The over all appearance is a "medium sized, square bodied dog---that is compactly built, muscular and powerful---for great endurance and speed---elegant in appearance, of proud carriage, and reflecting great nobility and temperament. Energetic, watchful, determined, alert, fearless, loyal and obedient. " These quotes are directly from the Official Doberman Standard approved by the Doberman Pinscher Club of America and the American Kennel Club