When understanding how to train a Boxer, it’s best if you first do a bit of research about the behavioral characteristics of this breed. The Boxer first got its name due to an apparent tendency of some of the ancestral Boxers to stand up on their hind legs, while simultaneously “boxing” with their front legs. Boxers are generally good with children, and form a strong bond with their human families. Boxers may be distrustful of strangers at first, though can be easily won over after seeing that a person doesn’t exhibit any threatening behavior. Proper Boxer training involves patience, understanding, and a general respect for the instinctual desires of your Boxer.

How to Train a Boxer Puppy

Boxer puppies are very energetic, playful and curious about the world around them. Their high energy level means that they will require a lot of physical activity on a regular basis. Boxer puppies are fairly resistant to any sort of training program that uses extremely repetitious training methods. Because of this, they are often said to be slightly stubborn and headstrong. According to a study titled “The Intelligence of Dogs”, Boxers are of “average working and obedience intelligence”, ranked at #48 among other dog breeds. This means that they may require from 25 to 40 repetitions of a command before they are able to understand it. When responding to a “first” command, a Boxer has a 50% chance of obeying properly.

>Boxer puppies are best trained as soon as they come into your home. In their puppy life stage, a Boxer will constantly be learning about the world around them. Begin by teaching your Boxer puppy their name, since this is a good way to start establishing your role as your Boxer’s “teacher”. Since a Boxer puppy may be easily bored, it’s highly recommended that you use a food-based treat to help keep your puppy’s attention during some of your earlier training sessions. However, be careful not to feed your Boxer too many treats, or treats that have a high carbohydrate content. High-carbohydrate treats tend to cause digestive problems in many dogs, and may also cause health conditions such as joint problems and obesity.

How to Crate Train a Boxer

Proper Boxer training involves choosing a crate that can be designated “sanctuary” for your dog. A crate is not a place of exile, nor is it a place to be used for punishment. Dogs are den animals, and Boxers are certainly no exception. If done properly, you can establish the crate as a safe, comfortable area that belongs entirely to your Boxer. However, since Boxers may become lonely if left in the crate, it’s best if you place the crate in a family room, or other area where there is constant activity.

Be sure to only purchase a crate for your Boxer that is made of non-toxic material. Boxers may chew on the material of their crate, so it’s also best if you avoid buying a crate that is made of cloth or reinforced fabric. Plastic crates may be useful, but only if they have enough ventilation. Many Boxers do well in a crate that has a limited amount of cover, though is made of wire or metal. Be sure that you place bedding in your Boxer’s crate, as well as a few of your Boxer’s favorite toys. This will help them to become more comfortable with the concept of staying in their crate.

How to House Train a Boxer

Using a crate is usually the most effective method to use for house training a Boxer. Some Boxers may be stubborn, which may mean that they can be resistant to house training methods at first. However, crate training is a proven effective method that can help even the most obstinate Boxer to become house trained.

Put your Boxer in their crate after mealtimes, though only for a short amount of time. Allow them around 15 – 20 minutes to digest their meal, then immediately take them outside on a leash. Bring them to their approved bathroom area, and give them a reward when they go to the bathroom. If repeated, this process is usually the most effective way to house train a Boxer.

Boxer Training Tips

By training your Boxer, you are helping to strengthen the bond between you and your dog. However, due to their energetic nature, training a Boxer can be quite a handful! To help spend your Boxer’s energy prior to training, allow them from 20 to 30 minutes of high-intensity physical activity. This will help them to be better able to focus during training. In addition to this, by allowing your Boxer to exercise prior to training, you are also increasing the chance that your Boxer will pay attention to you when you incorporate any food-based rewards into the training program.

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