Do Dobermans Brains Outgrow Their Skull? The Facts to Know

The Doberman is one of the most popular dog breeds across America, known for their protective energy. However, because they were built for security, they’re also known as aggressive dogs as well. But with the proper training and early socialization, they’ll be able to learn to love and become affectionate dogs towards who they love.

Besides its temperament, one thing to note of the Doberman is its body. They have the muscular build and a long, smaller-sized head. It has you wonder: do Dobermans brains outgrow their skull? These are just some of the oddest questions that real people ask, and it’s actually quite an insightful one.

So if you’re wondering if a Doberman’s brain can grow even bigger than its skull, read on as I answer that with more detail.

The Doberman Pinscher’s Build

Before we answer the question on the Doberman’s brain and skull, let’s first learn about their overall build.

The average Doberman Pinscher has the muscular built and reaches heights of up to 28 inches tall, weighing between 71 to 99 pounds. They have the long head with the muscular body, a short, docked tail, and their ears cropped to stand tall. However, take note that tail docking and ear cropping are illegal in various countries.

According to official organizations’ standards, the Doberman’s length should be equal to his height, having the proportioned head, neck, and leg length.

As for their temperament, they’re actually people-oriented dogs who love their owner. They’re also one of the easiest to train as they’re one of the most intelligent dog breeds now.

Regarding the Doberman’s aggression, this breed is only aggressive towards strangers or if not trained at a younger age. There are myths of them having a “bully brain”, which I’ll get into later. However, studies show that they’re less aggressive towards people and almost never attack their owners unless attacked first.

For those who want to learn more about the AKC’s standards of the Doberman Pinscher, check out this interesting video:

The Growing Brain Myth

There are a number of myths and legends about Dobermans that people believe in, including their brain health.

Many say that a Doberman’s brain would grow continuously, even outgrowing their skull to the point that they go crazy. This is one of the explanations as to why these dogs are aggressive towards people.

In fact, some people even say that because of their small and slender heads, the Doberman’s skull won’t be able to take the size of their growing brain. As a result, the expanding organ can explode in the cranial area and cause fatal consequences.

You’ll be surprised with the many people who do believe this legend, though it does seem like a valid explanation. However, we shouldn’t always believe things we hear about dog breeds.

Do Dobermans Brains Outgrow Their Skull?

Fortunately, this myth is NOT true at all. NO dog breed can ever have a brain that can outgrow their skull. Actually, almost any type of animal, including us humans, won’t have brains that continuously grow until it outgrows our own heads.

The only reason why people do believe in the myth is due to the fact that Doberman’s are a bully breed. It’s a way to explain their aggression or to even discourage getting one.

According to a book entitled, “The Pit Bull Placebo“, the truth is that brain grows the same rate as any other dog’s brain. Not only do Doberman’s brains grow normally, but they never outgrow the skull unless suffering from some skeletal abnormality, which is rare. Brain swelling only develops from head injuries and if it does have a chance of exploding or outgrowing the skull, no dog would be able to have a crazed attack of aggression.

There are NO scientific studies for the matter and these dogs are just bred for security, NOT aggression if trained well. Furthermore, take note that a smaller brain does NOT equate to a dumber animal. Remember, Dobermans are one of the most intelligent dogs out there!

The truth of the matter is… Dobermans are actually sweet towards their families and owner. As long as you continue to socialize and train with them as they grow, expect them to always show affection. You’ll get a security dog who adores you for life!

Wrapping It Up

While the Doberman Pinscher has a smaller-sized head, this does not make their brains any less small. They have an equal size, yet this dog breed remains to be one of the most intelligent out there. That’s what makes them great pets to own, especially if you love energetic pets!

I hope this article answers your question, “Do Dobermans brains outgrow their skull?” If you want to learn more about the Doberman or other dog breeds compatible for you, check out all my other blog posts on them now!