Boxer Dog

How to Start Housebreaking a Boxer

2009-10-14T05:39:00.002+02:00

You leave your boxer alone for an hour while you run to the store to get a few things. When you return your lovely home smells like a bathroom, and you quickly notice the pile on your floor staining your carpet and you're not-so-innocent boxer just looking at you. This is not something you want to see, yet it seems to be an everyday occurrence at your house and by now you are fed up with your boxer and decide that you will housebreak him no matter what. If this sounds like something you go through on a regular basis, think about what it would be like if in 1 month from now, your boxer was well on his way to being fully house trained and you could actually go somewhere and not have to worry about any surprises when you got home.

Housebreaking a boxer is not really hard to do, it's just that you need to be consistent with your training and be very patient with your puppy. Although it takes time and effort on your part, house training should not feel like a chore for either of you, and once you discover just how to do it right, it won't. staying positive with your boxer, even when he makes a mistake, is something you should work on because you will have better success using a positive method then you will being negative. Dogs absolutely love a positive comment from their owner and will do anything to get it. You can use that to your advantage and praise your dog every time he or she does something good, no matter how small so your dog will want to do it again. Remember that if you start now, in a month or two your boxer will be well on his way to being housebroken and you can stop coming home to a smelly mess once and for all.

Housebreaking a boxer shouldn't be a chore for either of you. To discover how you can housebreak your boxer using fun and positive methods that work, I highly recommend you visit http://puppy-house-training.info today before you come home to another mess on your rug.

About the Author
Jay Even has trained all breeds of dogs and likes to share his knowledge of dog training with people who need help training their dogs and puppy's.

Boxer Obedience Training - Getting Your Boxer to Behave

2009-10-14T05:36:00.002+02:00

Let's face it, you want your boxer to behave when people are around, come when he's called, and walk properly on a leash. Wouldn't it be great if you could teach your boxer all these things at home and not have to pay someone to do it? The good news is that you can, and if you just have patients and a lot of treats, you will begin to see results quickly. Boxers are a very smart breed of dog and they respond well to obedience training and can be trained in a matter of weeks while still a young puppy. You can train an older boxer to without much difficulty, it may just take longer but as the old saying goes, you can teach an old dog new tricks.

Boxer obedience training is not hard to actually do but it requires time, patience and persistence. Treats for your dog are also good to have handy because when your boxer does something good and you reward him with a treat, he will learn very quickly. Praising your boxer is just as important and you should praise your dog by saying "good boy" whenever he does something right no matter what it is.

Obedience training should always be done in a positive manner. Your boxer will learn better this way and it will make the training more fun for both of you. The main reason why dogs don't come when they are called is because of the tone of your voice. If you are shouting negatively at him, your dog will actually be more afraid of you and not come at all, and you don't want that. So instead try calling your boxer over to you enthusiastically and giving him a treat when he comes to you. Keep doing this and your dog will get in the habit of coming when you call him and soon will do it without any treats.

Boxer obedience training can be difficult if you don't know how. If you would like to discover a positive and fun system for training your boxer, I highly recommend you visit http://puppy-house-training.info and get started today.

About the Author
Jay Even has trained all breeds of dogs and likes to share his knowledge of dog training with people who need help training their dogs and puppy's.

Tricks Training: A Must - Learn Boxer Dog Training for your Pet

2009-10-14T05:28:00.002+02:00

Boxer dogs are friendly and lively to their families but very suspicious when it comes to strangers. Their alertness, agility, and strength make them formidable guard dogs and used as service dogs, guide dogs for the blind, therapy dogs, police dogs in K9 units, and occasionally herding cattle or sheep. But do you know that they learn tricks, too, through boxer dog training?

Although boxers are strong in nature, they are natural born clowns, too. They love to please people and enjoy learning and performing tricks that stimulate their mental and physical capabilities. Giving your pet trick training as part of boxer dog training is a way to keep him from inventing its own tricks to play on you.

Like the other types of boxer dog training, trick training demands a lot of patience and frequent sumptuous rewards for the right behaviors. Boxers sometimes lose focus or become bored with tasks they find uninteresting. Teach your dog the focus command before teaching him the trick training, as well as basic obedience skills the tricks are based on. Train only one trick at a time, starting with easy ones, and speed up your training depending on your boxer's learning pace.

Here are the easy beginner tricks particularly suited to boxers:

- Shake Hands. To teach your boxer to shake hands, begin with the sit position and get his attention with the focus command. Gently pick up your dog's paw with one hand while giving treat with the other. Praise him whenever he raises his paw in every command and receives its treat.

Do this repeatedly and see how fast your boxer learns. Also teach him to wave and hide his face with his paw once shake hands is mastered. You can even train your boxer to turn light switches on and off with the same basic technique.

- Dance. Dance is a simple boxer dog training trick based on the sit position. Begin by holding a treat above your boxer's nose until it jumps up on its hind legs. Say dance and give the toy to the dog while gently taking hold of its front legs. Dance together with him at first, guiding it by holding his front legs while standing balanced on the rear ones.

Do not pull or force your dog to stay in the standing position, simply reward the behavior as it occurs naturally. Eventually, see if he can perform the trick on its own. Then, try teaching beg by encouraging your Boxer to sit while you support his front legs.

- Fetch. This is best trained initially on a long lead. Once focused, toss your pet's favorite toy a few feet away. Say fetch while he runs or jumps to the toy. Praise him after the toy is picked up and when your Boxer brings it to you for further play.

Wait for the toy to be dropped, and praise and reward once again. Once your dog masters it, you can move on to frisbee, as well as teaching him to play hide and seek with specific toys it can learn to identify by name.

The versatility of boxers have been commendable not only for special purposes but also for playing tricks. Tricks training is a must-learn boxer dog training in order for your boxer to be funny and tough at the same time!

About the Author
Richard Cussons helps provide information about boxer training. For more boxer training tips, feel free to visit boxersavvy.com.

Boxer Dog Breed

2009-10-14T05:25:00.002+02:00

The boxer is a European dog which evolved from the breeding of the Danzigger Bullenbeiser and the Brabenter Bullenbeiser- two species of dogs which do not exist today. The boxer arrived in North America during the latter part of the 19th century. While it is a preferred dog among dog enthusiasts, the majority of novice dog owners would have difficulty separating a boxer from a bulldog.

The Boxer even though tough looking is extremely playful and obedient. It loves the outdoors where it thrives the most. Easy to train, the boxer can quickly become a great family dog. Pets like the Boxer are not for everyone. This dog is particularly more suited to families who love the outdoors and are active. The Boxer is very faithful and tolerates most people and pets. Despite its fierce disposition, it is very protective of children.

Upkeep and Maintenance

As a pup the boxer can be kept in an apartment but as it grows, it prefers to be outside. It loves to exercise. Boxers are extremely intelligent and learn fast. The dogs always like mental and physical challenges and one can be surprised how well they do. Many people take the boxer for a walk or a jog.

The boxer loves to be with the family and even though it likes to be outside during the day, it prefers to be with the owner at night. Like all dogs it does not prefer hot and extreme coldly weather. When the dog is outside, make sure that it is provided with enough shade and water as it does tend to overheat.

