How to Choose a Boxer for Breeding

By eHow Pets Editor

Instructions

Step 1:
Decide whether you want to breed a male or female boxer. Breeding a female involves a greater time and financial commitment, but the reward is that you get to watch her raise her pups at your home. Owning a sire isn't quite as much work.
Step 2:
Know the AKC breed standard. This not only helps you choose your Boxer, it also helps you choose his mate. The AKC describes the ideal Boxer in great detail, from character and temperament to the proper third eyelid color. Choose a dog that's as close to the breed standard as possible, and always breed to improve.
Step 3:
Visit more than one litter of pups before you make a decision. Don't pick the first puppy that comes up and licks your hand. Examine the puppies and try to envision what they'll look like as adults.
Step 4:
Observe the bitch caring for her pups. Make sure she's keeping them clean, letting them nurse and allowing people to approach. If the sire is on the premises, go to meet him, too.
Step 5:
Study the puppy's pedigree, and research her ancestors. Make sure there are at least a few champions sprinkled throughout the family tree. Make sure there are no genetic diseases in the parents or grandparents, and make sure the parents have had their hips checked for dysplasia by PennHip. Get information on the puppy's lines from the AKC and the American Boxer Club.
Step 6:
Select the best dog from the best breeder. The breeder should be willing to steer you toward the best pups in the litter, especially if he knows your intentions. Choose a breeder who will help you in your future endeavors.

Resources

More Puppy Pages

How to Choose a Golden Retriever for Breeding

Instructions Step 1: Find a reputable golden retriever breeder. Ensure the breeder is serious about promoting the breed, provides a clean and healthy environment for her dogs, and provides good references from other dog buyers. Ask if the breeder shows...

How to Choose an Irish Setter for Breeding

Instructions Things You’ll Need: Irish setter Medical records including x-rays AKC registration forms Step 1: Buy a puppy for breeding from a reputable breeder. Look for healthy, well adjusted animals raised in a clean environment. Ask if the...

How to Choose a Rhodesian Ridgeback for Breeding

Instructions Step 1: Study the breed. In order to breed healthy and high quality Rhodesian Ridgeback puppies, you must first be very familiar with the breed. Learn the breed standard and correct structure, and know what the major faults are as well. Dog...

Instructions Step 1: Research the background of the particular breed of dog you are considering. If you are planning to breed purebreds it is particularly important to review the rules of the American Kennel Club (AKC). You can find information on their...

How to Choose a German Shepherd for Breeding

Instructions Step 1: Ensure that your female is in good condition by getting her examined by her veterinarian. Make sure that her hips are OFA certified and she doesn't carry any genetic problems that she can pass to her puppies. Step 2: Get referrals to...