Boxer Basics

If you are not too familiar with this breed, I'd like to introduce you to the Boxer as it should be.  If you’ve already owned a Boxer, you’ll recognize the unique set of traits that make this wonderful, intelligent breed a family favorite.

The Boxer takes an active - very active - part in your daily life. Their world revolves around you and they demand that you feel likewise. They will get into exactly as much mischief as you let them, but they are also content to follow the rules - provided those rules are consistently and fairly enforced.  Boxers are dogs that think they are human and as such, they deserve to be treated the same. This does not mean their every whim must be given in to; indeed, on the contrary, firm but loving guidelines are a must if they are to live in harmony within your household.

Boxers are not a dog to languish alone in the backyard or in a basement. They insist upon being a part of your family and all of its activities; a part of whatever is happening. They can be totally exasperating as puppies, willful as adolescents, and overly intelligent as adults. Boxers can be too much to handle for some and complete pussycats for others. They are quick to learn and bore easily. They are sometimes old souls, but they retain their “puppiness” throughout their lives.

Boxers have a joie de vivre that can be matched by no other breed. They will greet you after an hour's absence as if you'd been gone a week. Their expressive face seems almost human at times, their eyes quickly relay what they're feeling, and their smile can light up a room. Boxers are devoted to their families, and are one of the best breeds with children. One of their most desirable traits is their fearless courage when they feel they or their family are threatened. Boxers have an innate ability to distinguish between friendly and threatening strangers - and are often more accurate in this regard than their human owners.

Read more about Boxers in my article "Boxers in Brief" on Examiner.com