Welcome to United Doberman Rescue and  Canine Castaways of Minnesota! Use the preferred Zeffy QR code to  *Pay Adoption Fees  *Donate Once  *Donate Monthly  Venmo Donations to:  United Doberman Rescue & Canine Castaways of Minnesota @dobermanrescue

We follow the Doberman Pinscher Club of America's Code of Ethics.  For more information visit the DPCA at www.dpca.org

PLEASE READ THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION BEFORE Applying to Adopt!!!!!

Thank you for choosing rescue for your next four-legged family member! Please read this carefully before completing the adoption application.

Incomplete applications or missing information may result in denial.

Failure to:

• Read and follow the adoption guidelines
• Provide current veterinary information
• Fully complete the application

may cause your application to be denied. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation—our goal is to ensure the best match for both you and the dog.

  Adoption fees based on age of dog:

• Puppies 6 months and under-$550 plus MN State Tax of $37.81= $587.81
• All Dobermans cropped and docked 6 months to 2 years of age =$500 plus MN State Tax of $34.38= $534.38
• 7 months to 3- years of age $450 plus MN State Tax of $30.94=$480.94
• 4 to 7 years old- $375 plus MN State Tax of $25.78=$400.78
• 8 years old and over- $300 plus MN State Tax of $20.63=$320.63

** When an age is unknown, the adoption fee will default to the lowest estimated age of animal. **

The State of Minnesota imposes a tax on all adoption fees for rescues. This additional tax, included in the adoption fee, will be forwarded directly to the State of Minnesota. There may be a fee for paying online. 

• Special needs dogs will be determined on a case-by-case basis.  
• Adoption fees may be adjusted on each individual dog on a case-by-case basis as determined by the rescue

 Why  Adoption Fees Matter

Adoption fees help us save more dogs—just like the one you’re adopting. Without financial support, our rescue work wouldn’t be possible. United Doberman Rescue pays full veterinary costs just like everyone else, and with rising prices, it’s becoming even more challenging to cover the expenses for some of our most in-need dogs. Many dogs that come into our rescue exceed the adoption fees collected.

Your adoption fee directly supports vet care, transportation, food and supplies for current and future rescues. 

​Please consider rounding your adoption fee up and making a tax-deductible donation in addition to your adoption fee or donating at the end of the year to support UDR. Your financial generosity helps us continue our mission and care for animals in need like the pet you have chosen to adopt. We rely on the support of compassionate individuals like you to make our work possible. Thank you for helping us make a difference!

  THE Application PROCESS: 

Adoption Application Guidelines-Please read the following carefully before completing the adoption application. Incomplete applications or failure to follow instructions will result in your application being denied.

Communication & Conduct Policy-United Doberman Rescue reserves the right to discontinue communication or deny any application at any time. Applications may be declined if an applicant communicates in a disrespectful, dishonest, or unproductive manner with our volunteers.

Additionally, failure to respond in a timely manner may result in your application being closed. Remember, our volunteers are not paid employees but very dedicated volunteers helping both dogs and adopters, and we appreciate your courtesy and responsiveness throughout the process.

All potential adopters must submit a completed adoption application. Please note: applications are not processed on a first-come, first-served basis. Our goal is to find the best possible match for each dog and each home. We evaluate every application based on what is best for the individual dog and the lifestyle of the potential adopter.

If, during the interview process, we feel your home may be better suited for a different dog—based on factors like energy level, prey drive, or household dynamics—we may recommend another dog that would be a better fit for both you and the dog.

Due to obvious dangers, we do not ship or transport dogs. You must be willing to travel to meet the dog in person in the foster home, no exceptions. 

Age & Residence Requirements

• You must be at least 21 years old and live in the home where the dog will reside.
• If you live with your parents, they must be active participants in the adoption process and be available for the interview.

Renters & Apartment Dwellers

• If you rent, you must provide your landlord’s name and phone number so we can confirm permission to have a dog—no exceptions.
• Apartments may not be suitable for some breeds, sizes, or energy levels, but we evaluate each situation on a case-by-case basis.

