Doberman Jumping Over Obstacle Course

Dobermans are commonly described as “velcro dogs” that form deep bonds with their families and are actively involved in their daily lives. However, because of their high maintenance needs, such as consistent mental stimulation and rigorous physical exercise, they’re not the best pick for first-time dog owners. The state itself is a great space for these dogs. There are many state parks and forests where you can take them on long hikes and outdoor adventures. However, as their owner, you need to provide them with the proper care during the cooler winter months. This guide provides detailed information on how to adopt a Doberman in West Virginia. There are various rescues in the region that help rehome displaced Dobermans, so keep reading to find out what the process can look like.

Doberman Adoption in West Virginia

Adoption agencies and shelters in West Virginia have an extensive adoption process to make sure that dogs go to a suitable home where the owners are well-prepared to take on their new responsibilities.

You’ll initially fill out an adoption application and share details about your current living situation, prior dog ownership experience, level of activity, and why you want a Doberman. You’ll also need to confirm that your apartment complex or housing authority doesn’t have any breed restrictions in place. Some rescues also request a veterinary reference check for your current and past pets. This is solely to determine whether you have a history of responsible pet ownership.

Once your application is approved, the next step is an interview with the rescue team. They may also schedule a home visit or video call to learn more about your environment and make sure everyone in your household is ready for the adoption.

Once everything’s approved, you’ll get to meet your potential new furry friends and see who you connect with. After finding the right Doberman, you’ll sign the contract, pay the adoption fee, and head home with your new companion. Don’t forget to read our detailed guide on Dobermans to learn more about the breed.

Other Dogs For Adoption

Adopt MeGonzo

Gonzo

Charleston, WV
Breed: Mixed Breed (Medium)
Sex: Male
Age: 1 yr 4 mos
Adopt MeWilbur

Wilbur

Charleston, WV
Breed: Mixed Breed (Small)
Sex: Male
Age: 1 yr 1 mo
Adopt MeSilas

Silas

Charleston, WV
Breed: Mixed Breed (Medium)
Sex: Male
Age: 2 mos
Adopt MePrim

Prim

Charleston, WV
Breed: Mixed Breed (Large)
Sex: Female
Age: 4 yrs
Doberman Standing In The Field

How Much Does It Cost to Adopt a Doberman in West Virginia?

Adopting adult Dobermans in West Virginia can cost around $350 to $450, whereas puppies can cost $500 or more. That might seem high at first, but the fee often covers a lot of important care and services.

Your shelter will usually cover the cost of spaying or neutering surgery, current vaccinations (rabies, parvo, and the like), heartworm testing and medication, and microchipping with lifetime registration. Before finalizing the adoption, ask the staff for a full breakdown of what the fee includes.

How Should I Train a Doberman?

Training a Doberman is important because of its strength and protective nature. The best approach is positive reinforcement, which means rewarding good behavior with treats, toys, or praise. For example, if your dog barks, wait for a moment of silence and reward that instead, so they understand what you expect.

Another thing to keep in mind: consistency will be your secret weapon during this time. Make your training sessions a part of your daily routine. To kick things off right and build a solid bond with your Doberman, we recommend checking out Dog Academy’s online training courses.

You’ll learn positive reinforcement methods to help your Doberman listen and learn quickly. You can also explore more specialized courses, such as registering your Doberman as a psychiatric service dog or learning what it takes to qualify them for PSD work.

Dog Training with Dog Academy

Doberman Lying On The Grass Outdoors

Find the Right Doberman in West Virginia for You

Adopting a Doberman is a big decision, but it leads to a truly devoted and rewarding relationship. Look for Doberman-specific rescues in West Virginia, where the staff know the breed inside and out. These experts will quickly help match you with the right dog based on your experience.