5 Things You Did Not Know About Boxers
Before purchasing a Boxer--or any dog--you should consider
various aspects to decide if this is the right breed
for you. The worse thing you can do as a dog owner is
not research the potential dog. If you don't, you may
find yourself surprised, or overwhelmed and unable to
work with the breed. Boxers have their own set of challenges
so it is important to understand them.
One: grooming. With its short coat, the Boxer is an
extremely easy breed to groom. This is a low maintenance
dog that only requires a quick brushing every day; bathing
need only occur when necessary. Also, Boxers are fastidious
creatures that will clean themselves, like cats. For
those looking for an easy to care for pet, the Boxer
ranks high.
Two: exercise. The Boxer is an active breed so those
looking for just a house dog should reconsider. Though
this dog will want to be in the house with you, it will
want plenty of time outdoors for play. Boxers, being
very energetic, respond well to structured ctivities
like games of fetch or frisbee. They do not do well
by just lying around the house. If you are not able
to spend the time with them, this is not the breed for
you.
Three: health concerns. Larger dogs always have certain
health risks and the Boxer is no different. This breed
runs the chance of: cardiomyopathy, sub-aortic stenosis
or hip dysphasia. Also, after the age of eight, this
breed is more likely to develop tumors than other dogs.
This is why you must buy your Boxer from an experienced
breeder. With these potential risks, all dogs must be
properly screened, and regular trips to the Vet should
be planned.
Four: temperament. The Boxer's temperament is both its
greatest advantage and its potential downfall. This
is a highly playful, spirited dog that becomes greatly
attached to its owners. This is also a dog that suffers
from mischievous instincts (such as the need to chew)
and separation anxiety. When you own a Boxer, be prepared
to find a devoted, though sometimes stubborn, breed
that will want to go everywhere with you.
Five: protection. Many assume that, because of the Boxer's
sturdy frame, it makes an excellent protector. This
is both correct and not so. The Boxer is, generally,
a friendly pet that will welcome strangers. But, if
it feels its family is threatened, it will take down
an intruder. What you must take note of is: some areas
require that you register larger breeds, like Boxers,
and will charge money for their presence. While you
can use a Boxer as protection, you must be careful--many
cities will fine you for any suspected offense.
About the Author
Richard Cussons is a champion for dogs of all breeds
but Boxers in particular. You can find out more about
Boxer
dogs
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