The Teffner Award

The Teffner Award is being created in loving memory of long-time DPCA Rescue Committee member Beth Teffner, who passed away suddenly in January of 2026.

In 2004 Beth and her husband Don adopted two Dobermans – Baron and Inga – from a local rescue in Ohio. Recognizing the dogs’ need for structure and guidance, they immediately enrolled them in Obedience training. That commitment became a lifelong mission.

Beth and Don have attended most every DPCA National since Ft. Mitchell, Kentucky and have worked tirelessly in support of rescue and the breed they both love.

In 2007 Beth became a Member of the Doberman Pinscher Club of America with one clear purpose — to serve on our Rescue Committee.

Over the years, Beth and Don adopted 11 Dobermans from their local rescue and served on their Board of Directors for 22 years.

Beth firmly believed:
Every Doberman — even the poorly bred ones — is intelligent and deserves the opportunity to become the BEST they can be.
Her dogs embodied that belief. Each was trialed/ titled not only in Obedience, but also in Fast CAT, Rally, Agility, Dock Diving, Scent Work, and any other venue suited to the individual dog’s strengths and abilities.

In memory of Beth, and in honor of her husband Don, The Teffner Award recognizes rescued purebred Dobermans who have achieved Beth’s dream — to be all they can be in body, mind, and spirit.

Qualifications:

• – Proof of adoption thru an approved rescue or animal shelter (dogs obtained from a breeder are ineligible)
• – Have an AKC / PAL#
• – Proof of spay/neuter if needed
• – Titled in ANY 5 or more approved venues listed by the American Kennel Club

Applications will be available online in the Rescue section of the DPCA website. All documentation will be uploaded and verified by the Rescue Committee prior to award approval.

Award Levels are as follows:

• Bronze – any FIVE or more approved AKC titles
• Silver – any TEN or more approved AKC titles
• Gold – any TWENTY or more approved AKC titles
• Platinum – a working therapy dog title OR one OTCH, RACH, MACH or Scent work (SWM/SWD) titles
• Diamond – a working therapy dog title PLUS one OTCH, RACH, MACH or Scent work (SWM/SWD) titles OR two OTCH, RACH, MACH  or Scent work (SWM/SWD) titles