Hi Nick,

When choosing a dog it is a good idea to listen to what other doggie people have to say, not just the breeders but other owners. It is a good idea to remember that some breeders are merely running a business and it is better to look for breeders who deal with just one or maybe two types of dogs. So they have more experience of the breed.
I think Dobermanns are stunning dogs and I thought about getting one a couple of years ago. However they are VERY territorial and definately one-person dogs. They are immensely strong and though highly trainable -you have to have the time and courage to put the training in.
I guess you have to look at what you really want out of a dog. Owning a Dobermann might mean people will cross the street to avoid you (especially other dog owners) But if you make a mistake and your dog gets out of hand you could end up having to have it put down.
In the end I decided against getting a Dobermann and opted for a Siberian Husky instead. (A lot less trainable and a complete pain in the ass! But a wonderful and at times very affectionate dog!) But even as my Husky has grown up there are times things have come to a head and he has challenged me (especially over food) and will attacked if you try and remove food from him. If this should happen with a dog the size and strength of a dobermann you are possibly in really trouble. Dogs do bite and I have at one time or another been bitten by every dog I have ever had. I am sure people will tell you I am doing something wrong, but dogs are pack animals and it is in their nature to try at times to asertr themselves within the pack. The key is to make sure are these times you always come out on dog (without injuring yourself or the dog.) The question which made me decide against getting a dobermann was 'can you really say you will come out on top with a dobermann?'
Anyway this is just my views, I hope you find the right dogs for you and it is worth checking out your local rescues before considering buying a puppy. There are many dogs there which need a home. My first dog was a rescue dog and he turned out to be the most wonderful dog in the world!!!