Expert: Jannie Balliett - 1/14/2010

Question
Hi Jannie,

We have an almost 8 year old, fawn, female boxer that who uptil just recently (beginning of October 2009)grew up with a dog sister (lab/golden retriever mix, female) since each were about 8-10 weeks old.  Unfortunately we lost our mix to lymphoma. My husband, 2 children (5 and 3) and baby on the way adore our boxer! But as we are gone all day for work and school, we feel as if she is quite lonely since losing her "sister".  We are considering getting another dog, but not sure of the gender, (heard female boxers are good with other females), age and breed/size.  Could you give us some suggestions and recommendations?  We would really appreciate your input and/or insight. Thanks!  

Answer
Actually, female and female is not a good idea.

Females are the more aggressive of the breed- and two will clash unless you get a puppy for her to "raise" and foster.

I would suggest a male Boxer... a puppy would be good so she can raise it like her own and gain an emotional attachment.

If you own one Boxer- then, two are better.

Boxers know another Boxer and are unique all to their own- they play uniquely with another Boxer, as they do not with other breeds.

I recommend a male Boxer puppy for her to be a "step-mom" and raise- it will help her.

But, if she is not spayed and still has her heat cycles, take precautions during those months so she doesn't get pregnant at her age. It could kill her. If she is spayed, you have nothing to worry about.

Good luck.