Greetings everyone,

I am a first time Doberdad and am enjoying it immensely!  I can't say I always felt that way even though I always loved Rocky Reign, there were fleeting moments when he was a puppy that I actually felt regret for getting him.  Now I can't imagine not having him.  He has grown up to be quite a fine "young man" ;).  My wife loves him as much, or even more then I do and spoils him rotten.  

     I got Rocky (or should I say he got me?) as an 8 week old puppy from a breeding kennel in Kailua/Kona on the Big Island of Hawaii.  When the breeder interviewed me, I told he I wanted a dog that was in the "medium" range.  There were ten puppies in the litter, 5 boys and 5 girls.  I wanted the dog that was in the middle in terms of size, and one who was moderately mellow in disposition.  I didn't want the alpha, nor did I want the most timid one either.  The breeder gave me what she thought was the pup with the best "personality".  Of course 8 weeks is too young to really know how a pup will be, but I guess you can get a general idea.  Well.. I took the middle child and named him Rocky Reign.  I am so glad I did, as he is quite the character.  We believe he is meant for us and vice versa.  Even though he can be quite the terror, he has a great personality, and is very friendly to my family members and friends.  He has a serious protective side though, and no one can get within 100 yards of my house without him letting it be known.  When my wife and I walk him he doesn't have patience for strangers that approach without our consent.  That little bundle of black and tan fur has grown up to be a 95 pound bundle of joy, and stands 30 inches at the shoulders.  Almost every time I walk him, people always say what a beautiful dog he is.  I can't even keep track of how many times people have said that.  I do believe that Dobermans are indeed the best looking breed in my opinion.  It is funny, but this old man at the Continental Cargo facility in New Orleans said when you see a dog like Rocky, every other type of dog seems ugly.  Of course I know there are many beautiful breeds of dog, but for us, the regal Doberman stands head and shoulders above the rest.

     I look forward to reading your posts and seeing pictures of all your gorgeous dogs as well.  Take care, and God bless you and your Doberkids!