Boxers have a very thin coat of fur and grooming is relatively easy. Infact the dog loves to be groomed. Once a week grooming is ample and if you take it out for regular exercise, a bath 1-2 times a week won't hurt.

Health Information

The Boxer tends to live anywhere from 8-10 years. With age, the dog does develop joint problems of the hip. Occasionally a few dogs do develop heart and thyroid problems. When buying a pup, make sure that the family tree has no heart disease, as congenial heart disease is quite frequent in boxers. Other rare ailments that boxers do develop include diarrhea, eye problems and stomach upset. And sometimes, the rare dog may also develop a cancer or be afflicted with spine problems.

About the Author
Enrico Pallatzo is a professional dog trainer. He is a graduate of Temple University. Hobbies include opera singing, tennis, and scuba diving. How to Use Dog Grooming Tools.

Breeding Boxers

2009-09-25T05:53:00.001+02:00

Belonging to the breed of hunting dogs are Boxers. Boxers do enjoy chasing people and other dogs but also get along well with other pets. Most have smooth and short hair and are fawn and brindle in color.Good natured and loyal to their master is just a couple of the good traits of the boxer breed.Boxers are great pets for kids, and they need to be involved in several activities because of their playful nature. They can also get bored and become curious easily. If you want to breed your boxer, you have to be aware of the costs associated with breeding boxers as well as of the several steps you need to take before finally doing so. Keep scrolling below and read on to learn things to do when breeding boxers.

Step 1

You need to decide on a veterinarian before you deciding to begin breeding boxers. A vet will be necessary in case your boxer has an emergency.

Step 2

Be sure that your boxer is checked regularly by the veterinarian. Doing this will insure that your boxer stays healthy, and this can be confirmed by the vet. Be sure your boxer aquires a heart health certification from the veterinary's board of cardiologists along with x-rays and tests for thyroid problems and hip displaysia.

Step 3

Be sure that the female boxer you choose is a good companion for the boxer you have.If you choose to use your female boxer for breeding, be sure to find a healthy male boxer that will have a good reputation and temperament. The male boxer is called a stud and if this male boxer has a good reputation, he will be used by other breeders when breeding boxers. It will cost about $800 to $1000 for a stud for your female boxer. So, if you have a male boxer, make sure that he is confident and healthy. He can't be aggressive and he must also look good.

Step - 4

Determine how much you will spend to keep your boxer healthy. You will need to be sure that when you are breeding a female boxer you make frequent and regular vet visits, most importantly when the delivery date is nearing.A check-up usually costs between $40 and $50 for each visit. It is also important to estimate a cost for care of the puppies. Eventually the puppies should have the tails docked and ears cropped.The cost for that will typically run you $500 or more each pup.

Step - 5

So that your boxers will be official do not forget to register your boxer puppies with the AKC (American Kennel Club).The AKC certificate and health records will need to be present when you sell your boxer puppies. You will need to register your adult boxer with the AKC if you have not already done so before selling your puppies.

Additional Boxer Breeding Tips and Warnings

To ensure your boxer has really good health it may be a good idea to check for worms and brucillosis.

If your boxer has some health issues, you should not use it for breeding boxers since the litter will only inherit its health problems.

Click here to discover all the stuff you should be aware of before you begin breeding boxers!

About the Author
I love all animals but have a special passion for dogs. I have severl and breed. I want to help others who share the same passion as me.

Click here and get the facts you should know about pregnant dogs.

Boxer Dog Training - Why It's So Important To Train Your Boxer

2009-09-25T05:50:00.000+02:00

So, you're interested in boxer dog training. Of course you are. You love your boxer dog and want to help him to be the best he can be. If so, then it is very important that he receives the necessary training he needs. Unlike other dogs, boxers are not a high maintenance breed. Boxers are quite lively and very vigorous dogs. If you want him to behave, you have to make sure he gets enough exercise. As far as training goes, a positive enforcement method such as treat training can work well with your boxer dog.

The Boxer by nature is not an aggressive or vicious breed, but, like all dogs, requires socialization with people and other dogs. Boxers are generally patient with smaller dogs and puppies, but issues with larger adult dogs, especially those of the same sex, may occur. Boxers are usually more comfortable with companionship, in either human or canine form. This breed if dog is extremely loyal. Boxers are genuinely a lovable family dog and make a great pet for anyone.

Boxers are calm dogs that will usually not bark without cause. They are of a medium-build and strong breed of dog that got its name from its habit of standing on the hind legs to begin a fight and boxing with the front paws.

Boxers are an energetic, smart and playful breed and tend to be very good with children. They are active dogs and require plenty of exercise to prevent boredom-associated behaviors such as chewing or digging. Boxers have earned a slight reputation of being "headstrong," which can be related to inappropriate obedience training. Owing to their intelligence and working breed characteristics, training based on corrections often has limited usefulness. Boxers, like other animals, typically respond better to positive reinforcement techniques such as clicker training, an approach based on conditioning and behaviorism, which affords the dog an opportunity to think independently and to solve problems on his own.

Boxer dogs are working dogs. Throughout history it has been trained as seeing-eye dogs, police dogs, seeing-eye dogs, hunting dogs, and guard dogs. Training you boxer dog is the best thing you can do for him. Boxers love to have a job to do. They are the happiest when they are working and doing something important for you. From as early as 5 weeks old you should start your boxer dog training as this will help him when he grows up.

Because of their intelligence, Boxers can be very stubborn but when it comes to training. How do you train your boxer dog? Rather than try to just make up some kind of training on your own, I recommend that you get a training course written by a professional dog trainer. Also a DVD or video is of great help. Most people learn better by watching than just reading.

Boxer dog training is also a lot of fun and a great way to spend quality time with your dog. Train your boxer dog and he will love you for it.

About the Author
Brad Bahr is a dog lover and has owned many dogs over the years. He is especially interested in Boxer Dog Training. If you would like to learn more about the methods he uses to train his own dogs, please take a look at his recommended training program at http://boxer-dog-training.info

How to Succeed With Boxer Potty Training

2009-09-25T05:47:00.002+02:00

You come home from the store only to find that your boxer has done it again. There is a nice little "surprise" in the middle of your living room and your house smells like a puppy out house on a bad day. You look around for your dog and find him just staring at you like "what did I do?" As you scold your puppy and begin cleaning up the mess for what feels like the tenth time this week, you can't help but imagine what your life would be like if your boxer was fully potty trained. No more coming home to a smelly discussing mess, and no more spending money shampooing your carpet which was new.

Boxer potty training is one of the very first things you should have taught your puppy and maybe you did. But if it's not working and you're still coming home to "surprises" then it may be time to rethink your strategy. You want your boxer to start doing his business outside and stop messing up your nice house but instead of tying him up outside, keep him part of the family inside by setting up a training schedule. You can start by writing down the times your puppy goes outside to go potty and making sure he goes at the same time every day. Soon your boxer will get the hang of it and know when to go outside but it takes more than that.

You need to have a lot of patients when you potty train your boxer, kind of like you would if you were potty training a child. Keep things positive and praise your pup for going potty outside and he will be more likely to do it again, just for you. It can be frustrating at times but if you stick with it every day, you will soon begin to see results, and before you know it your boxer will be fully potty trained and you can stop wondering what you will come home to.

