Doberman Lifespan Bombshell: One Type of Doberman is Outliving the Rest!

Did you know that different varieties of Dobermans have different life expectancies?! Join us in this eye-opening interview with Dr. Sophie Liu, co-founder of the Doberman Diversity Project, as we delve into a groundbreaking study on the lifespan of Dobermans! We reveal the shocking findings held within the lifespan data and broken down by type of Doberman, including American Pet, American Show, European Working, European Show, Australian, U.K., and American/European Hybrid. Uncover the prevalence of diseases like Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM) and their impact on Doberman longevity. We also reveal which type of Doberman is defying the odds and living significantly longer than the rest! This is a must-watch for any Doberman enthusiast seeking insight into the health and longevity of this beloved breed.
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TIMESTAMPS
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00:00 Introduction
01:11 Meet Dr. Sophie Liu
01:55 The Real Lifespan of Dobermans
04:20 Inbreeding Concerns
05:04 Different Types of Dobermans and Their Lifespan
10:04 Causes of Death for Dobermans (Disease Risks)
12:43 Are Dobermans Going Extinct?
14:05 The Longest Living Type of Doberman
16:12 Support the Doberman Diversity Project
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DISCLAIMER
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Doberman Planet specializes in the Doberman breed. We have significant knowledge of this breed and provide insight into the breed as a whole, but not on the individual dog. Individual dogs and circumstances vary, and therefore your experience may be different. We are not veterinarians, canine nutritionists, or behaviorists. Always consult with a qualified veterinarian, canine nutritionist, or other professional before making any decisions regarding the care, health, or diet of your dog. We often rely on the research, studies, and publications of experts while presenting certain related topics outside our field of expertise. This video presents the personal opinions and experiences of those seen speaking and may contain partial, anecdotal, or incomplete information. Their opinions do not necessarily represent those of Doberman Planet, its owners, employees, contractors, partners, affiliates, or other people or organizations associated with us. Watching this video does not supersede your responsibilities of doing your own research and due diligence.
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[@TheBurrito171]

Strong convictions toward "purity" are killing our dogs.

[@KingsMom831]

This

[@svenweihusen57]

Also a strong argument for the breeding organizations not doing their job. If you look around many of the show dogs, no matter the breed, are genetically sick. Some pure breed dogs are sick by design like some ultra long dachshounds or dogs which are unable to breathe freely. The main purpose of these organizations should be caring for the health of the dogs and not giving show prices to the most extreme breeder.

[@matthewhuszarik4173]

It isn’t just Dobermans striving to perfect breeds destroyed the German shepherds, Dachshunds, and many other breeds.

[@TheBurrito171]

@@matthewhuszarik4173 It is destroying every breed it touches. It's not just the AKC either, as European dog people like to pretend their organizations and practices are superior. For example, the cane corso was a generally healthy and active dog and now that the official breeding orgs have gotten their hands on it and set their rigid physical standards, the lifespan has completely tanked and we are seeing these massive overdone puppies drop dead of heart defects, with massive overdone adults dropping dead at 4 to 8 years old, looking like full adults by the time they are 1 and looking like 10 year olds by the time they are 5. The idea of purebreeding we have needs to change.

[@BlahBohogun]

Genetic diversity make stronger dogs. Unfortunately breeders exsist.

[@Jimmyprice258]

I had my red Dobie for 17 years, she died of cancer.

[@KillaCommieFerMommie]

17 years.... wow.... That's long for even a mongrel.

[@NBid-rp9ch]

Was she American or European? And my condolences🙏🏿

[@sherrcon]

it's always sad to lose your friend...and 17 years is a very long lifespan for any dog...

[@homesteadgmad8223]

17?!!! Wow! SUCH a blessing!! Do you recall what lines she came from?

[@Blacksheep12267]

I hope my girl has such a long life. Her predasesor was a Beagle. He was with me for 19 years.

[@emilyhagenauer3548]

I lost my Doberman a week ago to cervical vertebral malformation (Wobbler's), she was just over 7 years old. One say she hesitated a few seconds before going down the stairs to take her potty. It progressed quickly from there, and just over a month after that she was unable to walk or even stand without falling over, she could no longer go up and down the stairs, and floors and with anything other than carpet she needed me to carry her on. I am devastated, this dog was my best friend, my constant companion, the overwhelming majority of my non working time was devoted to her. We made it through so many changes together, and she adapted to all of it, perfectly happy as long as she was with me and my daughter. We were homeless, living in our car for six months, and focusing on her, on making sure she got her exercise, on keeping up with training, kept me from feeling defeated and hopeless. I can't sleep at night now, for seven years I fell asleep to my Doberman beside me, her head on my side. We have a one year old Belgian Malinois as well, and she is a wonderful, sweet dog. She adores my child and I, sleeps with my daughter every night. But she isn't a Doberman. I miss the constant need needed be touching me. The faint whining that started after about 10 minutes getting ready in the bathroom every morning. The silly, exuberant smile I got every time I came home. I dont think I will be ready for awhile, but I will get another Doberman eventually. It won't bring back my best friend, but it will ease the lonely place in my heart that only a Doberman could occupy.

[@darbiemayberry2902]

Oh my dear , I’m so sorry for your loss my heart breaks for you 💔some day I will get another Dobi too 💜sending you hugs 💜

[@rhapsodypianist]

Sending you hugs ❤

[@hokeypokeypots]

Yeah. I got a rescue three years ago that has just been diagnosed with it. Really depressing, since he's such a good boy. 😒 Had six Dobies before him and never even heard of this disease...and they all, except one, lived into their 14s. Had to put a blue one down at 9 or so because of the incurable skin disease that blues can get. I just can't afford the MRI, operation and rehab that he'd need to recover...about $10K or so. He's still able to walk and doesn't seem to be suffering, so I'm giving him a lot of love and shorter walks until the time comes for me to say goodbye.

[@user-tb4ij7zx1y]

Sorry for your loss. I too lost my soul dog 12/12/23 A Great Dane. I feel the same as you. However since his brother was so lonely we have already adopted two puppies. They do not take his place. However - they keep me busy and focused. When you are ready- honor your best friend by giving another the passion you have to love that much!!!💔💔💔

[@gregdean8441]

I am sorry for your loss please look after the malinois and don't neglect it because it's not a Doberman it deserves love as well .

