The origins of the Doberman Pinscher remain somewhat of a mystery. While creation of the breed is attributed to Louis Dobermann (1834 -1894) of Apolda Germany, it was his friend Otto Goeller who gave the breed it’s name. Goeller long admired the breeding that Dobermann had done. It was Goeller who really advanced the breed, by using much of Dobermann’s stock (which was mongrel, terrier and herding breeds) to create the dog we recognize today as the Doberman Pinscher. In 1899 Otto Goeller founded the National Doberman Pinscher Club in Apolda Germany. In the same year a standard was established for breeders to observe, and for specimens to be judged against. The formation of the Club and the standard, set a clear direction for the breed and insured the use of purebred dogs in future breedings. Random mongrel breedings ceased and the bloodlines for perhaps one of history's greatest dogs was created. Those actions in 1899 represent the genesis of what we now recognize as the Doberman Pinscher.

When one considers canine history, the Doberman is clearly a newcomer, and yet is known and recognized by almost every person on the street. Dogs such as Pharaoh Hounds, who take their names from the Pharaohs of Egypt, are depicted in art work of almost 5,000 years ago. Other breeds such as the Mastiff is spoken of by Caesar in 55 BC when invading Britain. Even the Akita traces its early ancestry as a guard and hunting dog to the 1600's in Japan. The Doberman Pinscher has earned its way into the top ranks of these ancient dogs in less than a century.