Your pet Boxer can bring you years of companionship and joy. But a Boxer isn't just any dog. Boxers, like many breeds, have their own needs and idiosyncrasies. Use the tips in the following list to make life with your furry friend the best it can be:
Be sure a Boxer is right for you before you even think about buying one.
Don't choose your Boxer — or any dog, for that matter — on impulse.
Be sure to buy your Boxer from a breeder who is well-respected and who makes health and temperament primary considerations.
Have all the supplies and diversionary safeguards you need before your Boxer pup arrives home. This approach will save you and your family many headaches and reduce wear-and-tear on yourhome.
Understand how to communicate with your dog. Dogs are not little people. They think and communicate differently. If you know how your Boxer does both, you'll be better prepared when it comes time to train your dog.
Start training your dog in puppyhood. You can begin with commands like "no," "come," "sit," "stay," "down," and "heel."
Be sure your Boxer has proper nutrition and enough exercise. Nutritious food in the correct amount is essential for growing pups. And exercise keeps your pal in shape and helps use up some of that excess energy that comes with the territory where puppies are concerned.
Groom your Boxer regularly. Grooming isn't just a matter of keeping your dog looking good; it also keeps you ahead of health problems because you pay attention to your dog's body and can notice changes when they first appear.
Set up your home emergency kit before the pup arrives. Make sure the emergency kit is replenished regularly.
Establish a good relationship with a veterinarian. Next to you, your local vet is your Boxer's best friend. Make sure the three of you get along well.
Introduce your Boxer pup early on to the way you live and the things you like to do so that the two of you can share all those pleasant experiences.
Keep in mind that your Boxer is not only capable of learning games and fun things, but he also has a vast storehouse of capabilities that can serve to help and protect not only you and your family but others in need as well.