[@gardengirl7258]

I have a zipper-nosed, red European/American hybrid line with 13 years under her collar. She was diagnosed with liver cancer two years ago and still hanging in pretty strong.

[@robertblake3385]

My Black American Doberman lived until 15 and passed from cancer. My current Doberman is red and almost 6. This totally scares me to death I wouldn't know what to do we are together 24/ 7 no exaggeration. I've left him with my wife without me there about 40-50 hrs total at the most. We have not been apart at all for the last 3 years. He has turned into my Siamese twin. Best friend and son ever ❤

[@Grandassets]

Same, my K9s are never more than 50 feet from me, I think it gives them more of a reason to live, they have a job to do

[@dianeboysen1766]

One of my Doberman males lived to be 14 and a half years old. I miss him every day.

[@marcedoreste]

My current dog is 18 years old and even though she's old she's extremely healthy and energetic for her age. She's a small mix breed rescue dog probably has some terrier linage. I think mixed breeds are generally speaking healthier in the sense that there's less risk of specific diseases. That being said Dobermans are really amazing dogs and healthy too, despite bad fame of known issues they can suffer, most owners wont face problems generally speaking if they take good care. Dobermans are lean athletic dogs, gentle and loving. Sometimes, all you can do as their owner is love them back. Sometimes, things escape our human control. Guys love your dogs and of course check on them but there's no point ruining your time and happiness with your dogs over worrying about what could happen. It could happen to anyone, that's just life. Bad things happen to humans too. Sometimes things escape our control, sometimes we can try to make things better. But there's no point in worrying, specially if nothing has happened yet. What's the point of life besides living and enjoying it? I know what it feels like to lose your lifetime partner and trust me, nothing, NOTHING will fill that void you will always miss your dog every dog is special and irreplaceable, but trust me when I say having another Dog helps tremendously they always love you and you end up growing with them making space for them in your heart with all the other dogs you've owned, every single one of them owns a place in your heart and sometimes its really painful but your partner will make the ride easier. They truly understand human emotions. Anyways, forgive me for the long paragraphs. Stay healthy, enjoy life and your dogs. May God bless you. This channel is amazing.

[@lalylaly27]

Ty. And I'm sorry for your loss

[@julianb1474]

My boy was 8 yrs 5 months when he died with DCM. He would have classed as an "American Show" type. It was sudden and i'm still mourning 8 months later. The thing is he was never in pain, he was apparently healthy until his last week, and went quietly in his sleep. I sometimes reflect on how much worse it would have been if he'd had a long lingering decline and we'd have been faced with having to put him to sleep.

[@LxAxNxCxExR]

Sorry for your loss my friend, I Wish you the best.

[@DobermanPlanet]

Oh we are so sorry to hear this. But yes, completely agree with you that passing in his sleep at home definitely beats any other alternative. DCM is so devastating :( Our deepest condolences for your loss.

[@halosandhugs8129]

sending so many prayers for your healing! absolutely letting them go on their own is much better. as a family member of people who decided to euthanize, it is the most haunting decision you can make

[@JRPLawyeress1]

This shocks me. Our dogs lived to 12, 10, 10, and 10. My husband and I had Dobermans back in the 1980s and 1990s. Two with papers. Two abandoned. The puppy with papers was a large, black and tan female. She started having some health problems young - four years old She developed hypothyroidism, diabetes and hip dysplasia. She was on synthroid and insulin. She was fairly active and was able to enjoy a good quality of life. She lived to 12. She passed away in her sleep. We had a huge red male we found abandoned. He was starved. He had Von Willebrand’s disease and hypothyroidism. Other than that he was a healthy dog. He went downhill overnight at 10. One day he was fine, then apparently some kind of cancer. He was paralyzed. The female’s mother died at 10 of breast cancer. Another smaller black female was a rescue. She died in an accident at about 10. Our son’s roommate’s male Doberman passed away at about seven from an unknown heart ailment. We all assumed it was a fluke. We were all broken up about Larry. Grown men in their 30s practically having a wake. They’re special dogs. We were cleaning our garage the other day and found a scrapbook of our Dobie puppy. From 1981. We still miss her. Our friends recently bred their Doberman. She’s got a sweet temperament. After watching this, I’m not tempted to get a puppy. There’s something special about Dobermans. The first dog I remember when I was four was our Doberman Fella. I loved that dog. I don’t want to go through that loss again. We have a sweet six year old lab-pit rescue female. Enjoy your show. Thanks.

[@taylorle1206]

maybe they had better genetics back then? I remember seeing Dobies all over the place in that era - and at least here in Toronto - I rarely see one.

[@DobermanPlanet]

Your Dobermans lived a long and happy life! Did you do anything special with their diet? Breeders may have been more careful back then. So glad you are enjoying your newest rescue now. Thank you for sharing some of your story with us! Dobermans definitely make a life-long impact!

[@kathleenkistler3403]

I am on my 4th Doberman. I absolutely love the breed. All 4 of my dogs have been rescues, so I have never known exactly how old they were when I got them. Since one was a puppy when I got her, I know that she lived to 11. The others were all adults. One died a mere 8 months after I brought her into my home. The vet kept misdiagnosing the symptoms despite repeated visits. She finally got it right but... too late. My dog had a massive heart attack within 2 days of starting on medication. My first Doberman probably also had a heart attack though that was never officially determined. The dog who lived to 11 (who I had since she was a puppy), had a glorious life of beach walking and running every day. However, she eventually lost the ability to stand or walk and ended up in so much pain I had to euthanize her. My current dog was in a shelter for an entire year before I got her. My best estimate is that she is around 8. So far, she is in excellent health (though she has terrible alopecia. I know they are not a long lived breed so I treasure every moment that I have with them. Though the heartbreak on losing them is devastating, I just keep coming back for more doberman!

[@hypethevipe5724]

Wow nice

[@Veloce2000]

❤Your love for Dobeys is admirable. I only had 1Dobey back in the 80s who lived to about 9yrs. He was well trained & cheeky as well. Till dis day i still look at his photos & miss those great times. There is a belief we'l meet our loved ones, pets alike , after this life. 🙏 I hope it is true.

[@tenabarnes3269]

I owned a red Doberman that developed hair loss and a spot on her nose that looked like a fungus(spot was raw and moist) ithe vet diagnosed her with a thyroid problem . I gave her synthroid and she was fine.

