The Doberman’s coat is short, dense, shiny, and close-lying with no undercoat. Four varieties are permitted as colors according to the breed standards: Black & Rust, Blue & Rust, Red & Rust, and Fawn (Isabella) & Rust.
If you’re planning to adopt a Blue Doberman check out our guide first to learn more about the challenges that come with owning them.
What is a Blue Doberman?
According to AKC standards, this breed can have four colors: black and rust, blue and rust, fawn (Isabella) and rust, and red and rust.
And this was not the case from the very beginning of breed standardization. Additional colors of Doberman coats were added to the list gradually.
Blue and Isabell are light variants of black and tan Dobermans.
These off-color dogs have fewer hairs per square inch and are more likely to suffer from alopecia.
This balding is a “cosmetic blemish” and is not related to any health problem. Loss of fur rarely occurs during puppyhood, but mostly between the onset of puberty and the 3rd year of life.
In most cases, the dogs first lose their hair on their flanks, which can (but does not necessarily have to) spread over the entire back and sides. The fur becomes thin, and the skin is usually thicker in these areas.
What are the symptoms of Blue Doberman Syndrome?
Broken hair, brittle, dry, and dull hair, and cracked skin are the symptoms of Blue Doberman Syndrome. And of course the unusual color.
Now that doesn’t sound so bad, but it’s not the symptoms of this disease that can be a big problem, it’s the diseases that can follow.
The coat is initially only affected in a few places, after which the disease progresses to complete alopecia, which means that there can be a complete loss of coat.
Hair loss is progressive and dogs with color dilution alopecia can go completely bald by as young as 2 or 3 years of age.
Most hair loss starts on the back, but symptoms vary from breed to breed. Only the face, the tail, and the limbs get nothing and are spared.
If your dog is not affected by this syndrome, then don’t worry too much about the shedding. It can also just be the occurrence of the coat change or another reason.
With Blue Doberman Syndrome, things are a little different. The hair falls out more often than in other dogs because the lifespan of the hair is shorter. Scales also form and the skin cracks, which can cause chronic dermatitis.
Changes to the hair follicles make the Doberman’s skin susceptible to various bacteria and bacterial infections can occur.
If you think your dog might be suffering from this syndrome – if the symptoms match, your Doberman is experiencing hair loss and some other skin problems, you should contact your veterinarian.
What Are the Causes of Blue Doberman
According to the Doberman Pinscher Club of America causes of the blue Doberman syndrome, have not been well understood, but it is known to occur due to a genetic change in the D locus.
A dog’s coat color is determined by a gene, and this gene can come in two varieties. One gene carries the intensive fur coloration (D) and the other variant of the gene, the so-called dilution gene (Engl. dilute = to dilute ), the weakened color (d), which is inherited recessively.
The mating of a blue and a homozygous black Doberman is unproblematic since only black puppies are born. However, breeding with two blue parents is irresponsible, since the risk of alopecia in the offspring is very high.
How can you establish a diagnosis?
A microscopic examination of the hair and skin and a blood test can determine if the dog has inherited the syndrome.
The blood test is necessary so that the vet can rule out other problems, such as low thyroid levels or hormonal health problems.
A skin biopsy is also done to avoid confusing the syndrome with other skin conditions. This is followed by a final diagnosis through a microscopic examination of the hair.
Treatment and Prevention for Blue Doberman Syndrome?
Unfortunately, this is not a curable disease. If the dog inherits this disease, then the consequences of the disease can be treated to make it easier for the dog.
If skin infections occur, the vet can prescribe antibiotics for your dog since the infection is often bacterial.
Another treatment option is to supplement with products that can be good for the skin.
Moisturizing sprays and oils can help prevent the skin from drying out and cracking. Conditioners after bathing are recommended to prevent dandruff.
During the summer, you should protect your dog from the sun and apply sunscreen.
Diet
The diet of the dog plays a big role in easing the symptoms. More saturated and unsaturated fats in the diet work particularly well for these dogs.
Meals can be improved with feed supplements. Essential fatty acids and vitamin A supplements in the diet can occasionally help. If you are unsure what to feed your dog, ask your veterinarian who will be able to explain treatment options to you.
Blue Doberman Syndrom & puppies?
The disease can be noticed in puppies from 6 months to 3 years of age. Hair loss symptoms will appear first.
From the moment they are born, they seem to be quite normal, so unfortunately the disease cannot be noticed in really small puppies.
Breeders have noticed that the earlier symptoms appear, the worse and more severe the disease can become.
It is important to note that although it is referred to as Blue Doberman Syndrome, other dog breeds can also inherit this syndrome.
Which dog breeds can be affected by Blue Doberman Syndrome?
The blue color dilution can also affect the following breeds of dogs:
• Dachshund
• Great Danes
• Weimaraner
• Greyhound
• Irish Setters
• whippet
• Silver Labrador
• French bulldog
• Australian Shepherd
• Shetland Sheepdog
• German shepherd dog
• Italian Greyhounds
• Yorkshire terrier
• Standard Poodle
• Chow Chows
• Newfoundland
• Miniature Pinscher
• Chihuahuas
• Bernese Mountain Dogs
• Schipperkes
• Silky Terriers
• Boston Terriers
• Salukis
• Mixed dogs
However, it is mostly Dobermans that are most likely to experience this condition, affecting approximately 93 percent of all Doberman Pinschers. That is why the disease bears its name.
However, more and more blue and gray dogs can be noticed among Labrador Retrievers and French Bulldogs.
