Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between 'Adopt a Dobermann'
and 'Sponsor a Dobermann' ?

Using the forms within this website, you can apply to adopt a dobermann - if your lifestyle and home are suitable [the DWA takes great care to ensure that the needs and requirements of each individual dog and each prospective new owner are met].
Alternatively, if you would like to sponsor a dog in our care, you can do this without actually rehoming the dog yourself - contributing to the cost of keeping the dog healthy and well fed.
A third option is to become an associate member of the DWA, when every penny of the small annual membership fee that you pay contributes towards helping our abandoned and unwanted dogs.

What is Von Willebrand's Disease, or VWD ?

The dog's version of the human condition haemophilia is called Von Willebrand's Disease. It is very important not to buy dogs from breeders who have not tested their dobies for this disease. Useful information about the DNA test for Von Willebrand's Disease can be found at:
www.dobermannbreedcouncil.co.uk/VWD1.html

Which environment is best for keeping a Dobermann - Town or Country ?

The dobermann is happy with either a town or country home, provided he or she has enough exercise and human company. Please see our breed profile page for more information.

Would a Dobermann live happily in a flat or apartment ?

Depends on the dog and the owner's circumstances and the flat/apartment in question. Remember though that young puppies and dogs should not be taken up and down stairs as it can damage their soft bones, and as a dog is for life it is important to ask - how would you cope, even if there is a lift, when an old dog becomes arthritic or incontinent when needing 'out' urgently?

Do Dobermanns suffer from cold / wet / hot conditions ?

Dobies love their home comforts and do not like the cold and they often don't like to get wet and will refuse to go out when it is raining. Most dogs, especially as they get older, feel the heat, and dark coated dogs in particular are susceptible to heat stroke - no dog should be exposed to direct sun light for any length of time. Your dog should always be able to access a shady spot and have plenty of clean, fresh water available.

Dobermann Welfare Association
dogs@dobermannwelfare.org.uk
Registered Office: 28 Abingdon Close, Hillingdon, Middlesex UB10 0BU
Registered in England No: 04043120