Dobermans come in various coat colors, but no one charms dog lovers as blue Dobermans do. They will not only guard you and keep you company. Their beautiful bluish coat will also amaze you every time.
When socialized and trained well at a young age, these dogs can be excellent with children and affectionate to people they are raised with.
Are you thinking of visiting a blue Doberman breeding facility today? Read this article first to learn more about the challenges that come with owning them.
What Is a Blue Doberman?
The blue Doberman is a color variation of the Doberman breed. Their coat has a diluted black shade, giving it a bluish, grayish hue. Because of their distinct appearance, blue Dobermans attract the attention of many dog lovers, even those that are not a fan of the breed.
In case you are wondering if major kennel clubs recognize this uniquely colored dog, the short answer is yes.
However, they are only acknowledged if they have tan markings. Solid blue ones which are not that common aren’t labeled as standard by any kennel organization.
Since the Doberman breed has always had a nasty, dangerous reputation, the blue ones aren’t really exempt from people’s judgments. But beyond the fierce protection dog image, blue Dobermans are the epitome of loyalty, friendship, and athleticism.
Are you excited to get your blue Doberman puppy? Watch Steezy, a cute blue Doberman, get his first vaccines. Your new best friend may look just like him!
VLOG: BLUE DOBERMAN'S FIRST TIME AT THE VET<a href="https://youtu.be/4wjeDZU8Lac" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"><img src="https://www.bubblypet.com/wp-content/plugins/wp-youtube-lyte/lyteCache.php?origThumbUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fi.ytimg.com%2Fvi%2F4wjeDZU8Lac%2F0.jpg" alt="VLOG: BLUE DOBERMAN&#039;S FIRST TIME AT THE VET" width="1280" height="700" /><br />Watch this video on YouTube</a>
What Does the Blue Doberman Pinscher Look Like?
A blue Doberman can weigh as heavy as 60 to 80 pounds and stand around 24 to 28 inches tall. Due to their magnificent form, blue Dobermans are considered highly versatile canines that can take on plenty of physical activities.
In general, their features don’t differ much from their other colored cousins. Their head is shaped like a blunt wedge, and their body is well-muscled. Plenty of them have had their tail docked and their ears are cropped to follow the breed’s cosmetic standard.
What really differentiates blue Dobies from the others is their coat. Their unique grayish, bluish coat color is quite intimidating as compared to the fawn and red ones.
According to the American Kennel Club, for a blue Doberman to be allowed to join conformation shows for the breed, they should have a blue base coat and sharply-defined rust markings.
These markings should be found above their eyes and on their throat, muzzle, forechest, legs, feet, and below the tail.
Here’s how they exactly look:
Blue Doberman with cropped ears and docked tail:
Photo from @titus_thebluedoberman (IG)
Blue Doberman with natural flopped ears and long tail:
Photo from @kenzo.thedoberman (IG)
Blue Doberman vs. Black Doberman: What’s the Difference?
When most people speak of black Dobermans, they are referring to black and rust Dobermans. This is the most common coat color of Dobies seen in homes, dog shows, and breeding facilities.
All-black Dobermans, though, are different from black and rust ones. Due to a condition called melanism, these Dobermans have little to no rust-colored markings. They are not acknowledged by the American Kennel Club as a true Doberman.
Black and rust Dobermans, alongside all-black ones, are only different from blue Dobermans in terms of coat color and the skin issues associated with that lighter coat color.
While every Doberman has a unique personality, there are no distinct behaviors or temperament associated with every coat color.
Blue Doberman Syndrome in Doberman Pinscher: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments
Blue Doberman Syndrome, or Color Dilution Alopecia, is an inherited skin condition that affects the hair shafts, causing hair thinning and hair loss. It is linked specifically to blue Dobermans, fawn Dobermans and other canines with diluted colors.
Symptoms
Blue Doberman Syndrome symptoms may begin to appear between four months and three years of age, often starting at the back. The dog’s skin may become dry and scaly, and some of its hair may fall out. Canine acne may also appear.
Hair loss is focused on the lightest areas of the skin. The normal-colored parts remain unaffected.
