Frequently Asked Questions

We are often asked many of the same questions, either on the phone or by email. The following information, which explains what we expect of our puppy owners and what they can expect from us, will answer many of those questions.

Before you buy a Doberman—whether you are thinking about a puppy or an adult—there are a number of things to consider. Being a responsible owner is an important role and requires your serious commitment.

You must always keep your dog safe.

Dobermans are playful.
Dobermans need plenty of exercise to stay happy and healthy. You'll need to set aside playtime and time for training. Obedience training is a must for your dog to become a welcome member of your home and community.

Dobermans need your protection. A fenced yard is a must for your dog's safety. You certainly don't want your dog to run away or get lost, nor do you want other dogs coming onto your property, challenging your dog, and ending up with a dog fight. An Acclaim Doberman is permanently tattooed prior to your purchase. If he manages to get loose despite your best efforts he can be traced back to us and, of course, back into your loving arms.
Dobermans grow. Doberman puppies don't stay cute and cuddly for long. Before you know it they are 65-90 lbs. and all muscle! You need to make sure that a Doberman suits your environment. Dobermans are energetic and need lots of space. They are not suited to apartment or city dwelling unless you are willing to put in a lot of time walking and playing outdoors with them.
All dogs need a license. Most areas require that you license all your dogs. Failure to comply with these laws could result in fines or penalties and may endanger your right to keep the dog!
All dogs need health care. All dogs need regular veterinary check-ups. Your Acclaim puppy will have his first vaccination administered by our veterinarian and you will get a health record to take to your vet on subsequent visits. Your puppy will need a rabies vaccination at approximately 5-6 months of age, a second vaccination one year later and thereafter every three years. If you are travelling in areas where heartworm is known to exist, it's a good idea to test and medicate within a month of possible exposure to ensure that your dog does not contract this deadly disease. The average lifespan of a Doberman is 10-12 years so he will depend on your love and care for a long time. As your Doberman ages he may require special treatments, so make sure you are willing to commit to this.
Dobermans influence the family budget. In addition to the purchase price of your dog, which will be $1000-1500 for a pet and probably more if you are looking for a show quality puppy, you must also plan for the miscellaneous costs. Plan for food, grooming, collars, a leash and some toys. Don't forget about a crate and maybe a special bed. Add in the veterinary care and necessary training lessons. Make sure you are well prepared as those little things can quickly add up.
Dobermans need companionship. Your Doberman deserves plenty of attention and indeed will demand it. Your Doberman will want to be everywhere you are—no matter where that may be. He will not be happy if he is left outside when you are inside. He'll be less inclined to bark or chew your belongings if he gets your undivided love and attention.

Kody, on his soapbox.

Breeders learn so much from their dogs.

A responsible breeder is always a student. They must embrace the belief that each new litter should represent an improvement over the last. This improvement is measured in the conformation of the dog (the appearance as outlined in the Canadian Kennel Club breed standard), health and genetic concerns, temperament and soundness. To reach this goal they must devote hours to continually learning as much as they can about the breed. Careful consideration must be given to each dog in a breeding program and they must have an extensive knowledge of their dogs' lineage. They must also learn about general dog behaviour, training and health care.

Responsible breeders know that each breed has an official standard or written description of how the ideal dog looks, moves and behaves. They are careful to breed only dogs that meet this standard. An excellent way for a breeder to test the development of their breeding program is by entering the dog against others at a dog show. Entering the dog in obedience trials will allow you to measure your dog's ability. If the dog is a success at these events you can be more confident that your dog is contributing to the betterment of the breed.

Responsible breeders know that every dog—however wonderful as a companion—has certain flaws or weaknesses and that it is important to find a mate that can compliment strengths and help eliminate the weaknesses.

Responsible breeders accept responsibility for the puppies they produce throughout their lifetime and are always available to answer questions and provide information to their puppy owners. A breeder that simply gives you a business card of a veterinarian and tells you to take care of the ear cropping is a warning sign of someone who will not be there if a problem should occur.

Good puppies start long before their parents are bred. Both the sire and dam need constant care and conditioning to produce the best offspring. This means regular veterinary care, screening for genetic health issues, pre-breeding health tests, regular exercise and good nutrition. It also means maintaining the mental health of the dog. Good puppies come from good mothers. Responsible breeders avoid breeding shy and/or unstable dogs.

A responsible and experienced breeder is your best source of information on the intricacies of the breed. They should be members in good standing of the Canadian Kennel Club and their national breed club. They should be involved with their local breed, which promotes activities of purebred dogs.

A common myth: Meeting both parents of your puppy.
Despite what you may have read or been told, it is unlikely that you will be able to see both the sire and dam of a potential puppy. For years, breeders have shipped their bitches all over North America to breed them to the best dog they could find. With the advances in artificial insemination and the shipping of fresh and frozen semen it is even less likely that you can see both parents. Actually, it can be a detriment if the breeder is simply breeding siblings or parents to offspring in order to save money and produce more puppies.