Doberman Pinschers are often misunderstood as aggressive breeds, but what really sets them apart? They are naturally wary of strangers, which can sometimes be misinterpreted as aggression.
In the United States, Doberman Pinschers are considered a high-risk breed by some insurance companies, which can lead to higher premiums.
Doberman Pinschers have been involved in some high-profile attacks, but it's essential to understand that these incidents are often a result of irresponsible ownership or training.
Statistics and Risks
Doberman Pinschers are often misunderstood as being aggressive and prone to attacks, but the facts tell a different story. According to a 13-year study, Dobermans ranked 11th in fatal dog attacks, with only 6 deaths attributed to the breed.
A closer look at the statistics reveals that other breeds, such as Pit bulls, Rottweilers, and German Shepherds, are more likely to be involved in fatal attacks. In fact, Pit bulls were responsible for 65.6% of all dog-related deaths during the study period.
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A Doberman attack can still have serious consequences, including disfigurement, scars, broken bones, bruising, and wounds. In some cases, a Doberman may knock you over or fling you backward, increasing the risk of brain damage.
Here's a breakdown of the breeds involved in fatal dog attacks, based on the 13-year study:
Statistics: Probability
A study of 13 years found that Dobermans ranked 11th in fatal dog attacks, which is pretty far down the list.
The Labrador retriever actually killed more people during that period than Dobermans did.
The breed most likely to be involved in fatal dog attacks is the Pit bull, accounting for 65.6% of all deaths.
Here's a breakdown of the top 5 breeds involved in fatal dog attacks:
The good news is that Dobermans are relatively safe, with only 6 reported deaths over the 13-year period.
Dangers
A Doberman Pinscher attack can result in serious health consequences, including death, especially when a child is involved.
Disfigurement and scars, broken bones, bruising, and wounds are just a few of the potential outcomes of a Doberman attack.
The risk of brain damage from being knocked over or flung backward during a struggle is a significant concern.
In some cases, a Doberman may exhibit natural predatory inclinations, making them more likely to bite.
Dogs, including Dobermans, are territorial creatures that will protect their home and pack, and may become aggressive if they feel threatened or scared.
A Doberman attack can result in more severe wounds than you might initially think, including potential medical therapy such as surgery, skin grafts, staples, stitches, and staplers.
Getting medical help as soon as possible is crucial to ensure that wounds are adequately treated and to establish a record of the injuries.
The owner of an aggressive and dangerous Doberman may be liable for damages if you are hurt due to the interaction, and a lawyer can help you understand the types of damages you could be entitled to.
For another approach, see: Doberman Pinscher Aggressive
Owning a Doberman Pinscher
If you're considering owning a Doberman Pinscher, be aware that homeowner and rental insurance companies often exclude the breed from coverage.
Some insurers will exclude injuries caused by any animal owned by the insured person, while others may have restrictions on certain breeds of dogs.
You might need to think about purchasing private pet insurance to ensure you're protected in case something happens.
It's essential to exercise due diligence and ask about insurance restrictions before bringing a Doberman Pinscher into your home.
Guard
Dobermans are naturally protective of their owners, but this can sometimes be a double-edged sword.
In fact, a 66-year-old Doberman show dog owner was found dead in her backyard from multiple dog bites after her neighbors didn’t see her for two days.
This highlights the importance of proper supervision and handling, especially around children and strangers.
Dobermans at large have also been known to attack bicyclists.
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Insurance Considerations When Owning
Owning a Doberman Pinscher comes with its own set of insurance considerations.
Homeowners or rental insurance companies may exclude Dobermans from an owner's coverage, so it's essential to research and understand the policies before bringing one home.
In California, no legal restrictions have been imposed against Dobermans by the state or its municipalities, but insurance companies can still have their own rules.
Some insurers will exclude injuries caused by any animal owned by the insured person, while others will exclude certain breeds of dogs.
You might be surprised to learn that some insurance companies have their own restrictions, so it's crucial to do your due diligence and ask the right questions.
You may need to consider purchasing private pet insurance to ensure your Doberman is protected in case of an accident or injury.
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Liability and Compensation
In a Doberman Pinscher attack, the dog's owner may be liable for your losses. This is based on the Restatement of Torts 518, which holds owners accountable for harm caused by an abnormally dangerous animal.
If you're injured in a Doberman Pinscher attack, getting medical help as soon as possible is crucial to ensure that your wounds are properly treated. This can involve various procedures, such as surgery, skin grafts, and staples.
The owner may also be liable for the negligent handling of the dog, which can lead to severe wounds and even rabies if the dog's vaccinations are outdated.
Who Is Responsible?
The dog's owner may be liable for your losses if you're injured in an encounter with an aggressive Doberman Pinscher. They can be held responsible for their negligence in failing to prevent harm by an animal that could be abnormally dangerous.
According to the Restatement of Torts 518, if a dog owner is found to be negligent, they are subject to liability for harm done by the animal. This means you may be entitled to claim damages.
In Texas, Doberman Pinscher dog attack victims have the right to seek compensation. You should consult with a lawyer as soon as possible to determine your options.
City Municipal Codes and County Codes must be considered when determining the rules and regulations in a particular area. For example, according to Chapter 7-4.14 of Dallas City Code, a dog owner commits an offense if they fail to secure their dog and the dog makes an unprovoked bite that causes bodily injury to another person.
The dog's owner may also be liable for the negligent handling of the animal. An attorney who handles dog bite cases can help you understand what types of damages you may be entitled to claim.
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California Dog Bite Lawyer
California is a strict liability state on dog bites, which means the owner is likely to be held liable even if the dog never showed any dangerous propensities.
If a dog bites you or a family member, get immediate medical attention. Contact a California dog bite lawyer as soon as possible to discuss your case.
California has very few exceptions to the rule of strict liability on dog bites. This means the owner's liability is not dependent on the dog's past behavior.
If you're attacked by a Doberman Pinscher in California, you'll likely need to contact a lawyer who specializes in California dog bite cases.
Reporting and Representation
If you've been seriously injured in a Doberman Pinscher attack, it's essential to report the incident to the authorities and seek representation from a qualified attorney.
Our Texas dog bite attorneys have been representing dog bite victims for over three decades, so you can trust that they'll fight for the recovery you deserve.
To take the next steps in your case, call Simmons and Fletcher, P.C. at (800) 298-0111 for a free consultation.
Reporting a Bite Incident
Reporting a bite incident is a serious matter, and it's essential to know what to do if you or someone else is bitten by a dog.
In Texas, you're required to report dog bites to the local animal control by law. This is to verify that the dog is up to date with its shots and to check for any risk of rabies.
If you're unsure about who to contact, you can find your local animal control numbers online.
Attack Representation
If you've been seriously injured in a dog attack, it's essential to seek representation from experienced attorneys. Our Texas dog bite attorneys at Simmons and Fletcher, P.C. have been representing dog bite victims for over three decades.
Their team is dedicated to fighting for the rights of those who have been harmed, and they will do everything possible to fight for the recovery you deserve.
Sources
- Are Dobermans Mean, Dangerous, or Overly Aggressive? (dobermanplanet.com)
- Doberman Attacks – California Dog Bite Lawyer (maisonlaw.com)
- Dallas Doberman Pinscher Bite Lawyer (genthelaw.com)
- Seriously Aggressive Doberman Some Possible Reasons ... (askthedogguy.com)
- Doberman Pinscher Bites (simmonsandfletcher.com)
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