10 Doberman Rescues You’ll Want To Adopt From
Dobermans are known for their loyalty, intelligence, and protective nature, making them excellent companions for the right family.
If you're considering adopting a Doberman, these 10 rescues are the perfect place to start.
These rescues focus on giving Dobermans a second chance at a loving home, providing medical care, behavioral training, and all the attention they need to thrive.
If you're looking for a playful puppy or a more mature dog, these rescues offer a variety of options.
By adopting from a Doberman rescue, you’re making a positive impact in the life of a dog in need.
Explore these 10 top Doberman rescues today, and find the perfect match for your home and lifestyle!
Alternative Options for Finding Your Perfect Doberman
If the Doberman rescues we've listed aren't quite right for you - whether due to location, adoption requirements, or availability - there are still plenty of other excellent options for finding your future furry friend.
Here are a few alternatives to consider:
It's easy to use - just register on the website and search for available Dobermans or other dogs in need of loving homes.
You can filter your search based on location and preferences to find your perfect match.
Since its founding, Petango has helped over 9 million pets find their forever homes.
Whether you're looking to adopt or foster, these organizations often have wonderful dogs waiting for loving homes, and they can be a great resource to start your search.
These alternatives ensure that even if you're unable to adopt through one of the listed rescues, you'll still have plenty of ways to find a Doberman that’s the perfect fit for you.
Top 10 Doberman Rescues You Should Know About for Adoption
There are plenty of Doberman rescues across the country, but not all of them live up to the same high standards of care and ethics.
To help future Doberman owners make the right choice, we’ve put together a list of the best rescues specializing in this incredible breed, all dedicated to saving abandoned Dobermans.
Here are the top 10 Doberman rescues in the US that you should check out:
United Doberman Rescue and Canine Castaways of Minnesota (UDR) – Minnesota
If you’re in the Minnesota area and looking to adopt a Doberman, United Doberman Rescue (UDR) should be at the top of your list.
With over 40 years of experience in Doberman rescue, UDR is a trusted organization that specializes in rescuing Dobermans, Doberman mixes, and other breeds from abandonment and certain death.
They are committed to ensuring that each dog is fully vetted, vaccinated, spayed or neutered, and free of intestinal parasites.
If any health issues, such as heartworms or hip dysplasia, are found, they are addressed before adoption, so you’ll have a complete understanding of your new pup’s health.
UDR is a proud member of the Doberman Pinscher Club of America (DPCA) and adheres to their strict Code of Ethics, making it a reputable choice for adopting a Doberman.
For those looking for more information, UDR offers an engaging online blog filled with rescue updates, useful Doberman care tips, and heartwarming success stories.
On their website, you can also find numerous testimonials and photos of happy, successful adoptions, showcasing the loving homes they've helped provide for many dogs over the years.
Doberman Assistance, Rescue, and Education, Inc. (DAR&E) – Maryland
Since 1998, Doberman Assistance, Rescue, and Education, Inc.
(DAR&E) has been a cornerstone of Doberman rescue in Maryland, West Virginia, and Washington DC.
Over the years, this non-profit organization has successfully rehomed more than 1,800 Dobermans, making a significant impact in the lives of these dogs.
DAR&E’s adoption process is straightforward but comes with a few important requirements.
For instance, families with children under 10 years old are not eligible to adopt a Doberman, and homes must have a fully fenced yard if adopting a younger dog.
Additionally, DAR&E conducts thorough background checks on all foster homes, ensuring that each dog is placed in a safe and loving environment.
For residents in Maryland and surrounding areas, DAR&E offers a great local option for adopting a Doberman.
This organization also conducts home visits for foster parents to ensure their environment is suitable for a Doberman, providing continuous support throughout the fostering process.
If you're in the area and ready to welcome a Doberman into your life, DAR&E is a fantastic option to consider.
Adoption fees are structured based on the dog's age: $450 for dogs up to two years old, $350 for dogs between two and six years, and $250 for older dogs.
Doberman Rescue Unlimited (DRU) – New Hampshire
Founded in 1988, Doberman Rescue Unlimited (DRU) is a charitable organization dedicated to rescuing and rehoming Dobermans throughout New England.
