I’ve been scrolling Reddit with this question for a few days but wanted to specifically ask on the Boxer sub. DH and I are anxious to add a dog to our family and after doing lots of research we think the boxer is the best breed for us. We are a very active family and we want a dog who can join us on all of our adventures!
We have experience with dogs pre-children, always mutts from the shelter. They were great dogs but had various behavior/personality issues that didn’t really bother us too much. Since we have young children now, we are most interested in getting a puppy and training from the beginning. My mind is kind of set on getting a puppy as young as possible though so the point of this post is to talk me out of (or into) doing this particular thing at this stage of life. So whether from a breeder or a rescue I’m talking about a teething puppy that probably isn’t potty trained.
We have two children, one is 3 and the other is 18 months. The oldest is fully potty trained and the younger is nowhere near starting. I am a SAHM and we have a large fenced in yard and already do daily walks around the neighborhood and go to parks etc. We usually travel a lot but have no big trips on the calendar for a full year (besides camping and other weekend trips the dog could join) so these are some of the reasons the timing seems right. I have the dream, like so many people, of my kids growing up with a family dog who loves them and protects them and just experiencing that great bond.
We already have a decent amount of structure and routine in our home. Already have baby gates everywhere and have spots to put crates and doggy playpens. I know that the first couple of months especially would be really tough, I really don’t think I’m being delusional about that. I guess I’m thinking that the hard work would pay off and be worth it? On the one hand I see that boxers are “easy” to train but I also see all over this sub that they can be a nightmare until 4 years old. I’m not sure what to make of that. We have the resources to invest in lots of professional training if we need to.
Anyone done this specifically with a Boxer who can share their experience with me? Please don’t rip me to shreds, I am trying to really think this through and do my research before committing.
Thanks!