8 -9 week old boxer puppy

Question
QUESTION: We just got our puppy 4 days ago.  She HATES her crate.  She cries/barks and paws to get out.  She wants to sleep on our laps.  I know she's a baby, and needs socialization, but I don't want to baby her too much and give in to her, as I want to train her properly.  We have 4 children (3-16), she jumps and play nips and chases the 3 and 8 year old as they walk, then she gets so excited she's tugging at my pant legs as I walk.  I really wanted a breed that looks intimidating to strangers, but will be very loving with us.  I'm not the most confident dog owner.  I really have only had small dogs growing up.  Could you please give me some advice; I don't want to be afraid of my own dog when she's full grown.

Thank you.

ANSWER: The best thing to do is to enroll in a training class ASAP so they can teach you how to work with the dog and show you proven techniques for teaching them to sit/stay and down.   Be sure to find a trainer who is not too harsh and one that uses positive reinforcement as rewards.   You can also take a look at the following website.  www.paw-rescue.org  Look at Robin's Pet Tips on the home page.  It goes into detail about proper techniques for crate training, as well as detail on many of the problems you are currently experience and soon will be.     
If you are able to become the alpha dog and train your dog, you will not have any problem with her.  Boxers are wonderful family pets and very gentle once out of that crazy puppy stage.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thank you.  Most training classes I've called keep telling me she's too young.  I REALLY wanted her, but if I have to wait until she's 12 weeks (another 4 weeks or so), I don't know if I'll be too happy with her.  I don't like the aggression I'm seeing.  I know she's a puppy, but she's going to be big soon.  You mentioned getting into classes ASAP.  Is she ready?

Answer
Yes, she is definitely ready.  What training classes are you trying?  You might try finding a in-home trainer.  That would be the best type of training.  To get recommendations in your area, try contacting a local shelter, SPCA's, Humane Societies or rescue groups in your location.  To find a list of rescue groups in your area, you can go to www.petfinder.com and search for shelters within a certain zip code.