Over the past three decades, DRU has successfully provided loving homes for over 3,000 Dobermans, making it a trusted name in Doberman rescue.
While the organization is based in Sandown, New Hampshire, it covers a wide service area across the entire New England region, ensuring that many Dobermans in need get the chance for a better life.
DRU is a volunteer-run organization filled with passionate pet lovers who care for dozens of Dobermans at any given time, ranging from puppies to adults, all in need of a loving home.
They require that potential adopters read and understand their one-page blog post on the introduction to the Doberman Pinscher breed.
This helps ensure that adopters are fully prepared for the responsibilities of owning a Doberman and are aware of the breed's specific needs and traits.
If you’re ready to provide a forever home for a Doberman and live in the New England area, DRU is an excellent rescue to consider.
Since DRU is a non-profit, adoption fees are set between $250 and $500 to help cover the costs of caring for the dogs, including essential services like microchipping.
Illinois Doberman Rescue Plus (IDR+) – Illinois
Illinois Doberman Rescue Plus (IDR+) is a dedicated non-profit rescue organization that goes beyond just Dobermans, extending its services to various dog breeds in need of help.
Serving primarily Illinois, but also accepting dogs from surrounding areas, IDR+ has been a vital resource for abandoned, neglected, and unwanted dogs for years.
Every dog that IDR+ adopts, especially Dobermans, is fully vaccinated, microchipped, and spayed or neutered.
The organization conducts thorough health tests on each dog, providing potential adopters with full transparency regarding any existing health concerns.
IDR+ is committed to ensuring their dogs never face neglect or abuse again, which is why they stay in close contact with adoptive families to provide ongoing support.
To maintain this close relationship, they only adopt out dogs to families located no more than four hours away from Chicago, and they do not ship their dogs to distant locations.
The adoption process includes several requirements.
For example, families with children under 7 years old are not eligible to adopt, and all existing pets must be spayed or neutered.
Additionally, no household member can have a felony conviction.
IDR+ also conducts home visits to ensure the dogs are being properly cared for, helping to keep them safe and loved.
If you’re interested in adopting a Doberman from IDR+, make sure to meet their requirements and get in touch with them to begin the adoption process.
Georgia Doberman Rescue (GDR) – Georgia
Georgia Doberman Rescue (GDR) is a dedicated organization focused on rescuing Doberman Pinschers and other abandoned dogs in Georgia.
The rescue is funded through donations, adoption fees, and occasional fundraisers, ensuring that they can continue providing care for the dogs in need.
GDR operates much like other top Doberman rescues, keeping their dogs in-house until they find foster families or their forever homes.
Each dog receives essential veterinary care, including vaccinations, microchipping, and spaying or neutering.
The organization also provides necessary surgeries when required, ensuring the health and well-being of all dogs in their care.
Adopting a Doberman from GDR involves a thorough background check to make sure the potential adopter provides a suitable environment for a Doberman.
This multi-layered process ensures that each dog is placed in a safe, loving home where they can thrive.
If you’re considering adopting from GDR, be prepared to go through their process to find the right match for both you and your future Doberman companion.
Adoption fees vary depending on the age of the dog: $374 for dogs up to 18 months, $275 for dogs up to 7 years old, and $175 for older dogs.
Doberman Rescue of New Mexico (DRNM) – New Mexico
Doberman Rescue of New Mexico (DRNM) is a wonderful option for those in the New Mexico area looking to adopt a Doberman.
This rescue is dedicated not only to saving Dobermans but also ensuring their continued well-being after adoption, making it one of the most responsible organizations out there.
Many of DRNM’s Dobermans are rescued from kill shelters, while others are surrendered by owners who can no longer care for them.
The dogs in their care range in age from 8 months to 4 years, though they also have senior dogs and puppies available for adoption.
One of the standout features of DRNM is its affordable adoption fees.
This makes DRNM an excellent choice for those looking to adopt without breaking the bank.
Every dog that enters DRNM's care undergoes a thorough health screening, including vaccinations, spaying or neutering, heartworm testing, and microchipping.
