Hello,

My Son has been nagging me for a dog since he hew speak (he's now 12) and we have been considering getting one or two for about a year now. After doing lots of research on breeds we have rather fallen in love with Boxers and Pugs.

Can anyone tell me whether it is a good idea to get one or two? I like the idea of getting two as they will have a playmate and companion, but I know Boxers are strong breeds that can be strong headed and therefore don't want to get out of our depth as we will be first time dog owners. We are both strong characters and I am consistent with my discipline, therefore my Son will be too. We have also agreed to take the dogs/puppies to training classes once a week together.

Does anyone know how well Boxers and Pugs get along? I have always wanted a pug, but my Son is desperate for a Boxer. Does anyone already have this combination? Also a little worried about the different energy levels of these two breeds.

So one or two.... good friends or double trouble?

Also does anyone have any advice on when and where to adopt a Boxer or Pug puppy?

Thanks so much

Max

Definitely not two together, ti is not double trouble but trouble squared.

This issue has been raised often on the forum so try the search facility for previous threads.

Sorry new to this forum. I did have a quick look through but couldn't see a relative thread.

So not two dogs together, or just not two boxers?

>So not two dogs together, or just not two boxers?

Not two puppies of any breed, or combination of breeds, at the same time. It's not fair on you, your family, or either puppy.

By all means get one puppy (it doesn't matter which breed) through contacting the breed clubs for advice about reputable breeders, raise it well and train it to the standard you're happy with (it usually takes about two years) and only then get a second.

> So one or two.... good friends or double trouble?

As others have said - just get one pup.

Good on you for researching BEFORE getting a dog/puppy :) :)

Excellent, thanks all so much for your help. I think the 'manly' boxer will have to come first! Then depnding on how we get on we may introduce another after a couple of years.

Am I making a big assumption in thinking that Boxers are OK for a first timers as long as they are cared for, loved and trained well? Too big an assumption perhaps, but we really fallen in love with them and their personalities. Their energy levels certainly sound like they would suit us too. Is it true that they make good running (jogging) companions when they are old enough?

Sorry, so many questions, so little time ;-)

All the boxers I've met have been delightful, friendly, bouncy, boisterous, challenging, energetic clowns! Great for an outgoing family, not so great for a little old lady.

I'm certainly not a little old lady, well one would hope not @ 32yo! :-D

Challenging energetic clowns eh... sounds just like my Son! Love him! We are an outgoing outdoors family... this will be a great excuse to get out even more.

The early mornings worry me a tad, but I'm sure I'll get used to it!

It's a massive desicion and an even bigger responsibility welcoming a dog into your home, so I just want to make sure I am making the right decision.

Max

>It's a massive desicion and an even bigger responsibility welcoming a dog into your home

That's music to my ears! To hear someone realise that from the outset means that the chances of success are very high. :-) :-) Theproblems arise when people think it'll be a piece of cake and have a very rude awakening!

we currently have a yorkie and GSD and they get on fine together although they are different ages split by 3 years and they get on fine although the GSD is going through his teenage stage and trying to find his place in the pack but nothing to bad.

Anyone that thinks dogs are a peice of cake didn't grow up with a mental Great Dane in their home! I was only 11 or so when we lost Strider, but I still remember him and his..umm... shall we say "querks".

That's nice to hear that we can eventually have two dogs in our home, but I am going to just get one at a time. Your advice and resounding responses have certainly persuaded me this is the best way to go.

I have also read a thread on here about the views on kids taking their dogs out on their own. My Son will eventually be taking ours out on his own occasionally, but only after he's been trained as well as the dog!! And I am confident he's capable of dealing with any situation that may arrise.

Oooh I'm getting quite excited now!!

This is a great site for info on Boxers..

http://www.ukboxerdogs.co.uk/

It lists all the rescues,breed clubs,breed forums and breeders as well as history,health info etc.All the best of luck with your new addition,I have an 11 year old son and he's never known life without a Boxer,they are very well matched ;)

although your son has always wanted a dog, there is a distinct possibility that this will wear off when he discovers girls, drinking and partying with his mates and you will be left to look after the dog.  Would you be happy with a boxer?

the more devious option would to be to say to your son that you will start off with the smaller dog (your choice) to see how you get on and then in a couple of years get the bigger dog (his choice).  By that time he may have lost interest and you will have your choice of dog in your house.  That would be the devious way of course. lol ;)

Thanks Carlie, I will have a look on that site you suggested.

