boxer v/s dalmation

Question
do spayed dalmations still get their periods..what is beter to take in a boxer pup or an 8 month old spayed dalmation...which would be better with my 3 years old son

Answer
Hi, Cindy,

Spaying a dog is the same as a hysterectomy on a woman; so to answer your question, no, a spayed dog will not still come into heat (have periods).

As far as whether a boxer or dalmatian is a better fit for your son, I am unable to answer that for you.

Both dogs are high-energy and will require obedience training.  Boxers tend to stand on their hind legs in play (and hit with their feet - "box") so that might be a little intimidating for a young child.  Dalmatians, on the other hand, can be a little temperamental.

I would suggest going to the American Kennel Club site (www.akc.org) and reading about the temperament of both breeds.  If you have the opportunity, spend some time with each of the dogs you are considering to see what their personality is like.

And, of course, with ANY breed of dog, you will need to supervise your son with the dog.  When dogs bite children, it's often not the dog's fault, but the child's, if the child has pinched or pulled on the dog.

Here is some information that I hope will be helpful once you've made your decision.

http://www.ddfl.org/behavior/kidsdogs.pdf
http://www.ddfl.org/behavior/educated-dog.pdf
http://www.ddfl.org/behavior/dogbite_guide.pdf