To find out about different dog *registries* and what the differences are: Essay on Registries

For education on how a boxer should look go to the World Wide Boxer web pages. They have one of the best sites for this. Next read Are You Ready For a Puppy? If you can read that and honestly say *yes* then you are ready to find out the most important subject: just what is life with a boxer really like?

A boxer is an elegant striking looking dog if bred well; but, it is also a dog for a certain type of dog owner. A boxer is definately *not* a dog for just anyone. Here are some traits every potential owner should be aware of:

A boxer is:
1. Stubborn: they can be very difficult to train as they are not truly *pleaser* type dogs
2. Smart: smarter than the average dog, they have to understand why they should want to do something for you.
3. Active: mentally and physically very active dogs. If they are bored and don't get enough exercise, they will become destructive and/or neurotic.
4. Needy: they *need* human interaction and to be part of the family.
5. Weather sensitive: Having short single layer coats and short noses, boxers are sensitive to both heat and cold. They are indoor dogs. Short coats give no protection against the weather or bugs, and shorter noses make them prone to over heating in warm weather.
6. Protective: While many see this as only good, an over protective boxer that's encouraged to be that way can become a dangerous dog to others. They should be alert, but not aggressive.

   Finally; what's a *responsible breeder* and why a puppy from one? Here's an excellent article on why you want to be careful *who* you buy a puppy from: Responsible Breeding

   And another on what goes on behind the scenes with Pet Store Puppies.

Here you will find pages that showcase life with boxers; both the ups and the downs. A picture is worth a thousand words, and when it comes to boxer destruction, even that may not be enough.

Album 1: I can't believe they did that! Guest photos welcome.

Album 2: The Fun Stuff

Boxer Friendly Stuff: things we use or have good recommendations from others.

Recommeded Books on
Boxers, Training, Health,& Breeding

We have found these books to be very helpful in learning about Boxers, the best training methods, learning about conformation, shows and showing, genetics, and breeding information.

If you are new to dogs and-or puppies, this is a great book to start out with: A dog in the Family
Expanded Description:
"The best dog owners are as committed to their dogs as they are to other members of their family." A psychologist's guide to a happier, healthier relationship with your pet. Making choices, preventing problem behaviors, surviving puppyhood and adolescence, educating your dog, and dealing with all kinds of problems your dog may already have developed.

Boxers for Dummies is a great starter book for those interested in getting their first Boxer or those looking for reference material.
World of the Boxer is a must have reference book with all kinds of information, including lots of pictures of dogs in many of our pedigrees today, training, puppies, history and more.
Mother Knows Best is one of the best puppy training manuals I have come across. I recommend it for all puppy buyers, along with Culture Clash for training. Starting *right* with a Boxer is very important, and those 2 books will definately help you do that.
The 2 showing books below are both for beginners, and do a great job of explaining how shows work, the points system, how to show your dog, and the politics of showing.
The Dog Owner's Veterinary Handbook is a must have for every dog owner, a great health and emergency reference book. Mine has had a lot of use, both for ourselves and friends.

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