Male or female Doberman?

"Should we get a boy or a girl?" is one of the most common questions breeders hear. There are real average differences, but the range within each sex is wide, so the puppy in front of you matters more than the statistics.

Size

Heights are from the AKC breed standard (AKC). Weights are typical ranges from the Doberman Pinscher Club of America (DPCA); the AKC gives 60 to 100 pounds for the breed overall (AKC). Females look more refined; males have a broader head and more substance.

Temperament: common tendencies

Males are often:

• goofy, playful and slower to mature (some act like puppies until 2 or 3 years old)
• openly affectionate, often called "Velcro dogs"
• bonded to the whole family
• more likely to clash with other male dogs

Females are often:

• quicker to mature and to focus in training
• a little more independent, choosing when they want affection
• strongly bonded to one or two people
• more likely to clash with other female dogs

Both are protective. Owners often describe females as more watchful of the home and family day to day, and males as more of a physical deterrent because of their size.

Living with other dogs

Same-sex aggression is a known issue in the breed. If you already have a dog, many breeders recommend choosing the opposite sex. Two females can be the hardest pairing. Introduce any new dog carefully, and ask the breeder for advice based on your current dog's personality.

Spaying and neutering

Puppies sold as pets usually come with limited registration and a spay or neuter agreement. Timing is worth discussing with your vet: large-breed dogs may benefit from waiting until they're more physically mature. Females come into season roughly every six months if not spayed, which means a few weeks of bleeding and keeping her away from intact males.

Price

Most breeders charge the same for males and females. Some let earlier deposits choose first, so your preferred sex may depend on your place on the waiting list.

How to choose

Ask yourself:

1. Do I have other dogs? If so, what sex are they?
2. Do I want the bigger, more physical dog, or the smaller, more agile one?
3. Who will do most of the training and handling?
4. How does each available puppy actually behave?

Then tell the breeder what your home is like. A breeder who has watched the litter for eight weeks often knows which puppy will fit you best, whatever its sex.

Frequently asked questions

Are female Dobermans better with kids?

Not necessarily. Both sexes can be excellent with children when well bred, socialized and supervised. Males' size and clumsiness as young dogs can knock over small children, so plan for training either way.

Are males harder to train?

Males can be slower to mature and more easily distracted when young, but they're very eager to please. Consistent, positive training works for both.

Which sex is more protective?

Both are protective. The difference is more about style than strength, and it varies from dog to dog.