Background Policy
If you have been convicted of animal cruelty, child abuse, or any felony, United Doberman Rescue (UDR) reserves the right to deny your application. If you’re unsure about your eligibility, please contact us directly. We appreciate honesty and review all cases individually.

Interview & Home Visit
The adoption process begins the moment you reach out to us. After receiving your completed application, one of our volunteers will schedule a home visit. This visit helps us ensure a safe environment for the dog and gives you the opportunity to ask questions and share what you’re looking for in a companion. Those that do the home visit are there to gather information only and will not approve or deny you based on their interaction at the home visit. Those doing the home visit may know nothing about the dog you are interested in. The goal of the home visit is to make sure your home is safe for any dog we may consider placing in your home. 

All household members, including children, must be present during the home visit.
If you are in the process of moving, please wait until you are settled into your new home, as we must see the actual living space where the dog will reside.

Veterinary and Pet Care Requirements
You must provide your current and past veterinarian’s contact information for a vet reference. Vet references determine if you will provide the vet care needed for an adopted animal. Please get your pets current and on heartworm meds before applying or we will deny your application if you are found to be delinquent in your pets’ yearly vet care. No exceptions!

 All current pet dogs and cats—must be:

• Spayed or neutered
• Up to date on vaccinations
• On monthly heartworm prevention

Exceptions include:

• Show or working dogs with championship titles may still be intact
• Yearly titers done in place of vaccinations
• Verified medical exemptions, a note from your vet is needed

If you choose not to alter, vaccinate, or provide heartworm prevention for your pets without a valid reason, your application will be denied.

Next Steps After Home visit is completed and UDR Approval

If your application is approved following the home visit and veterinary check, one of our volunteers will call and arrange for you to meet our adoptable dogs in their foster homes. 

 Adoption Area – Can I Adopt If I Live Out of State?

We do not adopt outside of the United States and never ship our dogs under any circumstances.

For fully vetted adult dogs, we are happy to consider adopters from any of the continental U.S. states. However, you must be willing to travel to the dog’s foster home to meet them in person and to personally transport the dog home on adoption day—no exceptions.

If you're coming from out of state, we will do our best to coordinate so that the meet-and-greet and adoption can occur during the same weekend.

For dogs currently undergoing veterinary care, adoptions are limited to within the state of Minnesota, to ensure continuity of medical treatment and follow-up.

 Adoption Requirements & Policies

At United Doberman Rescue, our goal is to ensure each dog is placed in a safe, loving, and responsible home. Please carefully review the following requirements before applying to adopt.

Home Environment

• All adopted dogs must live indoors with their family—no exceptions.
• Dobermans are not suited to outdoor living and can suffer or die when exposed to harsh weather, especially cold climates.
• Dogs must never be left outside unattended for long periods of time, whether in a kennel, on a tie-out, or loose in the yard.
• Doggy doors must not be used while you are away from home, due to safety concerns and risk of harm.

Fencing Requirements

• Preference is given to homes with secure, physical fencing.
• All puppy adopters are required to have a physically fenced yard—no exceptions.
• Adopters of adult dogs without fencing must:
  • Have a secure and responsible plan for bathroom breaks.
  • Never allow adopted dogs to roam freely off-leash.
  • May be considered on a case-by-case basis, depending on the dog's recall and temperament.
• Electric fencing is evaluated on a case-by-case basis. Preference is given to professionally installed systems with proper training provided.
• First-time dog owners without professional electric fence training will not be approved.
• Returning adopters with a successful history of prior UDR adoptions may be approved without fencing.

Puppy Adoption Requirements

Puppies require special care and preparation. The following policies are in place to ensure their safety and proper development:

• A physically fenced yard is mandatory—puppies are curious, unpredictable, and prone to making mistakes as they grow.
• Puppies may be adopted into homes with children under 6 years old.
  • However, we do not adopt adult dogs to families with children under 6 due to potential unknown behavior risks.
• Puppies must:
• Receive vaccinations monthly until complete.
• Be spayed or neutered by 6 months of age through the adopter's veterinarian.
• Puppy adopters must:
• Provide a clear plan for training and socialization before adoption.
• Understand that without these efforts, Doberman puppies may grow into fearful, anxious, overly protective, or reactive adults. These issues are often a result of poor human guidance, not the dog's temperament.

