I have two male Boxers that are very territorial. We got a new dog about 3 years ago, everything was fine until he hit puberty and that's when the problems started. The Boxers had been potty trained for 4 years, they started marking territory and fighting so badly that we eventually decided to give the new dog to a different family. Since then we have moved and it has only gotten worse. They pee on the bed if you leave the door open.
By Jade S.
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First, a question - are your male Boxers intact or have you had them neutered? If intact you need to get them to the vet to be checked for bladder issues common to intact older Boxers.
If they're neutered, though, while a vet check (just in case) is a very good idea, you may have hit the problem on the head - they are mad at you for leaving them and making other changes in their routine.
I raised AKC Boxers from childhood (late '50s) until 2008 in the US. They are wonderful dogs (but then again, aren't all dogs wonderful:) but they do have some breed-specific 'issues' like using toileting to let you know they aren't happy. A move, the loss of a fur-sib, a return to work of a human who has been home with them all day and night, all of these (and more) changes can cause the ultra-intelligent Boxer to work-out a way to let you know they aren't happy.
By all means, crate them when you can't be there with them; crate them any time they need to be contained and controlled.
While it is tempting to put them in the same crate together, don't. Each Boxer should have his/her own crate. You can put the crates right up against each other so they can have comforting closeness, but don't ever try to put two territorial Boxers into the same crate. Ever.
Make sure the crates are large enough for them to stand and turn, and consider draping a blanket across and over the back end of each crate to create a den-like atmosphere. Make sure the water dispenser or bowl can't be flipped over and also ensure there is something like a Kong toy or a top-quality chewie in their crates to keep them occupied while you're out.
Thank you so much for your response. They are still intact, and they have been to the vet and other thing is fine as far as bladder issues are concerned. I trained these dogs when they were puppies but then I left for school for 3 years, and unfortunately my parents ( who I love dearly) are not the best pet owners, and this is the situation I have returned to!
They have had several changes especially within the last year, but now that I am back I would really like to get them back on the right track.
I was concerned that re-introducing crate training, would do more harm then good but I am getting ready to start working and I don't want them to pee everywhere, while I am gone.
So, thank you for your knowledgeable advice, and I am going to start crating them immediately, so that by the time I go back to work they will hopefully be a little more comfortable with it!
Thanks again,
Jade S.
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