Hey Cheekychow,

I like you way of thinking!!

I am fully aware that a dog may become my reponsiblity (well it is anyway really), but he has wanted one for a very long time and I don't believe it to be a passing fad. Besides I have never let him have things as a fad, so this is no exception.

But yes the possiblity is there and I understand where you are coming from, but I love Boxers too so I am more than happy to have one in my home even if my Son loses interest. Which actually I'm pretty sure he won't.... we'll see!!

Thanks.

littlemissdrago

As Charlie72 has just said, "a boy and his boxer"...an idilyc way for a boy grow up and he'll never forget the fun he'll have with it.

I'm considerably older than Charlies son but I've never been without one in my life..all wonderful and some more wonderful than others

I must reitterate - not 2 boxers together no matter what happens when you go to see a litter. Breeders all over the world are having varying degrees of difficulty in selling pups and 'special offers' are being given...please dont be tempted, you will regret missing out on the 1 to 1 with your boxer pup.  

I've just noticed you are in Holland?This one may be more helpful..

http://www.nederlandseboxerclub.nl/

Charlie,

I am not in Holland I am in Suffolk!!! LOL.

My IP address is registered in Holland as I am at work (naughty) and I believe me PC came from one of our dutch offices, but thanks anyway... you are most observent!!

Tooolz,

Ah "A boy and his Boxer"... I love that!!

The whole reason I have finally given in to the 11 years of nagging is for my Son. He has confidence issues and struggles to keep friends, I believe that having a dog will as much therapy for him as any person could give. He has always wanted a dog and I really strongly believe having one will allow him that 'forever friend' he craves.

I am under no illusions and this is not the only reason we are getting a puppy that's for sure... I think I am getting even more excited than he is now! Aside from all the pooing and peeing of course LOL :-)

> but I love Boxers too so I am more than happy to have one in my home even if my Son loses interest.

that's good news, best wishes and hope you get a pup that makes you happy.  Keep us updated and you can put a pic in your profile when you get him/her.

Aah thanks cheekychow,

It will not be until the spring/summer I would think as we want to investigate good breeders and also I think it may be a little easier with the toilet training when the weather is a little better!

I shall post a photo of him/her when we become proud owners!

One last thing,

When you speak to boxer breeders ask about BCM ( Boxer Cardio myopathy) a fatal condition with an inhertited component.
A good boxer breeder will bore you to death about all they've done to avoid this awful condition.

Good luck.

Toolz,

I certainly will do. I have read about this condition in Boxers a lot. I'll also be checking all the KC paperwork as well.

Just a question of finding a good Boxer breeder that is relatively close by that is having a litter this year., not too much to ask lol!!

Thanks

Max

> Just a question of finding a good Boxer breeder that is relatively close by that is having a litter this year., not too much to ask lol!!
>

I wouldn't limit my search to being local. A good breeder is worth travelling to the other end of the country for :)
I had a 220 mile round trip picking up my pup, despite there being some much closer to home - (I don't drive, OH couldn't take time off work so it meant getting a lift )

> a good Boxer breeder that is relatively close by

Forget the close by bit.
Top priorities, temperament - health - type..... then way down -  location.

If location is promoted to the top then the others may be compromised...not a good idea.

When I say relatively close by I mean a one day journey. I am willing to travel 100's of miles for the right puppy.

How are puppies at travelling? I assume as long as you make regular stops and have the right box/crate for them in the car, they will be fine.

Why don't you visit discover dogs at Crufts at NEC in March?
Boxers show day is the sunday and you'll have over 300 Boxers being exhibited...
At Discover Dogs you'll get to hug a Boxer or few and to talk to people that have
experience of the breed. Plus in hall 5 you'll get to see all the variations in type and colours
plus the tails too :)

Also another website of interest would be [url=]www.boxerbreedcouncil.co.uk[/url]
This will also have a page for all the breed club secretaries contact details.
Along with the health issues pertinent to the breed.

Its sounds like you are doing alot of research and putting alot of thought into getting a pup which is the best way to go and yes I do believe it could well help your son with his confidence issues.  Getting the pup enrolled into training classes will help your son go along and train the pup with other people...you never know there may be other children there aswell.

Maybe once the pup is older your son could take part in agility, this would help his confidence and is great fun for dog and owner.

