Joie De Vivre Dobermans

Home
United States
Wise, VA
Joie De Vivre Dobermans

European Dobermans

04/02/2025

All good humor contains alittle truth.

03/20/2025

– A-Litter

On June 17, 2021, we welcomed an extraordinary litter from Pandora Joie De Vivre x Mr. Zed Di Assolutonero—a pairing that produced some of the most impressive, powerful, and beautifully structured Dobermans we've ever had.

These pups were so exceptional that they were sold out before they were even born—a testament to the strength of their lineage. Pandora, with her intelligence and confidence, and Mr. Zed, known for his elite European pedigree and imposing structure, created a litter that exceeded all expectations.

One of those pups, Aphrodite Joie De Vivre, stayed with us and has since become a prominent part of our breeding program, carrying on the legacy of excellence.

If you’re lucky enough to have an A-Litter pup, we’d love to see how they’ve grown!

📸 Drop a recent picture of your A-Litter Doberman in the comments!

03/19/2025

Behind the Scenes Wednesday: What It Really Takes to Breed Elite Dobermans

Most people see the highlight reel—perfectly posed puppies, clean whelping areas, and well-trained Dobermans looking sharp. But what they don’t see is the grind behind the scenes—the sleepless nights, the tough decisions, and the level of commitment it takes to produce elite dogs.

Here’s a raw look at what a day in the life of a responsible breeder actually looks like.

1. Early Mornings Start with Oversight
Before the world even wakes up, I’m already **checking on my dogs**. Whether it’s a litter of newborns or my adult Dobermans, **health and temperament oversight is key**.

✅ **Puppy Check-Ups:** Making sure each pup is nursing well, gaining weight, and showing no early signs of distress.
✅ **Adult Conditioning:** Evaluating body condition, monitoring for any injuries, and maintaining a strict feeding schedule.
✅ **Sanitation:** Cleaning whelping areas, changing out bedding, and keeping everything spotless (because a clean environment = healthy dogs).

# # # **2. Training & Socialization—Building the Next Generation**
Every puppy I produce has a future—**whether it’s a family protector, a working dog, or a top-tier breeding prospect**. That means structured socialization starts EARLY.

🐾 **Neurological Stimulation** – Exposing puppies to mild stressors to build resilience.
🐾 **Environmental Exposure** – Introducing new sounds, surfaces, and handling exercises.
🐾 **Basic Training Begins** – Puppies are learning recall, crate training, and how to problem-solve from the start.

**And that’s just the puppies.** Adult dogs need training, exercise, and reinforcement every single day to keep them sharp.

# # # **3. The Not-So-Glamorous Side of Breeding**
What people don’t see are the tough calls:

🚨 **Health Testing & Selection** – Not every dog makes the cut. If a dog doesn’t meet my strict standards for **health, structure, or temperament**, they won’t be bred—period.
🚨 **Whelping Complications** – Sometimes, things don’t go as planned. I’ve had to intervene in labor, stay up all night, and make **life-or-death decisions** for both mom and pups.
🚨 **Screening Buyers** – I don’t sell to just anyone. Every potential owner goes through a **vetting process** because **where my puppies go matters** just as much as how they’re bred.

# # # **Why I Do It**
At the end of the day, breeding isn’t about selling puppies—it’s about **preserving and improving the breed**. The long nights, the hard decisions, the relentless dedication… it’s all worth it when I see a **confident, healthy Doberman thrive in the right home**.

🐾 **If you’re following along, drop a 🔥 in the comments and let me know—what part of breeding do you think most people overlook?** 🐾

03/17/2025

🛑 MYTH BUSTING MONDAY! 🛑

💡 MYTH: “Dobermans are too hyper and need constant exercise!”

✅ FACT: While Dobermans are an active and intelligent breed, they are far from the non-stop, over-the-top energy machines people make them out to be. Compared to high-drive working breeds like the Belgian Malinois or Border Collie, Dobermans actually have a much more balanced energy level and know how to settle when properly exercised and trained.

🔍 Doberman vs. Hyper-Drive Breeds:
🐾 Dobermans – Bred for protection and companionship, they have bursts of energy but are also happy to lounge around the house after exercise. A well-raised Doberman can chill with the family while still being ready for action when needed.
🐾 Belgian Malinois – A true working-line machine, Malinois are bred for relentless drive, endless stamina, and non-stop work. These dogs require a job—without one, they become destructive and neurotic quickly.
🐾 Border Collies – Designed to herd sheep all day, they need constant stimulation and thrive on problem-solving tasks. If not given work, they will make their own (usually by herding everything in sight).

