My dogs are my pets, they live and sleep in my home.  We do have an air conditioned, indoor/outdoor kennel with runs when we are at work or not home.  Puppies are whelped in my house, where they live until they are about 4 weeks old.  During this time they are exposed to my family, friends, other adult dogs and all the sounds of the household.  I also use ENS (Early Neurological Stimulation).  After 4 weeks, they venture outdoors.  We are lucky to live in FL, so they are able to spend several hours/day outside in a large play area with many toys and stimulation, or romp around the yard with supervision.  They are also exposed to our small hobby farm, including goats, chickens, ducks, cats, and a donkey!  

My dogs bloodlines come from European show lines.  Most are imported from Europe. My dogs are all fully health tested, including holter/echo, DNA, hips/elbows, and regular blood work and health exams.  My goal is to find more diverse combinations through working with the Doberman Diversity Project, UC Davis/VGL diversity testing, and pedigree research.

It is important to understand the health issues associated with the breed.  DCM (dilated cardiomyopathy) being number one.  There are no guarantees with this terrible disease, which is said to potentially affect up to 60% of the breed at some point in their lives.  Cancer is undoubtably number two.  Which is why I try to follow a more holistic philosophy with my adults.

Before considering purchasing a doberman, you will need to research what a working breed requires and needs in their family.  Although they are totally bonded and dedicated to their family, they need an active lifestyle, mental stimulation, and training to evolve into the dog you desire.  They will become bored and destructive if left in a crate for hours on end, or not challenged with training or exercise.  Puppies and young dogs require continued socialization after they leave a breeder.  They will need continued exposure to different adults, children, sounds, and places.

I actively train with my dogs every day.  This includes obedience, twice daily walks and/or bike rides, and weekly or bi-weekly training in IGP with whichever dog will be competing.