Activities For Boxer Shepherds

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Introduction

A cross between a Boxer and a German Shepherd, a Boxer Shepherd tends to be a bright and energetic dog who requires an active lifestyle. Mental and physical exercise will be important for this hybrid; they will benefit not only from long walks and other physical activity, but from intellectual challenges as well. Averaging between 65 and 95 pounds, a Boxer Shepherd will often be large and powerful...and ready for action! Fortunately, Boxer Shepherds enjoy a variety of activities, many of which will allow you to spend time together continuing to develop your relationship.

Hiking

Popular
0 Votes
Any Day
Free
Easy
30 - 120 min
Items needed
Leash
Waste Bags
Water and Bowl
Treats
Activity description
Your Boxer Shepherd, like their parent breeds, will benefit from long, daily walks or even better, meandering hikes. In fact, they will be happy to go on a hike every day if you are willing! Whether going for a trek around your town or city or embarking on a hiking adventure in the wilderness, a hike is a great way for your pup to get some energy out and for you to get some exercise. A great thing about taking your dog on the trails is that you can go for any length of time as well as choose different locations for your adventures.
Step
1
Plan the adventure
The first thing for you to consider when it comes to hiking with your Boxer Shepherd is where you should hike. This decision will depend in part on how much time you have for your walk, as well as where you are located and what is nearby. The weather may also impact your choice. When your time is limited, taking a stroll around the area where you live is the best way to get the most exercise possible in the time that you have available. When you have more time to spend, take a look at what options are within driving distance.
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2
Length and difficulty
How much time you have available will impact how long you choose to hike with your pup. If you have plenty of time available, with a Boxer Shepherd, you can decide to walk for miles; your pup will be able to handle it. It is very likely that the length of hike you decide on will be based on what YOU are capable of, as opposed to how far your dog can trek!
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3
Supplies
There are a few items that you will want to be sure to have with you for your hike; a leash will be necessary so that you can ensure the safety of your dog when you are walking the trails. Waste bags are also needed so that you can clean up after your Mastiff, as leaving the park or forested area pristine is essential. Be sure to have water along, particularly on longer walks, so that your pup remains hydrated. When you have what you need, you and your pup can be on your way. Taking a hike with your pup is a great way for the two of you to spend time together enjoying the fresh air.

Flyball

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Sunny Day
Moderate
Normal
30 - 60 min
Items needed
Tennis Ball
Spring-loaded Ball Box
Hurdles
Activity description
Your Boxer Shepherd will enjoy engaging in flyball. Just what is flyball? The game includes hurdles that are up to 16 inches in height that are used as obstacles, as well as a spring-loaded box that will release a tennis ball. Once the ball is released, your pup will chase it while running and clearing the hurdles. The game requires you to train your dog how to play; it will help to have an extra person to assist you as you work with your pup. If you have the budget, join a flyball club where you and your dog can learn from others. Once your Boxer Shepherd gets going, this game will provide them with the mental and physical workout that they crave!
Step
1
Set up the game
To play flyball, you will first need to set up the game. When it comes to the hurdles, you will want to set the first hurdle about six feet from the starting line and then arrange each additional hurdle ten feet apart. Typically there are four hurdles in a game of flyball, though pet parents may add up to three extra hurdles, equalling the number that may be found in an actual flyball competition. As your dog gets comfortable with the game, you can add other obstacles as you choose for an additional challenge.
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2
Training
When you start to train your pup on how to play flyball, you will begin at the END of the course. Bring your pup to the last hurdle and be within sight of another handler (preferably one that your pup would be comfortable going to) who is standing across the finish line. Once your pup sees the other handler, you can let them go, encouraging them to jump the hurdles and head toward that person. Once they do so, be sure to reward them with a treat. Then, take your dog to the hurdle that is second from the end and have them return to the other handler. Again, reward them with a treat when they do so. Continue this same process with the hurdle that is next closest to the starting point and the next, rewarding your pup upon their getting to the start. As your pup gets the hang of clearing the obstacles, you can set the box up to release the ball, which your Boxer Shepherd can chase while jumping the hurdles.
Step
3
Flyball box
Once the box is set up, you can show your pup where the ball is and how to press the trigger on the box that will release the ball. After releasing the ball, take your pup through the hurdles. Do this again and again until your pup begins to release the ball and chase it on their own. When your dog understands how the game works, you can enjoy watching them play. This game will be both challenging and fun for your pup. As your pup's skill increases, you can add more obstacles to increase or vary the course's difficulty. Continue rewarding your pup with treats as they build their skill!