⚡ The Doberman’s Ideal Activity Level:
✔️ 1-2 hours of exercise per day (walks, training, play)
✔️ Mental stimulation (obedience, scent work, puzzles)
✔️ A strong bond with their owner (Dobermans are Velcro dogs!)

💡 The Truth? A properly exercised and trained Doberman will be an engaged, loyal, and calm companion in the home—not a bouncing-off-the-walls maniac.

At Joie De Vivre Dobermans, we breed for balanced temperaments—Dobermans that can be active when needed but relaxed in the home.

🐶 Doberman owners—what’s your experience? Let us know in the comments! ⬇️

03/15/2025

Doberman Deep Dive: Joie de Vivre Dobermans and European Working Lines

Joie de Vivre Dobermans is a breeding program that sets itself apart by emphasizing the European working-line Doberman—renowned for its drive, structure, and functional temperament. With a commitment to producing elite working dogs while maintaining balance and health, Joie de Vivre offers a program that ensures both seasoned handlers and dedicated newcomers find success with their Dobermans.

Breeding Philosophy & Program Goals

Joie de Vivre Dobermans prioritizes working ability while maintaining correct conformation and health. Their focus on European working lines ensures that their dogs excel in protection sports, police work, and personal protection. Unlike breeders who focus solely on show or companion Dobermans, Joie de Vivre carefully selects for high drive, stable nerve, and strong working aptitude—without compromising stability for suitable ownership.

For those who are new to working Dobermans, Joie de Vivre offers specialized programs designed to help novice owners receive fully trained pups, ensuring they feel confident and capable. Their dedication to providing honest value means that every client is set up for success with a well-prepared, high-quality dog.

Bloodlines & Pedigree Strength

A key factor in any working Doberman breeding program is the selection of bloodlines. Joie de Vivre integrates some of the most proven European working Doberman lines, often pulling from kennels known for their production of KNPV, IPO/IGP, and service-quality dogs. Notable sires and dams in their program frequently trace back to:

Fedor del Nasi – Known for producing strong-working offspring with excellent structure and power.

Oscar Z Paduko – A powerhouse in the European working Doberman scene, Oscar Z Paduko is known for his extreme drive, solid nerve, and remarkable working aptitude. His offspring often inherit his intense focus, strong prey and defense drive, and exceptional structure, making him a top choice for serious working-line breeders.

Oskmite De Grande Vinko – A powerful working Doberman known for exceptional drive and resilience, contributing to well-rounded working-line progeny.

Hazar di Altobello & Sant Kreal Zeus – While still rooted in strong European working lines, these dogs introduce a more balanced and gentle temperament into the breeding program. By incorporating lines like these, Joie de Vivre ensures that while their Dobermans retain their working ability, they also possess stability and versatility, making them suitable for a wider range of working and companion roles.

By carefully selecting and balancing these pedigrees, Joie de Vivre creates Dobermans that maintain exceptional working instincts and physical capabilities while also providing more adaptable temperaments for responsible ownership.

Temperament & Drive

Joie de Vivre’s Dobermans are bred for performance. These dogs typically exhibit high prey drive, strong defensive instincts, and the nerve strength necessary for real-world applications. Unlike many American Dobermans, which have been softened for companion roles, their dogs maintain the hardness and resilience required for serious work.

However, by incorporating dogs like Hazar di Altobello and Sant Kreal Zeus, Joie de Vivre ensures a level of versatility. Some of their Dobermans exhibit a more moderate drive, making them well-suited for experienced owners who want a capable working dog without extreme intensity. Their tailored training programs allow even first-time owners to feel like experts, providing the necessary education and resources to successfully integrate a working Doberman into their lives.

A fundamental aspect of shaping a Doberman lies in the bond and energy between dog and owner. As Kevin Behan states in Your Dog Is Your Mirror, "Your dog is a reflection of your own emotions, your own energy, your own fears, and your own joys." Joie de Vivre understands this deeply, guiding owners to develop strong relationships with their pups, reinforcing stability and confidence through purposeful training and handling. By teaching owners how to shape their dogs' behaviors through calm leadership and structured interactions, Joie de Vivre ensures a lasting, harmonious connection between dog and handler.