And yes you generally end up travelling miles to get the right pup for your family...I did a 9hr all round trip to get my Akita in one very long day but well worth it!  Luckily my Rottie boy came from someone only 45 mins away - I couldn't believe I found such good breeders close by!

Good luck in your search and I hope you find the right companion.

Can you just turn up at Crufts, or do you need tickets? That sounds like a great idea and what a fun day out for us both! It'll also really confirm that Boxers are really for us, or like I said... we are for Boxers!!

So Crufts, Hall 5 in March... we're there!!

Thanks for the URL 

Staff,

Yes lots of research indeed and I love the idea of going to Crufts to cuddle a boxer or few as Boxacrazy has suggested!! I still have to be abolutely sure we are doing the right thing for us and for the dog, so we're going to wait until the Spring, that will give us plenty of time to think it over, although my Son has had his mind made up for 11 years!! lol ;-)

I've told my Son he has to attend training classes with the dog as I want him to be able to handle it OK as Boxers are pretty strong. The whole experience has to be fun for everyone, but he has to take the responsiblity seriously too. I have seen him with other dogs when we have been out and his eyes just light up, it's so lovely to see. But I have to be careful that I don't get carried away with that either!

I did think about agility and this would suit him down to the ground as he's an athletic little thing! Also there's that sense of pride and achievement isn't there, which is great for him and the dog.

9 hours eh?? Yes I can imagine that will happen with us too. Most of the reputable breeders seem to be up North, so we'll be off up there no doubt. As long as we're kitted up for the journey it should be fine!

Aaah rotties... love 'em. Not quite the breed for us though.

Thanks for all your kind words

Max

In the meantime you could visit a few of the local shows.  Most weekends between now and March you'll find something going on and you can ask on here if anyone will be out with their boxers.

You could also start doing some research on training classes in your area.  Try the Association of Pet Dog Trainers website for starters and make arrangements to go and watch if you can.  It's never too early and you might need to look around a while before deciding.  As soon as I knew my pups arrival and calculated injection dates I called my trainer and she was able to adjust the course start date to accommodate us :)

Good luck

Thanks dogs a babe I'll check any avents/shows going on over the next few months and see what's what.

I have had a look on that website you advised and there is one local trainer on there so I shall give her a call and see if my Son and I can pay her a visit. A good trainer that we like is important as my Son is just like a dog, he learns by positive reinforcement too LOL :-D :-D :-D

You were lucky with yours change their start date!

Thanks

Dont do it! only joking as i am typing this i am looking at a picture of my son aged about seven holding our two boxer pups at Devils Dyke he is now ninteen,we have always have had boxers five in all,and all living happily together and litters in between, now we have a boston terrier as well,who is worse than any boxer we have ever had, she has the temprement and look of a boxer but because she smaller she is harder to grab hold of if any trouble but she loves all the attention she gets from other dogs.You could look in the Dogs World paper under Breed Notes for Boxers and give the lady who writes the notes a telephone call and ask her if there are any Boxer Rallies near to you (these are small informal shows) usually held in the evenings or Sundays in local village halls  once a month they do a few showing classes also junior handling which would be ideal for your son if you get a boxer, so you could go and pick some Breeders brains.

Essex and Eastern Boxer Club has a Championship show held at Wood Green Animal Shelter Godmanchester
that's in March, Sunday 22nd March. Judging of bitches starts at 9.30am and dogs at 10.30am.

Not all the reputable breeders are in the North  ;) Some of us Southerners aren't so bad either :)

If you know what colour you want (i.e red or brindle) then some bloodlines are mainly brindle or red so
that can affect your decision of where to go along with the heart testing for AS (Aortic Stenosis) and Cardiomyopathy issues.

There are some well known 'show' kennels nearish your area I can think of two already :)

I really do think I have made up my mind now!!! Terrible isn't... you think you are being all level headed and then you hear stories and listen to people who are total advocates of Boxers and owning a dog in general and then you get all carried away with it all. I'm still going to wait until the Spring though as then there's plenty of nights to 'sleep on it'. lol

Boston Terriers are so adorable... not for a first timer though I don't think!

What is the 'Dogs World Paper'?? Man I am so new to all this, you guys are such experts!!

I like the sound of the Junior Handling Rallies... that would really give my Son and the dog something to work towards.

Thanks so much

Max

LOL... Boxacraxy you make me laugh!! I'm a Southerner too!! I have just noticed most of the KC breeders seem to be in the North!! :-)

I had a friend telling me about Wood Green as she has just rescued an 8yo lab from there. It's not too far from me at all. Can you just turn up at these shows as a spectator?

