How to Pick Boxer Pups

Boxers are powerful dogs in the middleweight category, but don't let their size fool you. Boxers are not violent creatures. They are gentle giants seeking nothing but love and affection. Boxers are known for their intelligence and need for constant attention and reassurance from their owner. Boxers are very alert and aim to protect what is theirs. This is why many Boxers are used as hearing service dogs. Before picking a Boxer dog as your pet, understand that it can weigh between 55 and 70 pounds.

Things You'll Need

  • Reputable breeder or adoption agency
  • Piddle pads
  • Water bowl
  • Food bowl
  • Kennel/crate
  • Chew toys
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Instructions

  1. Picking Boxer Puppies

    • 1

      Find a reputable breeder. Those with the highest standards will be registered with the American Kennel Club or The Humane Society. Another option is seeking out a Boxer-specific adoption agency or rescue. These dogs may or may not have papers, but they have been given up by their owners for whatever reason and are in need of a new home. Many adoption agencies and rescue missions pay for the proper treatment and care of the animal until a new home is found.

    • 2

      Bring your children. Children need to meet the puppy before bringing it home. Meet the human parents, dog parents and the puppies. You will want to meet the puppies as a group. Just like people, puppies have different personalities. Meeting the human parents will let you see how the puppy has been brought up and the environment they were in. Meeting the dog parents will give you an idea of how big your puppy is going to grow up to be, as well as giving good insight to their personality. If there is an instant bond and attraction between the parties, then the match is off to a good start. Be sure to note how the dog interacts with the child. Happy Boxer puppies will be ready to meet you. Boxers are family dogs and should be willing to interact with your family. If the dog cowers or whimpers, it might be best to pick another puppy. These sensitive types are best suited for single owners. Pick the Boxer puppy that is friendly, trusting, curious and welcoming. Families need to choose the puppy that is neither too bossy nor too timid.

    • 3

      Take the puppy home for a trial run if you have other pets. Some dogs, especially older dogs, might not bond with a younger puppy. It is best to bring the puppy home for a few nights to see how things turn out. This is especially good if you have other pets such as cats. A word of caution: It is a known trait with female Boxers, more often then not, that they do not bond with other female dogs. This is more common if both are older dogs.

    • 4

      Decide whether the puppy is going to stay.

    • 5

      Puppy-proof your house. Boxers are known to chew and they like to dig. Have plenty of chew toys on hand. Boxers are easily excited; keep piddle pads on the floor in case your puppy has an accident before you are able to get it outside.

    • 6

      Keep food and water available. Although Boxers are low-maintenance, they do require exercise. They need proper nutrition and hydration at all times.

    • 7

      Set up a kennel or crate so the puppy has a ̶0;home̶1; and gets used to being placed in it at night and when you are away. Boxers are territorial and enjoy having their own place in the house in which to relax.