Their website is regularly updated, so you can easily apply to adopt online or visit in person to meet your new best friend.
Most of their young Dobermans are available for just $300, while senior dogs can be adopted for $150 or even less.
Doberman Pinscher Rescue of PA, Inc. (DPRPA) – Pennsylvania
Located in Pennsylvania, Doberman Pinscher Rescue of PA, Inc.
(DPRPA) is an outstanding rescue organization dedicated to rehoming Dobermans in need.
Their mission is simple yet vital: provide a second chance for every Doberman that comes their way.
DPRPA operates with funding from donations and membership fees, including from subscribers to their newsletter, Doberman Dispatch.
Their adoption process is thorough, ensuring that every dog is placed in the best possible home.
To begin the adoption process, potential adopters must fill out an online adoption application, which serves as a preliminary background check.
Following this, a caseworker will conduct interviews and contact references to ensure the home is a good fit.
If approved, the organization will contact you directly, and their experts may recommend a dog that suits your lifestyle and home environment best.
Their website is frequently updated with adoption stories, success stories, testimonials, and plenty of helpful resources for anyone considering adopting a Doberman.
If you're looking to welcome a Doberman into your life, DPRPA is an excellent place to start.
Hand Me Down Dobes (HMDD) – Ohio
Hand Me Down Dobes (HMDD) is one of Ohio's largest and oldest Doberman rescues, founded in 1994.
Their mission remains steadfast: to find forever homes for all the Dobermans in their care.
This non-profit organization operates with the help of passionate volunteers who love the breed and have extensive experience handling large dogs like Dobermans.
HMDD’s adoption process is thorough and includes scheduled volunteer visits to ensure the dogs are being properly cared for after adoption.
Due to this, they only accept adoptions from Ohio, Western Pennsylvania, and Southern Michigan – areas that are within a reasonable distance for their ongoing support visits.
An important requirement for adopting from HMDD is enrolling your new Doberman in a positive obedience training class within two months to ensure they become well-behaved members of your family.
If you're looking to adopt a Doberman and live in their service area, HMDD is an excellent organization to consider for your next furry companion.
Adoption fees vary based on the dog’s age: puppies typically cost around $450, while Dobermans aged 1-8 years are priced at $350, and seniors can be adopted for $250.
Desert Harbor Doberman Rescue (DHDR) – Arizona
Desert Harbor Doberman Rescue (DHDR) is a relatively young but highly successful Doberman rescue, founded in 2009.
Despite its youth, DHDR has quickly established itself as the first and largest Doberman rescue in Arizona, with more than 100 dedicated members.
Their team includes veterinarians, experienced Doberman owners, adopters, and foster caregivers, all committed to the care and rehabilitation of Dobermans in need.
Led by a dedicated Board of Directors, DHDR is one of the most well-structured Doberman rescues in the country, ensuring effective management and support for both their dogs and foster families.
The organization is partnered with notable organizations like PetCo Foundation, Google for Nonprofits, and Best Friends Animal Society, further strengthening its operations.
Adoption requirements are thorough and include conditions like being legally able to enter a binding contract in Arizona, no children under the age of eight in the household, and that all existing pets must be microchipped and licensed.
DHDR provides continued support to their foster homes and adoptive families to ensure the success of each placement.
If you're looking for a well-established, dedicated rescue with a strong network and resources to support both you and the dog, Desert Harbor Doberman Rescue is an excellent choice in Arizona.
Last Hope Doberman Rescue (LHDR) – Texas
Last Hope Doberman Rescue (LHDR) is dedicated to rescuing Dobermans from shelters across Texas and parts of Michigan, focusing on dogs that other rescues may overlook.
Their mission is to provide a safe haven for Dobermans that would otherwise be left on the street or euthanized in kill shelters.
As a non-profit organization, LHDR operates with the help of passionate volunteers and collaborates with other rescue groups throughout Texas and Michigan to find foster homes for these deserving Dobermans.
They work tirelessly to ensure that each dog is given a second chance at life with a loving family.
The adoption process is straightforward.
You begin by filling out the online application, after which LHDR conducts background checks, references, and phone interviews.