Littermate Syndrome Policy- We do not adopt sibling puppies or puppies close in age into the same household.  This is due to the high risk of Littermate Syndrome , a behavioral condition that can occur when two dogs of similar age are raised together. We OFTEN get dogs surrendered when people buy two dogs of similar age. At times this can work out fine.  

Littermate Syndrome-A well-known condition when two dogs of the same age are raised, can lead to:

• Lack of bonding with humans
• Difficulty with training, including potty training
• Severe inter-dog aggression as adults, which can lead to deadly fighting and injuries
• Potential danger to human family members when these fights happen and need intervention

Please Google “Littermate Syndrome” to learn more about this serious concern in the dog world and one in which we see far to often. Injury and potential death are of huge concern in dogs displaying this syndrome.

Children in the Home-

We do not place adult rescue dogs in homes with children under the age of 6, except for puppies, who can grow and mature alongside a young child.

Many adult rescue dogs come from unknown or difficult backgrounds. Young children often lack the impulse control, stress management, and abstract thinking necessary to safely interact with large dogs. Even unintentional actions by a child can cause fear or pain in a dog, leading to serious consequences, including injury to the child and possible euthanasia of the dog. Dobermans, being large and powerful, can easily knock over or accidentally harm small children. We must protect both our dogs and your family. We will not take risks that could cost a dog its life.

Male Dobermans & Same-Sex Aggression

Due to the high risk of same-sex aggression, we do not adopt male Dobermans into homes with other existing male canines/dogs. Although some experienced dog owners have success managing multiple male canines, rescue situations show a much higher incidence of guarding, aggression, and serious fights in the Doberman breed with other male canines of any breed—sometimes resulting in severe injuries or even death. For these reasons, if you currently have a male Doberman or other breed, we kindly ask that you apply for one of our adoptable females instead. To learn more, we encourage you to research “Same-Sex Aggression in Male Dobermans.”

Veterinary Care-Before adoption, all UDR dogs will be:

• Spayed or neutered (except puppies, who will be altered around 6 months of age)
• Fully vaccinated (core vaccines)
• Heartworm negative and monthly heartworm prevention
• On flea and tick prevention as seasonally appropriate
• Microchipped
• Treated for any known medical concerns while in our care

• Adopters must be committed to continuing necessary vet care for their dog, including:
  • Monthly heartworm and parasite prevention
  • Annual veterinary exams
  • Vaccinations as needed

In rare cases when dog is adopted, final vetting may be incomplete at the time of adoption due to:

• Vet scheduling delays (especially post-COVID) we may have had difficulty getting an appointment
• Shortened foster time or adopter wants dog ASAP
• Expedited adoptions

If this occurs, the remaining care becomes the responsibility of the adopter and not the rescue. We will provide full transparency about any pending vet care needs before adoption.

Training & Behavior

If you're looking for a dog that comes perfectly trained and "easy," rescue may not be the right fit. Our dogs come from a variety of backgrounds and experiences, and while we begin their healing in foster care, the work must be continued by you.

Foster families will provide a detailed report on each dogs:

• House manners and potty training-If you want a perfectly housetrained dog look elsewhere. All dogs will need to undergo Housetraining 101 and if you are not willing, please do not adopt. Get a stuffed animal instead. 
• Crate training status-We do believe in crate training and hope the adopter will continue this very important skill.
• Socialization level-Adopters must be committed to continued socialization! No Exception
• Medical/behavioral history

As the adopter, you must be prepared to continue training, socializing, and working through challenges as needed.

Formal Obedience Classes

While not required for adult dogs, we highly recommend enrolling in a formal obedience class after adoption. Training at home is not the same as training in a structured environment.

