While we believe there is no other breed better than the boxer, we also know the boxer is not for every one. Many of the traits we love about the boxer are also the same traits that helped land them homeless.
Many of our boxers have already paid the price for people who did not think through the responsibilities, the time needed, the importance of understanding the breed, and commitment needed when bringing a boxer into their life.
Please do not make that same mistake - Think Before You Adopt!
While boxers are known for their playful puppy-like personality, they can also pass gas that has been known to clear a room. They slobber, drool, snore, and are quite stubborn at times.
Living with a boxer means you will never know what personal space is again. With their curious nature, they insist on knowing everything that is going on and will often offer some boxer assistance that you could do without. Boxers are affectionate and more than happy to give out as many wet, sloppy kisses as they can. A boxer cannot imagine you not wanting to share everything with them.
Do you work 10-hour days? While all dogs love their people, the boxer thrives on being with their people. They crave affection and attention. They do not do well being left alone for long periods.
Boxers are intelligent and high-energy dogs. They love hard and play hard. Without the time and commitment to training, daily exercise, and activities that challenge the boxer, you can have a real nightmare on your hands. Bored boxers will find things to entertain themselves - whether it be digging holes, tearing up the flower bed, chewing up shoes, or destroying your furniture. There have been many couches lost to a bored and lonely boxer.
If you have a boxer in your life, you will need to be prepared for unplanned vet visits. Boxers are genetically predisposed to cancers such as lymphomas, mast cell tumors, and sarcomas. Heart murmurs and cardiomyopathy are genetic diseases found with boxers. Other health issues commonly found are Cushing's, Inflammatory Bowel Disease, Seizures, Allergies, Thyroid, and Degenerative Myelopathy.
Our boxers come to us from shelters where they may of been surrendered or picked up as a stray and nobody came for them, were listed on craigslist or other online sites, or surrendered to us by owners no longer able to care for them. The condition they arrive in ranges from well cared for to neglected, to abused. Some have been trained, while most know very little. Each one has its own quirks and no matter where they came from, there is always an adjustment period when they go into a new home. If you are looking for the perfect boxer, rescue is probably not right for you. However, if you can be patient and work with your new family member to help them be the best they can be you will never regret it. There is nothing like true boxer love!!