Information About Boxer Dogs
If you are considering bringing a Boxer dog into your home, you probably would like to know a little bit more about them so you can know if they would be a good match for your family. Below I have compiled a list of common questions and their answers to provide you with more information on Boxer dogs.
1. What is a Boxer’s temperament like?
Boxers are energetic, friendly, and intelligent dogs. They are incredibly strong and alert around strangers, but at the same time they are very gentle with children and older adults. This makes them ideal guard dogs and companions for families. They can be a bit headstrong, but they learn quickly with positive reinforcement training.
2. Is there a difference in temperament between male and female Boxer dogs?
Yes. Males tend to be more laid back, whereas females are often more excitable and prone to mood swings. Male Boxers may are friendly towards people and small pets, but may get into fights with larger dogs, especially other males. Females will sometimes fight with each other as well, but overall they do not tend to be as bold or aggressive as male dogs.
3. Who shouldn’t get a Boxer dog?
A Boxer’s energy can sometimes be too much for a family or individual to handle if they are away from home often and cannot give their dog enough attention. Boxer dogs need to get plenty of exercise. If they don’t, they may expend their excess energy by chewing furniture or digging holes.
Boxer dogs generally do not do well in apartments unless their owners walk them regularly. If you do not have the time or energy to exercise a large, and at times hyper, dog, then a Boxer is probably not the best choice for you.
4. Do Boxers generally have a lot of health problems?
Boxers are prone to certain genetic disorders, including heart failure and hip problems. If you buy your Boxer as a puppy, you should make sure that the parents have had full health screenings so you will know that your puppy is as healthy as possible. See the American Boxer Club website for more information on Boxer dogs and the health screenings you should get for them.
5. Where should I buy my new Boxer dog?
When you buy your puppy, find a responsible breeder who can provide you with information about the temperaments and health of both of the puppy’s parents so you know you are getting a good puppy. You can get a list of responsible breeders from the Boxer club in your area.
Think very carefully before buying your Boxer from a pet store. Pet stores often get their puppies from irresponsible breeders who often over breed and otherwise mistreat their dogs because they are only in it for the money. Often times they do not know enough information on Boxer dogs to know what health problems to screen the parents for and so the puppies they sell may be prone to certain genetic disorders.
Hopefully this has provided you with some helpful information on Boxer dogs. They are an excellent breed and make great companions, but of course they are not for everyone. I wish you luck on your search to find the pet that is right for you!
