When you think of a Doberman, the image that often comes to mind is that of a sleek, powerful dog with a glossy coat, alert ears, and an intelligent gaze. Known for their loyalty and protective nature, Dobermans are a popular choice for families and individuals alike. However, several other dog breeds share similar physical traits or temperaments.
In this article, we’ll explore 17 dogs that look like Dobermans and how to differentiate them, highlighting their unique characteristics, temperaments, and features.
Beauceron
The Beauceron is a striking breed that often catches the eye of those who admire Dobermans. This French herding dog boasts a strong, muscular build and a similar color palette.
Physical Traits
- Size: Typically weighs between 70-110 pounds and stands about 24-28 inches tall.
- Coat Color: Usually black with tan markings, resembling the Doberman’s coloration.
- Ears: Can be cropped or uncropped, giving them a varied appearance.
Temperament
Beaucerons are known for their intelligence and versatility. They make excellent working dogs, excelling in obedience, agility, and herding tasks. Their loyalty to family makes them protective companions.
Distinguishing Features
To differentiate a Beauceron from a Doberman:
- Build: Beaucerons are generally larger and bulkier.
- Tail: Beaucerons often have longer tails compared to the Doberman’s docked tail.
- Markings: Look for distinct tan markings on the legs and face, which can vary from the Doberman’s more uniform appearance.
Chippiparai
The Chippiparai, a lesser-known breed from India, shares some physical characteristics with Dobermans, especially in terms of structure.
Physical Traits
- Size: Weighs around 45-60 pounds and stands 24-30 inches tall.
- Coat Color: Commonly seen in fawn, black, or brindle.
- Ears: Typically have long, floppy ears.
Temperament
Chippiparais are known for their hunting instincts and loyalty. They are affectionate with their families but can be reserved with strangers, making them good watchdogs.
Distinguishing Features
- Ears: Unlike the Doberman’s erect ears, Chippiparais have longer, droopy ears.
- Face Shape: The Chippiparai has a more elongated snout compared to the Doberman’s square-shaped head.
Miniature Pinscher
The Miniature Pinscher, often mistakenly thought to be a smaller version of the Doberman, is a distinct breed with its own personality and traits.
Physical Traits
- Size: Weighs around 8-12 pounds and stands about 10-12 inches tall.
- Coat Color: Available in red, black and tan, or chocolate and tan.
- Ears: Can be cropped or left natural, typically standing erect.
Temperament
Miniature Pinschers are spirited and fearless. They are known for their energetic personalities and are often described as “big dogs in a small body.”
Distinguishing Features
To tell a Miniature Pinscher apart from a Doberman:
- Size: The most apparent difference; Miniature Pinschers are significantly smaller.
- Proportions: Miniature Pinschers have a more refined build with a narrower waist.
German Hunting Terrier
The German Hunting Terrier is a compact, agile breed that shares a strong work ethic with the Doberman.
Physical Traits
- Size: Weighs about 17-20 pounds and stands around 13-16 inches tall.
- Coat Color: Typically black or brown with distinct markings.
- Ears: Hang down and are medium-sized.
Temperament
This breed is highly energetic and requires plenty of exercise. They are intelligent and can be quite stubborn, making training essential.
Distinguishing Features
- Size: Much smaller than Dobermans, with a more compact body.
- Coat: Their rough coat texture differs from the smooth, shiny Doberman coat.
English Toy Terrier
This small breed, also known as the Black and Tan Terrier, shares some visual similarities with Dobermans but in a much smaller package.
Physical Traits
- Size: Weighs around 6-8 pounds and stands about 10-12 inches tall.
- Coat Color: Black with tan markings.
- Ears: Naturally erect and pointed.
Temperament
English Toy Terriers are lively and affectionate, often forming strong bonds with their families. They can be wary of strangers, making them alert watchdogs.
Distinguishing Features
- Size: Clearly smaller than a Doberman.
- Face Shape: The English Toy Terrier has a more delicate facial structure compared to the robust Doberman.
Prague Ratter
The Prague Ratter is a toy breed that originates from the Czech Republic, known for its charming appearance and lively nature.
Physical Traits
- Size: Weighs between 6-14 pounds and stands around 8-12 inches tall.
- Coat Color: Commonly seen in black and tan or chocolate and tan.
- Ears: Erect and pointed.
Temperament
These dogs are friendly and affectionate, thriving in family settings. They can be wary of new people, but they bond deeply with their owners.
Distinguishing Features
- Size: Significantly smaller than the Doberman.
- Body Shape: More delicate and refined compared to the sturdy build of a Doberman.
Australian Kelpie
The Australian Kelpie is a highly intelligent herding dog that shares some aesthetic similarities with the Doberman, particularly in body shape.
Physical Traits
- Size: Weighs about 30-50 pounds and stands around 17-20 inches tall.
- Coat Color: Available in various colors, including black, red, and chocolate.
- Ears: Prick ears that are usually erect.
Temperament
Kelpies are known for their agility and intelligence. They are highly trainable and excel in various dog sports, making them an ideal choice for active families.
