History

The Doberman Pinscher was developed by Louis Dobermann of Apolda, Thuringia, Germany. Herr Doberman had a goal in mind; he was dreaming of a medium sized dog, strong, fearless and intelligent. As dog catcher, he was able to pick and choose from the local pound. After his death in 1884, it was decreed that these dogs would be known as Dobermann Pinschers in his honor.

      There are no records, only speculation, as to the dogs which went into the creation of the original Doberman. It is felt that some of the dogs used in his breeding program were Thuringian Shepherds, early Rottweilers, early German Pinschers, and the black and tan. Additional speculation includes Great Dane, Weimaraner, German Shorthaired Pointer and Greyhound.

      After Louis Dobermann’s death, two other breeders came to the forefront of importance in further developing the breed, Goswin Tischler, who’s kennel name was Groenland, and Otto Goller, who’s kennel name was Thueringen. Goller is credited with being dedicated to carrying on Dobermann’s practices and programs. Otto Goller founded the National Doberman Pinscher Club in Germany in 1899. The breed standard was drawn up, and Goller became the first president of the organization.

References:
The World Of Doberman Pinschers, Anna Katherine Nicholas, pub. 1986
The Dobermann Pinscher, Phillip Gruening, pub. 1939

For more on Dobermans: http://www.geocities.com/Athens/1878/dobefaq.html