Paddleboarding

Popular
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Sunny Day
Moderate
Normal
1 - 2 hrs
Items needed
Paddleboard and Paddle
Treats
Canine Life Jacket
Activity description
If your Boxer Shepherd shows interest and excitement when you are around a body of water, consider giving paddleboarding a try. The two of you can embark on an adventure together as you paddle in the ocean, or on a lake or river. Paddleboarding is not expensive once you have bought your board initially and the sport can be enjoyed in most weather conditions, although a sunny day is typically the best time to go. Paddleboarding will be a great activity for you and your pup to learn together and your canine buddy will appreciate the opportunity to take a swim should they get too hot during their time on the board!
Step
1
Paddleboard destination
First, you will want to decide where you and your pup will go paddleboarding. This will likely depend, at least in part, on what bodies of water are nearby, what paddleboarding conditions you are looking for, as well as how far you are willing to travel. You will also want to be sure that there are paddleboards available for rent near the place you have decided on, unless you already have your own, of course.
Step
2
Safety Measures
In addition to the paddleboard, you may want to get a life jacket for you as well as for your canine companion. This will keep you both afloat should you encounter any issues on the water. Listen closely to any instructions offered by the place where you rent your paddleboard, particularly if you are new to this activity.
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3
Out on the water
Before you put the paddle board in the water, give your pup the chance to check it out so that they are comfortable around it. Have your Boxer Shepherd board and disembark several times. Then, you and your pup can get the paddleboard out on the water. You can direct the board as you like through using the paddle and stay out as long as you and your pup choose. You will appreciate the chance to enjoy the fresh air while you have the opportunity to spend quality time together.

More Fun Ideas...

Photo Shoot

Along with being smart and energetic, it's likely that your Boxer Shepherd is full of personality. Why not capture your pup's awesome antics on camera? Spend some quality time with your pup taking pictures, whether posed or candid shots. You can choose themes for your photos and even dress up your pup if you choose. A photo shoot of your Boxer Shepherd can be done at any time and in any place, making this an activity that can be done no matter the weather. And with a digital camera or even your phone, the cost will be minimal.

Water Time

Your Boxer Shepherd may enjoy some time in the water. There are multiple ways for your pooch to get their water fix; you can visit a river, lake or beach where your dog can go for a swim and even play fetch in the water. You can also purchase a plastic child's pool and fill it with water and place it in your yard. This will provide your dog easy access to a place to play as well as to cool off. If your pooch is new to the water, make sure to give them some time get comfortable with it rather than expect them to jump right in.

Let Your Dog Run

Your Boxer Shepherd will likely enjoy the opportunity to run. There are several ways to go about providing this; if you enjoy running yourself, you and your pup can go for a jog. If you are not a runner, you can give bikejoring a try; this is where you attach your dog to your bike and they can run while pulling you along. You can also find a fenced in area, whether a dog park or your own backyard, and throw things for your dog to run after and fetch. Running is a great way for your pup to get the activity that they need so that they can be healthy and stay out of trouble!

Conclusion

It is likely that your Boxer Shepherd has a high energy level; this means that in order to meet their physical and mental activity needs you are going to have to keep them busy. If your Boxer Shepherd gets bored, they may try and entertain themselves and cause some trouble. Boxer Shepherds enjoy many activities and tend to be intelligent, meaning that a myriad of possibilities come into play when it comes to activities for them to engage in. Trying different activities with your Boxer Shepherd will be great for both you and your pup, as well as your relationship!