Often used as guard dogs or as military and police working dogs, Doberman Pinschers have a reputation for watchfulness, strength and aggression.
The US Marines used the breed to flush out Japanese foxholes in the Second World War, with 25 K-9 Dobermans falling in the line of duty.
But the Doberman one American dog lover picked up turned out to an altogether different kind of pooch.
Posting on TikTok, she said: “My Doberman isn’t afraid of anything.
“Except stairs, balloons, hats, Christmas decorations, sneezes, streamers, and his own farts.”
The woman shared snaps of the dopey Doberman recoiling from various provocations like an inflatable Santa and pink confetti – his paws flailing around on the wooden floor.
After taking him for walks, the huge mutt’s owners have to carry him up the stairs outside their home.
Whatever his fitness for guard duty, the dog remains a very good boy.
Other dog lovers shared their stories of military-grade dogs failing to live up to their reputation.
Jen said: “When our bunny comes up behind my German Shepherd, I have to sit with her until she stops physically shaking.”
Another said: “My 93lb pit bull is afraid of cardboard boxes, guitars, rain, balloons and wind chimes.”
Tina said: “My dog is scared of her own bark – it makes her run and hide.”
It comes after a woman who splashed out on a purebred St Bernard puppy was baffled after he turned out very differently.
Another woman who bought a Yorkie puppy was shocked by the adult dog it grew into.
The owner of a “£4,000 goldendoodle puppy” was also left scratching her head after picking up the pedigree pooch online.
A third dog love who bought an expensive mini “poodle” revealed why you should never buy a dog on Facebook.
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