We are really not worried about the colour, we are more concerned with temperament and health. Although I am rather partial to the white markings Boxers have on the faces and chest! But that really is being picky. I'll know 'the one' when I meet it, I'm sure.

I take it a 'show kennel' is a breeder the breeds show calibre dogs?

There is a breeder in Yorkshire that is having a litter at the end of Feb and they are stating there is no CM or AS in the blood lines at all... so they look promising. Perfect timing for us too.

Are you allowed to tell me the two kennels near me that you mentioned? Not sure of the rules on this forum?!

> There is a breeder in Yorkshire that is having a litter at the end of Feb and they are stating there is no CM or AS in the blood lines at all... so they look promising. Perfect timing for us too.
>

That's great if they've had them all heart scored and holter monitered,they should be able to show you the clear results.The Boxer breed council site that Boxacrazy posted has a list of all the clear heart scored dogs,just look under the first letter of their affix..

http://www.boxerbreedcouncil.co.uk/heartlist.htm

That is just the list for AS, for CM I'd want to see the clear result from the breeder.

> You could look in the Dogs World paper under Breed Notes for Boxers and give the lady who writes the notes a telephone call

That 'lady' was Wendy Brooks and has been replaced by a chap Tim Hutchins co-owner of the Winuwuk kennel in Gloucestershire.They own the top dog,top stud dog and the top kennel in boxers and are in the South !!!.

Just seen this post
Ive owned and bred boxers for over 25yrs owning a boxer is a reward in itself once you have owned one i would imagine you will be smiten for life.I would look on uk boxer dogs i would also advice you to ask lots of questions of any breeder you speak to regards heart testing and when you decide on a breeder and go to look at their litter ask to see the heart test certificate,you should be looking at buying a puppy with a HT of H0/H1 or possibly a H2 anything other than this i would walk away from.Also i would ask over temperament of both parents.
If like you say a boxer is right for you and your family you wont regret waiting for the right puppy.also a boxer loves company they thrive on human interaction and sometimes suffer from seperation anxiety.Most reputable boxer breeders would never sell two litter mates together as one is more than enough to train and socialise,but what i will say is owning one is never enough you always have to have a two or three. If you are anywhere near Stafford its manchester ch show on the 16th of this month and you could go and talk to a few beeders
good luck in your search for a puppy

Thanks Toolz, I have the contact details for the Winuwuk kennel so I may give them a call. Gloucestershire is about three hours from me so not too bad at all.

> Can you just turn up at Crufts, or do you need tickets? That sounds like a great idea and what a fun day out for us both! It'll also really confirm that Boxers are really for us, or like I said... we are for Boxers!!
>

its a lovely day out and talking to the owners of the breeds at discover dogs can be very enlightening.

tickets can be bought in advance or on the door.

its a good idea to go to a few shows to see different lines and see if there is a particular type you like (even within a breed the variation can be wide) and you can maybe make a few contacts to get info and advice from :)

hey Littlemissdrago,
Just read through your thread and wanted to add Boxers are fabulous.
I grew up with all different types of dogs but mostly spaniels (cockers and springers). When I got my own place years ago I had two Rotties who were wonderful dogs, one was a bit fiesty but both lovely to own.
Last year my OH and I decided to get a dog. He really wanted a boxer but I had never considered one.
Well.....we picked up our pickle when he was 8 weeks old. This cute, red and white bundle of wrinkles. He is now coming up for 9 months and he is the most loving and cuddly dog I've ever had.
He has so much character and is fun all the time. He has never shown one bit of aggression and is so submissive with other dogs he meets on walks. People always comment on the fact that he lays down and waits for dogs to come to him (occassionally he'll pounce on them just as they get close, but all in fun!). Between us we have 12 nieces and nephews and as long as they are firm with him he listens and does what they tell him.
I'm sure you'll get lots of good advice when you eventually bring him or her home, but from a first time Boxer owner, can I advise you to be really strong and firm right from the start and stick to it coz my boy did try and push to see who was boss when he was about 6/7 months old and it would have been easy to have given in on occasions! He does vocally grumble (very funny whining growl) when I'm bossing him about but we understand who is in charge.....I think!!!!!

I get another one tomorrow but OH says I'm not allowed yet!