[@terrymoser2028]

My Red baby girl saved my life. She was rescue. As I got well she was lost to lymphoma. My sweet amazing Lady❤❤❤

[@Lola_in_the_Black]

We had a European doberman and she lived 14 years and a half :)

[@carolscarbrough7240]

Our American doberman lived 12 1/2 yrs

[@edgarvaca9238]

👍🏽 environment, quality of their food / exercise and Vaccinations too much / not enough

[@DobermanPlanet]

Wow! What a long life. We would love to hear what you did with her food, exercise, and medical check-ups if you want to send an email to [e-mail]!

[@Lola_in_the_Black]

@@DobermanPlanet Sure! I have to check with Dad though - we got her when I was 8 and while I knew about majority of things my Parents, especially Dad since he knew a lot about dobermans, that took care of her the most. I'd like to make sure before writing to you :)

[@str0matolite]

Thank you! Max, an American hybrid, lived a bit over 11 years and was done in by a mix of old age and his hips (he was healthy but >100lbs). Our current Bowie is a Euro male with negative VWF and DCM markers and low (for the breed) inbreeding score, I will make sure to enlist him in the DDP right away. I very much appreciate you sharing this video!

[@suzannethepatriot8049]

My European lived to almost 10 and passed due to cancer. My American lived to be 5 and passed due to DCM. This was fascinating. I am still just very upset that Dobermans die so young. I adore this breed. I am having a difficult time pulling the trigger to get another Dobe.

[@marynoonan6111]

Dont. Get a different breed. A smaller dog lives a lot longer usually. It’s heart breaking to loose a dog at such young ages.

[@JulianaBlewett]

My mom had a dachshund that lived to be 17 and her veterinarian who bred dachshunds asked what the heck she was doing. My mom fed her strong heart dog food which was the cheapest dog food on the market at the time which was in the 1960s and '70s.

[@SandyRavenAuthor]

I had my male holtered 3 times before the age of 6. Each one came back clear, my vet was very happy as was my dog's breeder. She is very conscientious about her breeding program. My boy died of DCM at 6 yerars and 4 months--four months after his last clear exam. I no longer have faith in the testing.

[@ThatAnimalChannel]

Holtered?

[@fladaboi8419]

I would say thats true. My girl just turned 12 yrs old in Feb. and I have 2 two yr old ones in my house. So a total of 3.

[@DobermanPlanet]

So glad you can relate to this content!

[@zdravkaslavik3967]

This video made me very sad!!! I can't imagine life without my Gus! He is part of my family.

[@taylorle1206]

me too - I don't know how to figure out if Dante is hybrid from his Embark results

[@lauriesimpson32]

I have a beautiful 1 year old European /American Doberman. She is my first Doberman and I love this girl and breed so much.

JOHN! Kudos for talking on this somewhat sensitive (to some) topic. I have long wanted a Doberman but have been concerned with their health and longevity. After all, no owner wants to see their dog suffer. Thank you Dr Sophie for compiling the data, attending this vid and your passion on the issue (i.e. Doberman diversity project). The findings in this vid has been invaluable. THANK YOU !

[@phoenyxrising8913]

Health and life expectancy are important, and are reasons to search long and hard for a solid breeder who loves the breed and not just money. They do Exist! Got my first dream dog for Christmas, and she is now 10 months old. Been following her breeder for YEARS. She tests her dogs yearly and has had no positive results with the tests so far, and truly goes as far as humanly possible to breed only the best, and healthiest. My dog's breeder is Lone Star Dobermans in Texas. She does not have puppies right now, but she does have some older dogs available, and said to be planning to breed again later this year. She is worth checking out at least.

@@phoenyxrising8913 Hi Thank you for the recommendation. I will research into them Good to see other like-minded dog owners here

[@alytaylor8974]

I will definitely forward my information on my Dobie. I do emphasize pet insurance. It is hard to hear this. As I have a European Doberman. But I do believe that food and proper diet is very very important as well as exercise and love. Thank you for having us with Dr. Lou.

[@MickSupper]

Yep, nothing mentioned about diet in the video and that is probably a HUGE factor.

[@Tigrezebra]

I agree. This breed should NOT be fed raw, it only increases the chances of them passing from DCM. There are studies that show that they need grain. Makes sense, when you compare that to a human with a genetic propensity towards heart disease: doctors will usually tell them to stay away from red meat.

[@JessieBlack]

I love the Euro Dobies but can confirm, my Euro died at 6.5 years and was full of cancer 😔 I now have an American Euro mix so hopefully this little dude will have a long(er) and healthy life! He just turned 1 so I hope we have a ways to go still.

[@BohoMagik]

Thank you for sharing this, as a European dobie owner. ❤

[@DobermanPlanet]

You're very welcome!!

[@darbiemayberry2902]

Thankyou so much Doberman planet for this valuable information. This is the only breed no matter The LOVE and companionship you receive from this breed is unbelievable 💜Thankyou for the important links below I will be searching for my next Doberman very soon. 💜

[@phoenyxrising8913]

Lone Star Dobermans in Texas is where I got my girl, been following her for a very long time, she is very solid, loves her dogs, and breeds for health, not money. I follow her on FB as well, have heard from other owners of this breeder's dogs... Pretty damn solid.

[@DobermanPlanet]

Thank you for the kind words and support! Wishing you the best of success in your Doberman search!

[@miat1327]

I love this breed so much, I can’t imagine owning any other breed. It can be so heartbreaking to own them but truly a gift ❤

[@KillaCommieFerMommie]

I love the European Dobies.... but man.... 8-9 years is not good.... All the time, money, and of course LOVE put into them, only to have them gone before you know it.... That's tough.

[@CollieChan]

I don't recognize this at all. My dogs and their siblings are just fine. There are great differences between breeding rules in different countries. In england you are allowed to inbreed for ex. In Sweden you havent even been able to dock a tail since 1988. Look in to scandinavian and german dogs, I would say.

[@DobermanPlanet]

It is sad to say goodbye to your best friend before their time, especially when you know it could have been prevented and their life expanded.

