The Cultural Icon: Dobermans in Media and Public Perception - A Story of Stereotypes
The Doberman Pinscher, with its sleek coat, athletic build, and regal stance, is often perceived solely as a symbol of alertness and strength. This article delves into the various ways Dobermans have been represented in media and culture, examining how these portrayals have shaped public perceptions and sometimes overshadowed their intelligence and versatility.
The Early Days: Origins and Initial Perceptions
Developed in the late 19th century by a German tax collector Louis Dobermann, the breed was initially bred for protection. This foundational purpose influenced early media portrayals, where Dobermans were often shown as elite protectors, reinforcing their image as formidable guard dogs. Unfortunately, many art mediums have failed to showcase the breeds’ softer side, making them excellent companions and loving family members. The result has been that society still erroneously views Doberman Pinschers as an aggressive breed.
Hollywood and the Doberman: Typecasting as Villains
Hollywood has often typecast Dobermans as the quintessential villains' pets, which solidified their image as aggressive. Notable films include:
"The Boys from Brazil" (1978), where Dobermans portrayed ruthless guard dogs.
These roles have contributed to a stereotype of Dobermans as menacing, overshadowing their balanced traits.
Other Negative or Villainous Doberman Depictions:
Halloween 5: The Revenge of Michael Myers (1989): Typically horror-associated, contributing to a fearsome image.
In the Mouth of Madness (1995): The horror setting negatively casts Doberman as town terrors.
The Invisible Man (2020): The Doberman is used to enhance the threat and suspense.
Moonraker (1979): Features a villain with Dobermans, aligning them with menace.
Breaking Stereotypes: Dobermans in Positive Roles
Dobermans have also been featured as heroes in various films and TV shows:
"The Doberman Gang" (1972) humorously showed a pack of Dobermans executing a bank robbery, showcasing their intelligence and trainability.
Alex and the Doberman Gang (1980): Showcases a heroic and clever side of Dobermans.
The Amazing Dobermans (1976): Portrays Dobermans in a fun and adventurous light.
Eyes of an Angel (1991): Features a Doberman in a sympathetic role as a protective companion.
The Daring Dobermans (1973): Although the Dobermans are involved in heists, they are depicted cleverly and not menacingly.
Hugo (2011): Minor role, neutral depiction.
Magnum P.I.: Often shows Dobermans as part of the protagonist’s team, implying loyalty and protection.
Dobermans in Advertising and Marketing
Dobermans have been used in advertising to convey strength but not always in a positive way towards the breed:
BMW utilized a Doberman to represent their powerful motors by roaring a Doberman into submission.
The Swedish Armed Forces added a bit of Doberman tension to their commercial and used Dobermans as a source of danger.
Opel depicted Dobermans as evil hellhounds that their cars could withstand.
These advertisements leverage the Doberman's image to evoke security and vigilance, appealing to consumers' desire for protection.
Art and Literature: Stereotypes
While the Doberman is not often found in literature, art frequently shows them in a more stereotypical light, especially in music videos.
Snoop Dogg, for instance, used the image of a Doberman, who he turns into as the gangster character that takes care of an annoying situation in his music video for “Who Am I (What's My Name)?”. While Snoop Dogg’s depiction of the Doberman may have contributed to a ‘cool’ image in society, the entire dog gang is still not depicted as your cuddly companion Dobermans often are as well.
In Mötley Crüe’s Music Video for “Smokin’ in the Boys Room,” a growling Doberman with a pentagram dog tag takes off with a student’s homework. While the concept of “my dog ate my homework” is funny, the depiction of the Doberman remains stereotypical.
One exception we found is Black Sabbath’s “No Stranger to Love” music video. Without trying to interpret the Doberman’s philosophical meaning in the music video, the depiction of the Doberman likely adds layers of positive symbolism and meaning to the visual storytelling, contributing to the overall thematic richness of the song and its accompanying visuals. However, it does so without an aggressive or stereotypical image. It instead shows the Doberman’s strength, endurance, and willingness to go the extra mile for love.
In their scarce literature appearances, Dobermans remain in a stereotypical depiction. For example:
"Breakfast of Champions" by Kurt Vonnegut, Jr. - In "Breakfast of Champions", Kazak the Doberman is used symbolically rather than as a central character. He is portrayed as an out-of-control pet owned by a writer named Kilgore Trout. Kazak's violent behavior serves as a darkly comic element and a metaphor for uncontrolled, chaotic forces within the novel's exploration of free will and determinism. Kazak's actions reflect the unpredictable and often absurd nature of the world Vonnegut depicts.
Changing Perceptions and New Narratives
The portrayal of Dobermans in media and culture has significantly influenced public perception. While early depictions focused on their roles as aggressive protectors, some narratives showcase their intelligence, loyalty, and versatility. Media plays a crucial role in reshaping perceptions, highlighting the true nature of this remarkable breed.
Call to Action
As the media continues to explore the complexity of Dobermans, it is vital to appreciate and promote a more nuanced portrayal of the breed. Whether as a content creator or a breed enthusiast, consider how you can contribute to reshaping the narrative around Dobermans, helping the world recognize their full spectrum of traits.
This enriched understanding not only broadens our appreciation but also fosters a more informed and respectful recognition of all that Dobermans have to offer.
