A Boxer's Behavior

Boxers adore companionship and forge intense bonds with family members. While this loyalty is admirable, a tight bond can leave the dog feeling insecure and prone to separation anxiety. They do poorly when left alone to their own devices. It's important to keep your Boxer entertained - or better still, exercised and all tuckered out - when you leave. If you don't, you can be assured that they'll find something to do, and whatever it is, it won't be on your approved list. Boxers love to chew. They love couches, wooden tables, doors, and all manners of fine home furnishings. With this important trait in mind, you should probably not own this curious and creative breed if you plan to be gone most of the day.

The Boxer is an independent thinker but not stubborn, and is commonly considered to be a dog who may not be 100 percent reliable in doing what is expected. As the master of the house, it's your job to convince the Boxer that your ideas are far more interesting than their own. You can distract a boxer with toys, giggles, and enthusiasm, and they'll watch you intently until they jump in and follow along, deciding that your way looks much more fun after all. In training your Boxer, you must have a better way of doing things than they do - sort of like a battle of wits.

Boxers are categorized as working dogs. They need a job in order to be content. Originally bred for police and military work, Boxers are not happy sniffing around for old socks in your home all day. A good job for a Boxer dog is competing in obedience or agility trials. Any activity that is not too repetitive would work well for a boxer. A Boxer knows when something has been done right, and repeating a command over and over again will likely bore your dog.

Boxers mature later in life than many other breeds. The fact that they are puppies for many years -- even up until they are 5 years old or more - is a special trait that endears them to your heart. That said, Boxers need a lot of exercise each day. A simple walk around the block isn't going to cut it for this canine athlete. Many Boxers end up in rescue or are dumped at shelters because the owner neglected to read up on how much exercise this dog needs. A Boxer that doesn't expend all that pent-up energy can be overly boisterous and destructive in the home. On the flip side, young Boxers should not be worn ragged either. Their bones are still developing and you could face major orthopedic issues, such as arthritis, a torn ACL or spinal injuries, down the road.

More on Large Dog Breeds

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