THE RESPONSIBLE DOBERMAN GUARDIAN

Aside from the basics of care (affection, proper housing, diet, training and exercise), we must remember that the Doberman is a guard dog, not a lap dog! As the owner of a guard dog, you must be fully accountable for your dog's actions. That means you will not only train the dog to be a good canine citizen, you will also make sure it is under your supervision and control at all times.

Originally bred as a personal protection dog, the Doberman is the only breed specifically developed for that purpose. This does NOT mean the breed is vicious--quite the contrary, the doberman must be mentally stable yet always alert and ready to defend its master and home. A dog like this requires a knowledgeable owner, one who understands the importance of proper care, training and breeding. Without these tools, owning a Doberman can be a frustrating and difficult experience. However, if you have a well-bred, top quality dog and the knowledge of how to bring out the best in it, you should be prepared to have the best dog you've ever known!

An intelligent, physically healthy Doberman requires plenty of exercise (physical and mental) and human companionship. Building a good relationship with your dog is time well spent. Without it you'll find the dog becomes bored and destructive. If you MUST kennel your dog every day, then you MUST also spend some concentrated quality time to release pent up energy that otherwise will be quite destructive. A fenced yard is necessary (so the dog is not running loose all over the neighborhood), but it is not enough to just open the door and let the dog out. YOU must spend quality time with your dog (playing, training, etc.). This is critical, especially with Dobermans. If you cannot provide the time necessary to have a physically and mentally healthy dog, please don't buy a Doberman. A non-working breed may suit you better.

This is NOT a breed for everyone, and you must consider your own personality, physical environment and emotional needs before you decide to acquire a Doberman. When you come to Von Huffe for a Doberman, I evaluate both the dog and you (the prospective guardian) for compatibility and suitability for each other. This is a lifetime companion and committment. Choose your dog as carefully as you would choose a best friend and soul mate.

You are responsible for every aspect of your dog's life: grooming, feeding, exercise, training, veterinary care, affection, etc. It will be a member of your family, and should be cared for accordingly; nothing less is acceptable for a Von Huffe Doberman. When you acquire a Doberman, you should consider the breeder as your link to responsible and fulfilling dog ownership. At Von Huffe we provide a lifetime of information and help with nutrition, training, housing, care, equipment, and advice.

COMING SOON TO THIS SECTION: Ear Care, Nail Care, Oral Hygiene, Ear Taping, Whisker Trimming and Much more.

FALL 2001 LITTER OWNERS: Consult your Veterinarian ASAP concerning ear cropping. Be sure your Vet is experience at cropping Dobermans. Be certain of the style you desire (military, standard, show) and provide photos to the vet if necessary. In some cases, a Vet will suggest a short cut because he feels the ears will have a better chance of standing. This is usually not true except in extreme cases where the puppy is older than he should be for cropping. Be aware that by suggesting a "short cut", your Vet may be expressing a lack of confidence in his ability to perform the proceedure and to help you with aftercare. Please contact us if you have any questions or concerns about cropping your puppy's ears.

You may free feed your Fall 2001 puppy at this time.

Be sure to keep current on your Vaccinations.

You may begin light leash training at this time.

Crate training and House Training are suggested at this time.

Take care in the hours of the day when Mosquitoes are most active to shelter the puppy. We suggest the puppy only be outside for brief periods at this time.

Begin making sure your puppy is comfortable with your touching his feet. Play with his feet often and trim the nail tips. We suggest holding the puppies feet daily and going through the motions of clipping the nails (faking it), to keep the puppy accustomed. If you plan to use an electric roto tool, start using this around the puppy as well.

Begin inspecting and touching the puppies teeth and gums daily to keep him comfortable with future routine oral hygiene.

Begin inspecting and touching the puppies ears daily to keep him comfortable with future routine ear hygiene.