[@jennylivesey3518]

Out of My three 1 died from bloat at ten and a half. Second one died because of vets error she was 10 and third died at nearly twelve years old due to developing copper storage disease. All European and at moment I have a three year old red Serbian Doberman. It all depends on which vets you listen to I like the American vet Dr Karen Becker and Australian from vetinary secrets both emphasise good diet, excercise and to not neuter too young which they believe can lead to some of the health conditions already in discussion with studies to back it up plus dr Becker neutered thousands of dogs over the years and saw those same dogs return time and time to her surgery because of neutering too young. That the hormones now removed play a much bigger part such as growth healthy bones etc than previously thought.

[@silviakapfinger5060]

Hi John,love your channel!! I had a european dobie for 8jears,he died of cancer😭

[@DobermanPlanet]

Oh, no! We are so sorry for your loss, Silvia!! He will truly be missed. :(

[@vivianvo7014]

We love our Dobbies so very much, and any time with them are always precious to us❤ And as parents, we will make sure doing our best to provide healthy foods and vet care!

[@B0BA-F3TT]

My first Dobie passed in 2019 I put him down shy of 2 years old unfortunately he had bone cancer (osteo) and I it was the hardest thing to do he was my soul dog 5 years later and I still mourn him.

[@halosandhugs8129]

i feel your pain my dog passed at 3 years old. its so awful. these dobermans have hearts that are more special than any other dog. your grief is so valid. 🙏

[@grimmlife4878]

Our first Doberman died suddenly at 5.5 years old. He was a sweet beauty.

[@suzannethepatriot8049]

Ours did too. DCM at 5 years old. I am still upset. He passed this past summer.

[@homesteadgmad8223]

This video is SO timely for me...I am finally ready to buy another Doberman. Definitely going to get a 1st generation blend...My previous buddy died of DCM. It broke my heart!! 😭 I bought a Rottweiler afterwards, hoping it would be healthier but similar in temperament and trainability...NOPE. I should have stuck with Dobermans...It may be healthier, but as for temperament and intelligence, everyday I regret having made the switch! 😑 I'm going to get myself another Doberman!! 😍

[@Nil-tz6gy]

I hear rotties were phased out as police dogs because they were ADD and kept gettimg distracted from their job jaja

[@DobermanPlanet]

So glad this video came at the perfect time for you!! Very smart choice to get a 1st generation blend. We send our deepest condolences on the loss of your Doberman. Maybe your new one and your Rottweiler will be best friends!

[@DJ_Blaker]

This has been an amazing and educational video! Such a great watch! ❤❤❤❤ Thank you

[@Tigrezebra]

I had a full Euro from working lines: 120 lbs of muscle and beauty. He was already quite aged at 8 years old and passed at 9 from cancer. Poor Mister. He was a smiler and the gentlest giant, always so happy and only wanted to squeeze his Gnawsome ball all day long. Its been since 2019 and i still miss him. Now I have two Euro/Americans and they are awesome. Thanks to John for this, it's very helpful.

[@guysolis5843]

I bought a sweet little sugar faced pup and she grew into a tall, beautiful animal. She began licking, first at night in another room and she almost licked clean to the bone on both of her fore paws. It was startling and heart breaking and not a single vet could help her. She suffered having a cone on her head for almost 2 years and when her wounds healed, I removed the cone and she went after it again. We were at a loss then one day she was dragging her rear end. Her legs stopped working...eventually I took her to the vet and put her warm face to mine as they administered the euthanasia drug. I loved that dog more than any other dog I ever had and I wish I bought here from a reputable breeder..I'll be getting another one soon..

[@denadunkin6221]

Excellent video...thank you!

[@SsgtHolland]

Thank you for all your amazing content, John! We hope to get our own puppy soon and your advice is golden! Bless you, your family and Arlo!

[@DobermanPlanet]

You're very welcome!! So glad this information came at just the right time for your family!

[@FreeSpirit47]

Great video with lots of good information. Thank you for that. My previous Doberman lived to age 15. I did a DNA test which revealed that he was heavily inbred, his parents were most likely brother & sister or close to it. He came from a backyard breeder. Still, he was a great dog! Now, I have my first AKC Dobie. Whelped Dec 17, 2023. He is also a great dog. Very sweet, smart, mostly obedient, he's still a young puppy so I don't expect perfection. He is more stubborn than the other 3 Dobies I have had, I still love him so much! The problem I'm facing is that he pulls so hard, very strong already. I have used a chain collar, a prong collar, he still pulls just as much. It hurts to walk him though I walk him twice daily, sometimes three times. I give a tug on his collar, still he pulls. He's choking himself, so, I stop, make him sit for 30 seconds, walk him in a tight circle which he hates. No effect. Having obedience trained over 100 dogs, nothing works with him that worked with the other dogs I have trained. I'm hoping he will grow out of it.

[@str0matolite]

Hi Spirit the prong collar is great but it's a training tool, not a solution on its own. EDITED: your answer might have always had the information about training and I missed, if so then apologies. It sounds like a pro will help! END EDIT You need a complete training plan for 'heel' that uses the prong collar only as long as you need it. With two dobes under my belt I can confirm that you get a lot of different temperaments: my first was openly combative about the lead but he got with the program fast enough when I used proper training. After ~3 years he didn't need a lead at all (though of course I used one). My second is more compliant but he's sneaky, he tries to edge ahead whenever he thinks I'm not paying attention. And he's a lot more stubborn about it, so use of the prong collar is taking five months (and counting) instead of ~two.

[@FreeSpirit47]

@@str0matolite Thank you for your wise words. After our morning walk, I wrote the comment. When we went for our evening walk, he was so much better. Maybe he will grow out of the pulling & choking. Following our evening walk, we had play time. He was doing very well about the puppy nipping. Tonight, he relapsed on it. The relapse happened with my other Dobies, too, so, I have to be firm, loving, consistent. The weather is getting warmer, It would suck if I have to wear long sleeves all summer. I love this puppy, he is well worth the time spent to train him.

