Dobermann (Doberman): Size, Lifespan, Health and Care
Quick answer
PDSA, the UK veterinary charity, puts the Dobermann (Doberman) at about 65-69 cm tall and 30-40 kg, living over 10 years. It suggests at least 2 hours a day, and lists 8 health problems to watch, including hip dysplasia and Wobbler syndrome. Minimum running cost: at least £105 a month after buying and setting up, and over £17,000 over a lifetime.
From PDSA, the UK veterinary charity. Not veterinary advice. Worried about your own pet? See who to call.
On this page (7 sections)
Key facts
| Size | Large |
|---|---|
| Average height | 65-69 cm |
| Average weight | 30-40 kg |
| Average lifespan | Over 10 years |
| Exercise | At least 2 hours a day, spread over the day with a couple of walks and off-lead running in a secure area |
| Grooming | A brush about once a week; short coat, sheds more in spring and autumn |
| Cost | At least £105 a month after buying and setting up, and over £17,000 over a lifetime |
Source: PDSA, Dobermann (Doberman) breed information.
Health problems to watch
PDSA lists these for the breed. A higher risk does not mean every animal will be affected; where a screening scheme or test exists, ask the breeder for the parents' results.
- hip dysplasia
- Wobbler syndrome
- certain cancers
- von Willebrand's disease (a bleeding disorder)
- eye problems such as persistent hyperplastic primary vitreous (PHPV)
- dilated cardiomyopathy (a heart muscle disease)
- gastric dilatation volvulus (GDV, "bloat")
- hypothyroidism
Source: PDSA, Dobermann (Doberman) breed information.
Exercise and grooming
PDSA suggests at least 2 hours a day, spread over the day with a couple of walks and off-lead running in a secure area. Grooming: a brush about once a week; short coat, sheds more in spring and autumn. Source: PDSA, Dobermann (Doberman) breed information.
Temperament
PDSA describes the breed as loyal, intelligent and eager to learn, energetic, protective with a strong guarding instinct; can be wilful in training and has a high prey drive. PDSA says Dobermanns probably are not the best breed for families with young children or first-time owners, and no dog should be left alone for more than four hours. Source: PDSA, Dobermann (Doberman) breed information.
Cost
PDSA's figure: at least £105 a month after buying and setting up, and over £17,000 over a lifetime. These are minimums that leave out buying the animal and vet bills for illness or injury. More: annual cost of owning a dog and puppy first-year costs. Source: PDSA, Dobermann (Doberman) breed information.
Questions people ask
How long do Dobermann (Doberman)s live?
PDSA gives an average lifespan of over 10 years.
How much exercise does a Dobermann (Doberman) need?
PDSA suggests at least 2 hours a day, spread over the day with a couple of walks and off-lead running in a secure area.
What health problems do Dobermann (Doberman)s have?
PDSA lists hip dysplasia; Wobbler syndrome; certain cancers; von Willebrand's disease (a bleeding disorder); eye problems such as persistent hyperplastic primary vitreous (PHPV); dilated cardiomyopathy (a heart muscle disease); gastric dilatation volvulus (GDV, "bloat"); hypothyroidism.
How much does a Dobermann (Doberman) cost?
PDSA's estimate: at least £105 a month after buying and setting up, and over £17,000 over a lifetime.
Sources
- PDSA, Dobermann (Doberman) breed information, read 7 November 2026.
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