Best Boxer Dogs Info

As owner, it is your responsibility to maintain the maximum health of your Boxer dogs. Maintaining your dog’s health can be done in a lot of ways. One of the most effective ways is by feeding the right kind of foods. But feeding your Boxer dogs with either high quality store-bought dog foods or homemade dog food is not enough to power them and help them do their daily activities. Dog owners should realize that not all foods considered safe for humans are also safe for dogs to consume. There are a number of human foods that can poison a dog especially when taken in large amounts. The list below will guide you on what human food to avoid to prevent your Boxer dogs from being poisoned.

Chocolate

Almost everybody loves chocolate, right? It is not ironic therefore when dogs love it too. The rich and chocolatey goodness of this stuff made everybody crave for more. However, chocolate should not be fed to dogs because it contains theobromine, a compound that is a cardiac stimulant and a diuretic. Eating large quantity of chocolates may cause your dog to become excited and hyperactive. And since it is diuretic, he may eliminate large volumes of urine and will be unusually thirsty. Other symptoms include staggering, labored breathing, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, tremors, fever, heart rate increase, coma and even death.

Onions and Garlic

The toxic ingredient thiosulphate is what makes onion and garlic dangerous. Onion toxicity will cause haemolytic anemia, a condition in which the pet’s red blood cells burst while circulating in the body. Symptoms of haemolytic anemia are labored breathing, liver damage, vomiting, diarrhea and discolored urine. All forms of onion (dehydrated, raw, cooked and even table scraps containing onions) should be avoided. Though garlic also contains thiosulphate, it is less dangerous and would need to eat large amounts to cause health problems.

Grapes

Grapes contain an unknown substance which is toxic to dogs and may cause abdomnal pain, drooling, liver damage, kidney damage, vomiting, diarrhea,

convulsions, coma and death.

Macadamia Nuts

Along with most other kinds of nuts, macadamia nuts contain high phophorus that may cause bladder stones and locomotor difficulties. Tremor of the skeletal muscles and weakness or paralysis of the hindquarters can be seen in dogs poisoned by macadamia nuts. Other effects are swollen limbs, pain when the limbs are manipulated, inability to rise and distress.

Other potential dangers:

Bones- they can splinter and cause laceration or obstruction of the digestive system.

Coffee, tea, softdrinks

Beer, wine, alcohol

Milk and other dairy products

Raw fish and raw eggs

Salt, baking soda, baking powder

Excessive fatty foods

Avocado

-By: Richard Cussons

Richard Cussons writes articles about Boxer dogs. Visit boxersavvy.com and learn more about Boxer dog training.

One common problem affecting dogs, even your well cared Boxer dog, is skin related problem. Inhalant allergy is common in dogs as much as it is common in people. But unlike people who react to allergens through respiratory symptoms, dogs react through skin problems. In fact, pets almost always show allergic reactions through their skin, meaning, itchy skin may be due to food allergy, insect bite allergy or inhalant allergy. It is therefore a must to identify the underlying cause of itchiness before taking any measure to treat it.

Atopy in dogs is usually caused by the very same substances as those which cause reactions in people. These substances include pollens from trees, pollens from Bermuda grass, dust, mites and molds. If your Boxer dog shows seasonal itchiness, then it is caused by pollens. If the itchiness is present throughout the year, this maybe because of mold or dust.

Affected dog will display itchiness and scratching in every parts of the body, more severe on feet, flanks, groin and armpits. Biting, chewing at feet and constant licking can also be seen. Hair loss, skin lesions and inflammation may follow. Skin becomes thickened, greasy and has a strong odor. Ear flaps may become red and hot and may later lead to chronic ear infections. Constant chewing or scratching may give way for hot spots to develop and because of much licking, the dog’s hair color turns reddish to orange.

Atopy can be treated through various options. Symptomatic therapy (cool baths with or without Epsom salts or medicated shampoos) is frequently done however, this therapy provides only temporary relief. Corticosteroids are also used to reduce inflammation thus reduce itchy skin, however, they also affect every organ in the body. Side effects include increased thirst and appetite, increased need to urinate, inflammation of the pancreas, lethargy and termination of pregnancy. Consult your vet before giving these drugs to your dog. Antihistamines can be given as alternative to steroids. These drugs are far less harmful than steroids but not as reliable. Topical such as dips, soaks, shampoos and ointments are also used to reduce itching.

Atopy cannot be totally prevented since no one can really prevent airborne particles and allergens from messing your dear Boxer dog. However, if you know which substances your dog is allergic to, it is best to avoid those. Reduce molds by using dehumidifier or by placing activated charcoal on top of the exposed dirt in your house plants. Use air cleaner to control dusts and pollens.

