If you’re considering bringing a Boxer into your family, it’s important to know what their household temperament is and how they behave around children. Potential owners should do their research to learn more about the dog breed and find out if the breed is a right fit.
Keep in mind that although most Boxers posses certain characteristics, no two dogs of the same breed will have the exact same personality traits. Some people find it helpful to go meet the specific dog they are interested in adopting and introduce them to their family before making a final decision.
Boxers & Children
A major factor of a Boxer’s temperament and ability to get along with children depends on how they were raised as a puppy. Some adopted dogs may have been raised in a household with young kids while others might not be used to them and will shy away from them. With proper introduction, Boxers will get along with children because of their playful nature.
The breed is known for a goofy personality and playfulness which children are drawn to. Sometimes they can be clumsy and run into kids while playing, but in general, Boxers make great playmates for kids.
The energetic personality of a Boxer is ideal for children who like to play outdoors. Boxers of all ages love running around, jumping, and playing with families outside all day.
Boxer Requirements
As with all dog breeds, Boxers have their own set of specific needs. Potential owners should consider the following requirements for owning a Boxer before deciding to bring one home to their family.
Exercise
Boxers were bred for their stamina and strength. Although modern Boxers don’t need to chase down wild animals or hunt for food, they still have the instinctual need to get the same amount of exercise on a regular basis. They don’t like being indoors all day waiting for their owners to get home. Boxers prefer to run around, explore, and play with their family or other dogs.
If you do not find the time to exercise your dog, your Boxer will find other ways to unleash his energy such as destroying furniture, tearing up flower beds, chewing destructively, or barking excessively.
Training
Like all other dogs, Boxers require dog training in order to adjust to a new family and learn good behaviors. Because of their extreme intelligence, training can be tricky as they are able to quickly discover the best ways to get what they want.
Remember that if you punish your Boxer excessively, it may trigger an aggressive reaction and lead to him biting or scratching you or others. Rewarding your pup for good behavior works much better than punishment for training this breed.
If you want your Boxer to respect you and know you’re the boss, the best thing to do is take him to obedience training. Without proper housetraining and obedience lessons, you will have to deal with a misbehaved dog and clean up his mess constantly.
Sticking to a strict and consistent training regimen until your Boxer completely understands what behaviors are acceptable will allow you to take him to the park, on walks, or to socialize with people and other animals.
Alone Time
As stated above, Boxers don’t want to be left home alone all day, and they require adequate social interaction on a daily basis.
They have a desire to be around people and other dogs, so it’s common for families to get two Boxers so that they can entertain each other.
If your Boxer has a doggy companion, he will be kept busy while you’re at work which will diminish any destructive boredom. Boxer puppies, specifically, love to play and be around people.
The Family Dog
Boxers are an ideal choice for owners who are prepared to train them sufficiently and handle their stubborn streak.
Since they require lots of exercise, they make excellent family dogs as there are plenty of people to play with them. As long as your dog will not be left home alone for extended periods on a regular basis, a Boxer is the perfect choice for a family. If you’re part of an active family that likes hiking, camping, going to the park, or playing at the beach, a Boxer will fit right in.