Fun fact: Although the Rottweiler and the Doberman Pinscher share a common ancestor, the so-called butcher dogs, Blue Doberman Syndrome is not common among Rottweilers.
Blue Doberman Lifespan and Health Issues
The Blue Doberman has a life expectancy of 10 and 12 years, similar to other dogs of the same size.
The Blue Doberman is and will always be a large dog: Dogs with large stature tend to live much shorter lives than miniature and small dogs.
The age of a breed is basically just an estimate. It’s entirely possible that your Blue Doberman may live longer than expected or leave your side sooner due to an accident or illness. Losing a pet is never easy, which makes it all the more important to be aware of.
Breed-typical diseases of the Blue Doberman
The Blue Doberman generally has solid basic health. Unfortunately, there are only a few dog breeds that are completely spared from diseases. You should therefore pay attention to the symptoms of the following breed-typical diseases of the Doberman :
Blue Doberman Syndrome
Blue Doberman syndrome is a hereditary condition that tends to show up in dog breeds with diluted coats. The term alopecia is the medical term for hair loss. This condition is caused by a structural defect that causes the abnormal distribution of melatonin in the dog’s hair shafts.
Hip dysplasia
Hip dysplasia is a condition that affects many large dogs and sometimes small ones too. In most cases, hip dysplasia is hereditary. It is a hip joint problem.
The severity varies, ranging from simple lameness to being unable to move, requiring surgical intervention.
Hip dysplasia can also occur as a result of deformities in the animal’s youth, especially if the puppy has been subjected to too much stress.
Gastric torsion
Stomach torsion is a particularly serious condition that also affects large dogs in particular. The stomach collapses and blocks the entry and exit routes.
This prevents the dog from expelling the food or gas that builds up in the stomach, causing it to bloat. Pressure on the spleen can cause it to rupture and cause internal bleeding. Gastric dilatation/torsion is a veterinary emergency and you should see a veterinarian immediately.
Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism is a condition that affects the thyroid gland, which regulates metabolism, among other things. It is a deficit in the production of thyroid hormones, to which the blue Doberman is unfortunately very susceptible.
The symptoms are different. Obesity is often noticed even though the appetite is normal. The heart rate drops. Weakness in the hind limbs and breathing difficulties can also be observed. This disease is treated by synthetic hormones.
Von Willebrand disease
This disease is characterized by a problem with blood clotting caused by a deficiency of something called the von Willebrand factor. The Doberman Pinscher is susceptible to Type I of the disease, which is the least severe and usually responds well to drug treatment.
Dilated Cardiomyopathy:
Canine dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a primary disease of cardiac muscle that results in a decreased ability of the heart to generate pressure to pump blood through the vascular system.
The definitive cause of canine DCM is the subject of debate, although a number of factors including nutritional, infectious, and genetic predisposition have been implicated.
Blue Doberman Temperament: Is a Doberman a good family dog?
Dobermans are highly intelligent, deeply loyal, and courageous canines. Because of his history as a watchdog, he requires a patient owner who will dedicate themselves to his learning.
According to the Doberman Pinscher Club of America, this is not a breed for everyone and any potential owner should do their research before bringing home any dog.
Dobies need consistency in their schedule and thrive when offered lots of attention and positive reinforcement training from their family. It’s important to begin training and socializing your Doberman when he’s still a puppy.
Because of the deep bond, they feel for their family, Doberman pinschers are commonly referred to as “Velcro dogs,” and will want to stick by your side. Therefore, they can develop separation anxiety if left alone for too long.
How Much Does a Blue Doberman Cost?
A Doberman puppy has an average tag price of $1300-$1800. Some Breeders could even offerBlue Doberman puppies for $3000 or even higher.
The price would depend on many factors, such as the pup’s lineage, its parents, its health, and the breeder’s reputation.
Aside from the puppy’s price, it would be best to consider the expenses that would come with it. For instance, you may want to get the essential things for your puppies like grooming tools, food, and shelter.
Where Can You Buy a Blue Doberman?
If you’ve decided to adopt a Blue Doberman, you will want to choose reputable Doberman breeders who socialize their dogs and perform a variety of health checks.!
Look no further, To help you find the best Breeders located near you. I’ve put my own list of important factors based on experience, reputation, quality, and client reviews.
Conclusion: Is the Blue Doberman the Right Dog for You?
Blue Doberman Syndrome is a very common syndrome among Dobermans, but it can also occur in other dog breeds.
With a good and appropriate diet high in fatty acids, regular visits to the vet, and lots of love and affection, they can lead a good canine life despite the syndrome.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a Doberman suitable for beginners?
A Doberman is definitely not a beginner dog. It is suitable for experienced dog owners who are already familiar with the basics of dog training.
On the other hand, if you are rather anxious and want a Doberman as a strong protector, you should definitely refrain from this dog breed. Because a Doberman subordinates only to a person who exudes natural authority.
Author
Related posts:
Is a Doberman easy to train?
Clear leadership and consistent training – this duo is the basis for the training of all dogs. But with the Doberman, it is particularly important that he recognizes the sovereign leadership of his two-legged friend.
Sovereign leadership means no violence, but immutable rules that you must consistently demand to be observed. Violence, on the other hand, leads to insecurity, nervousness, and aggression in this sensitive four-legged friend.
Author
Related posts:
Is blue Doberman rare?
The blue Doberman is considered a rare color, making up just 8-9% of the breed.
Author