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Is a Boxer Right for
Me?
The Boxer is thought by many to be the ideal family dog
for all. Others look at Boxers, with their well muscled bodies, and jump
to conclusions about their personalities, thinking they are tough or
mean. Neither opinion would be right.
Those who know the breed, know them to be exuberant, loving and loyal
companions. They are NOT, however, the ideal breed for every family. The same qualities and characteristics that endear them to those who love them may make them unsuitable for
others.
To those who are considering owning a Boxer we offer the following,
not to discourage potential loving owners, but to assist them in making a
responsible decision. Owning a Boxer is a joy - acquiring one demands a commitment to the physical and emotional health of the dog.
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Boxers are lively, active dogs, and may be too boisterous for some
homes. Boxers are high energy level dogs. The proper balance of rest and exercise is essential, to maintain
a happy, healthy Boxer.
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The Boxer is a natural guardian of his home, but should
never 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.
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Boxers are extremely "people-oriented" and
"in-your-face" kind of dogs. They have a great need for human
companionship. They are usually not content to take a back seat to
their family's lives and activities. Those who receive insufficient attention may resort to "bad"
behavior in an attempt to gain it.
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The Boxer is an "indoor" dog. While they certainly enjoy
and need to play and exercise
outdoors, they are not suited for living outside. Their short coats cannot protect
them from long exposure to cold temperatures and their short muzzles make them
susceptible to extreme heat in the summer.
Their 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 lines are prone to skin allergies.
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As with any breed, obedience training is essential for a
well-mannered companion. Boxers are an intelligent, clever breed. It is important to remember that
an intelligent dog can devise many ways of getting into trouble.
Boxers must be trained in a firm but fair manner - they do not respond well to
(or deserve) harsh treatment.
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Boxers have an affinity for children. A
well-trained Boxer can be a child’s best friend and companion.
But a Boxer’s exuberance can also be too much for a
toddler or small child.
A Note About
Boxers and Children:
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Children and dogs can be wonderful companions, with proper supervision and training. Because of our emphasis on safety, we will not place into families with children under the age of
5:
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Boxers who have had no exposure to children
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Boxers who were given up because of characteristics that are incompatible with children
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Boxers who have no documented history (stray
Boxers)
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We have more applicants with children under the age of
5 than
Boxers who are appropriate for placement with them. Therefore, families with children may have to wait a long time to adopt a Rescue
Boxer (wait may range from 2 to 6 months depending on applicant’s flexibility).
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