Licknbounce Boxers, Fort Wayne, Indiana

Our Boxers' last name is Licknbounce.  We believe that is a good definition of a Boxer!  If you don't want to be licked and you don't want a playful dog perhaps a Boxer is not right for you.  Boxers also seem to bounce around like a rabbit or a deer when running at times. 

Boxer are often thought of as a dog that can "greet you" with both ends.  At times it seem they could break in half with how exhuberant they get with joy.  Even if you have been away from them for 15 minutes, they act and greet you as if it has been days or months since they had the joy of seeing you last!  A Boxer owner never feels unloved!

One of the primary characteristics that must be taken into account when considering a Boxer is the high energy level common to the breed. Boxers
are lively, active dogs, and may be too boisterous for some households.  Both of our Boxers use a tread mill for exercise especially in extreme winter cold months or hot summer months.  A Boxer loves to walk, run, jump and play.  At times it may seem like they never run out of energy but start petting or hugging and they turn into the biggest lap dog you've ever seen!

Boxers are extremely "people-oriented" and have a great need for human
companionship. Those who receive insufficient attention may resort to "bad"
behavior in an attempt to gain it. Boxers want to be where their Humans are at all times.  The Boxer is a natural guardian of his home, but should NOT be purchased solely for that purpose.

The Boxer is a HOUSE dog. While they may enjoy regular play and exercise
outdoors they are not suited for outside living. Their short coats cannot protect
them from long exposure to cold temperatures and their short muzzles make them susceptible to extreme heat.  White Boxers can even get sunburned if out in the sun too long.  Although the Boxer is a large dog, they are suited also for apartment living.  Boxers want to be with humans.

As with any breed, obedience training is essential for a well-mannered, disciplined companion. Boxers are a intelligent, clever breed. It is important to remember that an intelligent dog can devise more ways of getting into trouble than a dull one.  Boxers must be trained in a firm but fair manner - they do not respond well to (or deserve) harsh treatment.

The Boxer's short, tight coat requires little grooming, however like most breeds, they DO shed, particularly in Spring and Fall. The degree of shedding varies with the individual.  A soft brush is all that is needed and Boxers love the attention of being brushed.

Some Boxers, especially those with "loose lips" may drool. Usually this is only
an occasional occurrence, but some may find it unappealing. They may also rival any human with their ability to snore.

Many Boxers have their ears cropped, AKC does not set it as a standard of the Boxer any more. In Europe it is not allowed.  While many pet owners opt not to have this procedure, those who have their Boxers cropped must be
prepared to perform the necessary aftercare and taping to ensure the ears stand properly. This CAN be a lengthy process.

Some times you may wonder if your Boxer isn't part cat.  They are well versed at using their paws to get what they want.  They also can spend hours just catching bugs.

Other endearing qualities of a Boxer is their running for what seems to be for no apparent reason.  They dart around a yard or through your house, then come back and lay their head on your lap or hand or lay on their back with their feet in the air.  A boxer will always be a bit of a clown now matter their age.

* Finally, on the rather delicate subject of flatulence - the Boxers digestion is sometimes less than perfect. Even when fed a high quality food, SOME may have rather frequent and, well, noxious episodes of passing gas. This, of course, varies with the individual and may not occur at all.