A:  Please be sure to research the breed if this will be your first Doberman.  Dobermans are very people oriented.  They always prefer physically being with their family rather than going off alone.  They are often referred to as "Velcro dogs".

For more information on the Doberman breed, please visit the Doberman Pinscher Club of America at: http://www.dpca.org/ .

Q:  Are all Dobermans that are surrendered or abandoned aggressive and mean? 

A: There are some surrendered or abandoned Dobermans with aggression issues, but that is true of ALL breeds. 

All of our dogs go through a temperament screening process before we will allow them to be adopted.  We will not knowingly accept, or adopt out aggressive dogs.  Most rescued Dobermans just want love, attention and affection. 

Q:  Why do I have to complete an application, invite you into my home and sign a contract?

A:  We work countless hours saving and caring for rescued dogs.  Our screening process helps us create the best match between Doberman and adoptive home.  It also helps us be sure the adoptive parent will provide a loving, safe and secure home. 

Q:  What if the Doberman doesn't work out?

A:  Owning a Doberman (or any pet for that matter) is a huge responsibility.  This is why we have a screening process.  If, however, the Doberman is not working out in your home our Adoption Contract states that you must return the Doberman to DPR. 

Q:  What if I have questions or concerns after I adopt?

A:  DPR is network of Dobe lovers who are always here to offer support to the adoptive family if needed.  If you ever have questions and/or concerns we will help in any way we can.  We want the adoption to be successful, for both the humans and the rescued Dobe.

Q:  Why is the adoption fee so much more then a shelters fee?

A:  As a general rule our fee is $225.  Please click here to view our minimal costs incurred.  SPCAs and local shelters do not perform all the health checks we do.   If you choose to adopt from DPR, you will know the dog’s current health condition prior to taking him/her home with you.

Q:  What kind of food will I need to feed my new Doberman?

A:  We suggest a premium dog food which is specific for large breeds.  You may also want to check with your vet for recommendations based on your dogs needs.

Q:  How long will it take my rescued Doberman to settle in?

A:  It varies, some dogs settle in quicker than others.  Dobermans are very sensitive and may take some time to feel completely comfortable in their new environment.  Their whole world has been turned upside down (a couple of times) and they need to feel safe and secure again.  In our experience, most dogs settle in after a few weeks.

Expect accidents. It is normal for even the most house trained dog to have accidents in a new environment.  Please, be patient and work with your rescued Dobe as he/she goes through this adjustment period.  As you get to know your new dog, you will learn to anticipate his/her needs.   Maintaining a regular schedule will also help your new dog adjust.

Q:  Do you have any suggestions for a Dobe which chews on everything, or exhibits destructive behavior?

A:  First make sure you are providing adequate exercise for the dog.  Dobermans are classified as a working dog, and often they are very energetic.

If after a long walk if your dog continues destructive behavior, try Bitter Apple Spray or Bitter Lime Spray and “crate time out” when the dogs starts his/her destructive habit. 

Or you may want to try, “Comfort Zone Plug-Ins”.  You plug this into wall socket and product releases dog appeasing pheromone into the room.  It produces an atmosphere of well-being and is known to reduce 91% of destructive behaviors, 65% of excessive barking and whimpering, and 75% of house soiling.

You may also want to use a crate, exercise pen, or even confine your new dog to a room while you are away.  This will limit the trouble he/she can get into while providing a secure safe environment.  

Q:  Do I have to have a fence to adopt? 

A:  DPR addresses this on a case by case basis.  For some Dobes we require a fence.  For other Dobes, as long as you and your family meet our screening requirements and we feel the dog will receive adequate daily exercise, we do not require a fence. 

Q:  Is an invisible fence acceptable? 

A:  DPR addresses this on a case by case basis. 

Q:  How are Dobes with children?

A:  How a Dobe interacts with a child is not breed specific; rather it varies from dog to dog.  All of our dogs are kept in foster care and are exposed to various social situations.  This provides us with a good idea how each dog might respond in various situations.  DPR discloses all we know abut individual Dobes to parties interested in adopting.

It is DPR’s goal to find the right match for the adoptive family as well as for the dobe.  If we are aware a certain dog does not interact well with children we will not allow it to go to a home with small children. 

Q:  How are Dobes with other animals?

A:  How a Dobe interacts with other animals is not breed specific rather it varies from dog to dog.  Some Dobes have a strong prey instinct and because of this may not do well with small animals.

All of our dogs are kept in foster care and are exposed to various social situations.  This provides us with a good idea how each dog might respond in various situations.  DPR discloses all we know abut individual Dobes to parties interested in adopting.

It is DPR’s goal to find the right match for the adoptive family as well as for the dobe.  If we are aware a certain dog does not interact well with other animals we will not allow it to go to a home with other animals. 

Q:  Should I adopt from a rescue dog or buy a puppy?

A:  Puppies are adorable, but they are also a lot of work.  When you adopt you are able to choose a dog to custom fit your lifestyle, age, sex, color, energy level, etc.  You will also have the support of the rescue.  And, you are saving a life!!  

If you do decide a puppy is right for you.  Please purchase from a reputable breeder.

Q:  How can I become a member of DPR?

A:  To become a member of DPR, click here print and send via US Mail. You will be listed as a member, receive our quarterly newsletter "Doberman Dispatch" as well as be invited to our annual Jamboree.  Donations also may be included at the same time.

Q:  How can I help DPR?

A:  We are always in need of volunteers transporters, administrative, technical, and foster homes for needy Doberman Pinschers.  Our greatest need is for dedicated people to temporarily open their homes to these dogs while they await adoption.  All medical needs, food, and equipment are provided by DPR.  We ask for temporary housing in a structured and caring pet-interested household for a flexible time period, one dog at a time.  To volunteer, contact Shirley Crumling at (717) 309-1502.

If you would like to help but are unable to volunteer, our income comes from dues, donations and adoption fees. All donations directly help the dogs in our care, and are tax deductible.  To donate, make your check payable to “DPR of PA” and mail it to: DPR of PA, Attention: Denise Yerger, 405 Fairview Drive, Kutztown PA 19530.  Or donate online now: