Doberman Pinschers were first bred by a German tax collector in need of protection. When compared to other dogs, Dobermans are of a larger size, with males growing up to 28 inches at the hip and weighing up to about 90 pounds. They’re slim but powerful dogs with a muscular build, and a large mouth and teeth. Dobermans need sufficient exercise. Without enough exercise, the breed has a tendency to become easily irritated or even aggressive. Although initially bred for human protection, Dobermans are also used as police, military and rescue dogs. Their bite can range from 235 to 300 pounds per square inch. A single bite can tear through skin and flesh and cause terrible fractures and partial disability for life. They’re intelligent, loyal and fearless, and they make terrific guard dogs for families. They might seem somewhat aloof with children, but they do well as companions with adults.
Why Do Dobermans Attack?
Although Dobermans have a reputation of being ferocious, most are just big babies with their family and friends. However, they do bite. Here are a few reasons why they might:
- Fear: Strange sights, sounds or people can startle a Doberman. If the dog gets nervous, it can defensively bite or snap at a person.
- Territory: All dogs are territorial, and you don’t want to encroach on a Doberman’s territory, especially if you’re a stranger. Consider that territoriality a quality when your Doberman’s territory is your home.
- Predatory Aggression: All dogs are natural predators. Their predatory instincts might cause them to chase smaller animals like squirrels. Don’t try to get in the middle of such aggression.
- Dinner Time: You and your family members should stay away from a Doberman when it’s eating. Instinct might tell it that you’re trying to steal its food and cause an attack. When your Doberman is finished with dinner, it’s likely to come thank you with a wet and smelly kiss.
- Dominance: A Doberman might show aggression toward smaller dogs or dogs of the same gender. Early training in this regard is likely to benefit an owner and their Doberman.
Doberman Attacks
In Houston, a 66-year-old Doberman show dog owner was found dead in her backyard from multiple dog bites after her neighbors didn’t see her for two days. Police found her on a welfare checkup. Her two Dobermans were in her yard with her. In Michigan, a 4-year-old girl died in an attack by a 3-year-old Doberman that the family had adopted just 30 minutes earlier. Dobermans at large have also been known to attack bicyclists.
Homeowners or Rental Insurance Considerations When Owning a Doberman
Although no legal restrictions that are known to have been imposed by the State of California or its municipalities against Dobermans, homeowner and rental insurance companies often exclude the dogs from an owner’s coverage. Some insurers will exclude injuries caused by any animal owned by the insured person, while others will exclude certain breeds of dogs. Other insurers might have their own restrictions, so if you’re thinking about relocating, exercise due diligence with appropriate inquiries. You might be in a position where you need to think about purchasing private pet insurance.
Contact a California Dog Bite Lawyer
California is a strict liability state on dog bites. Even if a dog never showed any dangerous propensities, its owner is highly likely to be held liable for bite injuries and damages. There are very few exceptions to this rule. Doberman Pinschers are strong and quick with potentially lethal bites. If a Doberman attacked and injured you or a family member anywhere in California, get immediate medical attention and contact the California dog bite lawyers at Maison Law. We will give you a free consultation and case evaluation. You can tell us what happened and how it has affected you or your family member. We’ll answer any of your questions, too. After that, we’ll explain the full range of legal options that are available. Contact us here at Maison Law after being attacked and injured by any Doberman anywhere in the State of California.
