Can you imagine a dog that is scarier than the Doberman Pinscher? Or maybe the German Shepherd? No? Well, there is. A German Shepherd Doberman Mix! This is a mixed breed that would scare anyone!
But, just because they look scary, does it mean they are dangerous too? How are they by nature and what do they even look like?
That is exactly what we’re going to answer in this article! We’ll learn everything about the Doberman Shepherd.
German Shepherd Doberman Mix – Everything to know
The Doberman Shepherd is an interesting mixed breed. But they are of course not recognized by the AKC. They are very powerful, but some of their characteristics might surprise you.
What they look like
This breed is a mixed breed. So, we don’t know how they will really look like. But, we can get an idea by looking at the parent breeds.
Of course, the puppies can look more like one or the other parent. But they can also look like both of them.
What we do know is that they will be big dogs! Very big actually! They will get between 22 to 26 inches tall and weigh between 90 to 100 pounds.
ALSO READ Saint Berdoodle: The gentle giant and family dog
The Doberman Shepherd is a muscular dog. But they are also lean and have long muzzles and dark, scary eyes.
Their ears are usually upright. Their coat is short but very soft. It can be black, tan, or a mix of black and tan colors. The Doberman has a single-layer coat. German Shepherds have a double coat. So their mix can have either.
What they’re like
The GSD and the Doberman are very loyal and protective dogs. They are also athletic and smart. So their mix is all that. And even more!
It might not seem like it, but this dog is loving and affectionate. They are attached to their family and love to show them how much they love them. So, you could say that they are intimidating on the outside, but loving and gentle on the inside.
We can’t forget how smart they are either. They are probably one of the smartest dogs in the world. So it’s important to train them well. And because they are protective over their humans, early socialization is a must too.
They need to see as many people, animals, and places as possible. Otherwise, they might get aggressive when they see an unfamiliar face. And with this dog, you definitely don’t want that.
Given their nature, does the German Shepherd Doberman Mix make a good family dog?
The answer is, it depends. If you train them well and socialize properly, then yes. They can make a good family dog. But you should still be careful if you have small kids. These dogs are usually gentle and loving, but because of their size, they can unintentionally knock your kid over and hurt them.
Great guard dogs
We know that these dogs are strong. We also know that they are protective. So, does that mean they are good guard dogs?
The German Shepherd Doberman Mix is a mix of the two most popular guard dogs in the world. So, the answer is yes. They make excellent guard dogs.
But, it’s not only their size and muscles that make them good guard dogs.
ALSO READ Peekapoo: The not so popular designer dog
They are also reliable, you can really count on them to protect you. If they sense you’re in danger, they won’t hesitate to bite anyone who wants to hurt you. And their bone-breaking bite can be a dangerous weapon.
The last reason why these dogs make good guard dogs is that they are observant and alert. They will pick up any unknown sound and smell, and let you know what is going on.
Exercise and care
Your German Shepherd Doberman Mix can have a coat that’s like the GSD’s or the Doberman’s. If it’s like the GSD’s then you’ll have to brush them three to four times a week. They will also have a double coat, so the shedding will get worse twice per year.
If your dog’s coat is like that of a Doberman’s then they will hardly shed and brushing them once a week will be enough.
The Doberman Shepherd has a lifespan of 10 to 12 years. If you want them to live a long and happy life you have to feed them a healthy and balanced diet. And don’t forget about exercise.
These dogs need between 90 minutes to two hours of exercise a day. And that is an active exercise. Not only quick walks. You have to take them on jogs, hikes, long walks. Also, take them to the dog park as much as possible and play games with them. Like, fetch or throw them a frisbee.
ALSO READ Doberman Pitbull Mix: Best Of Both Worlds?
Mental stimulation is very important too. These dogs are smart, so you have to entertain them and mentally challenge them.
Conclusion
The German Shepherd Doberman Mix is an amazing dog. Smart, brave, and loving. What more could you ask for?
But, they definitely are not for everyone. They will be perfect for families that live in a big house and have a large yard. These dogs aren’t expensive. They cost between 200 and 500 dollars. But it’s not easy taking care of them.
They need someone who will have time for them. Someone who will train them and teach them.
These dogs need a lot of care and attention, and they need someone who knows what they are doing. Someone who has experience with dogs. So, they are not suited for first-time dog owners.
I know it sounds like a lot of requirements. But it really is like that. The German Shepherd Doberman Mix is not a high-maintenance dog when it comes to grooming. But they are a high-maintenance dog when it comes to training.
If you don’t train them well, you’re risking them being aggressive and hurting someone.
So, if you’re not that person, then this mixed breed might not be for you.