Things to Consider Before Getting a Boxer Dog

Boxers are amazing, playful and intelligent dogs. They make wonderful companions for couples and families. Having a dog is good for your health, the daily walks, exercise and interactions help lower blood pressure and keep you in shape. However, you should make sure that you are ready to have a rewarding relationship with your boxer

Can you make the commitment?

A Boxer can live up to 14 years or more. Ask yourself if you are willing to take on the responsibility for caring for an animal for the next 10 to 15 years. A boxer will require your time and attention throughout its lifetime. Be prepared to spend time walking your dog, playing with them, grooming them, and reinforcing your leadership. Are you willing to administer medication to your boxer on a daily basis if needed or put in time required for special care?

Does having a boxer dog fit your home, family and lifestyle?

Dogs are pack animals; which means they need social contact, both human to dog and dog to dog. Because of their social nature they need play time, exercise, and exposure to many different areas. Exposing your boxer to humans and dogs is necessary to avoid a pet that becomes fearful and aggressive towards people or animals. Additionally, bored and lonely dogs become stressed and may revert to unwanted behaviors such as chewing or destroying items, soiling in the house, anxious behavior and barking. You must be capable of spending time with and providing your boxer with a consistent routine.

Ensure that no member of your household has dog allergies which may interfere with their enjoyment of the dog. If you are unsure whether you or your children have allergies visit a friend’s dog or walk the dogs in the shelter before deciding to get a dog. Many animals end up in shelters because their owners discovered they had allergies after getting a dog.

If your children are under 6 years old, consider waiting until they are a bit older. Young children do not understand how to properly handle an animal and then the dog may become a danger to them. Adolescent children may soon be leaving home for school or travel and usually cannot take a pet with them, again leaving the parent(s) as the primary caregiver(s). Parents should be prepared to be the primary caregiver for the lifetime of the dog.

It is important to be aware that many of children's natural movements and gestures may make a dog feel threatened or arouse its prey drive. This helps to account for the fact that the majority of dog bite incidents involve children. This does not necessarily mean the dog is bad, but rather it interprets signals from humans differently from humans. It is imperative to teach children not to tease a dog, pull its ears and tail, hug it, stare in the dogs eyes, smile, or play tug of war. In a dog’s world, some of these actions are a challenge, or some are painful and may make the dog snap out of pain or fear. Young children who cannot yet understand that they must not do these actions are at great risk. Young children should never be left unsupervised around any dog of any size or breed, including a dog with which they are familiar. Most children are bitten by dogs who are familiar to them such as the family dog or a neighbor’s dog.

Be sure that you have the permission of your landlord and/or strata corporation to keep a pet in your home. Ask yourself if you are willing to accept some degree of damage to your home, particularly if your puppy is teething, or if they are stressed and urinate or chew.

Moving is one of the top reasons for animals being surrendered to animal shelters. If you foresee yourself moving over the lifetime of your dog, are you committed to finding pet-friendly housing and taking your dog with you when you move?

Make certain the cost fits your budget

Do some research at your local veterinary clinic and pet store to ensure that the costs associated with having a dog fit into your budget. Dogs require annual check-ups, vaccines (annually or every three years), tests for diseases etc. As they age, your dog may require dental cleanings by the veterinarian, blood tests, and medications. Also be prepared for unexpected medical costs such as emergency care or treatment for a chronic health problem. Other costs for your pet include food, license, toys, leashes, collars, carriers, and ID tags.

Should I get a male or a female?

Some feel that there is a difference in personalities of males and females. Male dogs can be shy and sweet, and females can be dominant. Look for the personality of the dog, as opposed to the gender. Proper socializing and obedience training so that you are the leader of the pack can ensure that you have a content and happy boxer.