A few questions regarding the development of the breed

[Carnivora]

Hello, I was wondering if it would be proper to think of the Dobermann as more of a terrier-become-personal guard dog rather than a flock-guardian-become-personal guard dog. Was the base stock more of a German pinscher or a beauceron? If I am way off base, please correct my, as I am interested in learning about the creation of the breeed.


Also, why was greyhound added to the breed? It seems to me that it made the breed more slight than other guard dog breeds, such as the German and Dutch Sheperds, or is that not accurate?

What are some key differences between American and German or Europen bred Dobermanns? Everyone talks about "differences" but I haven't come to a source that specifies the differences aside for American ones become more of a showline type.

Finally, is there any current trends in the breeding of the Dobermann? Are people selecting for smaller or larger specimens? Is there a preference for certain body types? Is the breed still considered "sharp" as they say? Is the Dobermann still a "one-man-dog" as I have seen it initially described as? Again, I am very interested in learning, so please correct any misconceptions I may have. Thanks!

[bmgillespie]

Hello Carnivora,
I am also in U.S, my advice for you is to take time and read this site. It has all the answers to the questions you have asked so you will probably not get many answers to your questions. Welcome to the site, enjoy.

[jotunheim]

Try reading this link:

http://www.geocities.com/jotunheimdobes/Archive-Article-Origin-01.htm

should answer most of your questions.

[von Cosack Dobermann]

I suggest that a few questions at a time might be better to get some different responces. The offer that Bitten gave you should keep you busy for some time. Thank you Bitten, 53 huh!!!! Thought you were like 39!!!
Live n' learn! Von