You cannot stop allergies from affecting your dog but there is something you can do to help prevent the problem- be careful in choosing your potential pet. Before breeding, a reputable breeder screens breeding stocks for possible diseases these animals are carrying in their genes. Ask your breeder about it.

-By: Richard Cussons

Richard Cussons writes articles about Boxer dog. Visit boxersavvy.com and learn more about Boxer dog training.

A Boxer dog breed is an epitome of a strong dog with excellent working abilities, great love and loyalty to his master and the bravery to protect his master in times of danger. Who wouldn’t want to have this kind of animal as a pet or as a part of the family? Perhaps almost everybody will have arms wide open to welcome this versatile breed. But how come that some of this breeds fellows are being abandoned and turned over to shelters or rescue groups or worst, being left behind to wander on their own until they die due to dehydration, starvation or sickness?

There are many reasons or excuses why some of these formerly loved and adored beautiful creatures are abandoned by their previous owners. It could be inability to house and provide the animal with the physical and social needs in order for him to grow healthy and happy, or the lack of understanding of the cost of being a responsible dog owner. The list of these reasons or excuses goes on, each owner may have similar or different reason from another.

There are lots of homeless dogs out there who have been abandoned, neglected or abused by their previous owners. They need a good home with loving people that can provide them with their daily needs, be it physical, social or emotional. However, getting a new owner doesn’t happen at a snap of the fingers. Some people seem to think that abandoned dogs are abandoned because of health or behavior problems, thus won’t make good pets. But people should always keep in mind that not all abandoned dogs are problematic dogs. In fact, there are many advantages of adopting a dog, especially the adult one. Most dogs in the shelter are already house trained, thus eliminating the time and frustration associated with it. Most of them have completed their vaccination shots and have been spayed or neutered. In addition, by adopting a Boxer dog in your local shelter, you are being helpful to your community by freeing one space for the shelter to accommodate another pitiful dog. You help lessen stray dogs that could possibly destroy plants or public and private property in your area.

By adopting a dog, be it a Boxer dog or any breed, you are making a difference to the life of that pitiful creature. You give that creature the opportunity to continue living in the environment where love and care reside.

-By: Richard Cussons

Richard Cussons has written various articles on dogs. Visit boxersavvy.com for great information about Boxer dog and effective Boxer dog training tips.

There are many advantages of adopting a Boxer dog. But before the excitement of taking home the not-so-fortunate abandoned dog urge you to rush to the nearest shelter, you must consider many things. Here are some points to consider before you finally go for it.

- Identify your reason why you need a pet. Do you want a pet that could protect you and your family? Or do you prefer a working dog that is a good guide dog, hunting dog, service dog or therapy dog? Another reason could be because of companionship, someone you can cuddle, stroke lovingly, comfort you in times of turmoil, listen to you or will just spend some quiet moment with you. The reason why you want a pet is often the basis in choosing what breed suits your needs. Some breeds, like the Boxer dog breed is perfect for any household because of its versatility. A strong working dog that is safe to the family, even with children and will protect you even if it will cost him his life.

- Aside from breed, as well as size, fur length and age, think about the behavior of the dog. Choose a more aggressive or at least, strong dog if you want protection for your home and your family. If you simply want a dog you could play and hang around, then you might want to settle in getting a small toy breed.

- Think about your lifestyle. Remember that a dog, especially Boxer dog, requires vigorous exercise and activities to keep up with his active stamina. If you are busy as a bee and cannot provide your dog the proper exercise as well as care and grooming he needs, then you may not be ready to have this animal right under your care, or at least, right under your roof. Lack of time is one of the reasons why owners abandon their dogs in shelters.

- Consider your resources. You should be capable of providing things for the continued health of your dog. There are dog foods, dog beds, food and water bowls, leashes and other stuff to buy. You must also bear in mind that dogs do get sick sometimes thus necessitates the need for veterinary appointment. Veterinary bills could rise up especially if the disease requires a lifetime treatment and if there is no pet insurance to pay that mounting bill. Most owners only realized this when they are faced with the situation and there available option is to turn over the dog at the nearest shelter or euthanized the poor animal.

- Ask the family, or your companions at home if they all agree with the idea. Nothing felt better than having everybody welcome you and accept you as a new member of the family.

Don’t rush into taking a dog home. The best thing you could do is to think carefully the consequences of what you intended to do.

-By: Richard Cussons

Richard Cussons is a writer with knowledge on Boxer dog and other breeds of dog. Discover more Boxer dog training tips at boxersavvy.com.

