It breaks my heart to talk about the state of the Doberman breed, but it's a conversation we desperately need to have. The truth is, the current state of Dobermans is nothing short of an tragedy, and it largely stems from unethical breeding practices that prioritize profit or superficial aesthetics over the very health and longevity of these magnificent animals.
We're seeing a devastating rise in genetic disorders, most notably Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM), a cruel, silent killer that's tearing through the breed. It's a progressive heart disease that often shows no outward signs until it's too late, leading to sudden collapse or a slow, agonizing decline. To watch a vibrant, loving Doberman succumb to DCM, often in the prime of their life, is an unbearable pain for any owner.
And why is this happening? Because too many "breeders" are turning a blind eye to health testing, or worse, knowingly breeding affected or carrier dogs. They're driven by the demand for certain "looks" or simply to churn out puppies, without a shred of responsibility for the genetic time bombs they're unleashing into the world. The gene pool has become dangerously narrow due to rampant inbreeding, further concentrating these deadly traits. It's a horrifying cycle of neglect and greed that's destroying a breed known for its loyalty, intelligence, and boundless spirit.
It's a betrayal of the Doberman. They deserve so much better than to be born into a life where a ticking time bomb resides within their very heart. We need to demand better, support truly ethical breeders who prioritize health and longevity, and speak out against those who are actively contributing to the Doberman's decline. The future of this noble breed depends on it.
There's a unique and profound paradox inherent in the experience of sharing your life with a #dog: the very act of loving them completely, nurturing them through every stage of their existence until their ultimate #farewell, opens you up to the most intense emotional highs and lows. The love you feel is pure, boundless, and often the truest form of acceptance you'll ever encounter. It's a bond forged in shared laughter, comforting snuggles, and the simple beauty of their presence.
However, this same depth of connection makes the eventual #goodbye incredibly difficult. The #pain of their loss isn't just sadness; it's a deep, visceral ache that reminds you of the immense space they occupied in your #heart, a testament to how truly and deeply they were cherished.
A Doberman, a German Shepherd and a Rottweiler are in a bar having drinks. The Rottie says "God told me when he made me that he made the strongest and most powerful of all dogs." The German Shepherd looks at him, laughs and responds: "God told me when he made me that he made the most faithful, noble and intelligent of all dogs." The Doberman looks at the two of them, leans back in his chair, finishes his drink and says in a low voice: "I don't remember saying any of that nonsense."
On National Dog Day, I am grateful for all the dogs who have blessed my life! They have never been forgotten or are still with me in the present day. I also want to thank @ThePanic16 for letting me vicariously enjoy the world of my two favorite Great Danes: Zero and Echo.
Love this! ❤️
"Good people are those who love animals. Animals are special creatures, and anyone who has had the good fortune to have a relationship with them knows well.
Animal nobility is a real teaching. Thanks to them, we are more modest, more empathetic, more affectionate people. They give us their love unconditionally, without asking for anything in return, they do us good."
- Keanu Reeves
This is Kelsey, a 5-year old Golden Retriever.
On New Year's Eve, Kelsey's owner Bob went outside to collect some fire logs, but he fell on the ice and broke his neck. He was paralyzed and nobody could hear him, but Kelsey came running immediately.
When Kelsey realized he couldn't move, she spread herself out across his body to keep him warm. She stayed there for 20 hours, in frigid temperatures, and kept licking his face to ensure he didn't lose consciousness. She kept barking for help the entire time.
When doctors eventually found Bob, they rushed him to hospital with hypothermia, atrial fibrillation, and two herniated discs which were causing his paralysis. Amazingly, he had no frostbite. Doctors say it's because Kelsey kept him warm the entire time.
Kelsey is a good girl.
14/10
What an incredible evening supporting the Ellis Marsalis Youth Center for Music and hanging with these guys 😊 Thanks Arnold Donald for your extraordinary vision!
As I celebrate 25 years at WWT, it has been an honor and privilege to work for such an extraordinary company. Thank you Dave and Jim for your support, the collaboration of all of our employees and an incredible Global HR team!