Doberman Questions

I have an opportunity to obtain a near three year old female Doberman. This
dog look very good, is AKC registered, and has a rather rambuctious and
playful attitude. We are experienced owners, having had Dalmatians for 12
years, been on the show circuit, etc. We always wanted a Doberman, but want
to be sure our situation will work for a Dobie. Some training is needed
here, but we are well experienced with this.

Only two people at home, my wife and I, and we both work. We may be gone up
to 11 hours a day. I would prefer to leave the dog inside, as I understand
this is preferrable for this breed. I'd feel better about this vs outside
as well. But I do wonder about an ability to "hold it" for that long. Our
Dalmatians could, and did, with one not even wanting to go outside after 11
hours, if it was raining! I had to force her out. Dogs can hold it for 8 -
9 hours, since many of us sleep that long with the dog at our side, rarely
going outside in the middle of the night. But, 11 hours? I am not so sure,
and I do not want to make the dog uncomfortable.

sighthounds & siberians...

Maybe it could hold it for that long, but it shouldn't. I'd suggest a
dog walker or, if you have a fenced yard, seeing if a neighbor or
friend could come by and let the dog out.

Mustang Sally

Second question. This Doberman has two small mutt buddies. One needs to
go. Would it be advantageous for us to also take one of the small mutts?
Would this help the Doberman in its transition to new people and
surroundings? Help keep it out of trouble? Reduce boredom? The mutt and
the Dobie do play, even having a tug of war (rather laughable). Or would
the mutt interfere with any bonding with us?

It is critically important to us that we get off on the right foot. We know
Dalmatians well, but each as a puppy. This is a different breed and
different circumstances, so welcome any comments.

Thank you. - Phil