Doberman Stands Eagerly Beside Its Owner

The Doberman pinscher, or simply known as the Doberman, is a guardian dog breed. Once known as a fierce protector, though many are still upholding their duties to this day, most Dobermans now live life as companions.

This is because, just like they are flawless guardian dogs, Dobermans are an excellent breed choice for those in Iowa looking for a large, fairly protective dog. If trained properly and if they are supervised, a Doberman can live peacefully in a home with older children. However, they are big clumsy dogs and even if they have the soul of an angel, they may accidently knock a child to the ground while trying to play. Nonetheless, the Doberman is a good dog to adopt for anyone in Iowa who can meet their care needs.

Whether you’re a single individual looking for a dog to have company (and feel safer as Dobermans are guardian dogs) or considering adding another dog to the pack, read on below to learn how to adopt a Doberman in Iowa.

Doberman Adoption in Iowa

Iowa is a state that matches well with the ideal setting for a Doberman. They are high-energy guard dogs that thrive in Iowa’s suburban lifestyle. While one might initially think that it is not possible to adopt a purebred guardian breed like the Doberman, you’d be surprised by the number of Dobermans for adoption in Iowa.

Even though Iowa is an excellent place for a Doberman, many get one with false expectations and surrender their dogs to shelters or search for a new home for them, leading to many Dobermans for adoption. As someone who’s looking for a Doberman to adopt in Iowa, you can see many of these dogs on our adoption portal.

When you find a Doberman that interests you, note that there’s an adoption process that starts with submitting an initial application, typically online – you can’t just go and adopt any Doberman just because they need a home. Shelters and rescues are keen-eyed for applicants to ensure they can handle a dog like the Doberman. If you fit the description of an ideal owner for the Doberman listed for adoption, you will be invited to meet the dog in person.

Following this initial meet-and-greet and possibly taking the Doberman out for a walk or playing to get to know them, both you and the shelter or the rescue will know enough to make a decision. If you’re approved for adoption and want to move forward with it, you will sign an adoption contract and take your new Doberman to your Iowa home, likely the same day.

Before these adoption steps, however, learn more about the Doberman. Given their characteristics and protective side, those who are considering adopting should first determine if this breed matches their experience level and circumstances. Plus, it will make sure you don’t waste time, as applying for a dog that isn’t for you will only lead to being rejected.

Other Dogs For Adoption

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Doberman Lying On The Grass Outdoors

How Much Does It Cost to Adopt a Doberman in Iowa?

While a Doberman puppy from an Iowa breeder can cost up to $5,000, Doberman adoption is significantly more affordable. The adoption fee typically ranges between $200 and $400 at local animal shelters and from $350 to $700 when adopting from Doberman rescues or nonprofits.

How Should I Train a Doberman?

Dobermans are among the most intelligent and trainable dog breeds, which is another reason why many in Iowa want to adopt one. Whether it is learning multi-step commands or taking on a job like personal protection or service animal work, Dobermans pick up training effortlessly.

However, just as Dobermans require an experienced owner to manage their protective instincts, they also benefit from professional training. Although these dogs respond to positive reinforcement training like any other dog breed, there’s a difference between training a highly driven and energetic dog like the Doberman and a small companion dog like the cavapoo.

If you’re not very experienced with dog training, we highly recommend taking a look at our online courses to train your Doberman. You can follow our video lessons for obedience, leash walking, tricks, and fix any behavioral issues your Doberman might have picked up during their time at the shelter or the foster home. This is not a breed like a Chihuahua, where you can avoid training and just let them run free. A Doberman thrives on orders, training provides enrichment and boundaries that keep everyone safe and happy. They are too strong to not have rules in place or you might find all your neighbor’s chickens have been eaten by a puppy who needed a more engaged parent.

The best part is that all our online courses can be done right from your Iowa home and are much more cost-effective compared to hiring a professional trainer.

Dog Training with Dog Academy

Doberman Standing In The Field

Find the Right Doberman in Iowa for You

We’ve emphasized ensuring the Doberman is a dog breed for you, but what’s more important is finding and adopting the right Doberman. Every Doberman for adoption in Iowa has a unique temperament and background that requires careful consideration.

For example, a Doberman simply may not have any of the typical breed characteristics, which will be disappointing if you just get a random Doberman, thinking that they are all protective and athletic. That’s one of the reasons why shelters and rescues invite people over to meet the dogs they’re rehoming to ensure the applicant makes the right choice.

When choosing a Doberman to adopt, read the description carefully, complete the adoption application form accurately, meet the Doberman you’re interested in adopting, and see how they behave around family members. These will help you decide if you would adopt the right Doberman or should look for another in need of a forever home.