Boxer potty training requires more than just patients; it also requires a system that works. If you would like to discover how to potty train your boxer using a fun and positive system, I highly recommend you check out http://puppy-house-training.info today so you can get all the information you need to succeed.

About the Author
Jay Even has trained all breeds of dogs and likes to share his knowledge of dog training with people who need help training their dogs and puppy's.

House Training a Boxer Puppy the Right Way

2009-09-25T05:43:00.002+02:00

House training a boxer puppy is easy to do once you know the right methods to follow. Boxers are very obedient despite their aggressive appearance and really want to please you. They do need help however, which is where you come in. The best way to start house training a boxer puppy is to start when they are really young, about 8 weeks old is the best. If you start house training early in the dog's life, they are less likely to pick up bad habits that could take weeks to get rid of and you don't want that.

Patience is key when house training so if your puppy doesn't do something right the first time, keep trying and don't give up. This may be easier said than done but is very important. Setting up a schedule is also important to do and is something you should do. Start by writing down all the times you will take your puppy out to the bathroom and stick to it. This will help establish a routine for both you and your dog, and you will have fewer accidents in your house.

If you are unsure about house training, you are not alone. Many people are confused by house training and would rather have someone else do it for them. The problem with this is that besides costing an arm and a paw, these training courses are too long and your puppy has a very short attention span and may not learn everything correctly the first couple of times. The reason you should do it yourself is because you will get to bond with your new puppy and he will learn in your house, where he will live. It may take some time and persistence on your part but you can do it yourself, and when your pup is completely house trained, you can train your dog to do other things because you will know how and have the respect from your canine friend.

House training a boxer puppy isn't rocket science but you do need to know what you are doing before you start. If you would like to discover a positive and fun way to train your puppy in your own home, I highly recommend you visit http://puppy-house-training.info and start house training your boxer puppy the right way.

About the Author
Jay Even has trained all breeds of dogs and likes to share his knowledge of dog training with people who need help training their dogs and puppy's.

Nice Dog Boxer

2009-08-27T06:55:00.001+02:00

Developed in Germany, the Boxer is a breed of stocky, medium-sized, short-haired dog. The coat is smooth and fawn or brindled, with or without white markings. Boxers are brachycephalic (they have broad, short skulls), and have a square muzzle, mandibular prognathism (an underbite), very strong jaws and a powerful bite ideal for hanging on to large prey. The Boxer was bred from the English Bulldog and the now extinct Bullenbeisser and is part of the Molosser group. Boxers were first exhibited in a dog show for St. Bernards at Munich in 1895, the first Boxer club being founded the next year. Based on 2008 American Kennel Club statistics, Boxers are the sixth most popular breed of dog in the United States for the second year in a row-moving up in 2007 from the seventh spot, which they'd held since 2002-with 33,548 new dog registrations during the year. Appearance The head is the most distinctive feature of the Boxer. The breed standard dictates that it must be in perfect proportion to the body and above all it must never be too light. The greatest value is to be placed on the muzzle being of correct form and in absolute proportion to the skull. The length of the muzzle to the whole of the head should be a ratio of 1:3. Folds are always present from the root of the nose running downwards on both sides of the muzzle, and the tip of the nose should lie somewhat higher than the root of the muzzle. In addition a Boxer should be slightly prognathous, i.e., the lower jaw should protrude beyond the upper jaw and bend slightly upwards in what is commonly called an underbite or "undershot bite".
See complete details with images at http://nice-pet-07.blogspot.com/

About the Author
Fazal Zubair

Dog Charms You Will Never Forget

2009-08-27T06:38:00.001+02:00

I haven't always liked dog charms! In fact, I have never owned one until just recently. I thought they were a rather cold and unfeeling piece of jewelry, only made to represent the bare-bones standard of any certain dog breed.

The dog charms that I remember never conjured up the cheerful feelings that I feel when I see something that is reminiscent of my own fun-loving, happy-go-lucky boxer.

I haven't ever seen dog charms that were so creatively designed that they could straight away convey the distinct characteristics that makes any one love his special breed.

What if you were to lay in bed at night and dream about the ideal dog charm? It would not be some thick clunker. Naturally not, it might be sophisticated and unique! Just like your favorite dog friend.

So what about this...a basswood center, with an image of your favourite reproduce burned into the wood. The outside would be encircled with .925 sterling silver to give it stability and richness.

The pendant, charm, or whatever you needed to use it for, would of course be double sided. Let's see...one side would have the face of the your favourite four-legged friend and the back side could have something like...I Love my ( whatever breed ). Pretty cool, huh?

Another great point about these dog charms is they're available for the top twelve most well-liked dogs. The American dog house Club considers these dog breeds the most popular.

**Retrievers ( Labrador )
**German Shepherd Dogs
**Beagles
**Boxers
**Dachshunds
**Bulldogs
**Poodles

You could also wear it as a charm bracelet.

Additionally, you might also wear them on your jacket zipper pulls, on backpacks, or key chains, cell phones, or, what about getting one for your dear dog baby to wear on his harness or collar?

If you would like to discover more about these unique dog charms.

About the Author
I still can't believe how much I like these unique dog charms and I am sure you will too.

The ultimate guide to dog training

2009-08-27T06:32:00.003+02:00

We've continually had dogs around ever since I was a child, and even when our household was "between dogs" I adopted next door's Boxer dog as my own. Despite this, as a family we didn't have a clue how to properly train a dog; as long as it didn't mess on the floor, chew up our slippers and at long last came on the fifth bellow of its name we thought things were just fine.

Like many dog owners I didn't know the elementary thing about training a dog. Well, we think we do because the dog sits or else offers us a paw as soon as we have a delicacy in our hands but those are merely party tricks.

Then I bought my very own dog when I got a place of my own. As she grew she changed from loveable pup into a liability. She wandered off, in no way came when called and turned into the Tasmanian Devil each time anybody called around. The final straw came when she tore into the room and scrambled up to sit on the shoulders of a visitor who had come to assess me for a voluntary position. He was not a dog lover and I can still remember the look on his face instantly...

Difficulty was, I had always treated dogs as furry acquaintances, forever giving in to those sad-looking eyes and never realizing that the dogs saw me in a utterly different way. Dogs are pack animals and as such they are extremely aware of their position in the pack; and you and your household are its pack, even if there's just the two of you.

Grasp that small detail of dog psychology and you are well on your way to a happier dog. From now on you are free to make it plain to your dog that you are the Alpha male or leader of the pack and what you say goes. See that furniture? That's mine. You remain on the floor or inside your dog basket. Don't feed the dog tidbits from the dinner table; in truth the dog ought to be in his basket while you have a meal, and he only gets fed as soon as everybody else has finished.

But isn't that really being mean and taking all the fun out of owning a dog?

The leader of the dog pack eats initially. He sleeps in the best place. The Alpha male takes no notice of lesser dogs fussing around him when he returns from the hunt. When you consistently conduct yourself as leader you are communicating to your dog in a language he understands.

As soon as you come back home, ignore your dog's frantic attempts at attention seeking until he calms down; at that time you praise him. It won't be long before your dog realizes he's gone down a few notches in the group hierarchy and acts accordingly. You'll soon observe that your dog greets you quietly and quickly settles down as he's worked out that is what time he receives praise from you.

