On your website you recommend not letting strangers pet or give treats to your dog so that the owner becomes the center of the dog's world (engagement); and so that the dog doesn't see strangers as sources of treats. However, almost universal in the description of the Doberman breed is the need for early and extensive socialization. Can you clear up this point for us?

Hi Mr. Frawley:

We are preparing to bring home our 9 week old male Doberman pup. In preparation for our new arrival, we have extensively studied your website and your DVDs. We have had experience with smaller female terrier breeds but this will be our first large-breed male. Our goal is a highly trained, obedient, non-aggressive pet.

We are planning on fixing the dog at 6 months.

We have very carefully chosen the breeder for good lines and temperament.

My question is this: On your website you recommend not letting strangers pet or give treats to your dog so that the owner becomes the center of the dog's world (engagement); and so that the dog doesn't see strangers as sources of treats. And we are aware of and agree with your advice on dog parks and defending the pup from other dogs in general.

However, almost universal in the description of the Doberman breed is the need for early and extensive socialization. The Doberman breeder also advises early socialization and even recommended that we take the puppy to Petco and encourage everyone to pet the puppy. I know you say your website advice is not breed-specific, but it does seem that every info resource on Dobermans recommends early and aggressive socialization.

Can you clear up this point for us? We really want to get this right.

Thanks,
Douglas