Handling your puppy
Throughout your boxer puppy's life you will need to handle him in order to take care of him. Learning how to handle you puppy can help you groom him, trim his nails, check for problems and give medications. All this will be made easier if you get your boxer puppy used to being handled on a regular basis. When the puppy is calm, or just waking from a nap you can gently run your hands over his feet and body while talking softly to him. Look into his ears and perhaps even open his mouth. You a reward such as praise or even tindy tidbits of food. Keeping the session short you should end it before he gets agitated and attemps to move away. This will help your puppy learn to trust you and allow you to care for him.
SNIP #3 While it may seem appealing to contemplate a cute litter of puppies, you should realize that breeding your Boxer is an unremitting commitment of time, money, and emotion. Maintaining contact with your Boxer's breeder over the years, and asking his advice, will prove immensely helpful when making a decision to breed. For the majority of pet owners, spaying the female Boxer is to be preferred. This operation will also lessen the risk in later life of mammary tumors and other reproductive diseases. The male Boxer may also benefit from being neutered, and this procedure will cool his desire for any neighborhood female dog in heat. Spayed and neutered animals are not eligible to compete in AKC Conformation classes, but may still participate in Obedience, Agility and Tracking events. |