Still not convinced that training your dog makes him a happier dog? Look at it from the dog's point of view. He's living in a human world full of confusing things and behavior he can't understand. By not schooling your dog his place in your pack he will feel it's his place to take charge. But this leaves him feeling stressed, ensuing in an uncontrollable and bewildered dog constantly trying to make sense of an overwhelming world it cannot understand.

But once you assume command as leader of the pack, you take that accountability off his shoulders. Just like a well-trained soldier, he will be content knowing his place, his role in the pack and what's anticipated of him; and contented to defer to your leadership knowing you'll take care of the "big stuff".

About the Author
brad collins has been involved with small business since 1982 and is currentlly reserching internet related businesses http://trainingjapanesespitz.blogspot.com/

Entering Your Boxer In Dog Competitions

2009-07-29T10:08:00.001+03:00

Being one of the most popular dog breeds in existence today, boxers are loyal and loving pets and make great show dogs. What most people do not realize is that boxers were first introduced during the 1890's at a dog show and ever since, has been a staple in the world of show dogs.

Ranging from fund-raising events that allow both pedigree and non-pedigreed dogs to compete, dog shows can contain a wide variety of competitions where dogs compete openly against each other. There are other competitions that cater to dogs of a certain breed or a certain type. Boxers always seem to do well in all types of shows, they are smart dogs that can easily learn a wide array of tricks and postures with relative ease.

If you are planning on showing the boxer puppy you are raising, it is a good idea to begin training from a young age. Many professional breeders who plan on showing boxers begin their training as early as 6 weeks of age, teaching basic postures that are needed once they enter dog shows. You can contact local kennel clubs or dog clubs to find out more information about shows that take place in your area and gain advice on what you should do to prepare your boxer to perform well once they enter competitions.

Your boxer puppy will need to be registered with a kennel club in order to qualify for certain events, you may also be able to participate in small shows organized by the clubs themselves as a way of becoming familiar with working your boxer in a show environment. It is a good idea to get your boxer used to a smaller arena without the added pressures and numerous distractions of a larger type of show. Most championship dogs get their beginnings from local club shows before moving into a more intense show venue, both the dog boxer and owner need to become more used to the ins and outs of performing in a show.

Once you have spent some time training your boxer and are ready to begin a small show as a competitor, you need to take the time needed to make your dog look like a champion. Make sure to bathe and groom your boxer the night prior to the show and make sure you are also well groomed. Dress in an outfit that will contrast with your boxers coat so that the judge will focus attention on your dog, you do not want to have clothing that closely matches the coloring of your boxer dog. Be certain to arrive at the show early enough so that you have time to calm your boxer down from the excitement of the upcoming show, boxers will become excited from being in a new place and being around a large number of other dogs.

You want to be sure the judges get a good look at your boxer when you first present him, keep in mind the judges will be viewing both your dogs profile, head and mouth. There will be additional chances for the judges to inspect your boxer, but the first showing is very important, because it is when the initial assessment is made. Stay calm and remember that all the training you and your boxer have done, and you should both be more than ready to face the judges and let them make their decision.

About the Author
This article was written by John P Jackson and supplied by GreatDogSite. If you'd like to find information on many different dog breeds or you want to read more about Boxers, please check us out.

Addressing Hyperactivity In Boxers

2009-07-29T10:06:00.001+03:00

When a lot of people think about a hyper dog, their minds usually drum up images of a Chihuahua or Pomeranian and not a larger dog like a boxer. This may lead a pet owner to being taken aback when they bring home a boxer puppy and it turns out to be a ball of hyperactive energy. This may result in the dog not getting the right amount of exercise it needs to be healthy and happy. Many potential boxer owners look past the warning signs of a hyperactive dog and dismiss it as the personality of a playful puppy, only to find out much later that the dog breed they picked was a lot more work than they had initially anticipated or bargained for.

Most boxers as a rule are very playful, the majority of them also possess a calm and independent personality which enables them to become used to the schedule of their owners and makes for quiet time between periods of exercise and playing. With a hyperactive boxer, however, the dog will be much more likely to get into mischief when the owners are away at work or having a quite moment, since the boxer will become bored and look for some diversion for relieving extra energy. A hyperactive boxer may chew on or otherwise cause damage to furniture, carpeting and many other things, and may also be more prone to having accidents in the house (especially when becoming exciting in a carpeted area, which leads to pet stains).

Boxers are a strong-willed dog breed and obedience training can prove very beneficial when trying to keep their head-strong nature from developing into restlessness and hyperactivity. A really hyperactive boxer will be harder to train, but with sufficient effort and hard work you should be able to get the boxers behavior firmly under control. If you purchased your boxer at a young age and begin to think he may be hyperactive, then you should start training at a immediately, prior to hyperactive tendencies developing into potentially larger problems like destructiveness or aggression as the puppy grows into adulthood.

Whenever possible, taking the time and examining and observing boxer puppies is a good idea before deciding which one to take home with you. It is much easier to determine whether a pup that you are considering is hyperactive by observing how it behaves around its littermates versus when it is alone. Find out as much information as possible about the parents and if they exhibited any signs of hyperactivity when young pups or if they still possess a hyperactive nature now. While there is nothing wrong with choosing a hyperactive boxer puppy, given the eventual size and weight of the dog in adulthood, it is very important to curb any type of destructive or unwanted behaviors when the dog is young or else you will have to contend with the consequences later on.

About the Author
This article is part of a Boxer collection on GreatDogSite. GreatDogSite features tons of information on dogs!

Skin Conditions in Cats & Dogs

2009-07-29T10:00:00.002+03:00

Cats and dogs, like us, can suffer from many different aliments. One of the more common types of conditions that they suffer from is skin and coat related. Conditions can be parasitic, bacterial or fungal infections, or can be allergic reactions.

Parasitic Infections

The most common of infections are caused by other critters that live on our beloved animals.

Fleas & Ticks: the easiest types of infestation to see and also thankfully to get rid of. There are many products on the market, but most owners tend to use only one or two that really do work. Fleas are year-round pests and you will need to treat your home as well as the pet.

Ticks: bury their legs into the skin and then feed off the pet, growing several millimetres in length. They usually just fall off but occasionally only the majority of the tick is removed leaving parts of the legs embedded in the skin. This can then turn into a septic sore, hole or lump, which will need to be treated by a vet. Ticks are also responsible for Lyme Disease, which can cause lameness and fever - conditions very difficult to treat in pets.

Mites: these are microscopic parasites. The two most common mites found on dogs are the causes of demodex mange and sarcoptic mange - both extremely uncomfortable and infectious diseases. Ear mites cause great irritation to the ears. It is known for the pet to scratch off the hair on the back of its ears. Ear mites can be treated by a thorough cleaning of the ears under sedation by a vet, home treatments using special solutions or ointments that keep the infection at bay and hopefully kills off mites eventually. Harvest mites collect between the toes, or on the underside of the pet. These can be treated with an insecticidal ointment.

