Dog Life: Doberman Pinscher
Lifelong Care for your dog

By Liz Palika

The faded black-and-white photographs in the Palika family photo album portray the wonderful relationshihp between a boy and his dog. In one photo, a cute, blond, curly-headed toddler is hanging on to the collar of a black and tan Doberman Pinscher, the dog appearing very patient as the toddler tries to walk. In another photo, the dog is sitting upright, looking alert and watchful, as the toddler snoozes on a blanket in the grass.

The toddler in those photos is my husband, Paul Palika. Many of his first memories as a child were of the Doberman Pinschers in his family. "There was always a dog within reach," he says, "Although I know the dogs had to leave my side sometimes, I don't remember that. I just know a dog was always nearby, and I remember getting a sense of comfort from that."

The dog who was Paul's first companion as a child was Fritz. In the photos of Paul as a toddler, Fritz was a long lanky and gangly puppy. Other photos from the family album show Paul growing from a toddler into a child, as Fritz grew into a handsome, mature dog. Paul's mother, Edith Palika, showed their Doberman Pinschers in conformation dog shows and obedience trials, but most importantly, the dogs were treasured family pets and companions.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PART I: PUPPYHOOD

1: Is the Doberman Pinscher Right for You?
2: Finding and Prepping Your Doberman Pinscher Puppy
3: Care of Your Doberman Pinscher Puppy
4: Training Your Doberman Pinscher Puppy

PART II: ADULTHOOD

5: Finding Your Doberman Pinscher Adult
6: Doberman Pinscher Grooming Needs
7: Doberman Pinscher Nutritional Needs
8: Doberman Pinscher Health and Wellness
9: Doberman Pinscher Training
10: Doberman Pinscher Problem Behaviors
11: Doberman Pinscher Sports and Activities

PART III: SENIOR YEARS

12: Finding Your Doberman Pinscher Senior
13: Care of Your Doberman Pinscher Senior
14: End-of-Life Issues

50 facts every Doberman Pinscher owner should know