Benefits of formal classes:

• Build trust and strengthen your bond
• Helps your dog learn to behave around new dogs and strangers
• Provides social stimulation and mental engagement
• Offers expert guidance for behavior and adjustment issues

Dobermans are intelligent, active, and emotionally sensitive. They need energy release and a daily job to stay emotionally balanced. These are not chill, couch potato dogs. Regular training and enrichment are essential for their well-being.

Post-Adoption Expectations

• Keep UDR updated with any changes in your contact information, including phone number and address.
• Adoption is a lifelong commitment. We expect adopters to remain responsible for the dog for its entire life.

If at any point you are unable to keep your adopted dog:

• You must contact UDR before rehoming.
• Adopters may not rehome, sell, or transfer ownership without UDR’s written approval.
• Violating your signed adoption contract may result in legal consequences.

Important: If your adopted dog bites someone, UDR cannot take the dog back. You must prevent situations that could lead to bites or behavioral escalation. Please contact us early if you are facing challenges—we’re here to help.

Thank you for taking the time to review our adoption policies. These guidelines exist to protect our rescue dogs and ensure they are placed in safe, responsible, and loving homes for life.

DOBERMAN BREED INFORMATION: 

Dobermans are stunning, intelligent, and fiercely loyal companions—but they are not the right dog for everyone.

We agree—Dobermans are the best breed ever created by man. But they are also a high-maintenance, high-energy, high-intelligence working breed that requires dedication, leadership, time, and training. Before applying to adopt a Doberman, we urge you to thoroughly research the breed to determine if they are the right fit for your lifestyle and experience level.

Is a Doberman Right for You?

A Doberman is NOT for you if:

• You want a calm, low-energy dog who relaxes all day.
• You prefer to come home and unwind quietly on the couch.
• You’re not interested in daily exercise, training, or mental stimulation.
• You’re looking for a dog that “just fits in” with little effort.
• You are not financially able to provide a dog with vet care-Dobermans do have a number of very expensive health issues-Insurance for your pet is highly suggested prior to adoption!
• You do not like a needy, touchy, velcro dog that follows you everywhere and needs to know what your doing.
• You want a dog who is quite-Dobermans are known for vocalizing, whining and needing all your attention.

A Doberman MIGHT be for you if:

• You love going for long walks or 2+ mile runs daily.
• You enjoy teaching tricks, doing obedience work, or engaging in activities like agility or nose work.
• You’re confident, consistent, and calm—and ready to be a leader.
• You have time, energy, and resources to devote to physical and mental exercise daily.

What to Expect from the Breed

Dobermans are:

• In-your-face, 24/7 companions. They are rarely more than a foot away from their human. They want to be part of everything.
• Bossy, sassy and bold. If you aren’t a confident, fair leader, they will gladly take over the house.
• Smarter than most humans. They will watch you like a hawk, predict your next move, and learn your habits within days.
• Emotionally intense. They bond deeply, and without proper leadership, this can turn into anxiety, reactivity, or over-protectiveness.
• Destructive when bored. A Doberman left to its own devices will invent games—and those often involve chewing couches, destroying blinds, or digging holes.

Essential Daily Commitments for Adopters

Dobermans must have:

• Daily exercise (walks, runs, fetch, hikes, etc.)
• Mental stimulation (training, puzzles, scent work, etc.)
• Structure, clear boundaries, and fair leadership
• Socialization with people and other animals
• A job or regular tasks to satisfy their working drive

Examples: Dog sports, daycare, playgroups, obedience classes, hiking, trick training, and more.

Health Considerations

Dobermans are known to suffer from numerous serious and costly health conditions. Potential adopters must be financially prepared and strongly consider purchasing pet insurance. We can make recommendations for pet insurance just ask!

Common (and often expensive) Doberman health concerns include:

• Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM): Affects ~60% of Dobermans. Can cause sudden death with no warning.
• Wobbler Syndrome
• Hypothyroidism: Affects ~20% of Dobermans.
• Von Willebrand’s Disease: A potentially fatal clotting disorder.
• Hip Dysplasia
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
• Bloat (Gastric Torsion)
• Cancer

Routine veterinary care for a Doberman can become costly. Be prepared for possible expenses ranging from $5,000 to $10,000+ or much more over the dog’s lifetime for serious health conditions.