Causes
Blue Doberman Syndrome is caused by a genetic abnormality that results in abnormal melanin distribution in the hair shafts.
A blue Doberman may develop hair follicle damages due to melanin clumping, making new hair growth impossible. This disease is caused by a recessive gene, and at times, may lead to skin infections.
Treatments
Unfortunately, there is no treatment for the Blue Doberman Syndrome. The only thing that can be done is to manage it to take away itchiness and further discomfort.
One option is to use organic shampoos and ointments to rehydrate the skin. Fatty acids and Vitamin A supplements may also help a bit. For severe cases, the vet may prescribe oral antibiotics.
As a pet parent, try your best to make your blue Doberman feel comfortable and loved. Start by using a soft brush when grooming him. Moreover, protect him from sunburn and extreme cold by letting him wear soft, protective clothes.
Don’t worry. This skin disease will make his coat and skin look horrible, but it won’t really affect his overall health. Apart from the discomfort and undesirable appearance this health issue brings, your blue Doberman can still enjoy a long, happy life.
How Common Is Blue Doberman Syndrome?
Photo from @dracothebluedobie (IG)
Blue Dobermans are not considered rare and are also recognized by the American Kennel Club. They only make up 8% to 9% of the Doberman breed, but there are many proud owners of blue Dobermans across the United States.
The thing is, you wouldn’t find them in all reputable breeding facilities. Some of them are discouraged from breeding blue Dobermans since some European clubs don’t recognize them.
Thus, be cautious of those private sellers and breeders who market blue Doberman puppies as rare and charge a higher price.
Blue Doberman Coat Color Genetics: How Do They Develop a Blue Coat?
A Doberman’s dilution gene and black gene can produce different coat colors. To display a diluted coat, the dog should have two copies of the dilution gene. This prevents complete pigmentation, causing the blue Doberman’s distinct glow.
For example, a red Doberman may carry this specific gene and give birth to blue Dobermans or some black puppies carrying the same dilute gene.
Diluted coat colors are seen not just in blue Dobermans but also in fawn Dobermans. While the fawn Doberman is a dilution of the color red, the blue Doberman is a dilution of the color black.
The blue Doberman’s grayish, bluish coat color attracts the attention of people looking for unique-looking pets. However, breeding them is a controversial matter due to the potential health issues that come with their light-colored coats.
Are Blue Dobermans Unhealthy? Blue Doberman Lifespan and Health Issues
Blue Dobermans may have genetic issues, but they can still become the healthiest, most affectionate pets. A blue Doberman may live from 9 to 11 years. With careful breeding and upbringing, some even exceed that lifespan.
However, just like any other breed, they are prone to some health issues, some even genetic.
Below are some of the diseases you should be aware of as a blue Doberman owner:
Blue Doberman Syndrome: Also called Color Mutant Alopecia, this is a genetic skin issue that causes a blue Doberman’s coat to become dry and scaly. Pus-filled pimples and blackheads may also appear on the affected areas.
Dilated Cardiomyopathy: Dilated Cardiomyopathy involves an enlarged heart and thicker heart muscles. Eventually, this can lead to respiratory and heart failure. This disease is linked to grain-free diets, but the cause is difficult to pinpoint and may involve multiple factors.
Wobbler Syndrome: A blue Doberman with wobbler syndrome experiences spinal cord compression, leading to neck pain, weakness of the hind legs, and wobbly gait. Soon, the dog may not be able to walk on its own.
Von Willebrand Disease: This is a genetic bleeding disorder that sometimes shows no symptoms. The most frequent diagnosis method is unusual bleeding right after major or minor surgery. To know if your blue Doberman carries the mutant gene that causes Von Willebrand Disease, he needs to undergo genetic testing.
Hypothyroidism: This disease is caused by the thyroid gland’s failure to generate thyroxine and triiodothyronine hormones. Hypothyroidism affects young and senior dogs, but it typically affects middle-aged canines.
Blue Doberman Temperament: Do Blue Dobermans Make Good Family Dogs?
Photo from @archiethebluedobie (IG)
Dobermans are loyal, obedient, and protective dogs. If trained and socialized well at a young age, they can be the best family dogs. They love being part of the pack and being the protector of that pack.
