Boxer Companion

Question
Hi

I have a 15 month male boxer who needs a freind. We have a 13 year old female lab who really wants nothing to do with him and his energy:)

We are looking at another boxer but do not know if we should get a female or a male. He is neutered. We also want to get one that is around 1 year old b/c we do not have the time to commit to the training of a little puppy.

Any help would be great.

Answer
Hi Kirsty,

Generally speaking, opposite-sex pairs work best -- same-sex pairs are more prone to fighting. That said, it really depends more on the individual dogs than the gender. Since you're looking for an older puppy/adolescent, you'll have a better idea of the temperament of both dogs, which can increase the odds of a successful pairing.

Boxer rescues often have adolescent dogs, turned in because of their high energy and exuberance (and lack of training). Sometimes a breeder will have an older puppy they were "running on" that didn't turn out for show/breeding. Either source will have observed the dog to determine its temperament, how it gets along with other dogs, etc. and will probably want to meet your current dog to be sure the two will get along.

You can also increase the odds by ensuring that you are the one who sets, teaches, and enforces the rules; basic 'good manners' training with your boy now, if you haven't done that already, will help establish your role with him, and make it easier to establish with the new dog. Training also uses physical and mental energy, so may take some of the edge off your boy. :)

Good luck!!