Distinguishing Features
- Ears: Kelpies have erect ears, unlike the Doberman’s typically cropped ears.
- Coat Texture: The Kelpie has a coarser coat than the Doberman’s sleek fur.
Rottweiler
Rottweilers are one of the most commonly confused breeds with Dobermans due to their size and similar coloration.
Physical Traits
- Size: Weighs between 80-135 pounds and stands about 22-27 inches tall.
- Coat Color: Primarily black with tan markings.
- Ears: Medium-sized and hang down.
Temperament
Rottweilers are known for their loyalty and protective nature. They are confident and can be wary of strangers, making them excellent guard dogs.
Distinguishing Features
- Build: Rottweilers have a stockier build and broader heads than Dobermans.
- Facial Structure: The shape of the snout and the size of the muzzle differ, with Rottweilers having a more pronounced jaw.
German Pinscher
The German Pinscher shares many characteristics with the Doberman, making them easy to confuse at a glance.
Physical Traits
- Size: Weighs around 25-45 pounds and stands about 17-20 inches tall.
- Coat Color: Black and tan, or blue and tan.
- Ears: Typically cropped but can also be left natural.
Temperament
These dogs are known for their intelligence and versatility. They are affectionate with their families but can be reserved around strangers.
Distinguishing Features
- Size: German Pinschers are smaller and more compact than Dobermans.
- Build: They have a more elegant, streamlined build compared to the muscular Doberman.
Black and Tan Coonhound
The Black and Tan Coonhound is another breed that often draws comparisons to the Doberman due to its color and features.
Physical Traits
- Size: Weighs between 65-110 pounds and stands about 21-27 inches tall.
- Coat Color: Black and tan, similar to the Doberman.
- Ears: Long, droopy ears that frame their face.
Temperament
Known for their friendly disposition, Black and Tan Coonhounds are great family pets. They are laid-back but require regular exercise due to their hunting background.
Distinguishing Features
- Ears: Their long, floppy ears are a distinct feature that sets them apart from the Doberman.
- Body Shape: Coonhounds have a more elongated and less muscular appearance.
Rhodesian Ridgeback
The Rhodesian Ridgeback is another breed that shares similar traits with Dobermans but is easily distinguishable by its unique characteristics.
Physical Traits
- Size: Weighs about 70-85 pounds and stands around 24-27 inches tall.
- Coat Color: Reddish-wheat color with a distinctive ridge along their back.
- Ears: Medium-sized and hang down.
Temperament
Rhodesian Ridgebacks are known for their loyalty and protective nature. They are affectionate with their families but can be reserved with strangers.
Distinguishing Features
- Ridge: The most distinctive feature is the ridge of hair along their spine, which is absent in Dobermans.
- Body Type: Ridgebacks have a more athletic build and longer legs.
Indian Kanni Dog
The Indian Kanni is a rare breed that resembles the Doberman in several ways but has its unique attributes.
Physical Traits
- Size: Weighs around 40-50 pounds and stands about 24-30 inches tall.
- Coat Color: Primarily fawn or tan with black markings.
- Ears: Typically hang down or can be cropped.
Temperament
Kanni dogs are known for their intelligence and hunting abilities. They are loyal and protective of their families but require socialization to be well-adjusted.
Distinguishing Features
- Build: Kanni dogs have a leaner and more agile build compared to Dobermans.
- Face Shape: Their face is more elongated with a less pronounced muzzle.
American Staffordshire Terrier
The American Staffordshire Terrier is a powerful breed that shares some visual similarities with Dobermans, particularly in body shape.
Physical Traits
- Size: Weighs about 40-70 pounds and stands around 17-19 inches tall.
- Coat Color: Comes in various colors, including brindle, black, and blue.
- Ears: Can be cropped or left natural.
Temperament
These dogs are known for their loyalty and affection towards families. They can be strong-willed and require proper training and socialization.
Distinguishing Features
- Build: Staffordshire Terriers have a more stocky and muscular build.
- Face Shape: Their face is broader and more pronounced than that of a Doberman.
Belgian Malinois
The Belgian Malinois is often confused with the Doberman due to their similar coloring and athletic build, especially among working dogs.
Physical Traits
- Size: Weighs around 40-80 pounds and stands about 22-26 inches tall.
- Coat Color: Typically fawn or mahogany with a black mask.
- Ears: Erect and pointed.
Temperament
Malinois dogs are highly intelligent and trainable, making them popular in police and military work. They are energetic and require regular exercise and mental stimulation.
Distinguishing Features
- Coloring: The black mask sets the Malinois apart from the Doberman’s more uniform coat.
- Build: Malinois are usually lighter and more agile than Dobermans.
Conclusion
While Dobermans are undoubtedly a unique breed with their own set of characteristics, several other dogs share similar physical traits or temperaments. From the robust Beauceron to the spirited Miniature Pinscher, understanding these breeds can help prospective dog owners make informed decisions.
Each breed has its unique set of needs, temperaments, and characteristics that appeal to different lifestyles and preferences.
