People often complain to me that their particular puppy isn't anything like the Labrador, Spaniel, or whatever specific breed they had before. I gently explain that no two dogs are alike just as no two siblings are completely alike unless perhaps they are identical twins.
I am the youngest of three sisters and apart from a slight similarity around our mouths and eyes, we were as different as chalk and cheese, in looks, physique and character. The only characteristic which we inherited from our father - and which we hated - was our ugly knees! Perfectly acceptable for a tall, strong, rugby-playing man but totally inappropriate for three daughters especially in the days of mini skirts!
But back to dogs and breed characteristics. There are always certain traits in specific breeds that are automatically inherited. For example, Collies are natural herders, especially if they come from working parents. And Beagles, despite the effort to domesticate them, are, generally, stubborn to train and they haven't lost their natural hunting abilities.
I've had a number of Boxers in my life and one of their characteristics is their goofiness. They love to play, and to jump all over you. But, all seven of them have differed in specific mannerisms. The second Boxer I had accompanied me as a young puppy when I moved to Meath. It wasn't that long after losing my husband and he seemed to be quite responsible for my well being. He was never aggressive but he did 'mind' me in certain situations. And for that reason he was more serious and a little less playful than others that I've had.
In the normal way, Boxers are very friendly and want to meet every person and dog whether appropriate or not. However, one female that I had really couldn't be bothered with other dogs or people. She could walk past any dog without even acknowledging its presence. But, she could play with them too. As for people, she would size them up from a distance. She was neither responsive nor confrontational to their advances. But, if she did accept you, she was your friend for life!
My present Boxer is very sensitive, very touchy-feely. She seems to attract everyone into her personal space and adores meeting and greeting. And people respond to her joyful outlook. She's super playful and has youngsters running around playing 'footie' while she directs the proceedings! I get such enjoyment out of watching her.
But, my memories of each one are special as I acknowledge their individuality and different attributes. For me that's the challenge, the pleasure, the interest of getting to know each one and finding the 'key' that opens the door to a whole new character wrapped up in the Boxer breed.
So cherish the similarities, rejoice in the differences and celebrate each dog as a special individual.
I am the youngest of three sisters and apart from a slight similarity around our mouths and eyes, we were as different as chalk and cheese, in looks, physique and character. The only characteristic which we inherited from our father - and which we hated - was our ugly knees! Perfectly acceptable for a tall, strong, rugby-playing man but totally inappropriate for three daughters especially in the days of mini skirts!
But back to dogs and breed characteristics. There are always certain traits in specific breeds that are automatically inherited. For example, Collies are natural herders, especially if they come from working parents. And Beagles, despite the effort to domesticate them, are, generally, stubborn to train and they haven't lost their natural hunting abilities.
I've had a number of Boxers in my life and one of their characteristics is their goofiness. They love to play, and to jump all over you. But, all seven of them have differed in specific mannerisms. The second Boxer I had accompanied me as a young puppy when I moved to Meath. It wasn't that long after losing my husband and he seemed to be quite responsible for my well being. He was never aggressive but he did 'mind' me in certain situations. And for that reason he was more serious and a little less playful than others that I've had.
In the normal way, Boxers are very friendly and want to meet every person and dog whether appropriate or not. However, one female that I had really couldn't be bothered with other dogs or people. She could walk past any dog without even acknowledging its presence. But, she could play with them too. As for people, she would size them up from a distance. She was neither responsive nor confrontational to their advances. But, if she did accept you, she was your friend for life!
My present Boxer is very sensitive, very touchy-feely. She seems to attract everyone into her personal space and adores meeting and greeting. And people respond to her joyful outlook. She's super playful and has youngsters running around playing 'footie' while she directs the proceedings! I get such enjoyment out of watching her.
But, my memories of each one are special as I acknowledge their individuality and different attributes. For me that's the challenge, the pleasure, the interest of getting to know each one and finding the 'key' that opens the door to a whole new character wrapped up in the Boxer breed.
So cherish the similarities, rejoice in the differences and celebrate each dog as a special individual.
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