Are
You Ready for a Puppy?? |
So, you think you want a Boxer Puppy!!!
Before taking on such a large committment, please read on to learn about some of
the things to expect when raising a puppy. If this doesn't sound like fun, perhaps
you should consider an older dog.
Any dog is a HUGE responsibility and a lifetime committment. Please be prepared for
the role of responsible dog ownership before taking the step and buying a puppy, or
adopting a dog. Unfortunately, many people put more thought into buying a car, or a major
household appliance than they do when considering adding a dog to their home.
A dog will be in your home for a long time. A dog is not an item, or a piece of furniture,
it is a family member you are adding. Please do not take this responsibility
lightly. Unfortunately, we have come to live in a time of 'disposable' dogs, and people do
not think twice before dumping, or abandoning an animal. Be prepared for the role of
RESPONSIBLE dog owner, and do not be a part of the problem.
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Be Prepared for: |
- A few sleepless nights ignoring howling, crying & barking, until
your puppy learns that this is his new home.
- A lot of Carpet Cleaning, and wet spots. Puppies DO have accidents!!
- A few damaged items around the house. Puppies DO chew, and are bound
to damage/destroy at least one thing they were not supposed to have!
- Babyproofing your home! Like a toddler, puppies find things that can
hurt them!
You will need to hide wires, and keep potentially dangerous items like chocolates,
and cleaners out of reach. Adding a puppy is like bringing home a toddler, you MUST be
prepared!!!!
- Constant supervision. If you can't watch your puppy, crate your
puppy. A crate is NOT a prison. It is more like a 'playpen'. Would you let your toddler
stay home alone, or wander the house unattended??
- Boxer puppies can be particularly good at testing your patience.
These are rambunctious, bold puppies who can be hard to tire out!! Some seem to be on the
go CONSTANTLY.
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Also remember......
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- Puppies are much like babies. They need lots of interaction. If
someone will not be at home most of the day, a puppy may be a poor choice for your family.
- Puppies need to be taken outside many times during the day to
reinforce housebreaking. You cannot blame a puppy for pottying in the house, if he/she
isn't given enouch chances to 'go' outside. Adult dogs have better bladder control
than puppies and can be expected to 'hold it' a bit longer, and are more capable of
learning how to 'tell you' they have to go out!
- Puppies need to be taught what is appropriate to chew on, and what is
NOT an appropriate toy! Don't give your puppy an old shoe and then expect them to know the
difference between the old shoes and your new pair of $80 tennis shoes.
- Puppies need to be trained. Your puppy needs your time, and your
patience to learn how they are supposed to behave. With no socialization or training, your
puppy may NOT grow up to be an ideal companion. This is NOT the dogs fault, but moreso,
the owners for not socializing or training the dog when it was young.
- Do you and your puppy a favor. LEARN about training, and ask your
breeder for help if needed. Many of the 'old' methods of dog 'training' do nothing but
RUIN a good dog. "Sticking their nose in it" does MUCH more harm than good.
A good training Book can help you learn how dogs think, and learn.
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If all of this sounds like a bit much to deal with, always remember that there are
always many GREAT older dogs who are in need of homes! If you do not feel you have
the time or energy to deal with a puppy, but you do know you can handle an older dog
consider a Rescue Boxer. Boxers are quite puppylike even into old age, and an adult
is more likely to have some quiet moments after proper exercise unlike a puppy who is
always in perpetual motion!! Rescue dogs are often housebroken, and some are partially
trained before going to new homes. With a Rescue dog, you can always have the satisfaction
of knowing that you gave a once abandoned dog a permanent home.
To learn more about Rescue or to find a Rescue near you, click HERE.
Puppies are fun, but are a LOT of work. If you decide on a puppy, and are prepared for the
challenge, please do the research and buy from a Reputable Breeder.
Try these links Below to Help.
Finding
a Responsible Breeder
NOPUPPYMILLS.COM
American Boxer Club
Homepage
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