Expert: Jannie Balliett - 3/7/2010

Question
Hi,
We have a 2 yr old male boxer called Alfie, who is from a litter of 6. One of Alfie's brothers got homed in the same town as us. We have recently heard his brother is up for re-homing due to his owner becoming unwell. We were thinking of taking on this boxer as a companion for Alfie and wondered if this would be a wise move. Both dogs have been neutered.
Many thanks in advance for your help

Answer
2 Boxers are better than 1 for sure.

They are social and need companionship, especially one of their own breed.

Do you know how he has been raised and socialized?

I think it will be fine, but you will have challenges. Two males will vie for the alpha position, and yours is the alpha in his home.

You need to be the alpha of him and everyone in your family, including people and dogs. As long as your Boxer knows you are alpha, then you will not have issues except for jealousy.

If you get him, be equal with your time and attention and treat the both the same.

You will need to establish that you are the alpha right away, and show him whose boss right off.

Congrats on two!