An adorable Doberman pinscher is melting the hearts of internet viewers with his unexpectedly sweet bark.
Known for their reputation as fierce guard dogs with booming barks, Dobermans often face a stereotype that this pup called Cowboy is challenging one bark at a time.
Cowboy’s owner, who posts under the handle @honkifyoulovemydog, recently shared a TikTok that showcased his precious, high-pitched vocalizations. The video quickly went viral, racking up more than 373,000 likes and over 1.4 million views.
“You have a Doberman? He must have a scary bark?” reads the overlay text as Cowboy lets out his not-so-menacing bark. Newsweek reached out to @honkifyoulovemydog for comment via TikTok. We could not verify the details of the case.
To further debunk the typical Doberman image, the clip transitions to a playful montage, with the text: “Okay well he must look scary.” Cowboy can be seen in various adorable moments, including one clip where he is dressed in a matching rubber-duck rain hat and costume.
In the final part of the footage, titled “Is he a good guard dog at least?” Cowboy greets his owner at the doorway, not with a growl or bark, but with a soft toy in his mouth—a warm welcome that is far from intimidating.
Despite their reputation, Dobermans can be very gentle, loyal, and affectionate with their families.
The American Kennel Club says that Doberman pinschers are not only incredibly intelligent and loyal, but also have a soft side that many don’t expect.
While they make excellent guard dogs due to their alert nature and strong protective instincts, Dobermans are also known for being affectionate and forming deep bonds with their families.
Stock image of a Doberman puppy resting on the floor. Internet viewers have been obsessed with Cowboy the pup’s ‘scary’ yelp.
Malisa Nicolau/iStock / Getty Images Plus
Interestingly, Cowboy’s undocked ears caught the attention of many viewers. Although the traditional image of a Doberman often includes cropped ears and a docked tail, many owners are now embracing the natural look for their pups.
The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) says that ear cropping is a purely cosmetic procedure that doesn’t benefit the dog’s health, and many animal welfare organizations advocate against it, promoting natural ears instead.
Cowboy’s TikTok charmed viewers who quickly took to the comments to share their love for this sweet Doberman.
“That’s not a Doberman, he’s just a wittle baby,” wrote one commenter, Bibi.
Another dog lover posted: “I have a dachshund in the same tan colors, and everyone expects her to bark like this—but she sounds like a very aggressive Doberman instead!”
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