White Doberman: A Complete Guide And Pictures

The White Doberman is a distinctive and stunning variation of the standard Doberman Pinscher, known for its striking light cream coat and loyalty.  

In this article, we will discuss all the interesting facts about White Dobermans, from their history to their genetics, physical traits, temperament, care considerations, health issues, lifespan, cost and more. It aims to provide a thorough understanding of this rare color variant, helping prospective owners and enthusiasts appreciate the nuances of owning and caring for a White Doberman.

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White Doberman Quick Facts

Before we explore the intricacies of the White Doberman, let's begin with some quick facts to provide a snapshot of this captivating variation:

Name:	White Doberman, White Doberman Pinscher
Height:	24 to 28 inches
Weight:	60 to 100 pounds
Lifespan:	10 to 13 years
Colors:	Light cream (white)
Temperament:	Intelligent, loyal, alert, protective

White Doberman History

The White Doberman's history is rooted in the broader lineage of the Doberman Pinscher, a breed developed by a German tax collector named Karl Friedrich Louis Dobermann in the late 19th century.

The first White Doberman was born in 1976 to two black and rust-colored Doberman parents. This puppy, named Sheba, was the foundation of the White Doberman lineage. Breeders continued to inbreed from Sheba to produce more White Dobermans, which led to controversy due to the health concerns associated with albinism.

White Doberman Genetics

The white coat of these Dobermans is the result of a mutated gene that causes albinism. This genetic condition is characterized by the absence or defect of tyrosinase, an enzyme necessary for the production of melanin, the pigment that gives color to the skin, hair, and eyes.

The gene responsible is recessive, meaning a puppy needs to inherit it from both parents to express the trait. The mutation is linked to several health concerns, primarily due to the lack of melanin, which provides protection from sun exposure and other environmental factors.

White Doberman Appearance Traits

The White Doberman stands out with its striking white fur, a rare and visually stunning variant of the traditional Doberman Pinscher. This section explores their unique physical features, including their size, build, and the distinctive coat type and colors that define this remarkable breed.

Size, Height & Weight

The White Doberman Pinscher is a large breed, with males typically standing between 26 and 28 inches at the shoulder and weighing 70 to 100 pounds. Females are slightly smaller, standing around 24 to 26 inches tall and weighing 60 to 90 pounds. Despite their color, they retain the muscular and athletic build of the standard Doberman.

Coat Type & Colors 

The defining feature of this dog is its coat color, which ranges from pure white to a light cream hue. The coat is short, smooth, and lies close to the body. They often have light or blue eyes and a pink nose, which are also results of the albinism gene.

White Doberman Temperament & Personality Traits

The White Doberman's personality aligns closely with that of the standard Doberman Pinscher—intelligent, loyal, and energetic. They are known for their affectionate nature towards their families and their protective instincts, making them excellent guard dogs.

• Intelligence and Trainability: These dogs are highly intelligent and trainable, making them versatile in various roles, including obedience competitions, agility trials, and service dogs. Early socialization and consistent, positive training methods are crucial for their development.
• Loyalty and Affection: These dogs form strong bonds with their families and are often good with children if raised alongside them. Their loyalty and affectionate nature make them wonderful family pets. Sometimes, they are alert and can be wary of strangers, so their protective nature should be managed through training to ensure they do not become overly aggressive.

White Doberman Care Concerns 

Caring for a White Doberman involves addressing specific needs associated with its coat color and potential health considerations.

Food & Diet Needs

A nutrient-rich diet tailored for large, active breeds is essential for this dog breed. Generally, they should be fed from 2.5 to 3.5 cups of high-quality dry food per day to stay happy and healthy. You should divide their food into two meals for adult dogs and 3 -4 meals for puppies to avoid bloating.

You shouldn't let your furry friends eat freely, they are prone to obesity. Moreover, supplements can be considered for joint health, especially as they age. It is better to consult with your vet to determine the diet that meets their age, size, activity levels and health status.

Grooming Needs

The short coat of the Doberman White is relatively low-maintenance, but they still require regular brushing, at least once a week, to remove dead hair and maintain skin health.

