Couple Questions

[Hordicant]

As some may know if reading my post in introductions, I just 'rescued' a young male boxer. He is fixed and he's had his dew claws removed and tail docked.

Now, I am sure the trauma of being given up a second time in his very short life is not something one can expect him to recover from immediately so alot of his actions I'm seeing thus far are from that.

He's sleeping a ton. Easily 16 hours a day. I have taken him on at least 1 mile walk each day I've had him so far, which I hope is enough exercise. His eating has been very light.

Its porbably just nervous new papa feelings but do Boxers sleep alot to begin with?

I'm hoping he gets settled in soon because I want him to be as happy as possible, right now he just seems to sleep a ton and lay right next to me and not leave my sight. I should say I can never leave his sight because he won't, not follow me.

Also, young boxers, anyone have any suggestions for toys to try with him?

 

[Althea]

Has he seen a vet? that would rule out any issues.

Dogs as a general rule sleep a lot. My guys aren't very old, (boxer plus others) and they play hard, then tucker out for a few hours. He's also probably scared another person will leave him, so he's going to keep his eye on you! Sounds like possibly a lot of stress, and that will overcome a dog's desire for food, often.

You may consider enrolling him in some puppy classes of some kind -- it will help build a stronger relationship between the two of you, and also you will have lots of dogs folks who can share their experiences in person (in addition to BW!)

 

[Cami]

If I remember right from your intro you mentioned that he was 2 years old?
If that is right I would for sure be concerned that he is sleeping for 16 hours a day.
On the flip side he has been through a lot emotionally. Dogs can certainly become depressed due to any number of things and I would think that it wouldn't be out of the realm of possibility that he might be down in the dumps.
Any dog that you bring into your home should be vet checked sooner rather than later. I am not trying to imply that the previous owner was not honest with you but you just never know.
Some Boxers are more clingy than others. I find that males tend to be even more so than females.
Concerning the issue of eating. Are you feeding the same food (for now) that his previous owner was feeding?
At minimum he is missing his previous family (including other dogs). He is missing his old routine. He is trying to learn about you and what his new life is going to consist of.
And not to be the bearer of bad news but.....do not assume that the incident he was involved in was a one time thing or only territorial. He is coming to you with baggage. Some you are aware of and who knows how much else that you will discover along the way.
You do not know what was going on in his mind that pushed him to do what he did. You only have the word of an owner that after the incident decided to take him to a shelter. Prior to that you also have to consider WHY he was originally in rescue. Seems VERY ODD that they would not take him back into rescue and allowed him to be carted off to a shelter.
I am assuming that you were able to get him directly from the owner versus going through the shelter? With a bite history (even to another animal) if reported might have made things a little more difficult.
He could have attacked due to a medical issue and not feeling well or from pain. You have to consider all possibilities and thus a vet check up is in order.
It can take even the healthiest dog and a well rounded one weeks to warm up to their new surroundings and people. He shouldn't be on any time line but his own as far as feeling comfortable.
If he is given a clean bill of health your next step should include a lot of work with him in the area of other dogs. You will have to learn what his triggers might be (if any) and what to do to deal with them.
For sure it sounds like you were meant to have him in your life. Everything happens for a reason. All of the obstacles that you went through to ensure that you were there when he needed you to be is proof of that!

 

[Sansal]

I agree with what everything that's already been said. I would definitely have him checked out by the vet. But I'm sure over time he will get used to his new routine and new surroundings and be a happy boxer boy! Good luck with him.

 

[Hordicant]

Thank you all for the replies.

He's had to spend some time without me yesterday because of obligations, but was not alone in the house at all and someone was here to take care of him.

He of course looked very put out at me when I did get home, but guickly decided my attnetion and hugs were better than being sour to me.

He's back to following me around the house and wanting to know everything I am doing.

We're headed to the vet here shortly, the fact I work for Petsmart and am good friends with all the staff at Banfield helps. He's going to get his nails done and a bath today as well after his full check up.

I found out the food he's on but I'm am VERY unpleased by the brand and quality. Gonna be changing him from that today as well, at least starting the change.

Thanks again all for the quick insights.