First things first, can you clarify what it is about European dogs you prefer versus American? (Sorry it's just not clear from the above) I ask because it makes a difference in knowing which type of euro lines you are looking for. Show lines vary quite a bit from working lines in look and temperament (together or respectively depending on the breeder) and both can be found here in the U.S., though more so of one than the other...

That being said, the UDC referral list is a good place to start when looking for breeders who prefer to breed European lines. There are some on each coast as well as a handful in the Tennesse/Kentucky area and one or two in the Midwest of the top of my head, all with varying lines and dogs.

 

Hello and welcome to Doberman Talk!! I'm also located in the Midwest (I take it you are too, as you mentioned that's where you are looking for a puppy?) so that's awesome!!

We got our Zuko from Cambria Dobermans in Indiana. A 9 hour drive each way but worth it to get our boy! He's amazing. We loved the look of their dogs. They are American though, not Euro. Was there a specific reason you were wanting a Euro vs. American?

As for Midwest Euro breeders, there's KANSA Dobermans, while I've never worked with them (their website is just too confusing/flashy/everything in capitals or bold or underlined letters to me) you could shoot them an email and see what litters they have planned or on the ground. Hope that helps a little.

 

I think you need to clarify why you are interested in a European Doberman?

You need to be sure and understand that European bloodlines are no healthier than American bloodlines. Any breeder that claims that is lying and trying to mislead you.

If you are primarily interested in health and longevity, I think it will be easier to study pedigrees and health of dogs here than it will be to find a reputable breeder of European lineage. There's just a wider field to choose from. I don't say that to deter you; if what you want is a European Doberman, certainly you can get one, but it's tough(er) to find well bred ones here, and it can be VERY tough to import one without guidance, as the best aren't really sold here (and often you get tricked by unscrupulous breeders).

If you are going for an intimidating presence, you can certainly achieve that with either. Keep in mind that you can find dogs with plenty of bone and substance here - those "side by side" comparison pictures are very misleading, and often show North American dogs that are young and immature. The standards for the American and Euro dogs are hardly any different - size should be nearly identical.

I think if you met some of the fully mature adult Dobermans I know of North American lines you'd find them plenty intimidating!

All that said, there are some breeders breeding a blend of Euro and American lines. Not as many that are fully Euro lines. Those that are breeding Euro lines tend to be Euro working lines, which have a different look, for the most part, than the Euro "show" pictures you often see when you think of a "European" Doberman.

Be sure to do a lot of research before you make a decision. I'd urge you to go to some shows and meet some dogs, contact the nearest local DPCA chapter club and get in touch with them to talk to members, too. It's always great to meet people local to you and get some in person guidance.