Hi there ... first of all, I want to say that I think its WONDERFUL for anyone to consider a Dobie as an addition to their family. They are such incredible dogs. I don't think they get nearly the admiration they deserve.

I think a lot of what you have heard about Dobermans are common misconceptions. My husband grew up with the breed, so he knows far more than I do, but I have had hands on experience with ours, as well as extensive research before we brought him home.

I wouldn't normally consider Dobermans to be overly prey driven ... especially not when compared to sighthounds or other hunting breeds. With that being said, there are some who are, but I think its more of an individual characteristic, rather than a breed specific thing. The same with protective instincts. Many of the Dobermans I have known (ours included) are total mushes. Kiz would let anyone and everyone into our home and only ask for belly rubs in return lol. Our Dane is FAR more protective than I could ever see him being, but of course, he is the one people balk at.

Obedience and owner experience are two things I feel go hand in hand with general big dog ownership. You are going to have to take more care, time, and training with larger dogs than toy breeds, just because of their size and people's perfection of them. Dobermans can have their trying moments, but I have found them to be some of the easiest trainable and eager to please dogs out there.

Finally, I have NO clue where the intolerance for same gender households would have started, but its pretty laughable. Dogs love those who love them, regardless of sex, age, race, whatever. They only know what you give to them, and they give that back threefold.

I hope this helps somewhat. Dobermans are an excellent breed of dog, and while they aren't for everyone, and I certainly wouldn't encourage everyone out there to rush right out and get one, I feel that way about every breed. There is a balance, and a match. If you truely have done your homework and understand their needs, they make wonderful companions and family members