Boxer dogs are medium-sized dogs with double and extremely short-haired coats that appear in colors of brindle, fawn and red. Don’t think that these dogs with shiny, smooth coat in varying colors are hard to groom. Boxer dogs usually clean themselves like cats thus frequent bathing may not be necessary. In fact, frequent bathing can dry their skin out. Give your Boxer a bath only when you think that he is dirty or when he smells dirty. Better ask your vet how often Boxer dogs should be bathed. And when it’s time to bath, do not worry. You never have to pay for the service of the groomer to groom your four-legged friend because bathing a dog by yourself is easy. Easy if you are aware of the simple steps needed in bathing a dog.

Prepare the needed tools first. Natural bristle brush, hard rubber brush, dog shampoo, towels and cotton balls to name a few. Before the actual bath, brush the coat completely with natural bristle brush to remove any knots or matting that they may have. If you need to cut a knot out, be careful not to cut close the dog’s skin. Then place a cotton ball in each of your dog’s ears, just inside the canal, to keep the water out of his ears. Place your dog in the tub filled with water almost to the top of his legs. The water should be lukewarm, not too cold nor too hot. Wet the coat thoroughly and lather with dog shampoo. Never use a human shampoo for this can strip essential oils in the dog’s coat. Apply and lather shampoo along the back, belly, legs and tail. Rinse off the shampoo thoroughly, rinsing the face and the head first. You might want to use conditioner after shampoo but it is not necessary every time they are bathed.

After bathing, take him out of the tub and remove the cotton balls from his ears. Squeeze as much water out of the coat as possible then towel dry him for a few minutes. Blow dryer can be used but remember not to use a high heat setting on the hair dryer. Now that your dog is clean, you can spray him with a doggie perfume to make him sweet-smelling dog you love.

And finally, reward your dog with lots of praise for being nice as well as your self for a job well done…

-By: Richard Cussons

Richard Cussons has written various articles on dogs. For information about Boxer dogs and Boxer dog training, check out boxersavvy.com.

What do you initially think of when you read those words above? Let us guess. You probably thought of a medium-sized dog with huge muscles, and a big face. And to most people, that picture is a bit scary. Yes they are a bit intimidating but beyond that face, Boxers can be such darlings. This is probably why a lot of Americans consider Boxer Dogs, a great family pet.

If you find it a bit hard to believe, here are some of their best characteristics that you are bound to love.

1. They are loyal to their masters. Once your dog has identified himself to belong in a family or pack, they will do almost everything to protect and love them.
2. Boxers are also good watchdogs. Even if they are good natured and generally friendly they can be a bit wary during encounters with strangers. So they may bark a bit and even show some teeth if they feel that his family is threatened.
3. They are intelligent. They respond well to obedience training and they can easily pick up non verbal cues. Owners consider Boxer Dogs, a great family pet because they seem to know when to keep quiet, and when to ask you to play.
4. Last, but most importantly not the least, Boxer Dogs blend well with humans and other pets especially if they were raised together. It may be a bit weird for a dog their size and intimidating features but believe it or not, they are one of the few who appreciates companionship and friendship.

-By: Jane Artisan

Jane Artisan is a stay at home mom and has been writing articles and building websites on various topics for quite some time. Check out her newest on the Boxer Dogs pet She built an information site on them http://www.dogcratesandkennels.net/

Being energetic and highly intelligent, training Boxer dogs is somewhat a challenge especially to inexperienced dog owners. Boxer dogs think independently and tend to follow their own will thus making the training challenging yet rewarding. Dog owners must be armed with proper and effective training tips and tools in order to successfully train their Boxer dogs. Below are some of the training tips I find effective in training a Boxer dog.

Start early

Start training when your Boxer is still a puppy. Start socializing your puppy in an early as three weeks old. Basic commands such as sit, down, come and fetch should be trained to puppies eight weeks of age.

Training should be fun!

Include lots of praise, treats and anything that will make training fun for your dog. Puppies have short attention span so keep training sessions short and enjoyable. Training sessions should last approximately 10-15 minutes with breaks in between sessions.

Avoid force or violence

Avoid training based on physical punishment. Punishing your dog either physically or verbally may end the undesirable behavior but inappropriate use of this training method may lead to a loss of enthusiasm in training, stress and even aggression.

Vaccines are important

Make sure that your puppy is vaccinated before sending him to a formal training school. Vaccination will prevent him from various diseases that he may acquire from kennels or pet stores during training.

Communicate with your dog

Communication plays an important role in training a dog that is why you must always understand what your dog is trying to tell you. Through body language, you can tell that your dog is happy, confused, nervous, excited, scared and so on. A stressed or distracted dog will not learn efficiently so set aside training for the moment if you think that your dog is not in the mood for training.