[@HOWLINGWOLF-ig5zs]

To correct this ..every time the dog starts to pull make a right turn keeping him on your left.. Consistency is the key with this method..they will cease the pull action pretty quickly..good luck

[@robinrutherfordcost4748]

Check out Beckman's Rottweiler named Creed video for the foundation video for loose leash walking and reactivity. He can do it all without the use of pain and get you results in the same video. They also have little dog videos if you don't have a 110lb Rottweiler. One of my instructors had a Rottweiler that she spent a week going back and forth in her driveway with a cigar of string cheese sticking out of her mouth. The neighbors were making fun of her. Guess what!?! Not after that week - the dog never left her side on a walk again unless given permission. Suzanne Clothier's automatic check in helps as well. One trainer never had a pup that didn't want to interact with him before so one breakfast, he took the pups food in baggies hidden on him, out into the back yard and went about his business - checked flower beds, scooped poop, etc, ignoring the dog until the dog came over to him - yes, few pieces of their food, some with extra goodies if faster or right in heel position. Now all of a sudden, wow, really does pay to want to be by you. Hope that helps.

[@FreeSpirit47]

@@HOWLINGWOLF-ig5zs Thank you for the useful advice. I had used that method you suggested when I trained other dogs in the past. It worked with most dogs, not with this one. The prong collar is my last resort. Right now, I have a sprained wrist & a two blisters on my palm from my dog pulling so much. He is a great dog, well worth my time, effort, blisters & sprained wrist.

[@cathyba5113]

Thank both of you for all the información. Very interesting video

[@langdons2848]

My dobe (in Australia) lived to around 10 years old then developed lymphatic cancer and we had her put down. It's very interesting to hear that is above average lifespan. I feel a little better about it now as I had expected her to life longer than that. Great work with the study, the genetics project, and this video thank you.

[@hokeypokeypots]

I've had six Dobies over the course of my 72-year life and all, except one, lived to be 14 or over. We had to put one down at about 9 because she was a blue and got an incurable skin condition that blues are prone to. I live in the US and got all of my puppies either from shelters or homebred through ads placed in our local newspaper. Most I ever paid for a puppy was $600. They were all healthy throughout their lives...right up until the end. After I lost my last dog at 14.5 years old, I got an adult rescue...about 5 or so years old. You never know their true ahe when you get them from rescue. He had been abused and it took about a year to get him to trust me and feel safe. Unfortunately, he has now been diagnosed with Wobbler's Syndrome and my vet advised against having the surgery because it's very expensive...over $10K...and he would need a lot of rehab after the operation. I can't, at my age do the rehab on an 84 pound dog. I have a large yard, so I'm only taking him for short walks now and trying to keep him from getting too tired and shaky on his feet...and if he can't walk anymore, I'll go ahead and put him down. I was always careful with my dogs...especially when they were puppies...didn't over-exercise them or have them jump to catch balls or jump from high places...and none of them had structural or heart problems. Figured that you needed to be careful with them while their bones and organs were developing. Dobies are an uber overactive and excitable breed, so people who raise a puppy should take care to slow them down instead of letting them exhaust themselves with too much exercise...especially while they are young. Much better for their overall health doing that.

[@sandrashort1221]

I have owned only purebred Dobermans for 55 years. The 1970 Doberman was Champion bred, stocky and strong. She died of kidney failure at age 16. Since then I have adopted female Dobes. All but my last Doberman died before the age of 10 due to the causes of death outlined. My last lady was an American mother/German sire cross. Very healthy until the last few months when she started to show symptoms of cardiomyopthy. She was 14.

[@user-ks7qo8vg9h]

My first 2 Dobie reached 11 and 13 yrs of age. On my 3rd one now she's 9 months old

[@wandaisbill4574]

Such a great video! I believe I sent my previous Doberman's dna to the DDP. I can't remember for sure, but I do remember doing a dna test on her and sending it off. She died at 11.3 years old of Aggressive Lymphoma cancer. After she was diagnosed, it took her fast. She died in my arms 10 days later at the Vet's office before they could put her to sleep. I now have a new Doberman that I got a couple years ago. She is almost 2 1/2 years old now.

[@n2xsru]

I lost my dobie almost 3 years ago to DCM. I haven’t been able to bring myself to get another because it’s too hard losing him, I don’t think I could do it again.

[@greenslider]

Same here. That bond and constant exchange of oxytocin still has me blubbing each time I think of her. Love the breed for the intuitive bond and sheer beauty but I won't be going back. My other dogs are lovely but nobody can replace that constant eye contact and attention she gave me.

[@robertastk]

I had dobbie girl for 13,5 years. European show line. Had inbreed 3 generations back. Interesting that most dogs I known personally died between 7-10 years. In my opinion my dog was fairly old because she had healthy portion of excercise, good food, low stress living conditions, big yard and loving family. However other thing was she was sterilized at the age of 7-8, so she grew up with healthy hormones and only after two fake pregnancies we decided to take care of that how vets recommended. Best dog ever, anyway. Wish all of your dogs live for longer and make your life happier.

[@stuarth4296]

I have a Dobie now, got him as a 10 month old from the shelter and he is pure bred and he is over 11 years old now and still acts like a puppy. I do supplement his diet with veggies and kibble. I had another half Euro Doberman and he lived for 10 years and he had to be put to sleep because he had cancer and could no longer walk.Years ago we got an American bred from Kimbetral Kennals and he had lymphoma at 4 and a half and eventually died (I believe of the treatments). I have no idea the genetics of the current Dobe I have that I rescued that is 11 but his body build and the way he carries himself and is fearless is very similar to the German-American cross I had.

[@sarahmunromaddonna6264]

I had a Rottie from Kimbertal who I got at three years. I had him two amazing and full years till he went from 100% perfect health to riddled with cancer. We tried to save him but he made it only two weeks after being diagnosed. It was so cruel to witness. New people have since taken over the Kimbertal breeding program and swear that they have overhauled it...

[@melanehme3661]

I wish a study could / would be performed to find the actual (ancestry) makeup of Dobermans; this way, with the "formula" we could have breeders re-introduce more of the source breeds (?Rottweiler? ?Weimaraner? ?Greyhound?) to strengthen the Doberman.

[@sunshinenday3439]

I agree. Mine is from a local breeder from mountains nearby. My boy definitely is on the leaner side and I can see the greyhound genes there within his line. He could run all day as well. His favorite thing to do! He will be 10 in August.

[@nmartin5551]

That is a great idea. Now to get it to happen!

