Begin with ‘sit’. Place your dog on your left and firmly give the command running your hand down your dog’s back to guide him. Praise him and hold him in the same position, then release your hand, praise him and give him a treat. Repeat this many times.
- ‘Come’ is a command that he will love so long as you convince him it means a happy, fun experience. So, don’t call him to correct him, and he will obey you instantly.
- Take him for short walks to familiarize him with other people, places and strange noises. Always keep your dog on short leash.
- Next, teach him the ‘stay’ command by placing your hand in front of his nose and giving the command. Move just a step or two back in the beginning and tell him to sit and stay there. Gradually increase the distance as you move away from him and make him stay longer.
- Doberman Pinscher training begins as soon as you bring him home. You may want to take him to puppy obedience classes, which will help you train and socialize your puppy while he is still young and easy to control.
- ‘Heel’ is to teach him not to lunge at anyone while walking by your side. Just say a firm ‘no’ whenever he tries to do that and give the leash a quick snap. He will get the message.
- ‘Down’ will be the most complicated command to teach. Place your dog in the sit position, and say “down,” as you gently push his front legs out into the down position. Talk gently to him, stroke his back and praise him.