How to Buy a Doberman Puppy

You've always wanted a Doberman puppy, but before you buy one, you must do your homework. Take your time selecting a breeder and know what to look for to ensure you're buying a healthy puppy. Here are some guidelines for buying a Doberman puppy.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Breeder
• Pet store
• References
• AKC blue slip
• Pedigree papers

1. Decide where you want to buy your Doberman puppy. It's best to purchase your dog from a breeder. However, you might want to consider buying from a reliable pet store.
2. Understand the various types of breeders before buying a Doberman puppy. Hobby show breeders are interested in breeding the best Doberman possible. They are active members of dog clubs, such as the DPCA. Back yard breeders don't possess much knowledge about Dobermans and are usually in the breeding business for financial gain. Commercial breeders gear towards volume and profit and generally don't supply registration (AKC) papers.
3. Understand the various types of breeders before buying a Doberman puppy. Hobby show breeders are interested in breeding the best Doberman possible. They are active members of dog clubs, such as the DPCA. Back yard breeders don't possess much knowledge about Dobermans and are usually in the breeding business for financial gain. Commercial breeders breed for volume and profit and generally don't supply registration (AKC) papers.
4. Visit a breeder's kennel before buying a Doberman puppy. The kennel should be clean and have an outdoor run and exercise area. The puppies' eating area, food and water dishes also should be clean.
5. Buy a Doberman puppy that is at least 9 weeks old. A healthy weight for a puppy is 17 lbs. for a female and 20 lbs. for a male.
6. Select a Doberman puppy whose coat is clean and shiny. Its skin should be baggy and its eyes should be sparkling, alert and clean. All puppies should have been wormed, received their first shot(s) and had their ears and tails trimmed.
7. Ask the breeder questions about their background, breeding history and methods, club affiliations. Find out how they raise and socialize their dogs before you buy your Doberman puppy.
8. Insist on a four-generation pedigree and an AKC blue slip for registration purposes before finalizing your purchase.

Tips & Warnings

• Always ask a breeder for references and call several to verify the breeder's reputation.
• Exercise caution if you are buying a Doberman puppy via mail order or telephone.