
read our faq’s
FAQs
Please review the FAQ thoroughly. If you have any questions or are ready to join the Waitlist for upcoming litters, feel free to reach out via the Contact Us form or go directly to the Application page to get started. We're happy to assist!
How do I reserve a puppy?
To reserve a puppy, you’ll need to complete our application form and submit a $500 non-refundable deposit. This deposit secures your place on the official waitlist and is applied toward the total cost of your puppy.
Is the deposit refundable?
No. The $500 deposit is non-refundable, but it does go toward the total purchase price of your puppy.
What does the price include?
All puppies are:
AKC registered
Vet-checked with age-appropriate vaccinations
Dewormed
Socialized daily in our home
Sent home with a puppy starter kit
Ear cropping (if chosen) is done by a trusted veterinarian and includes aftercare guidance.
When can I pick up my puppy?
Puppies without cropped ears are typically ready to go home at 8 weeks of age. Puppies with cropped ears are ready at 9–10 weeks, depending on the vet’s schedule and recovery.
Can I visit before pickup?
We limit visits after 6 to approved applicants with a deposit in place only, for the safety and health of our dogs and family. We’re happy to share photos and video updates of your puppy’s development.
What is your breeding philosophy?
We raise a small number of well-planned litters each year, focusing on quality over quantity. Our puppies are raised in our home with daily socialization, plenty of love, and exposure to real-life sights and sounds. We aim to place each puppy in a responsible, loving, and well-prepared home.
What colors do you breed?
Our Dobermans are bred with a focus on producing healthy, well-tempered dogs. We breed for Black/Rust and Red/Rust coats, both of which are recognized and align with the traditional Doberman standard. While some other colors, such as Blue or Fawn, can occur, we prioritize maintaining the breed’s health and standard. We do not breed for albino, warlock, or any non-standard colors that are not recognized by the AKC or FCI.
What is AKC Registration?
All puppies come with Limited AKC Registration, which means they cannot produce registered offspring. Full registration may be available under certain conditions. Contact us for more information.
Will I receive a purchase contract?
Yes. Once your application is approved and your $500 deposit is received, we will provide a detailed puppy purchase contract for you to review and sign. This agreement outlines our responsibilities as the breeder, your responsibilities as the buyer, health guarantees, spay/neuter expectations (if applicable), and other important terms.
We’re happy to answer any questions you have before signing.
What is the total cost of a puppy?
Our puppies are $2,600. Ear cropping is optional and adds an additional $1,000. Your $500 deposit is applied to this total. The remaining balance is due at pickup.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept Venmo and PayPal for the deposit only. We accept checks or cash for the final payment.
Do you offer ear cropping?
Yes. Ear cropping is optional and adds $1,000 to the total cost. We arrange the appointment and care for your puppy through the recovery period. Puppies with cropped ears typically go home around 9–10 weeks of age.
Why are the ears cropped?
Dobermans’ ears are often cropped to give them their signature upright look, traditionally associated with their role as working dogs. Cropped ears can reduce the risk of ear infections, especially for active dogs, but the procedure is optional. This choice is entirely up to the owner, based on personal preference and lifestyle. Both cropped and natural-eared Dobermans can thrive as loving, loyal companions.
Do you ship puppies?
We do not offer shipping. You must pick up your puppy in person in Hudson, Maine. We may be able to coordinate delivery within New England or meet you at the airport for an additional fee—please inquire.
Do you health test your dogs?
Yes. Our dogs are genetically tested and carefully paired to promote healthy litters. We prioritize temperament, structure, and sound lineage in all our breeding decisions. At this time, we have not pursued OFA certifications.
Do you offer breeding rights?
All puppies are sold on limited AKC registration (no breeding rights) unless otherwise agreed upon. We occasionally make exceptions for experienced breeders committed to improving the breed.
What about Tail Docking?
All of our puppies have their tails docked between 5-7 days of age. Tail docking is a customary practice in Dobermans, aligning with the breed’s historical role as working dogs. The docked tail reduces the risk of injuries in active or working environments. While tail docking is primarily cosmetic today, it remains standard for Dobermans to maintain their traditional appearance and conformation.
Do your Dobermans come from European bloodlines?
Yes! Our Dobermans are from European working lines, known for their health, temperament, and conformation. We generally do not work with American bloodlines to ensure the highest standards for our dogs.
Our Health Guarantee
At Maine Dobermans, we are committed to ensuring the health and well-being of every puppy we place in a loving home. Our comprehensive health guarantee is designed to provide peace of mind for new owners and outline the support we provide for your puppy’s care. Here’s what our health guarantee includes:
1. Purebred Guarantee
All our puppies are guaranteed to be purebred Doberman Pinschers and are registrable with the American Kennel Club (AKC).
2. Initial Health Assurance
We warrant that each puppy is in good health at the time of adoption. Before going to their new homes, our puppies are thoroughly examined by a licensed veterinarian and come up-to-date on vaccinations and deworming treatments.
3. Genetic Health Guarantee
We stand behind the genetic health of our Dobermans. Our breeding dogs undergo rigorous health testing, including screenings for Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM1 & DCM2) and Von Willebrand’s Disease (vWD). Puppies are guaranteed to be free from these genetic conditions, and documentation is available upon request.
4. Hip Dysplasia Coverage
If your puppy is diagnosed with hip dysplasia within the first 12 months:
• You may return the puppy for a replacement from a future litter, or
• Opt to keep the puppy and receive a 50% refund of the purchase price.
To qualify for this coverage, you must follow appropriate exercise guidelines during your puppy’s development, avoiding excessive strain on their joints.
5. Veterinary Exam Requirement
We require that your puppy be examined by a licensed veterinarian within 14 days of adoption to validate this health guarantee. If any serious health concerns are identified during this initial exam, you may return the puppy for a full refund or exchange.
6. Exclusions
Our guarantee does not cover conditions caused by neglect, improper care, or environmental factors after the puppy leaves our care. This includes, but is not limited to:
• Parasite-related conditions after pickup
• Injuries or accidents
• Issues resulting from over-exercising or improper nutrition
7. Lifetime Support
We offer lifetime support to all our puppy families. If, at any time, you are unable to care for your Doberman, we require that the dog be returned to us. This ensures the dog’s safety and well-being while allowing us to find them a new, loving home.
By adopting a Maine Doberman, you are not only gaining a loyal companion but also joining a community committed to the health and happiness of these remarkable dogs. For any questions or concerns, please reach out to us at any time.
We are here to support you and your puppy throughout your journey together!