Additionally, one of their volunteers will conduct a phone visit to ensure everything is in place for your new dog.
Adoption fees typically range from $300 to $450, which is common among top Doberman rescues.
For more information, you can visit their website or Facebook page, where you’ll find testimonials and updates about the Dobermans they’ve rescued and rehomed.
If you're interested in adopting a Doberman and live in Texas or Michigan, Last Hope Doberman Rescue is a wonderful option to consider for finding your new companion.
Adopt or Buy a Doberman Pinscher? The Pros and Cons
When considering adding a Doberman Pinscher to your family, one of the most common questions is whether to adopt or purchase.
Both options come with their own set of advantages and considerations, and it's important to weigh them carefully.
When purchasing a Doberman from a reliable breeder, you'll have a better understanding of the dog's background, including meeting its parents and knowing its health history.
This can give you peace of mind, especially knowing that the puppy is free from inherited health problems.
Additionally, buying from a reputable breeder allows you to choose a puppy with a specific temperament, and you may even want a dog that is eligible for dog shows - something that is more challenging to determine with adopted dogs, especially if their bloodline is unknown.
On the other hand, adopting a dog is an incredibly rewarding and ethical decision.
By choosing adoption, you're giving a dog a second chance at life - especially for older Dobermans who may have been abandoned or faced uncertain futures in shelters.
Adoption helps reduce the demand for breeding and supports a rescue organization that helps care for animals in need.
Adoption fees are also significantly lower than purchasing a dog, with fees usually ranging between $50 and $500 depending on the rescue and location.
While adopting may not give you a purebred puppy with a known lineage, it can provide a loving home to a Doberman that needs it most.
If you're experienced with large dog breeds and prepared for the responsibilities, adoption is an excellent choice.
Not only will you change the life of your new best friend, but you'll also be helping to combat the Doberman breed's bad reputation, which often leads to many Dobermans being overlooked in shelters and at risk of euthanasia.
Ultimately, the choice to adopt or purchase depends on your preferences and what you're looking for in a dog.
If you're new to Dobermans or want a puppy with a known temperament and health history, purchasing from a breeder might be the better option.
However, if you're ready to take on the responsibility of a rescue dog, adoption can offer the most rewarding experience.
Either way, you'll be giving a dog a chance at a forever home.
Why Do People Give Up Their Dobermans? Understanding the Common Reasons
As dog lovers, it can be difficult to imagine why anyone would give up on their Doberman.
Known for their loyalty, intelligence, and protective nature, Dobermans are dedicated companions that would do anything for their owners.
Yet, sometimes, despite these admirable traits, Dobermans find themselves in need of a new home.
According to many of the best Doberman rescues, there are a few key reasons why people choose to give up their dogs:
Financial hardship, illness, or life changes such as moving to a new home that isn't suitable for a large dog can lead to the difficult decision of rehoming a pet.
In some cases, owners might also feel that they no longer have the time or energy to dedicate to their dog’s care and training.
When a dog becomes uncontrollable, owners who feel scared or are unsure how to handle the situation might choose to rehome their dog rather than deal with the behavior.
It’s important to note that rescued Dobermans typically aren't abandoned for these reasons.
These situations are more common with Dobermans purchased from breeders.
Rescue organizations take great care in ensuring their Dobermans are placed with loving families, helping them find second chances when they need it most.
What to Expect When Applying to Adopt a Doberman: Key Factors for Approval
While there are numerous Doberman rescues, finding the perfect match for your family can take time.
These organizations are highly selective when choosing new homes for their dogs, and it’s essential to understand why.
Dobermans have a reputation for being strong, protective, and sometimes aggressive.
However, these traits can be managed with the right owner who is committed to providing a loving and disciplined environment.
When you apply to adopt a Doberman, approval will generally be based on three key considerations:
For example, they require ample exercise, mental stimulation, and a stable environment.
A fenced yard is typically required, and if you live in an apartment, it should be spacious enough for your Doberman to move around comfortably.
To assess these factors, many Doberman rescues will conduct phone interviews, check your references, and sometimes perform home visits.
