Will a new puppy age my dog?

BoxerSwim · #1 21st February 2006, 01:51 PM

I'm not sure if this is the right forum to post this, but here goes:
I was told by another boxer owner that if I got a younger brother or sister for our 20 month old, Gwen, that she would stop acting like a puppy herself. This person told me that she would become motherly toward the puppy and stop being the clown that we know and love. Any truth to this? Has anyone had this experience? We are considering a sibling, but would never want to prematurely end Gwen's puppyhood, we're having too much fun ;-)
-Gwen's Mom

**Jan** · #2 21st February 2006, 04:29 PM

If anything I would think it would rejuvenate the older dog.

SILLY6PAK · #3 21st February 2006, 08:03 PM

I can see where your friend is coming from but you are seeing the negative. In my experience they still act like silly puppies but there is a maternal side that comes out. With Mia all the others watched her by the horses, no going up the drive by the road.... Poor Mia had lots of parental supervision.
With the Yorkie the dogs will be playing all rough and loud with each other and then switch and are exceptionally gentle with the little one. The love is amazing. You will not regret adding to your family.

Lisa_p · #4 22nd February 2006, 12:48 AM

Sugar and Ray were always playful in their Golden years but certainly more sedated. Since losing Ray and getting Odie, Sugar (nearly 10) is playing with Odie non stop, Ok he isnt giving her much choice, but she seems to be loving it and going back for more. It is play play play, sleep sleep and play play play some more.

Even if she does maybe become a little more maternal, I don't think you would have any regrets, two boxers, double the loves and fun.

Hobart Ave. · #5 22nd February 2006, 06:44 AM

Boxers are known for their long-lasting puppy behavior. Nestle was 5 when Hobart arrived on the scene and it was like a spark was rekindled. They play for hours whereas before she had started lounging the day away except for brief moments of energy. I think your girl will have a blast with a new sibling and I can't imagine her losing her clownish nature. I say go for it! Having two around the house is the best!

xenaprincess · #6 22nd February 2006, 07:48 AM

Boxers lose their clowning abilities?? NO WAY!! LOL..I have 10yr old Xena and 2yr old Spirit. If anything, Spirit has rejuvenated Xena and given her her youth back!! As for becoming maternal, in my opinion, boxers are naturally maternal! They nurture, they are loving and are canine clowns because that is the genetic make-up of a boxer. Also, having an older one often helps with the training of a new pup. If you are having fun with one, wait until there is 2...double the fun!

richarc6 · #7 22nd February 2006, 01:10 PM

It is not a disappointment though. When we had Ruckus, Ali was the always considered the baby. When we lost Ruckus and brought home the new puppy last month--she grew up immediately. She does act motherly and has strangely enough taken Ruckus' characteristics--which is very memorable to see. It's been a very interesting transition....She is still a goofy baby girl though! Now HE's getting into everything and HE's getting in trouble all of the time. Ha ha! She has turned into an angel. I can't tell you how strange this is to see this 180 in her! Don't fret, they still make funny noises and do silly stuff.

Carolyn

Mom to:

Ali 2yr brindle baby girl
Dempsey 12 week flashy fawn male

Ruckus, love of my life..... 04-00/01-06

BoxerSwim · #8 22nd February 2006, 05:03 PM

Thanks all! I'm happy to hear it. Maybe Gwen will have a new brother or sister soon!