Should You Spoil Your Dog?

Is Spoiling Nothing More Than Training Boxer Dogs Through Love... or Not?

There's a lot of debate over whether you should spoil your dog or not. One school of thought says spoiling is nothing more than training boxer dogs through love... but do you agree with that?

Some people think it's wrong to spoil your boxer dog. I happen to disagree... strongly. I believe that boxers deserve to be spoiled—in return for the undying devotion they give those of us whom they love. But I do think it comes down to how you define "spoiling."

I admit it... I spoiled my kids too. But to me, spoiling is more about showering them with love and tokens of affection, rather than letting them get away with bad behavior and allowing them to have everything their little hearts desire.

So yes, my daughters always knew I loved them. I frequently planned fun activities for them, gave them the occasional unexpected gifts and supported their dreams. And I do the same for my dogs. They get their daily biscuit treats, new toys on occasion, and lots of walks and chase the ball time. If that's what you think of as spoiling too, then so be it.

There are many reasons to spoil your boxer dog; however, the most important in my opinion is because of the strong emotional bond that exists between a boxer and his or her family. Dogs are one of the most popular companion animals for many reasons and boxer dogs, especially, make great companions.

Why Boxer Dogs Deserve Spoiling

To start with, a boxer offers his owner unconditional acceptance. In addition, this breed is always happy to see you and has unlimited affection to offer. There are few greater things than to walk into the door at night after a hard day's work and be greeted with unlimited enthusiasm and affection.

Research has shown that dogs are able to convey a depth of emotion towards a human companion not seen to the same extent in any other companion animal. In addition, dogs have been an integral part of human history and have proven themselves to be extremely useful in a variety of settings. Dogs have been known to put their own lives in peril to ensure their master's safety. Boxer dogs will do anything if they know it is what their masters expect them to do and they ask for nothing in return.

And it is for this loyalty and unconditional love that I think you should spoil your dog—regardless if they are a house dog or a working dog. For over twenty thousand years, dogs have willingly and lovingly worked side-by-side with man. They deserve to be rewarded with love and tokens of appreciation, don't you agree?

The History of Dog/Human Relationships

Credit: boxercab/Flickr

When livestock became domesticated around 5,000 BC, dogs acted as protectors and guards. In both cases, dogs were rewarded for their work with food and shelter, creating an insubordinate relationship to man and causing the dog to repeat good work in order to survive.

However, dogs became more than just a means to an end over time. In the fifth century BC, the Greek fortress of Corinth was attacked. But thanks to the 50 guard dogs, the town was saved. Although only one dog survived the fight, it was awarded a pension for life and a silver collar. And from this day forward, dogs were revered as more than just instruments (or food!); they were seen as a crucial component to the safety and well being of mankind.

Because of their excellent ability to hunt, 10th century monasteries began to breed and sell dogs to wealthy French nobility. These dogs were so appreciated by their masters that it was not unusual to see as many humans as dogs in church on Sundays! During the Renaissance period, the idea of a companion dog emerged.

But it hasn't been until recently that the boxer dog has transcended from a position of family pet to a full-fledged member of the family. Boxers sleep, eat and play with their owners, something that was almost unheard of even 100 years ago. Some boxer dogs even have their own beds, most have their own dishes and all have their own purpose in life.

Since dogs first assumed their roles as valued companion, they've served as hunting buddies, helpers around the house, police dogs, helper dogs for the blind & deaf, and even health boosters for the sick and elderly. If those aren't reasons to spoil your dog, then what do you want?

Lessons Learned From Your Boxer Dog

Our boxer dogs can even teach us how to live the good life... If you pay close attention to the way your boxer dog behaves and sees life, you may be surprised to discover that dogs have tapped into the secret of living a very happy and fulfilling life...

For instance, boxer dogs teach us to show how happy you are to see or talk to your loved ones. Have you ever noticed how your boxer wiggles almost uncontrollably when you walk into the house after being out? I called my boxer, Lucy, "wiggle butt" because of this behavior. Doesn't this unbridled joy make you feel good?

So... follow suit... Next time someone walks into your house or you meet in a restaurant, greet them with enthusiasm and affection. They will appreciate this gesture as much as you appreciate the greeting you receive from your dog. Also, if a friend or loved one is having a bad day, just listen while they vent. If you can, extend a comforting hand.

Dogs can also teach us to take joy in the simple things. Next time you go for a car ride with your boxer dog, observe how happy she is when the wind blows against her face. Also, note the enthusiasm your invitation to go out in the car is greeted with. We'd all be happier if we could appreciate these small things as much as our boxers do.

The basics to a boxer dog life – napping, eating and playing – are something that busy humans need to pay more attention to. Take advantage of the warm weather, dance around when you are happy and take a long relaxing walk at least once a day.

Lastly, be loyal. Boxer dogs are so highly revered because of their loyalty to the ones they love. Imitate this. In addition, always be yourself. People can sniff out a fake from a mile away.

I've often said that our Lucy was our doggie angel, sent to earth to teach us all the power of unconditional love, and I really believe that. I suppose you might say that of every dog, but Lucy was so incredibly sweet and loving, it set her apart from other dogs I've owned. Why wouldn't I want to spoil her?

It is for all these reasons that boxer dogs should be revered and spoiled. They have done so much for humankind that it would downright rude not to acknowledge them for their selflessness and devotion. And because it is so easy to make a dog happy, there are hundreds of ways you can spoil your dog. But how do you know when you've spoiled your boxer dog enough?

Signs You Spoil Your Dog Too Much

• You think begging for table scraps is beneath him, so you let your dog eat at the table with you.



• You take him to the supermarket and let him pick out his own dog food.



• Your family comes home from work or school, looks at the stew on the stove and asks: "Is this people food or dog food?"



• You bought matching His and Hers placemats for your dog and yourself.



• At dinner parties you always double-check the butter for visible lick marks before putting it on the table.



• Your dog gets to vote on where to spend the next family vacation.



• You don't care if you or your spouse is comfortable at night, just as long as the dog has enough room on the bed.



• You complain about the rising costs of groceries but you don't think twice about spending a fortune on doggie treats.



• Your dog always gets the best spot on the couch.



• He has his own Web site. Uh oh... I guess you could say this is Lucy's website!

OK... so those are a bit tongue in cheek, but you get the idea, right? Love your boxer dog, but don't go overboard. After all, however valued a family member, he's still a dog... and he should be treated like a dog, not a human.

In Summary...

Well, now you know how I feel about whether you should spoil your dog. But have I convinced you about training boxer dogs through showers of love? If not, no worries... we're all entitled to our opinions!

Related Articles

• Getting started
• Obedience training
• Specific boxer training issues
  • biting
  • leash training
  • housebreaking