While this may seem like a thorough process, it’s essential to ensure the safety and well-being of the dog and guarantee they are a good fit for your household.
If your history with pets raises concerns or if your living situation doesn’t meet the needs of a Doberman, your application may be denied.
Additionally, households with young children may also have difficulty adopting a Doberman, as their strong nature and potential past trauma may cause stress.
Rescues want to prevent any incidents and ensure that the dog will thrive in a safe environment.
Adopting a Doberman requires serious thought and commitment, and these precautionary measures are in place to ensure that both you and your future companion will enjoy a happy and healthy life together.
Factors That Affect Your Chances of Adopting a Doberman
While there are numerous Doberman rescues available, applying for adoption does not guarantee that you’ll bring home a new family member right away.
Most Doberman rescue organizations are incredibly selective about who they allow to adopt their dogs, and this is for good reason.
Dobermans, often misunderstood for their protective and strong nature, need owners who are experienced and capable of handling this breed.
Many Dobermans in rescues have faced difficult circumstances, and they require a calm and knowledgeable owner to ensure their well-being.
Rescues aim to place their dogs with people who can offer the right environment for them to thrive.
When you apply to adopt a Doberman, the approval process is based on three main factors:
Will you commit to meeting their physical, mental, and emotional needs?
This breed requires regular exercise, mental stimulation, and lots of attention.
If you work long hours or travel frequently, adopting a Doberman may not be ideal.
Rescues generally require a securely fenced yard for outdoor exercise.
If you live in an apartment, it should be spacious enough for a large breed and ideally close to outdoor areas for walks and playtime.
To assess these factors, Doberman rescues may conduct interviews, check references, and even schedule home visits.
While this might seem like an extensive process, it’s crucial to ensure that the dog will be placed in the right home for their safety and happiness.
If your history with pets or your living situation raises concerns, your adoption application could be denied.
Additionally, households with young children are typically not considered for adoption, as Dobermans are strong dogs with a complex history, and interactions with small children can be challenging if the dog has behavioral issues.
In the end, these thorough vetting procedures are in place to ensure a safe, fulfilling, and lasting relationship between you and your new Doberman.
The Ethical Choice of Adopting a Doberman
Adopting a dog is a deeply noble decision, but it’s not something everyone may be ready for.
If you’re considering adopting a Doberman, know that you’re making one of the most ethical choices possible.
Not only are you offering a dog a second chance, but you’re also helping reduce the number of animals in shelters and rescues.
That said, adoption may not be for everyone, and that’s perfectly okay.
There are many valid reasons why someone might choose to buy a dog, especially if they’re worried about the unknown background of a rescue dog.
This is particularly true for families with young children, as some dogs may have past trauma or behavioral issues that need time to address.
However, if you’ve decided that adoption is the right choice for you, our list of the top ten Doberman rescues for adoption provides a great starting point.
These organizations are professional, certified, and staffed with people who are dedicated to helping Dobermans and educating new owners.
While some rescues have strict guidelines about who can adopt, don’t let this discourage you.
Reach out to as many Doberman rescues as possible and don’t hesitate to contact local shelters.
If you are determined, there is a good chance you will succeed in finding your pe- Dobermans are strong, protective dogs that might not be suitable for everyone.
It’s important that you, as a potential owner, are a good match for the breed.
Make sure your lifestyle and home environment are the right fit for this intelligent and energetic dog.
Sophie Carter
Founder & Canine Care Specialist
Expertise
Canine Behavior and Training, Dog Health and Nutrition, Puppy Development, Rescue and Rehabilitation, Community Outreach for Animal Welfare
Education
University of California, Davis
Bergin College of Canine Studies
Sophie Carter is the founder and canine care specialist at cutiepuppie.com, a platform dedicated to improving the lives of dogs and their humans. With a degree in Animal Science from the University of California, Davis, and advanced training in canine behavior from Bergin College of Canine Studies, Sophie combines scientific knowledge with real-world experience.
Through cutiepuppie.com, Sophie shares her expertise in dog health, training, and rescue, offering practical tips and heartwarming stories. Her work focuses on strengthening the bond between dogs and their owners while promoting adoption and animal welfare.