Dobermans, originally bred by Louis Doberman, are the direct result of breeding between old German Shepherds, German Pinschers, Black and Tan Manchester Terriers, and Greyhounds. Typically, these dogs are used for military and police work, but they also make excellent pets, as Britannica notes.
It typically weighs 60-100 pounds and stands at 24-28 inches. A large breed, these dogs are vigorous, highly intelligent, and loyal. They also have a strong prey drive and must be trained early so they don’t end up chasing the squirrels in the dog park!
In this article, we’ll explore 10 breeds that are similar to the Doberman Pinscher in size, temperament, or socialization. We’ll help you find the perfect match for your family.
Dog Breeds similar to the Doberman Pinscher
1. German Shorthaired Pointer
Traits
German Shorthaired Pointer is medium to large-sized, standing at 21-25 inches and weighing 45-70 pounds. It has an athletic build and a short, dense, water-resistant coat. They have floppy ears and can live up to the age of 10-14.
German Shorthaired Pointers (GSPs) have short, smooth coats, typically in solid liver or liver and white patterns, while Dobermans also feature sleek, short coats in black or brown with distinctive rust-colored markings. Additionally, GSPs are generally smaller and more compact than Dobermans.
Personality
Its affectionate nature and friendliness make it a top choice with humans. The German Shorthaired Pointer was originally bred to be a hunting dog. Its prominent characteristics are high intelligence and endurance.
Originating in Germany, both GSPs and Dobermans are known for their intelligence and respond exceptionally well to training, especially when guided with positive reinforcement techniques.
2. Rottweiler
Traits
Rottweilers have strong muscular frames, but they are heavier and sturdier than Dobermans. According to the AKC, these dogs have a short black coat with rust markings.
They also have broader faces and wide-set eyes. Due to their large and heavy bodies, this dog is highly susceptible to hip dysplasia.
Personality
Incredibly vigorous, these dogs were commonly used for police or military work. Most people fear that they can be aggressive, but early training and socialization make them loyal and friendly.
Considered by owners as confident and calm dogs, the Rottweiler is incredibly protective and good at guarding. Moreover, they are used for search and rescue operations as well.
3. Beauceron
Traits
A military veteran and “French Shepherd”, the Beauceron is much larger and heavier than a Doberman. It has a smooth, double short coat, which makes it suited to colder climates. Its life span is 10-12 years if humans take care of its grooming and health.
Personality
Three words for these dogs: Strong, powerful, and faithful. The Beaucerons are protective watchdogs. Unlike the Doberman Pinscher, the Beauceron is more independent. It also has strong herding instincts.
But that doesn’t mean it doesn’t get along with its family. With proper instruction and early socialization, they are also well-mannered and calm around other people and pets.
4. Polish Hunting Dog
Traits
Weighing about 55-75 pounds, Polish Hunting Dogs are a medium-sized breed. They have soft ears and a short, shiny outer coat. Unlike other breeds, these dogs have a bushy tail and a deep chest.
They are about 20-26 inches in length and have a muscular and rugged frame. A Polish Hunting Dog can live up to 10-13 years.
The Polish Hunting Dog is noted for its well-proportioned head, long muzzle, and drop ears; traits also shared by the Doberman. Both breeds usually feature a short, smooth coat and are commonly seen in black and tan or red and tan colorations.
Personality
Brave and gentle companions, these dogs have high intelligence. They are prone to following a scent and protecting others. Although they are friendly like the Doberman, these dogs are still a bit more reserved. This makes them excellent watchdogs.
5. Vizsla
Traits
Coming to you now is a dog breed that was originally bred in Hungary to point and retrieve. Although not very similar to the Doberman in physical appearance, these dogs have similar temperaments.
The Vizsla stands at 22-25 inches and can live up to 12-15 years. They are gold-rust colored with droopy ears. They weigh about 55-60 pounds and require daily exercise and love.