Mange: Démodé tic mange or Demodex is the condition that affects young puppies or old pets. It is thought to be caused by an immune deficiency, major stress or trauma or malnutrition. It appears firstly on the face, around the eyes causing the coat to become bald, then it simply grows and worsens. Sometimes it gets to a point then stops, other times pustules start to appear causing a secondary bacterial infection. Antibiotics are necessary to clear the condition and complete eradication of the mites is essential. Sarcops or scabies consists of two types - dog/fox or human - both highly infectious to both dogs and humans. The skin thickens and becomes inflamed, especially behind the ears, groin and armpits. The mites dig deep into the skin and then through it, causing intense itching and crusting that can then cause secondary infections. Again, parasiticidal shampoos and antibiotics are necessary as well as a thorough cleaning of all areas to wipe out the mite.

Cheylettiella, or pet dandruff, is another type of parasitic infection which causes itchiness and a lot of flaking. It is most common in Boxer dogs as well as rabbits. It is best treated with an insecticidal shampoo.

Bacterial Infections

Bacterial infections are often due to a secondary infection of another condition. The most common is Staph aureus, but others include E.coli and Pseudomonas. Wet eczema appears in warmer weather. It starts with a minor scratch but then develops into a wet, infected discharge. The pet must be prevented from scratching the area further once the area has been cleaned and medicated accordingly.

Anal furunculous: is as awful as it sounds. Here the tissue around the anus breaks down with the secondary infection. It is thought to be an auto-immune condition, where the antibodies attack the normal tissue. Medication and potentially surgery can cure this distressing condition.

Fungal infections Ringworm is caused by fungi and it is highly infectious. The pet will have caught it either from another animal or an infected place. It causes inflammation, scaly patches and hair loss in circular patches usually on the head and legs, but may spread to other parts if not treated. It can only be treated by prescribed medication.

Malassezia: a fungal infection, mostly associated with greasy/seborrhoea skin conditions. This can be controlled by medicated anti fungal shampoos.

Allergies
Allergic reactions can be caused by something either inhaled, ingested or touched.
One of the most common allergies in pets is to flea saliva. The pet ingests the saliva when licking the bitten area.
Food allergies are not only caused by the meat content, but also the dairy, wheat and preservatives that are also incorporated in the food.

Remember that once you have sourced the cause of the allergy, remove it if possible. If the source is from something that cannot be controlled such as pollen or mould, then a medication can be prescribed by your vet.

Other causes

Contact irritation: these are caused by something that the pet may be lying on. It will therefore only usually affect the underside and paws of the pet. These vary from shampoo residue, dust, grass and many more. It may well be simply a case of trial and error to find out the cause of irritation, then either removing it or avoiding it.

Autoimmune diseases: these are where the body reacts against itself and the skin.

Licking: pets can often do this to excess, so they must be distracted from doing so to avoid soreness, infections and hair loss.

Hot spots: these appear on heavy dense coats, often overnight and without warning. They can be swollen and smelly areas on the skin. As the pet licks and nibbles, it worsens. The cause can be one of many from a bite to a glandular problem. Treatment will include cleaning, antibiotics, and an anti- inflammatory.

Pyoderma: these are infections which result in the formation of pus. They vary in their severity and areas of infection. The chin is one area commonly affected. Chin acne, is a deep bacterial infection. Overweight pets and those with natural skin folds are commonly affected by pyoderma. Treatment is usually ongoing and will typically include cleaning, antibiotics and application of an anti inflammatory agent.

Hormone imbalances: like us, a pet's hormones will affect the skin and hair. If a pet produces too much oestrogen, it may lose fur but its remaining fur may appear greasy. Hormone imbalances are often caused by an underlying health issue, which should always be investigated by your vet prior to treating the imbalance in isolation.

About the Author
Simone Davis writes articles on Pet Health Insurance and Pet Cover. To learn more about pet insurance please visit www.animalfriends.org.uk

Boxers Make Great Family Pets

2009-07-07T22:50:00.001+03:00

Many people believe that boxers are fierce guard dogs that should not be allowed around small children, however, in actuality most boxers are very loving dogs that make an ideal family pet. Boxers tend to be very loyal to the family who owns them and at the same time are very gentle and fun-loving dogs that relish in the affection given to them. Like any other pet, the boxer may not be suitable for every family; it is very important that potential owners take the proper amount of time to match their type of lifestyle with the temperament of the dog they want to buy will need, this will help in terms of health and happiness.

Boxers are naturally playful dogs and will often get easily excited at the prospect of being petted or receiving any other type of affection. Despite their reputation, a boxer is not an overly aggressive dog breed. Boxers tend to love children and adults who can appreciate their intense energy level. Boxers do not need to get large amounts of exercise in order to be happy, but it is important you do not try to exercise the boxer in extreme heat because they do not tolerate high temperatures very well, instead doing best at an average room temperature.

A boxer is also a highly intelligent dog and is easily trained to learn a wide variety of tricks. Training goes a long way towards making your boxer a great family pet, and you can use training to curb some of the breeds excessive enthusiasm to prevent it from alarming or knocking down small children, when all the dog really wants to do is play. Their intelligence is also linked to the fact that a boxer is usually a highly affectionate breed as well, something that needs to be considered when training the dog to illustrate appropriate behavior. If left to its own devices, a boxer would simply be content to be a lap dog even when its reached its maximum size and weight.

When considering a boxer as your family pet, it is important that you bear in mind that a dog of this breed will be more than happy to reciprocate with more love and affection than you have to give. The boxer is a very loyal and loving dog, and it is important you do not pick a boxer and expect it to be an independent and threatening dog. Many boxers will be highly protective of their family around a stranger, they also expect their owners to shower them with affection and they want to be able to find someone willing to play with them when they are in the mood. As long as you and your family understand the importance that a boxer places on affection and are willing to give the dog all the love it needs, you should be able to find a boxer pup that will grow into a loving and loyal dog and be the perfect pet for your family.

About the Author
Looking for more information on dogs or Boxers? Check out the rest of GreatDogSite!

Boxer - A devoted Family Dog

2009-07-07T22:47:00.001+03:00

Developed in Germany, the Boxer is a breed of stocky, medium-sized, short-haired dog. Boxers are descendents of two German Mastiff type dogs, the Barenbeiszer and the Bullenbeiszer. Later they were crossed with ancestors of the Mastiff and the Bulldog. The American Kennel Club lists the Boxer in the working dog group and it is there for good reason. These dogs were once noted for hunting and cart pulling and later became cattle dogs. Today they are used in guarding, police work, search & rescue, and other various tasks because of their courage, intelligence, fearlessness, strength, agility, loyalty and an aggressiveness that showed up only when necessary. As a pet, the Boxer is completely devoted to the family that owns him.

The Boxer has a powerful, stocky body with compact muscles and square-shaped proportions. An adult Boxer typically weighs between 55 and 70 lb (25 and 32 kg). Adult male Boxers are between 22 and 25 inches (56 and 63 cm) tall at the withers; adult females are between 21 to 23½ inches (53 and 60 cm). The head is the most distinctive feature of the Boxer. It is large with a broad, blunt muzzle, an undershot jaw and a black masked muzzle. He has dark-brown eyes, straight front legs, black nose, muscular neck and a deep chest as well as a glossy, short coat. The Boxer's glossy, close-fitting, short-haired coat exists in a number of colors including fawn, brindle, red, and white. White markings may be present. The tail is usually docked. Ear cropping is optional. Boxers like to use their front paws to get into things and move things from place to place. They love to be the middle of attention and are also known as the "clown of dogs".

