Intro from Arizona

[cheryln55]

Hi all! My name is Cheryl and I am from the Phoenix, Az area. I have been thinking on purchasing a boxer puppy to add to our family since my old dog died last summer and I always have two dogs around. I have a couple questions. I own horses and live on horse property. I am not so worried about the puppy getting along with the horses, because I have had a few breeds of dogs in the past and if raised from the start with horses then it ususally works out. I was also thinking since boxers orginated from cattle dogs that they would most likely be okay with livestock. I have been reading up on the breed and my daughter babysat a boxer for a friend once and we just fell in love with that dog. My big question is that I occasionally take my dog on the trail with me and always camping with us. When we are out in the forest or desert my Australian Shepherd runs along with us and stays with us the whole time off a leash. Do you think a boxer would stay with his pack or run off and be uncatchable? All the dogs I have ever owned in my life were taught to walk on a leash and heel to me off a leash also. I teach them that before they go out with the horses and I always take my experienced trail dog with me when I train a young pup. So do you all think a well trained boxer would bolt and take off on the trail or would do you think they would stay with their herd they are bonded with? I love everything so far that I have read about the breed, even the ornery puppy stages and energy level, but I have not read anything from other horse people about how they do around the horses and on the trail. Thanks for any input! Cheryl

 

[xenaprincess]

Hi Cheryl and welcome to BW!! I don't have any advise to offer regarding boxers and horses, but I do know that there are a few members who have both and could probably help you out with your questions.
I do, however, know from experience that boxers are great outdoor companions!! I have not had the opportunity yet with Spirit (15mths) but I have taken Xena (8) with me camping and hiking many times! She has never taken off on me but she did explore alot within close proximity! Boxers are natural explorers but are also very good listeners when trained properly. I personally don't see a problem with you taking a boxer on the trails with you, but then again, I have never had mine around horses. Best of luck in your decision and keep us posted! Enjoy the forums!

 

[cheryln55]

Thanks for the uplifting info! If they are good hiking and stay with you then they should be okay with horses.

Now I have to start researching puppies. I cannot affort to pay $750 for a puppy that I am not going to show, or any dog for that matter, and who will just be a companion dog. So I guess my next bet would be to look at the BYBs dogs. So what is all the hoopla against BYBs? I don't get it. Some BYBs have to be good people and caring. Just because they are breeding pet dogs and not show dogs doesn't make them villians. As long as I ask the right questions about health and such and have a guarantee on their health for a period of time, take my puppy to my vet and get it checked out I should be okay. Dontcha think?

Cheryl

 

[LUVmyBABY]

Likes horses

We live on my family's farm, and Brandy just loves my cousins horeses. I think she believes that they sre just big dogs.

 

[FRMAZTNT]

Hiking

Sounds like you and your dogs will be fine. I'm also from AZ and I have a 5 month old female name Ruby and we hike out at the San Tan Regional park out by Queen Creek and my dog just loves it. I take her off the leash and walk for an hour or so and she just runs from side to side but basically she follows me. She has to be able to see me at all times or I'll hear her wimper to which I say something and she comes running. I guess my only issue would be for both your dogs when its rattle snake season. I know I will not be entering any desert area out here come March. My first boxer and I only have one dog so relaxing at home isn't an option. It's play play play

 

[Iaboy]

Welcome, enjoy this is a great site. You will gain great information on these amazing creatures. Take care.

Bob and Max

Max: Fawn male, neutered

DOB: 03.16.2003

 

[cheryln55]

Thanks for the replies. Rattle snake season is always and issue where I live. Two years ago my horse got bit in the leg and we quickly learned NOT to ride through high brush but stick to the trails where you can see them. He didn't get bit bad, we think the snake must of just ate because he barely even swelled up, but a quick trip to the vet took care of any inflammation he did have and infection he could get from the fangs. Usually we camp up in Flagstaff and I have yet to see a snake up there in the past 10 years. But we always stick to the trails anyway.

I am finding it is very hard to find a boxer puppy! My husband will only let me spend $450 on one so that really limits my options. But I'll keep looking and checking the paper every morning because they do come up for that price every once in a while. Keeping my fingers crossed.

Cheryl