They should be bathed only as needed to avoid drying out their skin. Due to their albinism, special attention should be given to skin care, including the use of sunblock for protection against UV rays. In addition, regular ear cleaning, nail trimming, and dental care are also part of their grooming routine.

Exercise Needs

These dogs are energetic and require daily exercise, typically 30 - 60 minutes a day, to maintain their physical and mental health. Activities should include walks, runs, play sessions, and mental stimulation exercises. They excel in obedience, agility, and other canine sports, which can be excellent outlets for their energy.

Training

Consistent, positive training methods are effective with these dogs. They respond well to rewards-based training instead of threats or punishments. Besides, they require early socialization to develop into well-adjusted dogs. Training should also focus on curbing any tendency towards overprotectiveness or aggression.

Living Conditions

White Dobermans thrive in environments where they can receive ample exercise and interaction with their family. They are not suited for apartment living unless their exercise needs can be adequately met. A home with a fenced yard is ideal for them to play and exercise safely.

What Are Common Health Problems of White Doberman?

The White Doberman, like any variation within the breed, may be prone to certain health issues associated with genetics and coat color.

• Sun Burne: Due to their lack of skin pigmentation, they are prone to sunburn. Owners should provide sun protection when outdoors and limit their exposure to direct sunlight.
• Eye Issues: Albinism can lead to increased sensitivity to light and vision problems. Regular eye check-ups are necessary to monitor their eye health.
• Tumors: There is an increased risk of skin tumors in this pet due to the lack of melanin. Regular skin examinations are important for early detection and treatment.
• Hip & Elbow Dysplasia: This common issue in large breeds can lead to joint pain and arthritis. A healthy diet, regular exercise, and weight management can help reduce the risk.

• Bloat: Gastric torsion, or bloat, is a serious condition that can affect large breeds like this pup. Feeding smaller, more frequent meals and avoiding exercise right after eating can help prevent this condition.
• Skin Problems: Their sensitive skin may be prone to allergies and irritations. Allergens should be identified and managed with the help of a veterinarian.
• Heart Diseases: Regular veterinary check-ups are important to monitor for any signs of heart disease, which can be common in large breeds.

There are some additional health issues that may affect White Dobermans, including hypothyroidism, progressive retinal atrophy, kneecap luxation, and epilepsy. Regular veterinary care is necessary to monitor and manage these conditions.

How Long Can a White Doberman Live?

The lifespan of a Doberman Pinscher White is similar to that of the standard Doberman, typically ranging between 10 to 13 years. Factors such as genetics, overall health, diet, and lifestyle play a significant role in determining their lifespan.

How Much Does a Doberman White Puppy Cost?

The cost of a White Doberman puppy can be higher than standard Dobermans due to their rarity. Prices can range from $1,500 to $3,000 or more, depending on the breeder, location, and the puppy's health and lineage. It is crucial to buy from reputable breeders who provide health clearances for the parents and the puppies.

FAQ - White Doberman

Are White Dobermans Good Family Dogs?

They can be good family dogs when properly trained and socialized. They are loyal and protective of their family, but you should supervise their interactions with young children.

Is a White Doberman Pinscher Hypoallergenic?

No, these dogs are not hypoallergenic. They shed moderately and may not be suitable for individuals with severe allergies.

Is a Doberman White Rare?

Yes, this dog is a rare color variation within the Doberman Pinscher breed and is less common than the traditional black, red, or blue Dobermans.

Are These Dogs Aggressive?

White Dobermans are not inherently aggressive. However, like all Dobermans, they have strong protective instincts and require proper training and socialization to ensure they are well-behaved.

Conclusion

The White Doberman is a rare and fascinating variant of the Doberman Pinscher breed. While they share many traits with their standard-colored counterparts, they have specific care needs, especially regarding their skin and eye health due to albinism.

These dogs can be wonderful friends for the right owners who understand and prepare to meet their unique needs. With proper care, training, and socialization, they can be loyal, loving pets and a great addition to any family.