Personality
It is very affectionate, making it a perfect family dog. They are energetic and athletic and require daily mental and physical stimulation. They are very loyal and respond well to positive reinforcement.
They are better suited to homes with older kids. They are also eager to please and are called Velcro-dogs as they are very attached to their people.
6. Manchester Terrier
Traits
Unlike all the dogs mentioned before, these dogs are smaller in size and belong to the toy breed. They only weigh 12-22 pounds and stand at 15-16 inches.
They have a short, smooth, and glossy coat and come in two colors only: black and tan. Their ears are cropped just like the typical Doberman.
Personality
Originally respected for being vermin control and hunters, these dogs have a high prey drive and are prone to barking. With early training and socialization, they become more obedient.
Don’t think that because they are small, they are not active. They require daily physical and mental stimulation. They have many attributes such as being spirited, alert, and curious.
7. German Pinscher
Traits
German Pinscher is about 17-20 inches in length. A medium-sized breed, it weighs about 25-45 pounds and is much smaller than your typical Doberman. It was originally bred for guarding and hunting purposes.
Their life span is around 12-14 years on average. They are highly susceptible to eye problems such as cataracts and corneal dystrophy. Therefore, regular visits to the vet are advised.
Personality
Robustness and agility are one of their greatest characteristics. Just like Dobermans, they have high intelligence and are confident and alert. They don’t have a protective nature like the latter, but they are devoted to their owners.
High intelligence and energy mean that they need to be trained early. As they have a strong prey drive, they need to be supervised at all times. Otherwise, it might possibly chase and hunt any other animals in your backyard.
8. Weimaraner
Traits
Several breeds were crossbred to create a unique combination of speed, tracking, and resilience. The Weimaraner is a hunting dog with an athletic and long-limbed body.
It stands at 23-27 inches and weighs about 55-90 pounds. Its life span is 10-15 years with consistent care. It has a silver-gray coat and floppy ears.
While Weimaraners and Dobermans share similarities, like their German origins, large size, and athletic build, they differ notably in appearance, temperament, and original purpose.
Personality
This dog is very smart and energetic. It was used for hunting, so it has moderate protective instincts. It is not highly trainable, but with patience and persistence, it becomes very attached to its family.
They need to be occupied with various activities, or else they’ll resort to behaviors such as chewing and digging. They are best suited to pet owners who enjoy outdoor events.
9. Miniature Pinscher
Traits
Another dog that is part of the toy breed is the Miniature Pinscher. “Min Pins” are only 10-12 inches in length and weigh about 8-12 pounds. They have a short and sleek coat.
The Miniature Pinschers are fine-boned creatures. Just like Dobermans, they have erect and cropped ears. They come in the same colors as well: black and tan, red, and chocolate. They can live up to 12-16 years too!
Personality
Also known as the king of toy breeds, these sweet and adorable pups are confident and curious. They are also very smart, but also incredibly mischievous. Due to its outgoing and friendly attributes, it is favored as a family pet.
Although it isn’t as big as other dogs, it is a great watchdog and barks very loudly. They are also very fearless and have protective instincts.
10. Australian Kelpie
Traits
Originally used as sheep herders, these were imported from Scotland to Australia. PetMD suggests that they are related to the Collie dog breed. They have large, erect ears and come in red, tan, brown, and black.
Personality
Similar to a lot of other dogs on this list, the Australian Kelpie is loyal and dynamic. Since they are focused on finishing work, they require order and structure in their lives. Agility course or dock-diving challenges are great for this dog.
Conclusion
Many people prefer Dobermans because of their loyalty and intelligence. They share many qualities and behaviors with various breeds such as the German Pinscher, Australian Kelpie, and Polish Hunting Dog.
Some resemble them in appearance and alertness. Meanwhile, others are similar when it comes to trainability and temperament. Overall, these breeds are the perfect combination of elegance, activity, and protective nature.