Before You Apply- Please visit the Doberman Pinscher Club of America (DPCA)  to learn more about Doberman health, temperament, and responsibilities of ownership. The DPCA offers detailed resources that will help you make an informed and responsible decision.

In Summary

If you're ready to:

• Commit daily time and energy to your dog,
• Be a fair, confident leader,
• Train and socialize consistently,
• Invest emotionally and financially for life—

Then a Doberman might just be the best companion you’ll ever have and you should apply today!

We look forward to helping you find your forever Doberman companion. If you’ve read and understood everything above, and you believe you're ready, please proceed to fill out our Adoption Application!

Thank you!
— United Doberman Rescue

 

I have had my home visit now what?

Next Steps in the Adoption Process

Once your home visit is completed and approved, you will be invited to meet our adoptable dogs. If you have a resident dog, please check with the foster to see if it's okay to bring them along for introductions.

Due to COVID precautions and to minimize exposure, we currently allow same-day adoptions following a successful meet-and-greet!

If the dog you applied for is not a match or has already been adopted, don’t worry—we will suggest other dogs who may be a better fit. We have new dogs coming into rescue regularly. Being pre-approved (application submitted and home visit completed) ensures you'll be among the first to meet new arrivals.

When you meet a dog, ask the foster lots of questions! Fosters live with the dogs and are your best source of information about their temperament, health, and personality. While we share everything we observe, please understand that no rescue can offer guarantees. Behaviors may evolve as the dog settles into a new home environment.

Adopting a rescue dog is an act of love and patience. These dogs often need time, training, and healing—physically and emotionally. If you’re seeking a perfect dog with no needs or issues, adoption may not be the best fit. Dogs behave differently based on the leadership and environment in each home, and adopters play a big role in their continued success.

Please remember: we are 100% volunteer-run. We donate our time because we care deeply about giving these dogs the second chances they deserve. The adoption process requires patience and communication, so stay in touch and respond promptly when our team reaches out.

Once a match is made, we will finalize the Adoption Contract and schedule your adoption day!

After Adoption Expectations

 We expect-Ongoing Vet Care & Heartworm Prevention given by adopters

• All adopted dogs must stay current on vaccinations and heartworm preventative, as determined by your veterinarian (uniteddobermanrescue.org, petfinder.com). Yearly vet checkups are required.
• Your veterinarian must be in good standing and will be contacted to verify compliance should questions arise post adoption

Stay Connected & Supported

• UDR invites you to join the "Friends of United Doberman Rescue and Canine Castaways of Minnesota" Facebook group to share photos, ask questions, and participate in community events (uniteddobermanrescue.org).
• You’re encouraged to attend events, meet and greet. UDR volunteers would love to see you and your pup again!

Return Policy & Lifelong Commitment

• If for any reason you can’t keep your adopted dog, UDR welcomes the dog back for life, except in cases of aggression or biting. Please fill out the surrender form. In these cases, please consult with UDR to determine the best solution and resources.

Always a UDR Dog

• Once adopted, the dog remains connected by heart to the UDR family. UDR offers ongoing support and education for behavior, health, or general questions for life.
• You must provide updates if you move or change contact info—this helps UDR stay in touch and offers continued support.

✅ Post-Adoption Checklist

Task	Frequency
Vet visit, thyroid testing & vaccinations	Annually
Heartworm/flea/tick meds	Year-round, monthly
Status update to UDR (photo + note)	As often as you'd like
Participation in UDR Facebook & community events	Encouraged regularly

As a UDR adoptee, you’ll provide consistent vet care, keep dogs protected from parasites, stay engaged in the UDR community, and reach out if life changes—and in return, UDR will be there for you every step of the journey. If you'd like help with cheap heartworm prevention, local vets, or training class recommendations, just ask!