i recently picked a male boxer pup. he is the bull of the litter and is about ten weeks old and he shows definate leadership qualities. the problem is that he growles and snaps at my 4 month old lab while playing. he is also very aggressive during play and was wondering if this was normal boxer play or are these signs to bigger problems. he is also a big toe chewer and it is hard to get him to stop.
By carle Date 29.05.03 12:08 UTC
My boxer pup was quite mouthy from 8 weeks until about 15 weeks then she settled down. When she plays with her toys she is noisy and growls at them and makes horrible noises. They are vocal dogs who like to make a lot of noise.
I found a good boxer website which made me feel a lot better and made me understand my pup.
My 16 week boxer is quite agressive with my partner during play - but thats because they give as good as they get! He sees me more of a cuddle person - but thats cos' I don't "fight" play with him. Boxers do tend to be noisey when playing this way. Your dog is a toe chewer - ours is more of an ear one! The best way I find is to firmly say "No leave it" and give him one of his toys. Good luck with your pup. Dexy
It is very rare a boxer being agressive, the toes biting etc is all puppy play and the growling at the other dog the same, try to see who is boss etc, Pups as early as 5 weeks growl and pull each other about.
Tell him no , correct him. Yelp if he bites toes. Then get a cuddle :-)