[@VIpanfried]

Disappointed that Dr. Lui did not discuss size vs life span! We’ve have four Dobes, who lived to (in order) 14 years, 8 years, and 5 years. Each of those three were from Kimbertal Kennels and Euro x American. They were also progressively BIGGER. Number 3 was a LARGE dog, who died of a heart attack at age 5. Heart breaking. Number 4, very smart, very active, we adopted locally (no papers) She was “undersized”, 65 lbs. She lived to be almost 16.

[@snappycattimesten]

I feel size is a major factor.

[@faithb_9042]

Thank you for this video. Very informative. My last Doberman lived over 13 years, and the one before her almost 12. My current dobie is 3, but has the variant for DCM2. His genetic COI is 27%. I will certainly keep a close eye on him. Right now, he is very happy and healthy.

[@iconicdobermans103]

@dobermanplanet Did she say where these submitters actually lived verse where the dogs came from? I feel like the bulk of submissions were US owners. Would love to see the submitter geographic regions as well. May tell about the husbandry side the things.

[@adam2802]

It would be interesting to cross ref ‘origin of doberman’ to ‘where doberman is being kept’. I know there’s a trend in the UK to import US dogs already docked for example, are those dogs living differently to their non-imported cousins p=

[@tliu9360]

Thank you so much!

[@plkenny1]

I would like to know if what the dogs were fed in this study.

[@catsmith1518]

That was some really good information.

[@shetlandsheep3081]

My UK dobie died at almost 12 and he was a rescue so I only got him at 18 months - so was very grateful to have had a good long time with him. He did have DCM doagnosed but only at 10, and had be put to sleep due to osteosarcoma.

[@sheilahbuettner8452]

Thank you for this very informative video. For as long as we can, there will always be Dobes in our home. We will take the joy that they bring to us over all of the days that we DO have with them and consider it worth the price of not having as many of those days as we would like.

[@vezhopkins714]

I would only get a Doberman from the UK as there's no ear clipping and tail docking for vanity purposes

[@kitchfacepalm]

Don’t they look so much prettier left with their natural ears!

[@fabiosplendido9536]

I'm very sad to report that I still see Dobermans, Rotties, Boxers, Spaniels, and Weimaraners with docked tails in the UK. Not as many as a few years ago,....but it still goes on.

[@martinv8681]

Hello Doberman planet , first of all i want to thank you for making those videos and you are the reason i brought my baby Angela last month, she is a beautiful European black and rust 3 and a half months old 17 kg doberman puppy 😀. When we took her home she immediately got used to us , she was so tired that night I remember driving 250 miles to get her and 250 on the other direction back home . We love her so so much , she is bonded equally to me and my mother , likes to play with us all the time although she is playing a little too hard always biting , we redirect her with toys with all sorts of textures , sometimes works sometimes not as she loses interest pretty quickly and goes straight to my hands , and she is so stubborn when i tell her with a firm voice to stop the biting all she does is bite even harder . By far this is our biggest issue , but i’m sure it will go away ones the teething stage goes away . Otherwise she obeys my commands and I’m shocked how smart she is and how quickly she adapts and learns ! She does bark sometimes, primarily if she wants to play with some other dog but the owner of the dog doesn’t let their dog to play with mine . She is nice to other people and animals she even played with our chickens in the backyard without hurting any of them , she chased our cat but doesn’t show signs of aggression just wants to play with the cat , i don’t let her do things without supervision , she is so nice with kids that want to play with her . Thank you for making those videos and convincing so many people from different countries to get a Doberman , really a wonderful breed !

[@martinv8681]

I literally got so excited that i forgot to mention why I got my doberman . We had a German shorthair pointer “ Kurzhaar “ , he lived 15 years and sadly died from bone cancer , his name was Pirin , he was amazing , calm , intelligent and he was very attached to us. We got him together with a female mini pinscher , her name is Hera , she is alive and here with Angela ( Angie )! Pirin was my father’s dog and Hera my mother’s . After we lost Pirin i wanted another dog , thats when i found your channel and decided to buy one , my parents were against that , because they thought that Dobermans are some big, scary, vicious and aggressive dogs , after showing your channel to them i slowly convinced them that there isn’t anything to be afraid of . And here i am a proud owner of a beautiful doberman pinscher !

[@BeautifulWings1011]

My UK bred or European Dobermann have all lived into their teens, none of mine have lived less than 12 years and I’ve had 6.

[@ashleym5000]

Im currently training a doberman as my service dog. I can not imagine a better fit for my family. As long as I take care of her exercise needs, I have a loving couch potato to scare off intruders and help me with my everyday life. Even if she dies at 6, she was worth it.

[@tabithahunter5197]

We've been giving our 7 yo male 100mg of ppl Q10 for years. He has all the DCM genes. He has "the heart of an athlete" according to his vet. He reminds us if we forget "pill time."

[@samm8250]

How do you find (ethical) American/European hybrid breeders?

[@greggarlough8955]

Kansa

[@DobermanPlanet]

Send us a message on Instagram and we'll be happy to give you some resources!

[@TheRealBuckFiden]

Mine were 12 and 15 when they passed. The 12yo was a European line, had wobblers discovered at age 7, treated with gold bead implants and he had 5 more good years before we lost him to osteosarcoma. My 15yo girl was American line, never had any medical issues, lived life like a spunky pup all the way up until her death, which again was cancer. Both were amazing pups that I miss dearly. Now I’ve got another one, 15mo old American show line, he’s beautiful and I can only hope he lives just as long as the others.

[@qigong1001]

I don’t know if she mentioned in the video but there’s also a lot of pain involved with neck issues, bladder issues.

[@clarelongo5264]

I am on #'s 6 and 7. They are 7 1/2 and 10 1/2. My youngest loss was at age 5 to osteosarcoma (she lived almost a year after dx with amputation) and my oldest was almost 14. One was 9.5, also osteosarcoma, and 2 were 12, both cancer. My 7.5 yo is from the same American breeder as one of my 12 yo's was. She was supposed to go to a show home and is absolutely stunning. Dobermans are the best dogs.

[@TheRoadLessPaved]

My first was a lowly farm bred Doberman. She lived to 16. My second was a highly bred American Schutzhund line. We only had seven years of her athleticism, intelligence, and cuddles. She died of lymphoma, less than 3 months from diagnosis until she was gone. I never recovered from the shock and loss. Connie babysat our cats and even our small parrot! That was in 2008. Our current dog is a mutt from a shelter. She looks like a dobie cross (her original owner docked the puppies tails). She is, however, half Black and Tan Coonhound, half boxer/lab. She's a total goofus, but highly reactive to cats and squirrels.