Boxers Puppies are very clean dogs that groom themselves in a similar manner that cats use. Boxers will do okay in an apartment if sufficiently exercised. Walking, running, and playing are all good ways of giving these dogs the daily workout they need. They are fairly active indoors and do best with at least an average-sized yard. Boxers do best in temperate climates as the breed can chill easily in cold weather and have trouble cooling off in very hot weather. Boxers are not great swimmers, but they can and should be taught to be comfortable around water. The life expectancy for Boxers is typically 11-14 years.

The Boxer is happy, good-natured, high-spirited, playful, and curious and energetic. They are highly intelligent and eager to learn, but they can also be free-willed and sneaky. Boxers need lots of human leadership. This breed requires a dominant owner. Training of the Boxer Puppies should start early and be firm and consistent. The objective in training this dog is to achieve a pack leader status.

These lively dogs have a tendency to jump up at people and this trait should be controlled at an early age. They are very reliable and protective around children. They are very loving toward children and like to play as well. A well brought-up and properly socialized Boxer will also get along with his own kind and other household pets such as cats. The Boxer has a number of natural talents including guarding, watching, police and military work, search and rescue, obedience, and trick performing. They combine the very best of canine traits as far as intelligence, trainability, strength and pride. With patience and leadership, the boxer is a great all around family dog, bonding very closely with the family.

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For more information about Boxers Puppies, please visit : http://www.pets4you.com .

Breeding Boxers For Their Colorful Coats

2009-07-07T22:44:00.001+03:00

As a breed, boxers did not show up until the late 1800's, originally bred to be hunting dogs for use in hunting wild boars, deer and bears, boxers are a young breed of dog. Being such a young breed, boxers are known for exceptional breeding and the beautiful various shades that occur in their coats. There is an exact science that goes into breeding various bloodlines of boxers in order to achieve the unique coloring and markings that are most familiar to lovers of the boxer breed.

Though boxers might show a variety of different markings, there are actually only two colors that are recognized coat colors of the breed. The first color is known as fawn, which can range in shades from light tan to a darker red , almost mahogany coloring. The second coat coloring is known as brindle, brindle coats feature a striped pattern with black stripes that cover over the base of the fawn color. The striping on a brindle coated boxer may be so thick that the fawn coloring is nearly invisible. Because of this, the color is often called a "reverse" or "black" brindle; even though the dog may almost appear entirely black, it is still considered a brindle, however, a pure boxer lacks the gene necessary for a truly all-black coat.

Boxer breeders use great care when selecting which boxers to breed together. Because the fawn and brindle colorings of their coats are passed on through genetics and careful tracing of bloodlines, it is possible to predict what the coat of the puppies is going to look like. Brindle coats occur as a result of a dominant gene, if this is present at all then the dog will have a brindle pattern. This does not mean that every boxer with a brindle coat will produce only brindle puppies, however, if the dog has a dominant brindle gene and a recessive fawn gene, and mates with another dog that has the same dominant and recessive genes, the puppies have a 25% chance of being fawn and a 75% chance of being brindle. A fawn coated dog mated with another fawn colored boxer will produce only fawn colored pups, and a dog with two brindle genes (double brindle) will make brindle puppies regardless of whether it is mated with a brindle or fawn.

There are some instances where other colors of coats appear, most notably in the case of a white boxer who features neither a fawn or brindle coat coloring. White boxers occur when the genes are passed on from each parent which results in the puppies lacking the pigment needed for a fawn or brindle colored coat. The unfortunate thing about white boxers is that they have a much higher chance of being deaf or suffering from other health related genetic problems. It is because of this reason, most boxer organizations and a large number of breeders will not breed white boxers and only recommend white boxers as a pet. Most responsible breeders do whatever they can to make sure all white Boxers are not bred.

About the Author
For more details on the Boxer or for general dog information, please visit our site.

Cropping Your Boxer's Ears

2009-07-07T22:41:00.001+03:00

A highly sensitive topic in many boxer communities is ear cropping which was at one time considered to be a standard practice, but in recent times has fallen into disfavor because it is viewed as cruel and potentially dangerous to the dog. Whether or not to crop the ears of a boxer has people on the fence with both sides raising several valid points, but cropping or not still remains at the discretion of the owner. Presented here are some of the main reasons both for cropping and against cropping, so it will help you make an informed decision as to what is appropriate for your boxer puppy.

If you are not sure of what cropping means, it is a cosmetic surgical procedure that involves cutting off a portion of the ear of a boxer while the dog is young. This is done in order to give the dog a more majestic or imposing look. The cropped area of an ear will need to be tended to for a period of days after surgery to make certain the boxer puppy does not scratch at the ear (which could lead to pulling out stitches), and the site needs to be cleaned and checked daily to prevent scabbing which in turn leads to scarring. The surgical wounds will heal quickly and you would only needs to spend the first few days post-op watching for signs of a potential problem with the cropping.

People who prefer ear cropping favor it because of tradition and medical reasons which support ear cropping for young boxers. Not only is ear cropping recognized as a common practice by international boxer organizations, it may also help prevent ear problems which can occur from a boxers normally floppy ears which would otherwise cover up the ear canal of the dog. Cropped ears in a boxer can lead to significantly less cases of ear mites and other forms of ear infections, because the ear canal gets more exposure to light and air which results in reduced humidity in the ear canal, and hence an unfavorable environment for mites and infections to thrive and grow.

Those who are against ear cropping point out that it may be a painful procedure for a young boxer puppy to undergo and maintain that the surgery is a form of animal cruelty and an outdated practice. If the surgical wound is not properly cared for, the site may become infected and cause additional problems for the puppy. More recently a concern which should also be considered, is that many cities and other governing bodies have been putting into effect laws that prohibit owning a dog or dogs that look like they have been raised to be fierce and aggressive. In some locations, these laws may be applied to a boxer with cropped ears because the surgery tends to make the dogs appear frightening (some people argue this change in appearance leads to an increase in hostility, even though there is no connection between the two).

It is important to remember that ear cropping is a surgical procedure and cannot be undone at a later point in time. Make sure that you have carefully reviewed and considered the pros and cons of ear cropping before deciding whether or not it is right for your boxer.

About the Author
For more articles on the Boxer or information on other dogs, visit the rest of GreatDogSite!

All About The Boxer Breed Of Dog

2009-06-06T20:06:00.001+03:00

The tallest of the flat-faced breeds, Boxers are dogs that never grow up! They are bouncy, energetic, fearless risk takers, although males can be wary with strangers. The typical Boxer's mantra is "All I wanna do is have fun!"

The Boxer is a breed for active families. They make excellent companions for young children because they are, in thought and action, similar to a three-year-old child. Although Boxers muscularity, size and intimidating appearance suits it to a role as house protector, these dogs are unfailingly gently with children.

Boxers were first developed in Germany - possibly from the Brabant Bullenbeisser (bull biter) from Belgium and similar dogs in the region. Bavarian dogs and maybe even the English Bulldog may have been used in its original development. By the turn of the 20th century, they were essentially as they are today. No one knows exactly how the name "Boxer" developed.

Unfortunately, there are serious health problems within the Boxer breed and these lead to a shorter life-span than the average dog breed.

