Resources
Health
Boxers, as a breed, have some health concerns that we work diligently to breed away from. The two cardiac diseases are considered mandatory testing, and the rest are considered optional. We choose to test for all of them.
SUB AORTIC STENOSIS (SAS) This is a congenital condition, a narrowing or constriction of the outflow tract from the left ventricle to the aorta. It can be tested by a cardiologist after the age of two using a color Doppler machine. We will not breed any boxer with an aortic flow rate greater than 2.0m/s or display any other evidence of SAS as diagnosed by veterinary cardiologist.
ARRYTHMIC RIGHT VENTRICULAR CARDIOMYOPATHY (ARVC) This is a malfunction of the electrical impulses that make the heart beat properly. We test for this yearly using a Holter monitor and a cardiologist. The report lets us know if there are abnormal heartbeats. We will not breed dogs that have failed this test in the opinion of a cardiologist or dogs that have not had a clean test within the last 18 months. Note: The DNA tests for this disease DOES NOT clear a dog from developing ARVC. Regular Holters are still the most effective way to screen breeding stock.
DEGENERATIVE MYLEOPATHY (DM) affects ageing dogs through deteriorating nervous function in the hind end. We use a DNA test to screen for the genes that make a dog susceptible to this disease and research pedigrees to look for dogs that developed the disease, breeding away from the genes.
HIP/ELBOW DYSPLASIA is the improper development of the hip or elbow joint. We screen for this with X-rays taken after the age of two, which are then analyzed by the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals for grading and certification. Historically, this is not a boxer problem, so many older or deceased stud dogs may not have these clearances. We combat this with pedigree research.
THYROID testing tests overall thyroid health, as thyroid abnormalities may indicate future autoimmune problems, including, but not limited to, allergies, digestion troubles, and even some cancers. We use this to measure thyroid health and to steer our breeding decisions towards strong thyroids. Historically, this is not a boxer problem and is considered optional by many breeders. For deceased stud dogs, we rely on pedigree research for allergies, cancer, and probable auto-immune issues.
Activities
Dog activities come in many different forms. Dog breeds were developed for a variety of purposes and the activities we have today harken back to the tasks your dog was traditionally bred for. Boxers are unique in that they were designed to be an overall utility dog. That means they should be athletic and smart enough to be able to do any task put before them. Their extreme versatility makes the unique and also allows owners to participate in such a wide variety of events.
Activities are more than walks. Many behavior outbursts and problems stem from a bored or restless dog. Activities keep your dog healthy inside and out, will strengthen your bond, and will create a well-rounded obedient dog that is a joy to share your home with. Here are some of the most accessible sports for your boxer:
Conformation
Involves having your dog ’show off’ so to speak. This sport involves your dog demonstrating what a true boxer looks and acts like to earn titles and awards, and we all know how much a boxer loves to show off!
Rally Obedience
A sport that combines the fun, spontaneity, and obedience all in one package. Great for beginners and experts alike, the rally community is welcoming and classes are offered at most obedience schools.
Competition Obedience
An amped up version of obedience, the dressage of dog sports so to speak. The goal is flawless performance between dog and handler. Perfect for those who love attention to detail!
Agility
Fast-paced and exciting sport sending your dog over and through a variety of obstacles and challenges. Great for athletic dogs who love a good run.
Nose Work
Involves teaching your dog to use his nose and locate particular scents in different environments. If you’re looking for a low impact but highly rewarding acitity, this sport delivers.
Barn Hunt
Similar to scent detection and nose work except your dog is looking to find a hidden rodent (secured in a tube) among bales of hay. This is a very fun sport that again works a dog’s brain.
Tracking
Exactly like it sounds. The dogs are taught to pick up a specific scent and track it to its source in a variety of environments. Great if you love walking and a mentally tired dog!
Protection Sports
A variety of sub sports but it generally involves your dog doing obedience, tracking, and takedowns. Great for enthusiastic and athletic dogs to learn control and obedience.
Lure Coursing
Traditionally only open to hounds but now any breed can do it! It’s all about the chase in this sport, getting your dog to chase a lure. Wonderful for dogs who love to run.
