12 Dogs That Look Like A Doberman (+ Photos!)

Dobermans are brave and majestic creatures. Their characteristic look comes from their short and shiny coat. They are such adorable and loyal creatures that they have emerged to become one of the most popular choices of pets in the world.

But there is more to Dobermans than being adorable—they are also in high demand for police and military work, although sometimes replaced by German Shepherds. Their lack of an undercoat means that they find it harder to live in cold regions as opposed to German Shepherds who are now replacing them in the police force.

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Known for being protective of their loved ones, they can also become hostile towards unfamiliar dogs or strangers in general. Usually, a healthy male stands at a height of about 68–72 cm and a healthy female stands at about 63–68 cm. Their average weight is about 90 pounds for males and 75 pounds for females.

Originating in Germany, this intelligent breed has quite a few doppelgängers. Here is a list of 12 dogs that look like a doberman.

1. Beauceron

If you love Dobermans but live in an area with a cold climate, Beaucerons might be a better bet for you, as they are better at handling low temperatures.

Beauceron sitting pretty outdoors — Beauceron sits on the ground one afternoon.

Both Beaucerons and Dobermans are clever and enthusiastic dog breeds. They are known for their dedication, watchful nature, and ability to learn quickly.

Both breeds are extremely easy to train and are extremely obedient, agile, and excel in activities requiring physical and mental dexterity.

They also have a strong hunting drive and can be very protective of the ones they consider family. They are also very friendly and love to play.

Both breeds have a sleek and athletic appearance, with long legs and a long, narrow head. There are, however, some significant differences between the two breeds.

Beaucerons are bigger than Dobermans and have a thick double coat in black and tan or red and tan, while a Doberman lacks any undercoat, making it unsuitable for cold regions.

Beaucerons have a coat color pattern unique to them, which is called the harlequin. It is believed to have originated because of some mutations in their ancestors and consists of rust-colored patches on their faces and legs with a black saddle-like shape on their backs.

2. English Toy Terrier

If you live in a warmer climate, English Toy Terriers should be preferred over Dobermans. Its appearance is similar to that of the Doberman, but it is smaller.

English Toy Terrier stands in an alert position.

Dobermans and English Toy Terriers are both intelligent breeds with quick learning abilities. Both breeds are clever and easy to train. Both breeds are energetic and require daily exercise.

Dobermans and English Toy Terriers can both be high-energy dogs that require significant physical activity and mental stimulation to stay healthy and happy.

Both breeds make wonderful family pets. Dobermans and English Toy Terriers are both excellent with children and can make loyal and affectionate family companions.

Both breeds are susceptible to certain health problems. Dobermans and English Toy Terriers are both susceptible to health problems such as hip dysplasia, eye problems, and skin allergies.

3. German Pinscher

The German Pinscher, like the Doberman, also hails from Germany. It is among the earliest known dog breeds and looks like a smaller Doberman.

A German Pinscher stands and looks alert on a photo shoot!

Like Dobermans, they are also intelligent and learn very quickly. Because they are quick to pick up skills, they were trained for use on farms and as guard dogs in the past. They are hardworking, obey instructions, and are very eager to please.

Both breeds are suitable as household pets. German Pinschers, like Dobermans, are known for being watchful and protective, but they can also be loving and devoted to their people, making them suitable as family pets. They are especially good with children if introduced early and are well-suited for apartment living.

4. Manchester Terrier

Originally bred to hunt rats, Manchester Terriers are excellent observers. They are devoted dogs that require moderate exercise. Compared to Dobermans, they are shorter, lighter, and have shiny hair with little to no shedding.

An alert Manchester Terrier stands on the grass.

They typically do not grow more than 40 cm and are sturdy, reliable creatures.

They learn skills well, so they are used as service dogs or working dogs. Manchester Terriers are agile and have very quick reflexes. They are affectionate, and although they resemble Dobermans, they require less grooming and maintenance.

These dogs were initially called Black and Tan Terriers. They were commonly used to keep rats under control in factories or warehouses during the 1900s. They became quite popular in Manchester, where they were raised to hunt rats and other small game, hence the change of name.

5. Pharaoh Hounds

Pharaoh Hounds get their name from the fact that they were originally kept as guard dogs in Egypt and are one of the first dog breeds that were domesticated.

These elegant dogs have lush coats and bold, expressive eyes that some find to be exotic and slightly spooky. Approximately 60 cm tall, they are extremely energetic and love to run and play.

Even though they are highly alert and efficient watchdogs, they can be very affectionate and friendly. Pharaoh Hounds are also a good choice for people who are prone to allergies. They are not a common breed but are slowly gaining popularity.

6. Dachshund

Dachshunds typically have long bodies and short legs. They are loyal and very loving to their owner and are equally affectionate with kids.

Dachshund under the sun — Dachshund standing on the grass on a sunny day.

They have the same patterns of coloration as Dobermans. For first-time dog owners, Dachshunds are a better option than Dobermans.

Dachshunds tend to develop back problems, so it is important to keep their weight in check and make sure they get regular exercise.

Dachshunds are happiest when hunting prey, as they were initially used in Germany to hunt badgers. They were specifically bred to have long bodies with short legs so that they could easily access burrows.

