Bloat
Dobermans are highly suceptible to bloat (Gastric dilatation and volvulus) Bloat usually occurs in dogs with deep, narrow chests. This means your Doberman is more at risk than other breeds. When a dog bloats, the stomach twists on itself and fills with gas. The twisting cuts off blood supply to the stomach, and sometimes the spleen. Left untreated, the disease is quickly fatal, sometimes in as little as 30 minutes. Time is of the essence, take your pet to an emergency hospital immediatley.
If you see symptoms of bloat such as panting, drooling, retching or heaving (but nothing comes out), acting restless, swollen or pot belly, pain when touched in the belly, or lying in a prayer position (front feet down, rear end up). My dog stood listless in the middle of the back yard with her head down and would not come when I called. There was no noticable swelling of her abdomen but she did seem to be in pain. Unfortunately it took too long to get attention from a vet and she could not be saved.