Instructions
Decide whether you want to breed a male or female boxer. Breeding a female involves a greater time and financial commitment, but the reward is that you get to watch her raise her pups at your home. Owning a sire isn't quite as much work.
Know the AKC breed standard. This not only helps you choose your Boxer, it also helps you choose his mate. The AKC describes the ideal Boxer in great detail, from character and temperament to the proper third eyelid color. Choose a dog that's as close to the breed standard as possible, and always breed to improve.
Visit more than one litter of pups before you make a decision. Don't pick the first puppy that comes up and licks your hand. Examine the puppies and try to envision what they'll look like as adults.
Observe the bitch caring for her pups. Make sure she's keeping them clean, letting them nurse and allowing people to approach. If the sire is on the premises, go to meet him, too.
Study the puppy's pedigree, and research her ancestors. Make sure there are at least a few champions sprinkled throughout the family tree. Make sure there are no genetic diseases in the parents or grandparents, and make sure the parents have had their hips checked for dysplasia by PennHip. Get information on the puppy's lines from the AKC and the American Boxer Club.
Select the best dog from the best breeder. The breeder should be willing to steer you toward the best pups in the litter, especially if he knows your intentions. Choose a breeder who will help you in your future endeavors.
How to Choose a Boxer for Breeding
Anyone who's ever known a boxer is likely to argue that the world ought to be filled with more of them. These affectionate and playful dogs make wonderful companions, thanks to the breeders who have worked for generations to make the boxer what it is today. If you think you'd like to join in that great tradition, follow these steps for choosing a boxer to breed.