Before you study this, let me mention that there seems to be some confusion about the German or more generally, foreign bred Dobes, being bigger or even better than the American Bred. These statements are being made either by someone who themselves were given wrong information from their seller, or they are just trying to sell you one of their 'import' or Import bloodline Dobes. Not to say that there are not great Dobes in other countries, but it is the breeders themselves that make the difference, not the country of origin. Also take note: the Doberman is a medium sized breed ranging by standard from 45 to 85 pounds and while I like the size more seen during the Seventies, my version is simply staying with a stronger statured appearance. I prefer boys in the 85/105 range, and my girls 65/85 pounds with the variable based on client preference. Our reasons to not boost size further is to protect the well-being of the Dobe. 3/05
On the other end of the standard I do not accept the notion that a Dobe should look like a gray hound - something seen all too often winning their Championships nationally and internationally.
Advisory: Too much over the Standard and you drastically increase the chances of skeletal problems and heart conditions. There are already so many things that can take a great dog's life. Why push past the logical limits?
| --- Official Standard --- | --- Oversize --- | |||
| Mature Weight | 45 - 55 | 55 - 65 | 65 - 75 | 75 - 85+ |
| FEMALE | ||||
| at shoulders | at shoulders | |||
| Mature Height | 24" - 25" | 25" - 26" | 26" - 27" | 27" - 28"+ |
| --- Official Standard --- | --- Oversize --- | |||
| Mature Weight | 65 - 75 | 75 - 85 | 85 - 95 | 105 - 115+ |
| MALE | ||||
| at shoulders | at shoulders | |||
| Mature Height | 26" - 27" | 27" - 28" | 28" - 29" | 29" - 30"+ |