One of the most interesting aspects of supervising a veterinary clinic is using my psych education to read people’s personality traits and work with them accordingly. The same must be done with dogs to be an effective leader. But today, the doctors, technicians and I took this a step further and attributed totem dog breeds to ourselves and others at the clinic (using personality and physical characteristics). The decision was unanimous that I’m a Doberman Pinscher.

Image from http://www.dobermanpinschersite.com/

From http://www.justdogbreeds.com/doberman-pinscher.html (emphasis mine):

The Doberman Pinscher is often referred to by enthusiasts as “The Cadillac of Dogs.” They’ve also been called “the dog with the human brain.” Originally bred to be a guard dog, the Doberman Pinscher makes a protective family pet. (Sometimes, due to their somewhat erroneous reputation, the mere presence of a Doberman is sufficient deterrent to evildoers.) However, a Doberman Pinscher in a loving, stable environment is also a loving, stable dog, and an obedient and loyal companion. He is not a dog you simply chain outside to protect your property.

A Doberman is a people dog and will show you unflinching devotion. He will need to be by your side. They are incredibly intelligent, perceptive, intuitive, and sensitive, all of which makes them highly trainable. However, they require you to be a firm pack leader, or they will assume the role. A Doberman will need to be obedience trained.

The Doberman Pinscher is a versatile breed: family dog, agility champion, therapy dog, seeing eye dog, police dog. They are used to being active. They are fearless, outgoing, and up for anything, anytime. They need vigorous exercise every day and they need to be mentally stimulated. Dobermans do best when they have a job to do. (However, they are not fond of rain, so they will nap with you until the sun comes out.)

Speaking of napping, the Doberman is a cuddler! Be prepared to be watching TV, minding your own business, and suddenly finding a Doberman in your lap. He will also try to sleep with you. A Doberman will be lovey-dovey with you on the couch, but will be reserved with strangers. They have a natural ability to evaluate a situation and determine whether or not their family is being threatened. The Doberman loves his children and will be protective of them.

Dobermans are prone to behavior issues because they are so intelligent and energetic, but a Doberman who is provided with exercise, care, attention, and training should be a perfect gentleman in the home. You just need to have the time and be able to make the commitment. As with many breeds, the Doberman is not for everyone.

From http://www.yourpurebredpuppy.com/reviews/dobermanpinschers.html:

This athletic dog needs brisk walking every day and all-out running as often as possible. Too little exercise and too little companionship can lead to restlessness and other behavioral problems.

Mental exercise (advanced obedience, agility, tracking, Schutzhund) is just as important to this thinking breed.

Though some Doberman Pinschers are big softies who love everyone, most are reserved with strangers and protective of their family. Early and extensive socialization is mandatory to avoid either shyness or sharpness.

Some Doberman Pinschers are dominant with other dogs. Some are confirmed cat chasers, while others love small animals.

Some excel in advanced obedience competition, while others are hardheaded and will test to find their place in the pecking order.

Calm, consistent leadership is a must, and obedience training must be upbeat and persuasive rather than sharp. This breed does not tolerate teasing or mischief.

Thrives on exercise, athletic activities, and challenging things to do

Looks serious and imposing, so makes an effective deterrent even when friendly

Emotional sensitivity to stress and loud voices

Yep, that’s me in almost every regard. Our clinic staff has a variety of personalities such as Basset Hound, Gordon Setter, Rhodesian Ridgeback, Italian Greyhound, and Pembroke Welsh Corgi. Many say that often owners resemble their pets, but I believe people choose pets that remind them of themselves. I personally wouldn’t own a Doberman, and they’re not my favorite breed, but I do identify with them. What dog breed do you most identify with?

I’ll conclude with a picture of Monkey, who, with her new owner Emly, is turning out to be a gorgeous young cat.

Photo by Emly McPhee