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Help- I am wanting a dog very badly!

15 years ago

I used to have a wonderful, sweet, very well behaved Boxer. She lived to be 13 yrs. when we had to put her to sleep. It broke my heart and I still dream about her.My husband is a dog lover also and a cat lover. We have one cat and she is quite spoiled. My DS is in law school and has a beautiful Australian Sheppard. I just adore her and having them home over Thanksgiving made me think I would love to have a dog. We are empty nesters as well. But then I think about the fact that we do not have a fenced in yard. I would love another Boxer- What are your thoughts?

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Comments (7)

mpinto
15 years ago
If your husband is on board, get a fence or an electric fence and get a dog. As long as you are home enough and have someone to watch it if you go away, I don't see why not.
mazer415
15 years ago
You do not need to have a fence to own a dog, keep it inside with you (after all they are social animals) play with it, teach it stupid pet tricks and leash walk it often, take it for rides in the car to explore other places. Please remember that all dogs aare different and your new dog can not live up to your memories of your boxer. Check with the local rescue groups and humane society and see what is in store, if you are uncertain, foster a dog for awhile.Good Luck.
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cynthia_gw
15 years ago
A fence could make you and the dog lazy. Walking the dog on leash is the start of all training and the dog learns to control impulses and work with you. That doesn't happen when the dog is 'let out' in the yard for potty and left to entertain himself there. Plus, most dogs don't get the exercise they need if they have a yard. A little sniffing and chasing objects through the fence is not the same as a good brisk walk with sights and sounds and new things every day. Walking socializes your dog to other animals and people.

So figure out if you have time for a dog in your life and don't worry about a fence. You only need a leash!
northy
15 years ago
If you and DH think you're ready, go for it. There are so many great dogs out there needing homes.

Lack of a fenced yard is not an insurmountable problem. As already mentioned, exercise can be done elsewhere and potty breaks can happen out on walks.

Some rescue org. may question the lack of fencing, even though you obviously wouldn't be turning the dog out un-attended.

I think it is great you and DH are ready to open your home again. For me, a home is not a home without a few furry beasts :)
todancewithwolves
15 years ago
Maybe you could find a Boxer rescue group in your area and foster one? That's how I came upon my little guy and now I have 2. I'm a foster failure :-)
Elly_NJ
15 years ago
More than a fenced in yard, you need time for exercise and consistent training. Hope it works!
joepyeweed
15 years ago
A fence isn't required... and today's electronic fencing systems are nice.

And people with pets are healthier and less depressed than people without pets...

If you are willing to make the committment, go for it.

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