The typical low height and long body shape that we see now was a result of targeted breeding to make them agile and better hunters.

7. Coonhound

Both Coonhounds and Dobermans have similar short coats, but Coonhounds are generally smaller and less muscular than Dobermans.

Bluetick Coonhound with a red collar. — Bluetick Coonhound standing with a red collar.

Coonhounds are known for their ability to identify and follow scents. They serve in police forces where they help track down scents. They were bred in the United States to hunt down raccoons, which is where the name Coonhound comes from.

There are numerous Coonhound breeds, including the American English Coonhound, Black and Tan Coonhound, Bluetick Coonhound, Redbone Coonhound, and Treeing Walker Coonhound.

Apart from their regular exercise needs, they can be low-maintenance pets. If you have cats or other small pets in the house, you may want to avoid getting a Coonhound because they have strong hunting instincts. They are intelligent dogs who need to be mentally engaged with toys and puzzles.

8. Australian Kelpie

The Australian Kelpie is primarily a sheepdog bred to herd cattle. It can withstand hot and dry weather and work in large open spaces, which are characteristic of the Australian terrain.

Australian Kelpie laying down — Australian Kelpie lays down on the field.

There are two categories of Kelpies—the working kelpies and show kelpies. Both varieties look very similar to the Dobermans, with their pointed ears and dark coat, and are usually about 50 cm tall. These moderately sized canines come in a range of shades such as black, blue, red, and fawn.

Australian Kelpies are also very hard-working and love doing tasks and chores more than playing around. If not engaged with tasks, they tend to bark or become restless and hyperactive and might start digging. They are known for their ability to work long hours without getting exhausted.

Their stamina makes them a great choice for those who prefer active outdoor dogs.

9. Jagdterrier or (German Hunting Terrier)

The size of a Jagdterrier is between 25 and 30 cm, making them smaller than Dobermans. They can be slightly harder to train than Dobermans and require strict discipline and rigorous training, especially in the early days, to prevent them from becoming unruly or stubborn.

Jagdterrier with its open mouth looking at his owner.

Even though they are really popular in Germany, they are relatively rare in the rest of Europe. They make great rescue dogs as they have a keen sense of smell and great determination. They are diligent in carrying out search and rescue operations and are very devoted to their handlers.

Although they have the same pattern and coloration as Dobermans, they do not require grooming as frequently and are comparatively easier to maintain. They are a lot less quiet compared to Dobermans and tend to be outgoing. They also shed less compared to Dobermans, making it easier to clean the house.

However, they do not respond to affection the same way as Dobermans do and can be more detached.

10. Prague Ratter

Prague ratters are small, lovable dogs who make great companions but are also alert hunters. They usually grow up to a height of about 9 inches. This is a very old breed believed to have originated in the Czech Republic where it was very popular among the nobility.

Prague Ratter stands on the field — Prague Ratter with a collar stands on the field.

As the name suggests, Prague Ratters are very good at hunting rats, so they have always been popular household dogs, especially in rural parts.

Born natural chasers, they have keen senses and are very agile. Depending on how they are bred, they can have a short, shiny coat or light fringes over the tail and ear areas. They love receiving affection and do well in training.

They are very adaptable, and if they get regular exercise, they can easily adjust to life in small apartments.

11. Miniature Pinscher

The Miniature Pinscher is believed to be one of the oldest breeds of toy dogs in the world, dating back to Ancient Egypt. Both Miniature Pinschers and Dobermans have a common ancestor in the German Pinscher, but Miniature Pinschers are much smaller and have a height of about 30 cm. Like Dobermans, they are also alert and protective but also very fun-loving.

hold Miniature Pinscher — Owner holds Miniature Pinscher.

However, they tend to be a little more independent than Dobermans, who love getting affection and attention from their humans, but both breeds hate being separated from their owners. Both breeds are territorial and protective of their belongings.

Miniature Pinschers also get along with children but not as much as Dobermans do, so if you have children in the family, you may want to keep this in mind.

12. Rottweiler

Dobermans and Rottweilers are two of the strongest and best guard dog breeds in the world. Rottweilers come from the line of ancient drover dogs used to herd cattle in Romania. They have also been used for their strength as car-pulling dogs in the past.

Rottweiler stands on the rock by the river.

Both breeds are devoted to their families and have been known to defend young children despite having the power and ferocity to cause serious injury. Similar to Dobermans, Rottweilers also respond well to training, making them a popular choice all over the world.

Rottweilers are rounder than Dobermans, who are known to have a slim appearance and can even be more muscular. While both look very intimidating, Rottweilers can land a heavier blow, while Dobermans are usually faster.

Rottweilers are the same height as Dobermans at around 70 cm, although much heavier in build. Overall, Rottweilers are loyal and trustworthy companions who protect their families at all costs.

Conclusion

Dobermans are intelligent and loving creatures who are very loyal and will stop at nothing to protect their family. These dogs are great for kids as they are active and love to play. They crave affection and rewards from their humans and are excellent learners.

The other breeds we’ve listed above are similar to Dobermans in terms of appearance but might have qualities more suitable to your lifestyle and requirements. Make it a point to decide after enough research and carefully considering your primary deciding factors.