Boxer Dog Behavior Problems

Most Boxer dog behavior problems can be avoided by a conscientious owner who sees that his Boxer dog receives early socialization and obedience classes. Below is a list of the most common behavior problems owners have reported.

Aggression In Boxer Dogs

For all their ferocious appearance, the Boxer is actually a gentle family dog, good with children and other pets. Aggression to people or other dogs is the result of three happenstances, each of which alone could cause the aggression or can combine with any other to exacerbate the problem.

  • Lack of early socialization

  • Lack of obedience training and/or consistent enforcement of training

  • Bad breeding

Aggression is the number one reason people give up their Boxer dogs, so early training is necessary to control this potentially harmful behavior problem.

Excessive Barking Behavior in Boxer Dogs

Nothing is more frustrating than trying to deal with a dog that barks for no reason. Boxer dogs are naturally protective of their families and will bark when they sense danger but, left unchecked, the barking can escalate to unbearable levels. Most trainers agree that a barking dog is a bored dog and generally agree that more exercise, either in the form of a long walk or vigorous play, will leave him too tired to bark.

Digging Problem in Boxer Dogs

Almost all dogs will dig at some time in their life, but if your yard is being destroyed by your Boxer dog's excessive digging, there are things you can do to stop him. Don't leave the dog alone in the yard long enough for him to get bored and start digging. Lay chicken wire across his favorite digging spot and cover it with dirt. Your Boxer will not like the sensation of his claws hitting the chicken wire. Another option is to get a special mat that will buzz or vibrate if he steps on it. Most dogs will respond by leaving the area.

Excessive Chewing Behavior in Boxer Dogs

One of the most expensive behavior problems in Boxer dogs is excessive chewing. Boxers have large strong jaws and teeth and like to use them. There are some steps you can take to keep your furniture, floors and household furnishings intact when you must leave your dog alone. Crating the dog or keeping him confined to a dog-proof area of the house is a good first step. Another tactic is to tire him out with vigorous exercise so he only wants to rest while you're gone. And don't leave him alone for long periods of time, eight hours should be the maximum. If you must be gone longer than that, make arrangements for someone to come in and take him out for a romp in the yard or for a walk.

Biting or Nipping Behavior in Boxer Dogs

Biting and nipping begins when your Boxer is a puppy and is a normal part of puppy play. But when you consider the size and strength of an adult Boxer's jaws, you can see why it should not be allowed. Obedience classes or working with a personal dog trainer will help stop this annoying and potentially harmful behavior.

A well-trained, regularly exercised Boxer who receives consistent training enforcements will seldom exhibit these problem behaviors and make a wonderful pet.

 

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