FAQ

Q:  Should I adopt from a rescue dog or buy a puppy?

A:  Puppies are adorable, but they are also a lot of work.  When you adopt an older dog you are able to choose a dog to custom fit your lifestyle.  You are able to choose age, sex, color, energy level, etc.  And, you are saving a life!!  If you *must* buy a puppy, please visit http://www.dpca.org/breeder.html for a complete list of reputable breeders in your area.

Q:  Is a Doberman for me?

A:  Please be sure to research the breed if this will be your first Doberman.  Dobermans are very people oriented.  They always prefer physically being with their family rather than going off alone.  They are often referred to as "velcro dogs".

Please visit this web site http://www.geocities.com/Athens/1878/dobefaq.html for complete information about the Doberman breed.

Q:  Are all Dobermans that are surrendered or abandoned aggressive and mean? 

A:  I was recently asked this question.  They thought the majority of Dobermans that were surrendered or abandoned were vicious and not adoptable.  This is simply not true.  Yes, there are some surrendered or abandoned Dobermans with aggression issues, but that is true of *all* breeds.

We do not knowingly accept aggressive dogs into our rescue. 

Most rescued Dobermans just want love, attention and affection. 

Q:  Why do I have to complete an application, invite you into my home and sign a contract?

A:  We work countless hours saving and caring for rescued dogs.  Our only reward is knowing we helped them find the best home possible.  Our screening process helps us to be sure you will provide a loving, safe and secure home.  It also helps us to create the best match between Doberman and adoptive home.

Q:  What if the Doberman doesn't work out?

A:  Owning a Doberman (or any pet for that matter) is a huge responsibility.  This is why we have a screening process.  If, however, the Doberman is not working out in your home our Adoption Contract states that you must return the Doberman to DDRI. 

Q:  Does our relationship end after the adoption is completed?

A:  Absolutely not.  DDRI will remain in the background for the rest of the Doberman's life.  We will check in on the Doberman every so often and we are always here to offer support to the adoptive family if needed.  If you ever have questions and/or concerns we will help in any way we can.  We want the adoption to be successful.

Q:  What is the adoption fee for a rescued Doberman?

A:  As a general rule, the fee is $250.  There are some exceptions.

Q:  What kind of food will I need to feed my new Doberman?

A:  We do suggest a premium dog food for several reasons, but not a particular  brand.  There may be certain dogs that are required to be on a specific diet due to health issues.

Q:  How long will it take my new Doberman to settle in?

A:  It varies, but we do ask that you be patient.  Some dogs settle in quicker than others.  Dobermans are very sensitive and may take some time to feel completely comfortable in their new environment.  Their whole world has been turned upside down (a couple of times) and they need to feel safe and secure again.

Expect accidents.  That way if there a few, you won't be disappointed.  It is normal for even the most house trained dog to have accidents in a new environment.  Again, be patient. 

In the adoption contract, we include a complete list of your new dog's schedule, behaviors, likes, dislikes, etc. in an attempt to make the adjustment process easier.

And, we are always here to help you in any way.  If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact DDRI.

In our experience, most dogs settle in after a few weeks.