Suitable training method

Find which among the training methods is suited for your dog. Positive reinforcement training method is one of the widely used training methods. In this method, something is added in the situation to increase the chance of exhibiting the behavior again. Positive training includes clicker training, toys, treats, praise or play. If your dog does not respond well to positive training, you can use fear training method or training based on corrections. These training methods can be combined if necessary using positive training predominantly and occasionally incorporating fear training.

Use training tools

There are various tools to aid you in training your dog. This includes leash, different types of collars, crate and others. Choose which is appropriate for your dog and best suits the lesson or trick you are going to teach. Just remember to use these tools properly because misuse may lead to accidents that could injure or worst, kill your dog.

-By: Richard Cussons

Richard Cussons has written various articles on dogs. Visit boxersavvy.com for great information about Boxer dogs and effective Boxer dog training tips.

Keeping a dog for a pet and companion is a great idea for dog lovers. They say, if you don’t know how to take care of a dog, you won’t be a good parent to your children at all. Probably, such a strong phrase to prove but don’t doubt it, when you have a dog for a pet, responsibilities and expenses in keeping your pet healthy and happy are two fundamentals that you always need to bring about towards your pet dog.

The questions that you ask yourself prior to owning a dog will fill the responsibilities needed to keep one. They are not just animals, these creatures need understanding, attention and love. Unless you have time for your dog, don’t just instantaneously buy or adopt one if you are not ready to share your time with your pet.

Aside from giving a dog its food and bath, are you up for the daily walks that your dog will need? People who tend to fall for a puppy’s cuteness alone fails to look at the pure work of looking after it as it grows up. Because of this, some dog owners would put their pets in animal shelters after realizing that keeping a dog as pet didn’t work out after all.

Boxer dogs are a strong breed. As much as how strong they are physically, this breed needs much attention and love as well as an adorable retriever. When a boxer dog is looked after adequately, they put their best paw forward to proving to their owners that they deserve the treatment that is rightfully theirs. A boxer dog’s trait gives off so much of its exuberant quality when they are treated properly. They are an intelligent breed as well but remember, when training them, obedience surfaces after a while so it is just right that you wait and be patient with their everyday progress.

-By: Shareen Aguilar

Click Boxer Dogs to find out more about making your Boxer happy, healthy and obedient.

Many purebred dogs have health issues, but don’t let that keep you from owning such a wonderful dog as a Boxer. Just make sure and buy him or her from a well known breeder.

Boxers are susceptible to several health issues like the heart problem aortic stenosis (an obstruction to the flow of blood), cancer, digestive troubles, hypothyroidism, hip dysplasia and allergies. All dogs can be susceptible to recurring bladder infections and a boxer dog with a bladder problem is no exception if they do not have the proper diet and are exposed to antibiotics on a continuing basis. Boxers especially with their predisposition to allergies can actually become allergic to antibiotics.

Signs of a bladder infection in Boxer dog, or any dog, can include but are not limited to, urinating inside the house when they never have, urinating in their sleep and on their bed, or if they become excited and leak urine. If your dog shows an aversion to urinating in their usual spot, this might be from avoiding a painful urination they have associated with that location. Also, if your dog is trying to pee and you see that nothing is passing through, there might be a urinary obstruction.

Because Boxers develop so many allergies your veterinarian may test for allergens to antibiotics and if your dog keeps getting repeated infections they may even have a resistance to antibiotics which only means having to give your pet stronger and stronger doses. Antibiotics are fine when the infection has gone too far. But remember, antibiotics only treat the bacteria not the real issue behind the problem. When your dog has no immediate infection you may want to boost their immune system which can help eliminate future problems. Some people recommend vitamin C or cranberry capsules in the food. These are fine for restoring the pH balance which will aid in reducing bacteria in the urinary tract, but there are also other products that can support overall health even more.

Always supply fresh water, if possible use a filter. A very doable alternative to dry food is to feed a raw diet or canned food as it has a great deal more moisture and moisture is a very important component to bladder health. Also check the ingredients if not feeding a raw diet. Make sure the food does not have binders and cereals as the first ingredients. A Boxer dog with bladder problem will also benefit with products that contain the herbs Berberis, Staphysagris and Uva Ursi. These herbs combined together help support the urinary system and can be used on a daily basis to strengthen your pet’s bladder.

-By: Rebecca Shelly

Visit Natural Pet Cures to find all the natural remedies your pet needs to stay healthy and to live a long life, including those for urinary tract health.