Hello all!

Longtime lurker, new poster here. I'd like to apologize in advance for the length of this post.

A little about myself...

I am married, and my husband and I have built a modest home with several acres that we plan on moving to in a couple months in the East Tennessee area. The doberman is a dream dog for me, and while I've always known that owning one would be inevitable, and I've been researching the breed and breeders actively for two years, I recently decided that I am ready to welcome a doberman into my life. Allow me to clarify that when I say "now" I mean that I am ready to actively begin looking, and I'd like to clarify that I am endlessly patient and understand that this is not a rush job. I am willing to keep looking and keep waiting for the right dog and the right breeder and when those two align, there is no distance I won't travel (within the US, I have decided against importing) to meet my dog and breeder.

What I am looking for...

I'd like to tell you all that I have titled dogs and am looking for a show prospect, I'd like to tell you that I have power breed experience and need a high drive working line...
But I am neither of those things. I am looking for a dog that has a stable temperament and is within standard. I would have an interest in trying out doing scent or nose work or some type of sport in the future but for now I am confident in saying that I am looking for my constant companion. I am looking for a reputable breeder who breeds selectively and consciously. Someone who propery holters and tests dogs they plan on breeding. Not easy it seems! I understand that there is no such thing as a risk free doberman, but I believe one can stack the odds in ones favor by purchasing responsibly bred dogs!

What lifestyle do I have for my dog...

My work has me alone most of the time in my car (not actively traveling) and I would be bringing my dog with me daily. This is not a first for me as my dog of 13 years came with me every time I worked. Outside of work I live a recreational and active lifestyle. This means that while I plan on keeping my dog idle for several hours (with mini walks and potty breaks), afterwards we're headed for a good hike or engaging and physical activity. My husband works from home, so in the event that I would be going out of town, my dog would not be alone. I also plan on doing professional obedience training, not only to better my dogs behavior, but to engage him and bond with him.

Breeders I have considered so far...

Saying that "I've" considered these breeders seems pretentious because I know that as a potential owner, I am responsible for "selling" myself to be considered for puppy placement.

Feverhaus Dobermans
Protea Dobermans and Miniature Bull Terriers

I have spoken with Helia on many occasions and like how her recent litter has been turning out. She appears to health test appropriately.

I have not had any contact with Mitch besides an initial puppy questionnaire. I believe he recently had a litter. His website is skinny, but I like the pedigree of his recent litter.

Bibliography...

Just kidding.

In conclusion, I'd welcome any and all comments/questions/suggestions/Reccomendations. Again I am sorry for the length.

And of course, thank you all for taking the time to read and respond.

Happy Holidays to all!!!!

I absolutely love Helia she is wonderful and she was helped out by Julie Stade from BJF working dogs (dobermans and german shepherds) in finding the stud for her last litter. I would have no qualms about recommending Protea - not only did she extensively health test her bitch and had the stud health tested, she also swabbed her entire litter of 13 puppies to be sent to Embark in order to know their COI (and by extent their DNA carrier/at risk/clear status for multiple diseases).

Not as familiar with Mitch as extensively, just by name, although I seem to think he was maybe on this forum at some point? I think the most important thing in any case of course is to ask for proof of health testing.

Are you opposed to a show bred dog? There are a lot of choices for breeders in TN, NC, SC, GA, VA if you wait and look in the area.

I am not opposed to a show bred dog. It may even be a better option for me as the temperament could be better suited for me.

I also really like her! Her rainbow litter was stunning.

I'm impressed with what Helia's doing. I'd consider her.

I have a friend with a pup from Protea's last litter. She's showing him in conformation and doing some other things. So far, really enjoying him. I have another friend actively involved in training one of the other pups from that litter as a service dog. Also very happy with their temperament. Sounds like she's doing a nice job.

Edited to add that I trust Julie Stade quite a bit, so if she is behind someone, I'd tend to give them a look.

Thank you for your response! Helia invited me to her puppy owner page and I am just loving it.

Helia's a good friend and a wonderful breeder! She cares a lot about her dogs, puppies and puppy buyers. If you get a puppy will you do me a favor and steal a Mini Bull while you're there?

HI! I'm no help with a recommendation, but I'd like to welcome you to DT!!

Sounds like you're on the right track with knowing what you want/need and vetting your breeders.

Thank you for the welcome! That means a lot... researching breeders and pedigrees/lines is like drinking from a fire hose.

A former member has a pup as a service prospect, as well.