Health & Longevity Considerations

European working Dobermans, while superior in working ability, still face the same health concerns that plague the breed, including DCM (dilated cardiomyopathy), VWD (von Willebrand’s disease), and hip dysplasia. Joie de Vivre takes a proactive approach by prioritizing health testing, incorporating:

Embark DNA testing

OFA/PennHip evaluations

Holter monitoring & echocardiograms for heart health

While no breeding program can fully eliminate genetic risks, Joie de Vivre’s commitment to rigorous health screening ensures a better chance of producing long-lived, high-performing dogs.

Comparison to Other Working Line Breeders

Joie de Vivre Dobermans stands out among top European working-line breeders by emphasizing both elite working ability and responsible ownership. Compared to:

Altobello Dobermanns (which straddles the line between work and show), Joie de Vivre leans further into working ability while incorporating balanced temperaments.

Von Schwarz Dobermanns, who also breed for working ability but with a more diverse range of temperaments, Joie de Vivre ensures consistency in their program while maintaining versatility.

Kennels like Demartini, which emphasize police and military applications, Joie de Vivre offers a more accessible path for dedicated owners who want elite-level dogs without excessive intensity.

Final Thoughts

For those seeking a true European working Doberman, Joie de Vivre Dobermans offers the best of both worlds—high-performance bloodlines combined with health-conscious, well-balanced breeding. Their commitment to structured training programs means that even those new to working Dobermans can confidently own and train a high-caliber dog.

With a focus on proven working pedigrees, health testing, and real-world functionality, Joie de Vivre delivers more than just a Doberman—they provide a complete support system to ensure that every owner, whether experienced or new, can successfully raise a capable and confident companion. This dedication to honest value and responsible breeding makes Joie de Vivre the ideal choice for anyone looking to own an elite Doberman with the training and support to match.

03/14/2025

Feature Friday: Barymar G***k – Power, Presence, and Proven Excellence

At Joie De Vivre Dobermans, we’re excited to shine the spotlight on a stud who has consistently proven himself in both structure and temperament—Barymar G***k!

💥 Imported from the prestigious Barymar Kennel in Russia, G***k embodies everything a top-tier European Doberman should be—strong, intelligent, and confident. With a pedigree stacked with champions, he carries the genetics that make him a standout producer.

A Proven Stud with International Dobermans of Louisiana

G***k is proudly owned by International Dobermans of Louisiana, and we at Joie De Vivre Dobermans have personally used his stud services multiple times with incredible results. His offspring inherit his striking physique, solid nerves, and the signature Doberman drive—making them excellent prospects for both working and family homes.

Shoutout to His Owners
A huge thank you to his owners for making G***k available to serious breeders looking to improve their program. If you’re interested in using Barymar G***k as a stud, we highly recommend reaching out to International Dobermans of Louisiana for details.

Join the Legacy
If you’re searching for a world-class Doberman with a lineage of excellence, G***k is a stud you don’t want to overlook. Whether you’re after a top-tier working dog, a devoted family guardian, or a show contender, his genetics have what it takes.

📩 For more information on stud services or upcoming litters sired by Barymar G***k, feel free to reach out!

🔥 Let’s give it up for Barymar G***k! A true testament to the power and prestige of the Doberman breed. 🖤🔥

03/13/2025

– The Story of Zuko & Hecate

Some moments in breeding stick with you forever, and this is one of them.

A few years ago, I had the pleasure of placing one of my pups, Zuko—a stunning red male—with 2-time National Champion Alex Leatherwood while he was still playing for Alabama. Shortly after he graduated and was drafted in the first round to the Las Vegas Raiders, he came back for a second pup—a beautiful black and rust female named Hecate Joie De Vivre.

I’ll never forget the day we introduced them. We met at a park so Zuko could meet his new little sister. They hit it off immediately, but what happened next was something truly special. When we got back to Alex’s house, Zuko went straight to his toy box, picked up every single toy, and carried them one by one over to Hecate—surrounding her with gifts like a true gentleman. Of course, he kept one for himself—his favorite.

That moment was one of the sweetest, most thoughtful things I’ve ever seen a Doberman do. Zuko and Hecate have been an inseparable dynamic duo ever since.

