How to Purchase a Boxer Puppy

In 2007, the boxer was ranked as one of the ten most popular breeds of dogs in the United States. When you consider the breed's overall good health, happy personality and beauty, it isn't surprising that so many dog lovers want one in their own home. When you are purchasing a boxer puppy, there are several things that you can do to make sure that you are getting a puppy that you will be happy with for the entire course of its life.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

1. Select a breeder. Don't purchase a boxer puppy from someone that decided to breed their boxer to another boxer simply because it seemed like it was a good way to use their family pet to make some extra money. You want to purchase a puppy from a person that loves the boxer as a breed, and breeds their dogs with the idea that they are improving the next generation of boxers.

2. Get to know the parents. It isn't enough to just play with the puppies, you also need to spend some time observing the parents. Watch to see if either of the parents has personality quirks that you wouldn't be able to live with. You want to know how the parents react with strange people, other dogs and their own puppies.

3. Ask to see the parents' health records. A good breeder will make sure that they kept all of their dog's health information and will be more than happy to let you see them. Make sure that both parents have tested negative for hip displaysia, an affliction that some boxers suffer from.

4. Make sure that the breeder has already taken them to the vet for their first round of vaccinations. The vet will look over the puppy's health and address any potential health problems. The puppies should be wormed when they are taken for their first shots.

5. Select a puppy that looks to be happy and is curious about new people. Even puppies that are shy and less assertive than their litter mates should be happy to curl up in your lap to take a nap.

6. Choose a plump puppy (but not potbellied, which can indicate worms). Its skin should be loose and pliable. Look for a puppy that has bright eyes that aren't runny or weepy.

7. Ask the breeder's advice. They know the puppies better than you do and will be able to guide you to a pup that they feel not only demonstrates desirable breed traits, but one that will also suit your family.