How To Select a Boxer

Choosing the right dog breed is an important decision.  You have to select the breed that fits your lifestyle the best.  Here are a few points to ponder if you are considering adding a Boxer to your family.

• If you have children of any ages, a boxer is a good choice. If you do have smaller children though, be alert.  Boxers, especially puppies, are high-spirited dogs.  They can sometimes play a little rough and may knock your little one down. Don't let that discourage you.  The boxer at it's core is sweet and very protective of children.
• Boxers can also be difficult to train.  They are very clever, intelligent dogs.  Left to their own devices a boxer can find many ways to get itself into a lot of trouble.
• A boxer may be a good choice if you are living in an apartment.  They do well in this situation.  But they still need a lot of exercise, so remember to walk them daily.
• Boxers are considered medium size dogs.  They should have a firm, square shape and strong legs.  Boxers come in brindle (gray or brown with black streaks), white, fawn ( a yellow-brown color) or white with patches of fawn and brindle.

Next, choose where you would like to purchase your boxer.  If you want to purchase a boxer from a breeder, then you will be spending anywhere from $400 to $1500 dollars! Also, check that the breeder is running a legitimate business and not a puppy mill. If this option isn't realistic for your budget or if you don't care whether or not your boxer is pure breed, then you may want to try your local pound.  You may get lucky and find a puppy.  If not you might find an older dog that needs a good home.  One last option is a boxer rescue program.  Check if there are any rescue organizations in your area.  But keep in mind that these animals may have special needs.  They may have injuries that may require many expensive trips to the veterinarian, or they may have emotional or psychological issues.

A boxer's life expectancy can be anywhere from 8 to 12 years, so be prepared to show your new best friend all the love it needs to make all of it's years with you healthy and happy!