I've always had one my entire life, I'm 23. GREAT dogs. Loyal, protective, playful, and SMART. (my dogs learned how to open slider doors, their cages, and a chain link fence gate, and would wait on the front porch if they got out and no one was home). They always want to play and be pet (which can get annoying at times). Tons of energy so they need lots of exercise and play time. Excellent at tug-of-war .They are very good at warning you if someone or something is approaching your house, a natural watch dog.
You need to train them as early as possible, as with any dog. Depending on the type of dog they may not be receptive to other animals, and strangers at first. My current Doberman snaps at my other dog and goes after her when she is eating her food or playing with her toys. Working on breaking that. My last one didn't. They learn pretty quick, but are quite stubborn.
They are an aggressive breed, (not natural killers like you see on TV) that is why training is necessary. They are easy to clean, but shed alot since they have short fur.
Excellent animals, just TRAIN them.