On a side note: There are white or almost completely white Boxers, that may be registered with kennel clubs - but these dogs may not be shown in the dog ring. In the United States, Boxers with more than 1/3 of their body covered in white may not be shown. Mostly or whilly white Boxers are much more prone to deafness.

In some countries a Boxers tail is still amputated, leading to a high speed metronome like vestigial wagging which I turn can lead to painful bony changes in the dogs back near the sacrum (tailbone). Skin cancer occurs more frequently in Boxers than any other breed, and a heart condition causing a ballooning of the lower chambers, a "dilated cardiomyopathy" is sadly all too common.

Essential Boxer grooming care needed is minimal with their short coat. The training time is about average compared to other breeds, but it is essential if you are thinking of showing your Boxer in the show ring.

The most common colorings of the Boxer breed are fawn and white, fawn, brindle, and occasionally white. They have a wrinkled brow which makes them look like they are concentrating terrible hard. (Probably trying to figure out what fun to have next). They have a short, muscular back and neck, and a very deep chest.

About the Author
If you're thinking about a Boxer for your family, be sure to get early training as it is essential for this breed to learn the word "no". (Just like your three-year-old!) Sit Stay is an excellent dog training guide that should help you train your Boxer to be a perfect fit for almost any family.

Do You Think Your Boxer Dog Needs Pet Stroller?

2009-06-06T20:03:00.002+03:00

In order to decide whether your Boxer dog needs a pet stroller you should consider what the benefits of having one are. A lot of people think that to have a pet stroller is a great idea .In various situations they have understood its advantages. You can hop from one place to another, visit different scenic places or stroll around shops with your dog. It is much more safety to place your dog in pet stroller when traveling. You do not have to control your dog on a leash or there is no chance to lose him around many people or in strange places. Also you will prevent your dog from paw problems. His paws will be kept clean and protected from injures caused by the concrete temperature. Moreover, your dog will be far from the trash on the road or sidewalk. Old, disabled or injured dog will not stay at home for the rest of their lives any more. They like the normal dogs need fresh air and sunlight and social contacts. Let them enjoy the sunlight and breathe fresh air using pet strollers. Dogs will be kept far from contaminated floors during a visit to a vet. Pet strollers are better than pet carriers because you do not have to and carry lift them with your dog inside when you move your dog from one place to another. Anyway if you are determined to carry your pet in the carrier by hand you can do it as some strollers are convenient and functional all in one- they are with detachable carriers which can be separated from the frame. Now can you say that pet strollers are unnecessary? What you have to do is just to decide what stroller is good for your dog depending on its personality weight, and height.

About the Author
Daci Georgieva is owner and editor of Dogs Comfort.com and Dogs Comfort Blog where you can find information about dog products. Dogs Comfort provides detailed information in dog products sale, as well as dog carriers, dog crates, dog beds, pet strollers and dog car seats

How to Train a Boxer Dog

2009-05-06T13:32:00.001+03:00

Boxers are one of my favorite dog breeds and this is why I've decided to write an article on how to train a boxer dog. People who don't know about this dog breed are sometimes taken back by their extremely built physique, stature and overall appearance. What these people don't know is that the Boxer dog is an extremely friendly dog that is full of energy and playfulness.

In the United States, the Boxer is one of the most popular dogs and regularly make the list of most popular dogs in the US by the AKC. Currently they are in 6th place and have been there for the second year in a row.

Before I begin talking about Boxer dog training, you should know that this breed is not for everyone. They are extremely intelligent dogs and if left to their own will can get themselves into some trouble. They needs regular exercise and thrive on being part of the pact. In other words, this is not a breed that you can bring home and expect to sleep on you couch for hours.

How to Train a Boxer Dog

Boxers have a stubborn streak that you should be aware of. There will be times that you ask her to do something and she will understand you and still decide to ignore you. I mention this not to scare you away but just so you can be prepared to put in the effort and patience in taking care of this wonderful breed.

Boxers are big dogs weighing up to 100 pounds. Once of the most important parts of Boxer dog training is socialization. Although these dogs are naturally very friendly, socialization will help this dog become well balanced and confident in all situations. I recommend taking your dog to puppy classes where they will be exposed to other people and dogs at an early age.

In terms of actual training, Boxer dog training is really no different that training another dog breed such as a German Shepherd or Golden Retriever. If you know how to train a dog to sit or stay for example, you will be able to apply the same techniques with your Boxer successfully.

About the Author
Visit my blog for some more how to train a dog articles including how to train a boxer dog.

Dogs Are Not Just Pets: They Can Also Be In the Workforce

2009-05-06T13:28:00.001+03:00

Dogs make wonderful pets and are loyal companions. For many years dogs have been used in a variety of fields and have performed many different and important jobs. Besides being used as guard dogs or for herding animals they are now used to assist humans in many other activities.

Working dogs perform many tasks and jobs and what type of work they do can fit into a variety of categories. Listed below are some of the different types of work they perform.

Police Dogs
Police dogs are trained to guard their handler and assist in a variety of tasks for law enforcement. They are used for finding and holding suspects and some are specially trained to help investigate at crime scenes.

Some police dogs are trained as detection dogs and are used by the police and customs agencies. These dogs use their ultra sensitive noses to detect bombs, explosives and firearms. Some of these types of dogs are trained in detection of narcotics and can sniff out all sorts of drugs, including marijuana and cocaine. There are a number of breeds that are used as police and detection dogs including; German Shepard, Doberman Pincher, Akita, and Boxer.

Search & Rescue Dogs
There are many different types of situations that search and rescue dogs can be used in. They are used to locate a missing person and to find survivors and cadavers after tornadoes, and other disasters. Dogs who work in search and rescue can either do field or disaster work.

Dogs who do field work do activities including tracking, trailing and water searches. A trailing dog uses a scent article they are given that belonged to the person whose trail they are going to follow. This type of dog is trained to go off of a scent and is not able to work if they have no scent to follow. On the other hand, tracking dogs which are used for tracking criminals and rescue operations physically track the path the person took.

Air scent dogs are similar to tracking dogs because they do not use scent to follow a trail. Instead of following a track close to the ground they pick of traces of a person's scent through the air. These dogs are used when buildings collapse and will detect the scent of a human in piles of debris.

Some dogs are trained to do water searches. They work with a handler from the shoreline or in a boat. They are trained to sniff-out body gasses that rise up from the water. Cadaver dogs will react to the scents left by a dead person. Disaster dogs are trained to find humans in disasters such as tornadoes and earthquakes. These dogs must be able to work in small confined spaces and unstable surfaces. Avalanche dogs are trained to do their rescue work in deep snow.

Service Dogs
These working dogs help physically and mentally disabled people in their daily activities. A guide dog can assist a blind or visually impaired person. There are also dogs trained to open and close doors and to help a person in a wheelchair. Not only do these dogs assist people they also have a positive effect on the person's overall condition and self esteem.

Therapy Dogs
Therapy dogs do not perform specific tasks like a service dog would. They are used for helping people recover from an illness more quickly and to be companions to the elderly. They seem to have a therapeutic effect on people and have been known to lower blood pressure. Their kind and loyal presence helps people to relax and they build a bond which builds up the person's confidence level.

