Red Doberman: Facts, History, Recognition & Pictures

Red Dobermans are the second-most common color variation of Dobermans—right after brown Dobermans. While you might see them a little less often than brown Dobermans, they are widely available—if you want one, finding one shouldn’t be too difficult. Furthermore, they aren’t usually more expensive than the average Doberman.

All in all, these Dobermans only differ in coloration. Beyond that, they act just the same as any other Doberman and the only thing you need to consider is the aesthetic appeal.

The red Doberman has the same history as the “regular” Doberman. This coloration has always been part of the Doberman standard, so it has likely been around for a long time.

The Earliest Records of Red Dobermans in History

Dobermans were originally bred in the 1880s in Germany. The initial breeder was Karl Friedrich Louis Dobermann, a tax collector. He also ran a dog pound, allowing him to access many different dog breeds. One day, he decided to create a dog breed made to protect him (as his job was a bit hazardous). Because he could access many different dog breeds from the kennel, he could mix many different breeds.

He was successful. 5 years after his death, Otto Goeller created the National Doberman Pinscher Club and set out to perfect the breed. Both of these men had a large part in how the dog breed developed.

Sadly, the early breeders did not specify which breeds were utilized to create the Doberman. Today, many experts guess what the original breeds may have been. However, the only dog breeds we know for certain are the Greyhound and the Manchester Terrier. The old German Shepherd breed was probably used, too.

However, different kennel clubs make opposing claims about this breed's parentage.

How the Red Doberman Gained Popularity

The red coloration was always around in the breed. It’s seen in many early standards, so it’s likely been around as long as the breed has. However, the brown coloration has always been more common and popular.

As for the breed itself, it became popular quickly. The breed is relatively new at only 150 years old and it’s currently the 16^th most popular dog in America, according to the American Kennel Club.

This breed’s popularity was driven by WWII when the breed was utilized as a guard dog. The United States Military Corps adopted the Doberman Pinscher as their official dog during this period. However, they did use other breeds for war purposes, as well.

Furthermore, in the 1970s, the breed was utilized in many movies. This only helped to increase the breed’s popularity among the average dog owner. The breed also won with Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show several times in the 1900s.

Formal Recognition of the Red Doberman

The American Kennel Club has recognized the Doberman since 1908. This early recognition is likely because the breed has always been carefully bred and didn’t experience any bottlenecks like other breeds. Since its creation, there have been an increasing number of breeders and dogs. Therefore, the breed’s path to recognition was much clearer than others.

Ever since the breed was recognized, the American Kennel Club has reported more and more dogs. They haven’t declined, which is quite rare for a dog breed. However, the fact that this breed’s popularity only rose during WWII helped greatly. (Many breeds experienced a bottleneck in this period, especially in Europe.)

There have been some changes to this breed’s name, however. Originally, the word “Pinscher” was used. However, this word is the German term for a terrier. After about half a century of use, the UK kennel club decided that this term didn’t fit, so they removed it. However, the American Kennel Club still utilizes this term.

Top 4 Unique Facts About the Red Doberman

1. The Red Doberman has always been a less-popular color.

While the “original” Doberman colors weren’t always written down, the brown coloration was always more common. Therefore, red has always been a bit less popular and available.

2. The Doberman is named after its creator.

Unlike most dog breeds, a single man created the Doberman—Louis Dobermann. After his death, the dog breed was named after him.

3. This breed was recognized very quickly.

Unlike other breeds, the Doberman was recognized quickly after the original breeder’s death. Shortly after its creation, the breed began gaining in popularity.

4. The Doberman’s parentage is unknown.

You’ll find many claims about the Doberman’s heritage. However, we don’t know anything for certain. In reality, the breed could have been made with various dogs. Some of the dogs utilized in the creation may have had unknown origins.

Does the Red Doberman Make a Good Pet?

Dobermans can make great pets. However, they work best for a specific type of family. These dogs are very strong and were bred for their stamina. Therefore, they can become destructive if you do not manage them properly. Training and socialization are required. If you’re looking for a low-maintenance dog, this isn’t it.

Because these dogs were made for protection purposes, they can be aggressive. However, socialization and training can diminish this somewhat. It is not so much the dog’s genetics as its upbringing that determines its aggression level. Fear can easily turn to aggression in this breed. Reducing the possibility of fear through socialization is vital.

Dobermans also tend to be more energetic than many dog breeds. Therefore, we highly recommend them for active families. Having a fenced-in yard can be helpful, but you should also plan on taking your dog on walks regularly.

When raised properly, these dogs can be great and affectionate with children. They are gentle dogs that are large enough to put up with rough toddlers. Their hunting instincts are lower than other dogs, so they may live peacefully next to cats if raised around them.

Conclusion

Red Dobermans may not be the most popular color out there, but they aren’t exactly rare, either. This color has existed since the breed’s creation. It is recognized by all kennel clubs and is somewhat common in the breed. It is the second-most common Doberman coloration.

These dogs act just like any other Doberman. The only difference is what they look like and many potential dog owners only choose red Dobermans because of their appearance.

Featured Image Credit: Mary Swift, Shutterstock