To those who may be considering adopting a Boxer we would like to offer the following information - not to discourage potential loving owners, but to aid them in making "the right" decision.
Is A Boxer Right For You?
Life Span: 10 - 12 Years
Health Concerns:. May have problems with heart murmurs, skin tumors, digestive problems and hypothyroidism
Temperament: good-natured, affectionate, sociable, headstrong, high-energy, active, playful, loyal, and family oriented. Often described as the "clown," of the dog community.
However, the boxer is NOT for everyone. Being a breed of high-energy, they require plenty of love, exercise, and even more patience.
* One of the primary characteristics that must be taken into account when considering a Boxer is the high energy level common to the breed. Boxers are lively, active dogs, and may be too boisterous for some households. The proper balance of rest and exercise is essential.
* Boxers are extremely "people-oriented" and have a great need for human companionship. Those who receive insufficient attention may resort to "bad" behavior in an attempt to gain it.
* The Boxer is a HOUSE dog. While they may enjoy regular play and exercise outdoors they are not suited for outside living. Their short coats cannot protect them from long exposure to cold temperatures and their short muzzles make them susceptible to extreme heat.
* The Boxer is a natural guardian of his home, but should NOT be purchased solely for that purpose. ALL dogs require intensive training in order to perform as protection animals. Only those with absolutely sound temperaments are suitable.
* As with any breed, obedience training is essential for a well-mannered, disciplined companion. Boxers are an intelligent, clever breed. It is important to remember that an intelligent dog can devise more ways of getting into trouble than a dull one. Boxers must be trained in a firm but fair manner - they do not respond well to (or deserve) harsh treatment.
* The Boxer's short, tight coat requires little grooming, however like most breeds, they DO shed, particularly in Spring and Fall. The degree of shedding varies with the individual. Some are prone to skin allergies.
* Some Boxers, especially those with "loose lips" may drool. Usually this is only an occasional occurrence, but some may find it unappealing. They may also snore.
* Finally, on the rather delicate subject of flatulence - the Boxer's digestion is sometimes less than perfect. Even when fed a high quality food, SOME may have rather frequent and, well, noxious episodes of passing gas. This, of course, varies with the individual and may not occur at all. (Just don't say you weren't warned if it does.)
So, if you are considering owning a boxer, you should understand that:
- The boxer is an extremely high-energy dog. As a result, they need a great deal of attention and supervision. If you do not have the time to spend in play and exercise with your dog, a boxer is NOT for you.
- The boxer is an intelligent dog. As should be with all dogs, the boxer needs obedience training on a regular basis starting from a young age. Being a bright energetic breed, they will find many ways to get in to trouble if not properly trained and watched. If you do not have time to take the boxer through professional obedience training and continue to train and keep your boxer engaged in learning, a boxer is NOT for you.
So If you are looking for a dog who will lay at your feet, only occasionally moving to eat, or keeps to himself and requires little attention, then a boxer isn't exactly what you need. You may want to check out other breeds.
Obviously, we at NPBR love Boxers and here are just a few of the reasons:
The way they:
Lay on their back, feet up, not a care!
Pass GAS...bad gas (ok, maybe not endearing, but a fact of life with the boxer)
Greet you with the Kidney Bean (the boxer dance)
Catch bugs or snakes or anything interesting to show you their successful hunt
Use their paws in cat like movements
Zip around the backyard for no apparent reason
Bounce like a rabbit when running at times
Wiggle their little nubbin tail
Lay their head on you like it is too heavy for them to hold up!
Constantly follow their humans wherever they go
The list could go on and on....