Do not be deceived by their intimidating look and fierce expression. Blue Dobermans can be as sweet and loving as Poodles and other lapdogs. While they tend to bond strongly with one family member, they enjoy being around people in the same household.
Socialization plays a crucial role in a blue Doberman’s relationships with children and other pets. A well-socialized blue Doberman can get along well with other animals, including cats.
If you have a toddler, interactions should always come with supervision. Children are at their most curious disposition during toddlerhood. They may tug the dog’s ears or follow him when he wants to rest and be alone.
Meanwhile, older kids can become more involved in a blue Doberman’s training. For example, if you are trying to DIY obedience train your dog, let your older children take an active role in every session.
Allow your kids to teach your blue Doberman simple commands. This activity is also a great bonding session for them and can turn your canine friend into an even better family dog.
How Much Does a Blue Doberman Cost? Puppy Prices and Expenses
A blue Doberman puppy from a reputable breeder usually costs around $1,500 to $2,500. This price range is close to their red and black counterparts. If you want a blue Doberman with a champion bloodline, expect to pay more than $2,500.
Apart from the initial cost of buying this puppy, you should also be ready for the expenses of owning them. Surely, you don’t want your bank account to get wiped, right?
Here are some essential items that you have to purchase:
Note that these are average prices. If you opt for more premium items, then expect that they are more expensive.
Places to Find Blue Doberman Puppies for Sale and Adoption
If you feel like the blue Doberman is the perfect pet for you, then your next step should be to find breeders or rescues that can offer you one. It is really your lucky day since I already put up a list to help you with your blue Dobie search.
Below are some of the top breeders of blue Dobermans in the US:
NextDayPets – This platform helps people find the best canine companion that perfectly fits their lifestyle. They even have a PuppyMatch page that allows breeders to view your lifestyle information and see if their puppy is a great fit for you.
PuppySpot – PuppySpot is dedicated to responsible pet and breeder ownership. They also offer several delivery options, including chaperone packages.
Do you want to give a homeless blue Doberman a new home? Reach out to these pet adoption platforms:
Doberman Assistance, Rescue, and Education –This is a non-profit organization committed to helping homeless Dobermans, including blue Dobermans. All of their rescues go through proper veterinary care.
Bluegrass Doberman Rescue – This rescue organization depends solely on donations. Aside from saving and rehabilitating Dobermans, they work hard to educate people about this misunderstood breed. They can surely help you find the most appropriate blue Doberman pup.
Desert Harbor Doberman Rescue of Arizona – This non-profit rescue center is managed by a team of dog trainers, veterinarians, and dog lovers.
Commonly Asked Questions
What Eye Colors Do Blue Dobermans Have?
The dilution genes that give blue Dobermans their distinct coat color also affect the iris’ pigment. As puppies, they may have bluish, green eyes. This color is not permanent and will get darker as they age. As an adult, a blue Doberman may develop brownish eyes.
Are Blue Dobermans Purebred?
Yes, a blue Doberman is a purebred dog. The blue Doberman and other Dobermans of different coats only differ in color.
Blue Dobermans are only mistaken as mixed breeds because of their highly unusual appearance, as well as the more thorough care needed to maintain their coats.
What Are the Other Coat Colors of the Doberman Pinscher?
Aside from the magnificent blue coat, a Doberman can be born in five other different colors. You can also buy a Doberman in black and tan, red, fawn, and white coat colors.
All-black Dobermans also exist but are quite rare. Like white Dobermans, all-black ones are not recognized by the American Kennel Club’s breed standard. The most common coat color is the black and tan one, followed by red Dobermans.
Final Thoughts: Is the Blue Doberman the Right Dog for You?
Providing consistent training and socialization blue Dobermans need is a challenge for many families. But it’s all worth it. After many weeks or months of patience, you can surely turn him into a well-behaved, affectionate dog.
Reach out to a reputable breeder, visit his facility, and get to know the temperament of the blue Doberman puppy you want to buy. Ask advice from your breeder on how to make the transition smoother and more manageable for the pup.
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