Boxers?

[TexasErin]

As some of you may remember, our 13-year-old Chow had to be put to sleep a couple of weeks ago. We are coping, but still really miss her- I know we always will.
We have decided to get 2 dogs- we wanted a purebred and also wanted to save a dog from a pound. We have put a deposit down on a Great Pyrenees puppy- she is 2 weeks old right now so it will be a few weeks before we get to bring her home.
For a rescued dog, I found a really cute boxer/black lab mix. I am just really afraid to get a boxer since their breed is strongly disposed to developing cancer. After just having lost Misty due to cancer, I really do not want to go through losing a pet again any time in the near future (I do realize there are no guarantees in life).
My question is do any DISers have any boxers or ever had any boxers? Did they seem to be pretty healthy? Did any of them live long lives? I just think they are the neatest dogs, but am kind of gun-shy right now.
Thanks,
Erin

 

[Deb in IA]

My DH grew up with a boxer. He loved that dog. Unfortunately, he has to be put down at age 7 due to cancer. (the dog, that is; not the DH).

Sorry.

 

[monkeyboy]

I thought this was an underwear thread

 

[poohandwendy]

My next door enighbor has a really wonderful boxer...but she did just have a tumor removed (not sure if it was cancer, though). Also, my best friend has a 2 yo boxer...also a great dog...nothing wrong medically...yet (I sure hope it stays that way).

My sister had one years ago, and yes, she had to put it down due to cancer (I think at about 3 years old). Another great dog.

I have never met a boxer I didn't like, but unfortunately, they do seem to have a few serious health issues ( I think hip dysplasia is also a biggie for them)...

BUT....on the flip side, the fact that the boxer you are looking at is a mix may be in your favor. BUT...on the other flip/flop side...labs also have issues with the hip dysplasia problem...so I really haven't been any help...LOL


I would maybe have a vet check out the dog, I think most shelters will allow that before you are obligated to keep the animal...(I know that animal shelters have vets, but I would seek my own vets opinion)

Good luck to you....

 

[Bob Slydell]

Originally posted by monkeyboy
I thought this was an underwear thread

Me too

...and, yes.

 

[TEENEE]

I had to laugh when I started to read this thread. I thought it was about underwear too.