In addition to the main coat color, this breed is known for its prominent rust-colored (or tan) markings. Despite the different colors, almost all variations have these traditional markings. Some American-bred Dobermans even have a small white patch on their chest area.
- American Doberman: According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), tan or rust markings should be well defined and appear above each eye, on the muzzle, throat, chest, on all four legs and feet, as well as a patch just below the tail. The American Doberman generally has lighter tan markings and may have a white patch on the chest. The white patch on the breast should not exceed a half square inch in size.
- European Dobermans: According to the Federation Cynologique Internationale (AISBL), «tan» markings should be clearly defined and located on the muzzle, on the cheeks, and on top of each eyebrow. Markings must also appear on the throat, at two points on the chest, between the ankles and toes, on the feet, on the inside of the hind thigh, on the forearms, and under the tail. The European Doberman generally has darker rust colored markings. Essentially the markings are the same as the American Doberman but slightly darker. However, a small white spot is not considered the standard for Europeans.
What does a brown Doberman look like?
Assuming you’re looking at a purebred Doberman rather than a mixed breed with brown fur, a red or brown Doberman will have the same body type and general features as any other Doberman. They are athletic, muscular dogs that can reach between 24 and 28 inches in height as adults. They typically weigh between 60 and 100 pounds when fully grown, but some can exceed these stats. As a general rule, males are larger than females.
Brown Dobermans have a short, shiny coat.
Since they are actually red in color, they will usually have a reddish tinge to their fur. They will have the typical Doberman rust markings. These markings will be slightly lighter than the rest of their fur. They will appear above each eye, on the muzzle, throat, chest, legs and feet, and under the tail. Some may also have some white markings, particularly on the chest.
White Doberman
Although it is a common belief that the white Doberman is the same as an albino Doberman, that is not really the case.
The normal white Doberman still produces melanin, which is the reason for its skin pigmentation. This production is limited and therefore they appear to be very light cream in color, but never completely white.
Solid Black Doberman
With how popular the Black and Rust Doberman is, you’d think a solid black Doberman would be popular too, right? Not quite. Black Doberman Pinschers are rare because they are considered «unethical.» But why is this the case?
These are also called «melanistic Dobermans» and refer specifically to solid black Doberman Pinschers without the traditional rust or tan markings. As you may have guessed, this color is not recognized by the AKC (or most kennel clubs) due to the potential health issues that can arise.
Did you know that the Doberman exists in 5 different colors?
Do you know which Doberman colors are recognized or restricted by kennel clubs?
Most people know the Doberman as a black dog with brown spots. This is the most popular and most frequently seen hair color. But the Doberman is also born in some other colors.