Nutrition
Nutrition is the building block of a healthy and robust dog. From puppyhood through to senior years, proper nutrition is crucial for your dog’s quality of life. It not only keeps the body strong and capable of tackling all that life throws at it; it also preserves dental health and has a tremendous impact on soundness of mind.
Over the years, we have fed our dogs various diets based on the most current information available and real-world results compiled by the dog sporting community. There is no one perfect diet for all dogs. What works for our dogs includes combining whole foods and different brands of commercially prepared foods such as kibbles. Existing evidence and our own experience have confirmed that feeding a varied diet of quality foods helps our dogs thrive.
Whatever method of feeding that fits in with your lifestyle, we will provide guidance and sample menus of how to keep your dog in peak condition throughout its life stages. This includes a continuously updated list of the best kibbles on the market and raw resources applicable to your area. It also includes some essential supplement recommendations to make the most out of the diet that works for your dog and your lifestyle. Do you have a dietary question? We are only a MESSAGE away!
Frequently Asked Questions
How much are your puppies?
Our puppies are $3500. This includes a 5-year health guarantee that’s pretty extensive (see Ownership Agreement), temperament evaluations, structural evaluations, a vet check at 8 weeks that includes cardiac auscultation, chiropractic check, vaccine protocols, wormed, microchipped, 30 days of pet insurance, CKC registration, a book containing all records including parental records, and training plans tailored to the needs of your family and your puppy’s traits.
Do you have a waiting list?
We do, and we don’t. When we have a litter planned and have opened up applications, we have a ‘waiting pool’ instead of a ranked waiting list. Applicants are evaluated and invited to meet us and the dogs via Zoom. Once we’ve established lifestyle needs and suitability, applicants become part of our waiting pool. Although we always consider how long an applicant has been waiting, we do not necessarily place puppies on a first-come, first-served basis. Matching the right puppy with the right family is what matters the most. Sign up for EMAIL NOTIFICATIONS about upcoming litters and ownership applications.
Do I get to pick my puppy or let a puppy pick me?
Not exactly. The temperament testing and structural evaluations we do at 8 weeks will determine which puppy or puppies are best suited for you, your family, and your lifestyle. A puppy picking you is a feel-good myth that has no basis in fact. The truth is when you visit a litter, the best puppy for you might be sleepy while the wrong puppy for you just woke up and wants to crawl into your lap. Everyone is welcome to attend our evaluations so you can observe each puppy and we can explain their traits. You will gain a much deeper understanding of why we recommend the companions we do. While your gender preference is important, we will not make any placement recommendations based on colour preferences.
What is the AVIDOG system and why should I care?
AVIDOG combines science, art and over 40 years of dog breeding experience, to create, develop and present puppy rearing courses, programs, and equipment for puppy owners and dog breeders. Their goal is to help people raise healthy, stable, and fit dogs. Since joining Avidog, we have added their standards and protocols to our breeding program, enhancing how we raise puppies. This includes the APET temperament test. View SPROUT’S APET REPORT from the I LItter for reference.
Why do I have to take my puppy to classes instead of training it at home?
Puppy socialization and training is something we take very seriously and this includes 2 rounds of structured classes before the puppy turns 12 months of age. Your puppy needs to learn how to work and stay calm in a host of distracting and neurotic environments, not just in your home. They also need to learn how to ignore other crazy dogs and obnoxious people. It’s easy to teach a dog new tricks in your living room, but what you cannot simulate at home is the bonkers environment of a puppy or adolescent class. A puppy class is a temperament building goldmine!
I live pretty far away. Will you transport a puppy?
We prefer new families to come and pick up their puppy personally. Occasionally transport is available from us depending on location. Those living outside of Canada will require a transport professional through the International Pet and Animal Transportation Association. Transport across the Canadian border will have customs clearance requirements. Be sure to visit your country’s border services website for specific requirements. Travel is an additional expense so budget accordingly.
Are white boxers sickly or defective?
NO!!! They come from the same bucket of DNA as their coloured siblings. There are no genetic abnormalities associated with boxers based solely on color. The only concern with white boxers is a slim chance of deafness due to lack of pigment in the ear drum which we test for once they are about 6 weeks of age. Because they cannot be shown, white boxers are considered loving companions or performance prospects. All of our health guarantees apply to white puppies as well as their coloured littermates. Article: The Genetics and History of White Boxers – H. Lund