Therapy dogs are also being used to assist inmates in their re-socialization and rehabilitation process. They have been used with juvenile offenders to teach them how to be compassionate and to learn to be responsible.

As you can see from the descriptions above, dogs do play a vital role in today's society. Dogs make loving pets and are also very intelligent and hard working animals. You can find a variety of dogs at your local shelter that are looking for good homes and will make a great addition to your family.

No matter what type of dog you have you might want to consider getting pet insurance. It is like having health insurance on yourself, it is there when you need it for those unexpected large health-related bills. By having this kind of insurance you can make sure that your four-legged loved ones will get the best treatment if they are ever injured or seriously ill. They don't have to be puppies to be eligible; as long as you keep the premiums up they will be covered for their lifetime.

About the Author
Ben Hewitt is a freelance author writes articles on pet insurance, pet insurance cover. To learn more about cheap pet insurance and dog insurance please visit www.animalfriends.org.uk

Boxer Puppies - Ideal for Any Home

2009-05-06T13:22:00.001+03:00

Many pet experts recommend buying a boxer puppy as a family pet because they know that these animals make the perfect pet for any home. They are friendly, loyal, courageous, and very easy to train.

The official boxer standard, set by the AFC, requires the breed to have at least two thirds of its coat covered with fawn, brindle or some shade of red. The rest of the coat is usually white. White is commonly found in the under belly and face area. It is approximated that three out of four boxers born will fall under this category, and they will have no problems getting registered at the AFC as an official boxer dog.

But what about the remaining 25%?

The remaining 25% are not so fortunate. They are usually over 80 to 90% white, and they cannot be registered with the AFC as boxers. That also means they can't take part in certain pet competitions, which makes them unpopular among dog owners.

This is bad news for the white boxer and the dog breeder. If there is no demand, then there is very little reason to keep the white dogs. Sadly, some are put to sleep just because they turn out to be white boxers.

Some argue that this is better for the dogs because white boxers tend to have a higher chance of becoming deaf once they reach 6 to 8 weeks old. That is when some owners discover that the sensory hair in the inner ear isn't growing properly. This is caused by a lack of cell pigment, which is the same reason that explains why the dog gets its white coat. Besides this risk, the white pet is like any other boxer dog. It has similar personality traits, and can be a very good companion. However, pet owners who have little experience with dogs are advised not to buy a white boxer. Leave the experts to keep these dogs. Their experience will them cope better with the complications that may surface later on.

Because boxers are such obedient and intelligent animals, they make superb guard dogs. If you are thinking of having someone guard your home for you, the boxer will do just fine. Any intruder trying to come into forbidden space will come face to face with a formidable guard.

This breed grows up to be a medium sized dog - not too big, and not too small. If there are children in the household, the boxer is a perfect companion. They have a slightly playful nature, but they are not overly active, which means that you can trust them with young children. Of course, when they are young pups, there will be occasions when they are mischievous.

When that happens, be firm with them and show them that you are the leader, and that you are at the top of the hierarchy. Keep sending the same message to your boxer pup, and it will learn how to behave when you or other family members are around. Remember, all dogs follow a simple top to bottom hierarchy when they are in a group, and that includes human beings. Show them who is boss. Be firm but patient. In return, your pet will give you and your family many happy moments.

About the Author
Puppy training tips - Learn more about boxer puppies available. Expert advice and tips on how to train your pet to be the perfect family pet.

Boxer Puppies - Growing Up to Become Useful Dogs

2009-05-06T13:20:00.001+03:00

The outward appearance of the boxer dog may look ordinary. The puppy grows up to be a mid sized dog, and most people are not frightened by the size of the dog. But the boxer has some interesting personality traits that make them ideal for many different situations. Most grow up to become extremely useful dogs. Here is why.

1) Sweet temperament.

The boxer pup has a sweet temper by nature. Trainers enjoy working with them. Therefore, they get a lot of attention from the trainers. They don't react excessively and seem to know when to tone down. Some dogs have incredibly high energy levels (think terriers) and a fiery temperament, making them harder to get along with.

2) Intelligent and obedient.

The boxer is so obedient and intelligent that it has been drafted to perform military and police operations. Mostly, they are involved with search and rescue work. Having a good temper means that they are usually stable, and behave in a predictable manner. This quality is important if you want the dog to fulfill an important role.

3) Sharp and protective.

Despite their size, boxer pups grow up to become courageous adults. They can be very protective over their owners. Their sensitive and sharp sense of smell and hearing helps them when they stand on guard. You often see boxer dogs being fielded as guard dogs by many homeowners.

If you want your boxer pup to grow up to become a useful dog, start training them early. The younger they are, the easier it is to train them. Pups are sometimes like small children - i.e. they absorb lessons like a sponge. They also tend to remember verbal commands better when you train them early.

In addition, it is important to teach your boxer pup the right social behavior as soon as possible. That means the moment you bring the young animal home, start to integrate the animal into the family environment. Bear in mind that dogs tend to behave differently in a group. If there is a leader, it will follow the leader's cue. If there is no leader in the group, there is a good chance that the dog may claim leadership. For sure, you don't want that to happen! If it does happen, your pet will be creating many undesirable problems for you. For example, you may find it hard to control the animal when taking it for walks. That is because it has assumed the leadership role.

So never let your boxer pet claim leadership over you. Assert your authority in a firm but loving manner. There is no need to get violent. All that is needed is a firm hand, and a firm tone of voice. Your pet will be able to sense your assertiveness, and will eventually assume the role of a follower.

Fortunately, boxers are such smart dogs that they seldom create unhappy situations for their owners. Young pups may be mischievous every now and then. Bot mostly, they are just being their playful self.

About the Author
Puppy training tips - Learn more about boxer puppies available. Expert advice and tips on how to train your pet to be the perfect family pet.

Top Ten Dogs

2009-05-06T13:17:00.001+03:00

Instead of all the serious dog training articles out there I've decided to write an article about the top ten dogs by the American Kennel Club. Every year the AKC announces the top ten dogs in terms of the number of registered purebred dogs. The list of the top ten dogs is usually fairly consistent from year to year,
Top Ten Dogs by the AKC in 2008

1. Labrador retriever 2. Yorkshire terrier 3. German shepherd 4. Golden retriever 5. Beagle 6. Boxer 7. Dachshund 8. Bulldog 9. Poodle 10. Shih Tzu

Top Ten Dogs by the AKC in 2007

1. Labrador Retriever 2. Yorkshire Terrier 3. German Shepherd Dog 4. Golden Retriever 5. Beagle 6. Boxer 7. Dachshund 8. Poodle 9. Shih Tzu 10. Bulldog

The Labrador Retriever which is the number one dog of 2008. In fact, the Labrador Retriever has been on top of the list for the past 18 years. The other nine breeds are also no strangers although their ranks vary from time to time.

You might also notice that there are 4 large dogs in the top ten dogs list. In terms of percentages however, the large breeds seem to dominate the list. The reason being is that the Labrador Retriever account for about 45% of AKC registered dogs.

Some breeds will always remain more popular than others but every so often a breed gets a leap in popularity usually from a popular movie or show (remember 101 Dalamtions). Which breeds would you like to see make top ten dogs list?

About the Author
Read more about the top ten dogs or visit my dog training blog and learn how to train a dog.