[@whynot700]

All my dogs are holstered every 6 months and echos yearly . Also all testing is on ofa. All my dogs are registered with the Doberman diversity project. I have a litter of 5 week old puppies, will register them with Doberman diversity project and embark. I bred this litter for longevity and work. Dam is 5 Sire is 2. Both totally health tested on ofa. The longevity in these lines is healthy. I have decided that I want to try and get some longevity in my breeding. I am not a breeder, like the norm. I may breed a litter every so many years if the lines are looking good. Love the Doberman breed but also worried about the longevity because it is really hard to lose a dog so young.

[@laurentead65]

Wow now I'm feeling very unlucky. My American European cross was dead at only 4.

[@eh4236]

We have a American/European Male who will be turning 4 in July. He is unaltered and 132 lbs. He is a big boy. He has the sweetest temperament. He gets over almost 2 hrs of exercise every day. My hubby is hesitant about breeding him because he has about a 30% chance of developing DCM. His daddy died at age 7 of DCM. I pray he lives a long life.

[@snappycattimesten]

@@eh4236 132lbs? 60kg? Ridiculous. Completely outside breed standards.

[@fabiosplendido9536]

Your dog was pretty unlucky too....

[@byronn.2885]

My female blue made it to about 11 before tumors and growths forced me to put her down. One of the hardest days of my life.

[@lindastewart6537]

The food they are given is extremely important for health which needs to be figured in this charting

[@christopherheim2708]

I had my red Doberman for 9 years before she passed. Such an amazing dog.

[@Religion0]

I really want these studies for all breeds. I was shocked to hear there was a difference between European show and working lines, I thought we didn't separate lines like that.

[@brett76544]

I can remember a breeder of DObermans showing me photos of Dobermans from 100 years ago. It looked like a different dog, strong chest and larger bodies.

[@early_morning_sd_team]

As someone who really wants a Doberman, I’ve been looking at a breeder, but they don’t show their dogs (they had puppies go on to show). I know that I would have to have enough money to have them checked often especially since I want them to be a service dog.

[@keithgriffiths9864]

My entire male GSD lived to 13yrs 6mths, and he was doing really well right up to the last 2 months ❤

[@notsosilentmajority1]

My last Doberman, years ago, came from a well known American working line with her father winning many Schutzhund competitions, etc.. She didn't make it past 6 years of age and died of cancer. She was a tremendous working dog with natural instincts evident at 5/6 weeks of age. The Doberman has never been the most healthy breed of dog but there has also been a lot of mixing of other breeds like the Great Dane, to increase size back in the 1970's and 80's. This is just one example but the Great Dane, along with other larger breeds, generally have a shorter life expectancy and probably contributed to the shortening of the Doberman's overall life expectancy. Yes, the Great Dane may have been a breed that was initially used to help create the Doberman but at that time Dobermans were not being bred to be 100 pounds or 30" at the withers. In the 80's and early 90's we were seeing people pushing 100 pound Dobermans and people were buying them like crazy in America. That craze may have semi-permanently changed the Doberman life expectancy. As usual, the problem is that there are unscrupulous breeders that only care about profit and they will mate any dogs in order to get a litter of pups to sell.

[@dogsitting24]

My Dobermann was from the U.K. - he died at 7.5 years of DCM on our walk. He was diagnosed at 2years old.

[@paulphotios3920]

In Australia alot of dobberman owners have alot of space for their dogs and our weathr is quite mild like no snow.

[@uskok4636]

My dobe boy lived to 11 and I had to have him PTS due to wobbler syndrome :(. He was strong and healthy otherwise and if he hadn't developed this disease, I'm sure he had a few more years in him. He ate a tinned food in UK called 'Chappie' which was recommended by our vets as being non allergenic good quality basic food. The family dobe had heart failure around 11 years old and he was very related to my dobe (same grandparents and lineage beyond) These dogs came from a breeder well known in UK who dont export their dogs outside of the UK for breeding, the bloodline carried the 'Findjans' kennel name. Looking back in the bloodlines the foundation dogs were an American x UK cross breeding.

[@joebampton670]

Our Blue Doberman from Jäegermeister line lived with us for 14 years. Looking for another.

[@matthewhuszarik4173]

Our family has had Dobermans going back to the 1950. My mother and her sister had them for many decades then at least one of each of their children have had Dobermans as well my sisters have had Dobermans for decades and one sister now has her own informal Doberman rescue with half a dozen Dobermans always around her ranch.

[@anupamjana6456]

I want to appreciate your much factual initiative about dobies which is a great data and also an eye opener to pet parents and ethical breeders, However, needing a tapping on how to restrict inbreeding and selective measures to curtail the flaws in breeding , thanks

[@SailorDonut]

Wow, I'm really glad I didn't know this info while we still had our Dobie or I would have been worried his whole life 😓 My great-uncle always had Dobermans and when he got his last one while he was in his 80s, the previous breeders he'd used wouldn't work with him anymore because of his age, but my dad found a local breeder who said he would adopt to him if my dad signed paperwork that he would take the dog if anything happened to my uncle. My uncle did pass when the dog was a year old, and our doberboy became ours. But we had him for eleven and a half years! He passed in 2022 of "old age," don't know what else to call it-almost all our other dogs (large breed mutts) lived 12-14 and went in a similar way, fine one day, then kind of droopy the next day and then organ shutdown. The vets have always said that's just old age so I assume that's what it is 🤷‍♀️ So when we lost our doberboy at almost 13, it was sad but I figured that's about our average for big dogs. Knowing that his lifespan probably should have been at least 3 years less than this, I am so grateful he had such a long life! He was a red Dobie with floppy ears and the sweetest personality you ever encountered.

[@noneya6052]

That's a lot of work I've never heard about a lot of these tests and things interesting

[@bthyme]

I would be interested in knowing the effect of size on longevity. I have seen some massive Dobes. It seems that the larger the breed (any breed of dog) the shorter the lifespan,so....

