Help me decide about getting a Boxer.

[VTbxrFan]

Unfortunately, her boyfriend detested the dog calling her a niusance and some other less that complimentary names. So it depends on the person.

This is very, very true...and something that you won't hear often on this board. Just keep in mind that most of here can only present one side because we have boxers and love them dearly. But they are definitely not perfect for everyone. It does depend a lot on what you want in a dog. My husband has always considered himself a dog lover, but he ended up not being so crazy about my boxer (I had my dog before meeting my husband). I think the biggest problem is that my husband grew up with calm, mellow dogs who would play a little bit but then settle down. He wants a dog who is content to sit quietly at his feet. He's a very busy person, and I think he'd prefer a dog that's content to get attention when he decides he wants to play - not when the dog wants to play (which is almost all the time with a boxer!). Boxers, on the other hand, are very energetic dogs and they need a lot of attention. It frustrates my husband when he wants to sit on the couch and watch TV and the dog wants to play. I grew up with boxers - that's all I know and that's exactly what I want in a dog, but I've seen the other side first hand. Fortunately my husband realized that my dog and I are a package deal, and he is very good to my dog and is even learning to like him...but I doubt that a boxer would ever be his first choice.

Definitely consider the personality and what you are looking for. As far as what it takes to have a boxer - patience, energy, time, and most importantly, commitment.

 

[ssleighter]

You've recieved some wonderful advice here, maybe this site can help you more: http://www.savetheboxers.com/ready.html

It was reprinted (with permission) from Boxer magazine.

Sharon
Legacy Boxer Rescue (Texas)
www.savetheboxers.com

 

[DogNamed_Boo]

Everyone has given you great advise ...Boo is my 2nd Boxer ..and to me ..there is no other breed...Boxers are not an stay outside dog ...they can't handle hot or cold weather ...plus they are stolen for breeding purposes...my 1st one was at 3 months old on a 5 minute potty break ..a long story :( They give you so much love ...they are a people breed ...they love being with their people...If you want a Boxer ...you have time to train it...if need be ....have time to walk and play with it...love to cuddle....love Boxer kisses & hugs...but will protect its family....I say for it !

lovicon
Boo & Vickie

 

[Lorena Rouse]

Help Me Decide

Quote

...plus they are stolen for breeding purposes...

Even though I know she's spayed others don't and that is why everytime I let Betz out I tell her NOT to talk to strangers and to not get too close to the fence and if someone reaches out to pet her to 'back away'. Of course, she thinks I'm too overprotective. AND I do make sure I stand somewhere so I can keep an eye on her. (Something I did not even think about having to do when I was thinking about getting a boxer.)

 

[Jaime&Louie]

I'm glad you're researching this first.
Boxers are like no other breed. This I can say whole heartedly. Until you know a boxer, they really don't stand out in your mind as being anything besides a "mean looking dog".... until you get to know one. Louie is my first boxer, but I chose the breed because my best friend used to have a female named Maggy. She was the most incredible dog... she is the reason I love Boxers. They're not for everyone though... you have to have a patience. Lots of it... they will test your strength to endure to the end at times, but in the long run they're worth it.
This weekend for example, I took Louie camping. He stuck by me and followed me everywhere, all the while keeping his nose to the air, and at any scent, or sign of danger he was right there in front of me growling... always making sure I was okay. At night, he and I snuggled under my down comforter in the back of my SUV, heater on, and just happy as clams. Boxers are basically like little humans.. with some fur. They must be kept inside, whether it's hot, or cold out. Much like a toddler, you wouldn't leave a toddler out in the cold would you? People don't realize that they must be treated differently than other dogs, they're boxers. People will think you're crazy for treating them the way you do, but it must be done or don't get one. If you want an outside dog, get an outside dog, not a boxer. If you don't want them on your furniture, your bed, everywhere you go... don't get a boxer. Basically, they're there to share your life, your whole life... nothing is excluded when it comes to your boxer. Like I said, your family and friends will think you're nuts until they get one themselves... then they'll understand.

 

[MacFish]

have to echo everyone here and add couple things.

Be ready for your share of stupid comments. There will be people that think he/she is a killer pitbul no matter how sweet and cuddly he/she is.

People will look at you as if you are nuts when you start bouncing around and talking crazy just get he/she going.

Best advice is to develop a thick skin and let it roll off your back. It used to make me upset hearing some of the things people said about my little boy but I learned it just isn't worth it. Politely and calmly tell them to do some research before they open their mouths.

lastly, remember... excersise, excersise, excersise. Even if you go a few days without it, be ready for a completely different dog!

 

[LeahR]

Whatever you give a boxer you get in back tenfold. I have always had a dog or two growing up but got my first boxer when I got out of college and had my first "real" job. I will never have another kind of dog and we just got our second boxer in March. For any dog, but especially boxers, you will need to have ALOT of time ( boxers a VERY needy) and a lot of love to give. You need money to have any dog ( vet bills, toys etc) so I am sure you wouldn't be thinking about having a dog if you couldn't afford it!!! Boxers a tremendously smart and therefore take alot of patience and perserverance (SP?) Good luck, and post a picture if you get a boxer!

 

[Torino]

How much do they drool?

 

[Capone's Mama]

they can drool alot!! Capone is a rescue and he is very mello he is not a bouncer at all he can try to trick us to get off the couch to make room for him to sit. He does not get bored and ripe up the house. So sometime the rescue are the real gems. Capone was 2 when we got him.

kathy & Capone

 

[Rolos]

Patton only had drooling issues when I first started crate training him but now that he has clamed down he doest drool too much at all but