Dobermans never cease to amaze me. 🖤❤️

P.S I have got to get some updated pictures of this pair.

03/12/2025

🚛 Behind the Scenes Wednesday: 600,000+ Miles & Counting! ✈️

At Joie De Vivre Dobermans, we don’t just breed exceptional Dobermans—we personally ensure they get to their forever homes, no matter where that may be. Over the years, we’ve traveled more than half a million miles delivering our puppies across the country.

Why does this matter? Because you don’t have to settle for what’s available in your local market. Finding a truly exceptional Doberman—one that’s been carefully bred for health, temperament, and working ability—shouldn’t be limited by geography. We bring the best to you.

From road trips through the mountains, to the coast, or through the desert, we’ve done it all to make sure our pups arrive safe, happy, and ready to start their new lives. 🐾✨

Each journey is more than just a delivery—it’s a commitment to excellence. If you’re ready to welcome a world-class Doberman into your family, give us a call today!

📞 Call now and let’s talk about your next champion, protector, and best friend.

03/11/2025

Training & Temperament Tuesday: Doberman Temperament – What Makes Them Tick?**

Dobermans are one of the most misunderstood breeds in the dog world. Some people think they’re aggressive, others see them as overly clingy, and many don’t realize just how intelligent they are. But if you understand what truly makes a Doberman tick, you’ll see that their temperament is a perfect balance of **drive, protectiveness, and intelligence**—making them one of the most versatile breeds on the planet.

Let’s break it down.

1. Drive: The Engine That Powers the Breed
Dobermans were bred to work. Whether it’s guarding, competing, or training, they need a job. That’s why they can’t sit around all day and just be “pets”—they thrive when they have something to do.

🟢 **What This Means for Owners:**
- They need structured training and daily mental stimulation.
- They excel in protection sports, obedience trials, and agility.
- Without a proper outlet, their energy can turn into destructive behavior.

If you don’t give a Doberman a purpose, they’ll find one—chewing your furniture, digging holes, or running laps around your house.

**2. Protectiveness: The Built-In Guardian**
A Doberman doesn’t need to be trained to protect—it’s in their DNA. They naturally assess threats and will step up if they sense danger. However, **an untrained or poorly socialized Doberman can become overly suspicious, leading to reactivity or fear-based aggression.**

🟢 **How to Channel This Instinct Correctly:**
- Socialization is key—expose them to different people, environments, and situations early on.
- Teach them when to turn off their protective instincts—neutrality is just as important as guarding.
- Clear leadership is necessary; they should never feel like they have to make decisions on their own.

A well-balanced Doberman is **confident but controlled**, knowing when to be on alert and when to relax.

**3. Intelligence: The Thinking Dog**
Dobermans aren’t just smart—they’re **problem solvers**. They learn quickly, anticipate routines, and can even manipulate situations to get what they want. But with great intelligence comes great responsibility.

🟢 **Why This Matters in Training:**
- They need **consistent** training; they’ll test boundaries if you’re inconsistent.
- They get bored with repetitive drills—make training engaging.
- They can outthink inexperienced owners, so it’s important to stay one step ahead.

A Doberman that respects you will be one of the most obedient dogs you’ve ever seen. But a Doberman without structure will be running your household in no time.

**The Perfect Combination—When Managed Correctly**
A well-trained Doberman is a **focused athlete, a loyal protector, and an intelligent companion.** But this doesn’t happen by accident. It takes leadership, consistency, and an understanding of their natural temperament.

If you can provide that, you’ll have one of the most capable and devoted dogs in the world by your side. If you can’t, a Doberman will expose every weakness in your training.

⚡ **What’s been your experience with Doberman temperament? Do you think they’re more driven, protective, or intelligent? Let me know in the comments!**

03/10/2025

✨ Myth Busting Monday: “Dobermans Are Always Fearless” ✨

Dobermans have a reputation for being fearless guardians, but the truth is—just like any other breed—they experience fear, stress, and anxiety.

In today’s video, you’ll see a Doberman stress-eating in response to a mock attack. This behavior might surprise some, but it’s a common coping mechanism for dogs under pressure. Instead of reacting with aggression or immediate defense, this dog redirects its nervous energy into eating—a classic displacement behavior.

