looking at owning a boxer

[dklock]

Hello All!

I am new to this forumn and would like to introduce myself! My girlfriend and I are contemplating the purchase of a boxer. Her brother has bred several litters and is knowledgeable, however, I am looking for some other opinions.

We are strictly interested in a pet. It is our understanding that boxers are good w/ children (we have three between us ages 5, 7, and 9). We also have seen that boxers are very friendly. We have a nice home w/ a fenced back yard and are looking forward to a new friend to keep us company.

What is the scoop on white boxers. I have read that they can be deaf and/or blind. I understand that they cannot be registered AKC, however, for a pet that does not concern us. We have found a litter that has two males (white) and one female (brindle). We thought that the white would be nice because it is unusual.

We plan to visit this litter later this weekend. Any insight you folks can offer would be great.

Doug

BTW/ I have owned Brittanys (too high strung) and a Chesepeake (what a fabulous girl!).

 

[chickie1]

whatever you choose, you will be happy. I have 4 and could not bare of losing one. Yes they are great with children, other pets, people etc etc. but they will overtake your other (smaller dogs) probably. they are rough playing but just a joy. if you dont get one from the litter. try the
http://www.secondchanceboxer.com

Ok Ok, all you other readers, I am now hooked on that site.
thanks alot... LOL

 

[dklock]

thanks for the input, Chickie1.

I forgot to ask this of the forumn: should the all-white boxers cost less b/c they do not meet AKC guidlines?

 

[Tulsa-Dan]

Welcome Doug!

Welcome to the boards. I'm so glad to see you doing some research before choosing a dog. That's great to see.

Boxers are terrific dogs. Very smart, good with kids, loyal and protective and lots of fun. They are very energetic and need lots of human contact and love and attention and LOTS of exercise!! I know I'm totally hooked on boxers.

As for white boxers, they are sometimes born with hearing and/or vision impairments, but not all of them. Some say they are more prone to health issues; but those here at the forum who own whites will probably tell you that they are not any more prone to health issues than any other boxer. I know several white boxers here in my neighborhood and they are happy and healthy, wonderful dogs.

Yes, generally a breeder will sell a white boxer for less, and usually in the sales contract it will have a spay/neuter clause which requires you to show the breeder proof that you have spayed or neutered your white boxer and will not breed it. NEVER buy a white boxer from anyone who tells you they are "Rare" and cost more because of it. That's bull-funky. They are generally a little less money from reputable breeders and they would never lie to you about them being "rare." I think you can register them with AKC, but I'm not sure of that. Some of the other white owners or breeders here can probably tell you more specifically about registration of white boxers.

Good luck. Let us know what you decide. I'm sure that because you are taking the time now to do the research, you'll end up with a wonderful dog suited for your family.

Keep us posted.

 

[dklock]

Thanks Dan, for the encouraging words! I actually just looked at some photos of these pups and they are beautiful ... two white males with patches on the one eye and two female brindles.

I am looking forward to seeing them in person.

 

[karens]

First a word of caution, Boxers are addictive. I am falling short behind chickie1 with three and I think Dan may have mentioned somewhere he is considering #2.

You should read through some posts. There is a ton of good information on this board, and don't hesitate to ask questions yourself. Good luck and welcome.

 

[dklock]

We've moved our selection date from next Sunday to this Friday night ... can't wait and don't want to risk the possibility of losing a good pick.

Are you trying to tell me we should get it over with and bring home two! That would be interesting!

 

[sharron]

I have to agree completely with Karens! Boxers are SO addictive. We've had up to three at a time. Right now we have one, but I'm always thinking about getting another one. Someday, it will happen.
Whatever color, or however many you get, be prepared for lots of love and bouncy joy!
You've come to the right place with your questions, this place is full of very useful information.
Good luck and let us know what you get, and how many. ;-)

 

[Aimee]

Best of luck on picking out your new family companion I am in agreement with everyone..I have 2 and am trying to convince the significant other that I want 3 but then 3 is an odd number and we would need 4. But he says we must have a larger yard first..My goal this year..pay off my credit card and then next year..begin looking for a new house :D I say get two now and just get it over with