[@1dkappe]

My great grandfather (Walter Kappe, not to be confused with the nazi spymaster of the same name) was the secretary of the Dobermann Pinscher society in Germany (he passed in 1938). He kept and maintained the breeding records. Most of those records were destroyed during WW II. What was left, my father used the back side of for doing his homework after the war. My great grandfather sold two male Dobermanns to the US in order to put a roof on the house in Berlin-Buckow.

[@donnadong]

My last Doberman was European/ American. I lost him at 5 and a half years of age to DCM 😢

[@susanfarley1332]

I once knew a dog that was half Rottweiler and half brindle pitbull. It was a gorgeous dog. Bigger than the rottie , with brindle stripes but the coloring of the rottie. The look was amazing. The color and stripes made it look like a tiger. I have never seen such perfect stripes. It would be awesome to develop a breed that looked like a striped tiger.

[@RedWolfArtist]

I cant even describe how much I love dogs and this videos, they are really useful and cool, helping people to know more!:) Also I wanted to ask, if its not impudently, where can I look at doberman standards in printed version? Do the club supposed to give me one when I buy a pup or I supposed to find it myself? (I am really curious about it, as in my country it's a bit different situation)

[@DobermanPlanet]

So glad you enjoyed learning from this video! Not sure what country you are from, but the club will have it posted directly on their website!

[@RedWolfArtist]

@@DobermanPlanet thank you very much for help!:)

[@JV44HeinzBar]

Very interesting analysis. It would be very interesting to see other working dog lines examined.

[@mythicdolphin]

1) My dad’s doberman dog Tara (Black and tan coat) lived to be 14.5 years old. 1989-2004. 2) Rescue dog CJ was a black and tan male that was 10 years old when he died in 1995. 3) Ross a Red and rust rescued doberman, who had heart issues from time of Rescue at age 4, made it to age 8 years, he passed Christmas day 3:30am with a single household waking howl/scream in 1999 due to heart attack. My dad attempted CPR. Finding an open vet at 3:35am was not possible. Christmas, was not Christmas that year. Lots of tears as Ross passed with all his humans attempting to help/do CPR.

[@jessgunn6639]

I would love an irish wolfhound but i could never deal with the heartbreak, They are at 60%

[@Dancestar1981]

My grandma had one that dies at 12 he had had multiple heart attacks anthem in the end that’s what took him off sometimes stroke can be a problem too

[@Grandassets]

I have worked and owned Dob and GSD back into the 80s, there are so many factors, I personally have seen 8 to 15 in both breeds, if they eat good and are worked they seem to do better than a pet that lays around the house, this K9s are not good couch potatoes LOL my last two have lived the longest the West German lived to 15 my DDR east german is 11 now and shows no sign of slowing down, both have same diet they do get P-One "puppy" because they are more active than most being with me working, and also because of that they eat mostly human food....

[@MegF142857]

My Rottweiler lived to 14 years old in the 1990s.

[@SMCCRADY2]

I have a female doberman that is 11 years old and seems to be doing ok. She's slowed down, but seems to be relatively healthy. Her mother was a purebred Doberman. Father unknown. For all intents and purposes, she looks like a purebred Doberman, but since she was from a rescue litter, we do not know her lineage, she may have something else in her. She's been a great dog and I don't look forward to her passing. Thanks for the info!

[@jettechdonatkins]

Thanks for this one Jon.Very useful info.I lost a fawn American girl about 8 months ago,she was 10 and passed from a sudden heart attack hours after bringing her home from a vet,who sad she had an enlarged heart,which had to be DCM,I lost a red boy sired by a Hungarian champion,but the only thing I know of the dam was she was a Euro,that boy passed from cancer in '22,he was 7,I also had a very large red boy who was American/Euro who passed from a sudden heart attack in '15,he was 5.I would like names of breeders in the US,who breed Dobermans known to live longer than most,so if anyone can help me,that would be great.

[@DogBehaviorGuy]

my boy was 49% dobie, 49% aussie, and 2% mutt. he made it to 12.5 years before aggressive blood cancer took him very quickly

[@craftyhobbit7623]

I've never been a Doberman owner, but I have owned border collies and border collie type dogs and I have noticed a decrease in their life span since the 90's. My first collie was born in '91 and he lived until 2008, and had very few problems (flea allergy was his main issue and he got a bit stiff in the joints when he 12 onwards.) My second was a rescue dog and he was thought to be 8 when we got him in 2013 - he became arthritic and started having kidney problems in the last year of his life, and he died in 2018. Our third border collie was a retired sheepdog that we got when he was 8, and he developed an issue with his immune system - his white blood cells started attacking his red blood cells giving him anemia - I would have thought that he should have been quite fit as a working dog but he wasn't - he also had very think saliva and ear discharge issues (I've never come across a dog with saliva as thick as what he had, so I wonder if it was related to his illness.) He died about quite suddenly 10 - 11 months after we got him. I wasn't quite sure of the age of the last border collie we had to our current one so I can't use her as a comparison, but she'd probably be still with us if she'd not been used for breeding. Health of dogs doesn't seem to be as good as it used to be but whether it is down to genetics, how we look after them (I say that because my own health impacts how I care for my dog - my first bc got a lot more walks because I was fitter), or the quality of the food they get is unclear.

[@adrienneotten7504]

My precious black & rust American male died at 7 from bladder cancer. He also had hypothyroidism since he was 2.😢

[@karenjoyce4677]

I have a Doberman from Ecuador. Half time he weight of American or European Donies at 50 lbs. This Dobie of mine has a perfect confirmation, behavior and is now 10 years of age. He has never had any physical challenges and remains strong and healthy. He loves meeting new people and adores babies and children. Goes full on protective Dobie if anybody arrives at my door but tail wagging and loving themselves on ones when I allow them entrance.

[@karenjoyce4677]

He flew in the plane with me from Cuenca, Ecuador to Kansas City. He had never traveled on trains or planes or experienced large crowds as at airports. He behaved as if had done this all his life with people praising him as we left planes. From Atlanta to Kansas City, we were put at two seats...he lay facing the aisle and looked both ways realizing his head was in the aisle so turned facing me laying down. He looked back seeing his behind was sticking out in the aisle. There were not others walking past and I never said a word to him. To his own intelligence level, he worked this out as a potential problem, stood up, leaped up with front legs across my lap and slept this way for the two hour flight to KC. Does this not show their level of intelligence? And he totally enjoyed children and families greeting him during layovers at airports.