Why Protection Training Matters

A protection dog’s job isn’t just to bite—it’s to make the right decision under pressure. Without proper training, fear can lead to unpredictable or ineffective responses. A well-trained dog learns to channel stress into controlled, confident action rather than shutting down, fleeing, or making poor decisions.

➡️ Control is everything. A trained protection dog doesn’t react emotionally; it follows commands. This ensures that in a real-life situation, you—not the dog’s instincts—remain in control.
➡️ Confidence through training. Exposure to stress in a controlled setting helps a dog build confidence, teaching it to stand its ground rather than resorting to avoidance behaviors like stress eating.
➡️ Not every Doberman is a natural protector. Just because a dog has the right breed doesn’t mean it has the right temperament. Training helps reveal a dog’s true working potential and ensures that only stable, capable dogs take on the role of protection work.

⚡ Takeaway: Fear doesn’t make a dog weak—it makes them real. The key is shaping their confidence, teaching them to process stress, and ensuring they are mentally sound before expecting them to protect.

What do you think? Have you ever seen a surprising stress response from a dog? Drop a comment below! ⬇️

02/27/2025

Throwback Thursday: Bagheera Joie De Vivre

Some dogs are just built different. Bagheera isn’t just a companion—she’s a certified service dog, a hunter, a protector, and even a fisherman. She belongs to Chef Joey Spado in South Carolina, and the two of them are inseparable.

She’s been through police training for search and rescue, she hunts with a GoPro strapped to her back, and somehow, she’s even figured out how to fish. No, really—she helps catch fish by alerting when there’s a bite on the line.

Her energy is limitless, her loyalty is unshakable, and her intelligence? Next level. She’s the kind of dog that reminds you what’s possible with the right breeding, training, and bond.

Who else has a dog that surprises them with what they can do? Drop your best working dog stories in the comments!

02/26/2025

Behind the Scenes Wednesday: Raising Confident Puppies

Breeding isn’t just about the big moments—it’s about everything that happens in between.

From bottle feeding to solid meals, every puppy’s journey starts with hands-on care. We make sure they get the nutrition, socialization, and structure they need to grow into strong, confident dogs.

Regular nail care, early socialization, and exposure to different environments all play a role in shaping them. And when they’re ready, we focus on presentation—because connecting the right puppy with the right family starts with how they are seen.

This is the behind-the-scenes work that makes all the difference.

Which part of this process do you want to learn more about? Drop a comment below!

Address

Wise, VA
24293

Telephone

+12762201398

Website

http://joiedevivredobermans.com/

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Joie De Vivre Dobermans posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Contact The Business

Send a message to Joie De Vivre Dobermans:

Shortcuts

Who Are We?

I have raised Dobermans since my American Bully “Onyx” passed away. When looking for the European Doberman I came across many breeds. Nothing could have convinced me more that Doberman’s were the perfect breed than my first Dobie “Atlas”. I had never owned a dog that was more in tuned with his humans than Atlas. Wanna go for a run? “Let’s go”. Wanna sit on the couch and watch netflix? “Sure”. That was the attitude. I challenge you to find dog more engaged to his human than the European Doberman Pinscher .My four beautiful daughters have never known a life without Dobermans. I’ve never known a dog to be more gentle and tolerant with children and also be so playful. Our dobermans demonstrate an incredible amount of drive yet the ability to just flip the switch and be so affectionate. The love, loyalty, and affection you get from the doberman is unmatched. Our dobermans are strong, healthy, vigorous, magnificent and dignified. They blend to any environment. A European Doberman looks just as natural on a farm chasing horses as he does on a downtown stroll. It amazes me and how beautiful and eye catching they are on the street. Our Dobermans are among the most beautiful you’ll see. Make no mistake our Dobermans have work ability. They are all highly trained, fierce, and noble protectors of their family. Genetic drive and superior intelligence with consistent training make these dogs champions. Either for sport or full time protection dog. We offer lifetime training tips and advice with all our puppies. Joie De Vivre means “Zest for Life” or “Joy of Living”. That’s exactly what our European Dobermans will bring you. Royal and elegant, fearless yet tinder. As long as exercised properly our European Dobermans will adapt to any environment and will be your most faithful companion. Words cannot express the Joy my dobermans have brought to my life. I hope you too, can experience life with a Joie De Vivre Doberman.