Is it Legal to Own a Doberman in Wuhan?

In Wuhan, Doberman Pinschers are classified as prohibited breeds, making it illegal for families to keep them as pets. This is primarily due to their large size and potential for aggression, which can pose a safety risk to the public in urban environments. Therefore, the keeping of Dobermans is strictly prohibited within the city limits.

Dobermans are indeed a formidable breed. Adult Dobermans typically stand between 61 and 72 centimeters tall and weigh between 40 and 50 kilograms, classifying them as large dogs. Their potential for aggressive behavior and overall instability makes them unsuitable for urban settings. However, Dobermans are also known for their remarkable loyalty and obedience to their owners, which is why they are frequently employed as working dogs, such as police or military dogs.

Why Dobermans Are Not Commonly Kept as Pets

Several factors contribute to the relatively low number of Dobermans kept as pets:

1. High Cost:

Reputable Doberman breeders in China are scarce, and breeding them is a challenging, time-consuming, and costly endeavor. Consequently, the price of a Doberman is quite high. Even mixed-breed Dobermans can command prices in excess of a thousand yuan, contributing to their limited popularity as pets.

2. Genetic Predispositions:

During wartime, Dobermans underwent extensive breeding, including instances of inbreeding. This has resulted in a higher incidence of genetic disorders, such as congenital heart disease and hip dysplasia.

3. Overly Loyal:

A Doberman's intense loyalty can be both a virtue and a drawback. When out in public, a Doberman might perceive a potential threat to its owner from a stranger and react aggressively to protect them, even if there's no actual danger, leading to possible accidental injuries to others.

4. Unsuitability as a Pet:

Dobermans are large, agile, and potentially aggressive, leading to their prohibition in many cities. Their imposing appearance and inherent distrust of strangers can also frighten the elderly and children when walking them in public places, causing owners unnecessary issues.

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