Boxer Puppy Questions and Answers
What families ask us about our puppies and about living with a Boxer.
Buying a Puppy
How do I reserve a Boxer puppy?
Choose a puppy from the available puppies, then fill in the application form with that puppy's name. We read every application and reply by email.
Can I ask questions before I apply?
Yes, please do. Send a message through the contact form or email info@dracoboxers.com about a puppy, getting it home or the breed itself.
How old are Boxer puppies when they go home?
At 9 weeks old. Each puppy's age is on its card on the available puppies page.
What comes with a puppy?
Every puppy goes home with the standard starter kit: a few days of the food your puppy is already eating, a blanket that smells of the litter, a comfort toy and a chew toy, a puppy collar, the health record with vaccinations and deworming to date, a care guide for the first weeks, and the written health guarantee.
Do your puppies have docked tails and cropped ears?
Our puppies have docked tails and cropped ears. Our guide to Boxer tails and ears explains the choices.
What if the puppy I want is reserved?
Reserved puppies stay on the available puppies page with a Reserved label. Tell us what you are hoping for (color, boy or girl, and when) and we will let you know when a puppy like that is ready.
Where are you located?
In Macedonia, Ohio, between Cleveland and Akron. You can pick your puppy up from us, or we arrange ground delivery or a flight nanny. More about us as Boxer breeders.
Price
How much is a Boxer puppy?
Each puppy's price is on its card on the available puppies page, and the price page explains what is included.
How much does delivery cost?
It depends on the method and the distance. Tell us your town and state through the contact form and we will give you the options and a quote.
What does a Boxer cost to keep?
Plan for a large-breed food, routine vet care (vaccination boosters, heartworm and flea prevention, an annual check-up), pet insurance if you want it, training classes, sturdy toys, and a crate, bed, collar and leash at the start. Boxers are big, strong chewers, so budget for toys that last.
Getting Your Puppy Home
How does my puppy get to me?
Three ways: pick up in person, ground delivery to your door, or a flight nanny who flies with your puppy in the cabin to your nearest airport. The delivery page explains each way.
Is my puppy checked by a vet before it leaves?
Yes. Every puppy has a vet visit before it goes home, and it leaves with its health record showing the vaccinations and deworming it has had so far.
What should I do on the first day?
Keep it calm. Offer water, a small meal, and a quiet place to sleep; a tired puppy is normal after a journey. Take it outside to the same spot after every meal and nap, keep visitors few for a day or two, and book your own vet check within 72 hours.
Health Guarantee
Do your puppies have a health guarantee?
Yes, a 1-year written health guarantee. The full terms are on the health guarantee page.
The Breed
How big do Boxers get?
The AKC breed standard puts males at 23 to 25 inches at the shoulder and females at 21.5 to 23.5 inches. Most males weigh roughly 65 to 80 pounds, and females about 15 pounds less. Boxer size and growth.
How long do Boxers live?
Usually around 10 to 12 years. A healthy weight, regular vet checks and knowing the early signs of the breed's common problems all help. How long Boxers live.
Are Boxers good family dogs?
Usually, yes. Boxers are affectionate, playful and loyal, and they tend to be patient with children they are raised with. They are also big and bouncy for the first couple of years, so supervise play with small children. The Boxer temperament.
Do Boxers shed?
A little, all year, with more in spring and fall. The coat is short, so a weekly rub with a rubber curry brush keeps it under control. Boxers are not hypoallergenic. Boxer shedding.
How much exercise does a Boxer need?
A lot: daily walks plus real play, and something to think about, such as training games. A bored Boxer finds its own entertainment. Keep exercise gentle in the heat, because the short muzzle makes Boxers overheat easily.
Can a Boxer live in an apartment?
It can, with enough daily exercise, but check your lease first: many buildings limit pets by weight, and an adult Boxer is often over the limit. A house with a fenced yard is easier.
More in the Boxer guide. Still have a question? Send us a message or email info@dracoboxers.com.