Are You Ready for a Puppy??

So, you think you want a Boxer Puppy!!! Purchasing a puppy is a huge responsibility and a lifetime commitment. Before proceeding with the purchase of a puppy, please read this article. If this doesn't sound like something you are willing or able to do, please consider an older dog or different animal.

Most dogs live between the ages of 10-14 and should be considered a member of the family. Unfortunately, there are still some owners who feel their dog is “disposable”, and some owners neglect or abandon their dogs. Acquire a puppy only if you are prepared for the full ownership experience.

Are you ready for:

· Sleepless nights because your new puppy is crying & barking because he’s in a strange place.

· Cleaning stains off the carpet because your puppy had an “accident” and forgot to tell you he had to go potty.

· A few damaged items around the house. Puppies will chew your favorite pair of shoes/slippers, and are bound to damage/destroy at least one special keepsake.

· Baby proofing your home! Bringing home a puppy is like bringing home a toddler. They have an uncanny way of finding things that can hurt them!

· Constantly supervising your puppy. If you can't watch your puppy, crate your puppy. Use it like you would a play pen. Just as you wouldn’t leave your toddler unattended or home alone to wander the house, don’t leave your puppy unattended.

· A rambunctious puppy, particularly a Boxer puppy. Establishing a time and place to be playful is important.

Strongly Consider:

· Puppies are much like babies. They need interaction. If nobody is home for most of the day, a puppy may be a poor choice for your family.

· Puppies need to be taken outside often during the day to reinforce housebreaking. You cannot fault a puppy for having “accidents” in the house if he/she isn't given many opportunities to go outside.  Like toddlers, puppies have poor bladder control and lack the communication skills to let you know when they need to go.

· Puppies need to be taught what is appropriate to chew on/play with. Don't give your puppy an old shoe and then expect him to know the difference between the old shoe and your Italian important leather shoes.

· Proper training for your puppy. Your puppy needs your time and patience to learn how they are supposed to behave. Without proper socialization or training, your puppy may not grow up to be the ideal companion.

· Research training methods. Numerous books and articles can be found on the internet. Ask your breeder for help if needed.

Puppies are cute, cuddly, and fun, but demanding. If after reading the above information you are still up to the challenge of raising a puppy, please fill out our application.

If you don’t feel you have the time or energy to deal with a puppy, but want a family dog, consider a Rescue Boxer.  Boxers remain youthful, even into old age. Rescue dogs are typically housebroken, and some have had training. With a Rescue dog, you can always have the satisfaction of knowing that you gave a once abandoned dog a permanent home.