Well done you for getting lots of advice on here. We spent a long time finding the right breeder and it definately paid off.

good luck

Rosie x

Hi Rosie,

I've heard/read that a lot about Boxers... so loving but can be totally stubborn if you are not strong with them. Both my Son and I are strong characters so hopefully we should be fine ;-)

It sounds like you have yourself a wonderful little Boxer there. I have just found out that Boxers are the only breed of dog my Mum doesn't like!!! Typical!! We visit my parent quite a lot and we were hoping they would be fine with us bringing along our new addition, but I think she has 'judged a book by it's cover'. I think because they have quite a presence about them she thinks they are aggresive and also thinks they drool a lot!! I'm hoping when she meets our little one her mind will be changed. I reckon Boxers could melt the hearts of all!! Here's hoping.

Isn't 6/7 months the doggy version of teens? Great that means I'll have two teens in my house at the same time... phew... that will test my patience!! That would test the patience of a saint!! LOL :-D

Max

Hi Astarte,

I have myself some tickets for Crufts on the Sunday...really looking forward to it! I told my Son this evening and he lept into my arms and nearly kncked over, so I think he may be quite excited about it!! ;-)

I'm really looking forward to meeting lots of people and their dogs. My Son is looking forward to lots of cuddles and being licked!

Max

> My Son is looking forward to lots of cuddles and being licked!
>

well that shouldn't be a problem! my dear bf was nearly abducted by a couple of Malamutes who took a fancy to him :)

it was my fisrt time last year and i loved it, a really great day out.

wear comfy shoes!!

[url=]Can you just turn up at Crufts, or do you need tickets? That sounds like a great idea and what a fun day out for us both! It'll also really confirm that Boxers are really for us, or like I said... we are for Boxers!![/url]

You can buy your tickets online, and when visiting DD again do it early (you can always go back for more boxer kisses later)   as the Boxer stand is always a busy one, 

As all the other Boxer folk have already said,  Boxers and boys make the greatest of friends.... specially if there is a ball involved in there too.

You will never regret having one... they are special.... people either love em, or loath em...but when you are a lover , you are one for life.

Do your research,  they are not for everyone, they are high energy , but what comes with that cant be put into words.

Your son , will have the best friend he will ever have in his life.

Good luck

Hi Jackbox,

I have our tickets now. I shall take your advise and visit the Boxer stand early as I really want to meet some breeders and have get the change to meet and play with some dogs too.

My Son has actually started a list of names!!! Do you think he may be getting just a tad excited?? ;-)

No I don't think we will regret getting a Boxer (although the thought may cross my mind when I'm out in the garden at 3am), as long as we are sure and we get a good healthy puppy there will be no regrets.

I have done lots and lots of research on their temperament, energy levels, health issues, vet bills, avergage weekly costs... all that good stuff. All that's left now (correct me if I'm wrong) is to actually go and meet a few.

The whole point of this was to get a friend for my Son and I'm really hoping this will help him out with his confidence too! He was even going on about 'showing' last night... I think he may be getting a tad carried away at this stage but I'm not going to quash his enthusiasm bless him

Thanks

Max

[url=]The whole point of this was to get a friend for my Son and I'm really hoping this will help him out with his confidence too! He was even going on about 'showing' last night... I think he may be getting a tad carried away at this stage but I'm not going to quash his enthusiasm bless him[/url]

Why would you,  if it becomes an interest for him.. go for it..he can join the "young KC" 

I would also mention this to any breeder you see... this way you will be more likely to get a pup that is show quality .. which will help him on his way,

Mind I am sure that does not matter so much with "young handlers"  as it is the handler that is judged not so much the dog....is that right anyone.

What what an interest that would be for him..it will certainly bring him out , and make like minded friends.

Whay a lovely, refreshing thread to read! I am so pleased to hear you are doing so much research into your chosen breed.  My experience with boxers is limited but all the same great, the ones I've met are always so full of energy & life - sounds great for your household.  I'm sure you'll have a great time at Crufts also.  Looking forward to reading future posts about your search & then the 'is my puppy normal' questions!! Good luck!

> He was even going on about 'showing' last night... I think he may be getting a tad carried away at this stage

no thats great! you can talk to the breeder you pick about it and hopefully they can 1) pick a (fingers crossed as its never a definate) good show prospect pup for him and 2) mentor him in showing. if your son shows an enthusiasm for showing i should think it would sell your family all the more to a good breeder.

have you both had a look at the YKC? (young-or is it youth?- kennel club)