Get

In Your Inbox

Dogster is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more.

Are Dobermans More Protective than Other Dogs? Facts & FAQ

doberman dog standing outdoors

Dobermans were bred to guard humans and property, and they will protect their owners with whatever force is necessary. While owning a Doberman is a unique experience, the dogs get a bad rap for being aggressive and mean.

As with any other dog, it depends on how you socialize, train, and treat your Dobie as to whether it becomes aggressive and mean. While Dobermans are protective, we wouldn’t say they are any more protective than other dogs.

Studies have shown that Dobermans are slightly more protective than German Shepherds, but that again comes back to how the dog was raised. Dobermans tend to put on an aggressive face and try to scare off an intruder or threat before biting. Of course, if the danger keeps coming, the Dobie will attack and bite to protect their family.

In the article below, we’ll provide insight into the Doberman’s protective nature.

Dogster divider_v1_NEW_MAY_24_

Will My Doberman Protect Me?

Your Doberman will protect you, your family, and your property if they think you’re being threatened. They were initially bred to defend, guard, and protect.

Dobermans are wary of any stranger, so you don’t have to worry about someone you don’t know disturbing your property. The Doberman needs to be cared for by an experienced owner because of their size and strength. They aren’t ideal for first-time pet owners since it takes a firm hand to teach the Doberman how to behave with strangers who aren’t intruders.

A Doberman must be taught when they should attack and when they shouldn’t since they were bred to protect.

Doberman sitting on flowers
Image Credit: Yama Zsuzsanna Márkus, Pixabay

Will My Doberman Attack an Intruder?

Yes, Dobermans will generally attack an intruder who doesn’t retreat after hearing them growl and bark. With their speed and agility, they can guard large areas of property and quickly stop people from getting in.

The Doberman shows aggression towards anyone they consider a threat, but they won’t attack by biting unless the intruder persists in coming onto the property or threatening their family.

However, it’s best to have your Doberman trained when they’re still a puppy. It’s also better to have the dog trained by a professional to ensure they develop into a well-behaved pet. Dobermans who are professionally trained can easily tell the difference between threats and non-threats and react accordingly.

Dogster divider_v1_NEW_MAY_24_

Final Thoughts

Dobermans were bred to protect, guard, and defend their owners. However, they’re also affectionate and loyal to their owners. It helps to have your Doberman socialized and trained by a professional as a puppy so that they can tell the difference between a friendly neighbor and a burglar.

For experienced owners, they make exceptional pets. They are intelligent, loving, and energetic but have a stubborn streak. You just have to know how to handle your Doberman the right way.

See also:


Featured Image Credit: Daria Shvetcova, Shutterstock

Want content like this delivered to you?

Sign Up For Our Newsletter

News, insights, expert advice, and everything dog

* By submitting, you agree to our Terms & Conditions and Privacy & Cookies Policy.

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate (you can leave written feedback after clicking submit)

Help us improve Dogster for pet parents!

Your feedback really matters.

What did you like about this post? Also how can we improve it?

Join the conversation

Leave a Reply

You’re very welcome to leave a comment or question. Please know that all comments must meet our community guidelines, and your email address will NOT be published. Let’s have a positive and constructive conversation.

Talk With A Vet Online

Peace of mind,
anywhere, anytime

Affordable vet advice

124 Military Dog Names: Popular Choices for Tough Canines

Dogs make great companions that can help us through the good and bad times. Their unwavering loyalty and dedication also make them valuable...

English vs American Labrador: The Main Differences (With Pictures)

Have you ever noticed that Labradors seem to come in two body types? Well, you’re not wrong. Within the breed, there are two...

Can Dogs Eat Cow Tongues? Vet-Verified Nutrition Facts & FAQ

Being a responsible pet owner can sometimes be a bit stressful! What is safe? What is toxic? What is the best diet for...

DNA My Dog Breed ID Test Review 2025: An Expert’s Breakdown

What Is DNA My Dog Breed ID Test? How Does It Work? The DNA My Dog Breed ID Test is exactly what it...

More related

Can Dogs Eat Cherries? Vet-Verified Facts & Considerations

You’re reading this for one of two reasons: Either your dog scarfed down a few cherries, or you’re looking to add fresh foods...

What Are Dog Transportation Services? Types, Uses, Pros & Cons

Dog transportation services are businesses or professionals that will transport your dog from one location to another. This can be to prearranged appointments...

Pyrenean Shepherd Dog Breed: Info, Pictures, Traits & Care

The Pyrenean Shepherd is like the compact, shaggy cousin of the giant Great Pyrenees, quicker on their feet and with a wickedly bright...

Does Laser Treatment Help With Dog Arthritis? Vet-Reviewed Facts & FAQ

Arthritis is a common condition in older dogs, and the first signs can be subtle. You may notice that your dog sometimes has...

Keep reading

Can Dogs Eat Sunflower Oil? Vet Reviewed Facts & FAQ

Sunflower oil sounds about as natural as it gets. Whole foods have taken root in the dog food market as obesity rates are on the rise, and pet parents have become more knowledgeable about how to care for their fur...

Can Dogs Eat_sunflower oil

Can Dogs Have Grape Jelly? Vet-Verified Facts & FAQ

Dogs love to sample from the garbage can if it’s within reach. One food they might accidentally get into is grape jelly. But what’s wrong with that, you ask? Can’t dogs eat grape jelly? Grape jelly can be dangerous for...

Can Dogs Have Grape Jelly

7 Benefits of Salmon Oil for Dogs: Canine Health and Nutrition

Salmon oil is a healthy supplement for both humans and dogs. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fish oil promotes heart health, a sleek coat, healthy skin, and strong joints, among other benefits. Because dogs can’t produce omega-3 fatty acids on...

man giving cbd oil to his dog

What Is Turkey Meal in Dog Food? Vet-Verified Facts & Safety Info

You might be concerned about how safe turkey meal is and why pet food companies don’t just use more real turkey meat. Turkey meal and other meat meals are common ingredients found in dog food. Most dog food companies put...

labrador retriever dog eating its food from a bowl

Can Dogs Eat Sage? Vet Approved Facts & FAQ

Sage is a commonly used herb in the kitchen that flavors foods and is also used in essential oils, creams, ointments, and medicines. If you cook with sage or have it growing abundantly in your garden, you may wonder if...

Can Dogs Eat Sage

Can Dogs Eat Cat Food? Vet-Verified Info & Safety Tips

When you live in a multi-pet household with dogs and cats, you’re probably used to having to keep your pets from eating each other’s food. Dogs and cats can eat many of the same foods, and a lot of the...

Can Dogs Eat Cat Food

Can Dogs Eat Green Beans? Vet-Approved Feeding Facts

Our canine companions are excellent at sneaking food off our plates or out of our hands, but human food isn’t always the best for them. Sometimes, our food has more fat and sodium than our dogs need, while other times,...

Can Dogs Eat Green Beans

How to Keep Flies Away From Dog Food – 10 Great Ideas

It’s summertime, and that means hot days and lots of flies. If you are like most people, you probably don’t enjoy sharing your food with pesky insects. Flies can be a nuisance, but they don’t have to be. Plenty of...

flies on dog food