11 Outdoor Activities To Help Your Boxador Overcome Anxiety

Labrador and Boxer dog face to face

So, you've noticed that your Boxador is feeling anxious. And maybe you're thinking, "How can I deal with this?" Anxiety in dogs can lead to destructive behavior (chewing walls, peeing in the house), and if left untreated, it can debilitate both you and your dog.

Because anxiety affects every Boxador differently, there's no one-size-fits-all solution for how to help them cope. If you wonder how to train your Boxador to be less anxious, it helps to understand what a Boxador is and how anxiety affects dogs.

You can reduce your Boxador's anxiety by engaging in various outdoor activities with them. These activities are not only great ways to exercise your dog and bond with them; they can also help reduce any anxieties they may have.

While some of these activities will appeal to you and others may not, it's essential to be aware of what your Boxador finds stressful to adjust for the best possible outcome.

What is a Boxador? How does your Boxador show it's feeling anxious? And, what activities can help your Boxador overcome anxiety? Keep reading to learn everything you need to know to support your Boxador through its anxiety.

What Is A Boxador?

 

A Boxador is a cross between the Labrador Retriever and Boxer (a boxer-lab mix).

We know boxer dogs to be devoted to their humans, and we know Labradors for being easy to train. While they can be a fun family dog, they are not suitable for looking for a low-maintenance dog. Boxadors are a boxer mixed with high-energy, and they need plenty of mental and physical stimulation to thrive.

The physical appearance of a Boxador depends on the parents. While its appearance is similar to a Labrador, it does not possess the same size as a Lab. Both parents are moderately sized and have athletic builds.

Boxadors are medium-sized dogs, ranging from 23 to 25 inches at the shoulder. They weigh between sixty to one hundred pounds on average, and they are available in various colors, but the most common color is Brindle.

As a hybrid, the Boxador's lifespan varies. While Labradors and Boxers have similar lifespans, a Boxador may live twelve years. However, this crossbreed can experience some health problems shared by their parents. For instance, Boxadors are susceptible to hip dysplasia. But if both parents have been cleared for hip dysplasia, the Boxador offspring should be free of this genetic condition. While it's unlikely for your Boxador to suffer from hip dysplasia, it's still essential to get regular support and checkups for their well-being.

Boxador puppy

Anxiety In Dogs Explained

 

Fortunately, it's not always impossible to identify the cause of a dog's anxiety (whether a small or large dog). Sometimes, it's as simple as a change in a physical location. However, changing your dog's environment, moving to a new home, or even having a baby or other pet in your home can cause anxiety. If your dog displays any of these symptoms, it's best to take it to get support right away to rule out any underlying medical conditions.

One study conducted at the University of Helsinki found that pets from 264 breeds were more likely to exhibit anxiety-like traits than their owners. These dogs showed signs of excessive vocalization, pacing, and aggression. The study also identified several possible causes for phobias. This article will outline a few of the most common reasons for dog anxiety. Hopefully, this information will make it easier to diagnose your Boxador if you're worried they may suffer from anxiety.

Many dogs associate good things with their owners, so many of them exhibit separation anxiety when left alone. A dog needs to learn how to deal with being alone as a puppy, so it's essential to be present when your dog experiences this condition.

However, you should never force a dog to do something if it's feeling anxious. If your dog is showing signs of anxiety, it's best to let it take a break from playing with you.

Don't try to pick it up if you've noticed that it's walked away during playtime. External factors can cause anxiety in dogs, including separation from their owners and their age.

Boxador Dogs and Anxiety

 

If you've ever wondered whether your Boxador has Lab or Boxer genes, it's time to take it outside. Boxadors are magnificent dogs, but they still suffer from anxiety.

The Lab-Boxer combination creates an amiable dog that benefits from socialization with other dogs. Boxador's Lab-like features make them naturally affectionate and friendly, and this trait makes them fantastic companions. As long as you plan to spend considerable time outdoors, your Boxador should have no problem overcoming separation anxiety.

Because of its Boxer and Labrador parentage, Boxadors' temperament is typically friendly and docile, although it does exhibit high levels of tenacity and sensitivity. And, you can easily find them in North America.

These dogs require a lot of mental and physical stimulation to stay happy and healthy. They also shed a lot during shedding season, so it's essential to be prepared. Fortunately, Boxador coats are relatively low-maintenance and easy to maintain.

Boxador with sad face

If your Boxador is experiencing separation anxiety or another health problem, try socializing him with other dogs. They enjoy playing and need a lot of interaction. In addition, it's essential to let them get plenty of exercise, as Boxadors need a lot of mental stimulation. It's also necessary to make sure your Boxador gets along with other pets since these dogs are prone to anxiety and other behavioral problems if left alone for long periods.

When it comes to supporting your Boxador, it's essential to understand why and how your Boxador shows it's suffering from anxiety.

If your Boxador is hiding more than usual or seems to be distressed in its hiding place, something is likely worrying him. Take the time to observe your dog and identify what might be causing the anxiety. The more you know about your dog, the easier it is to identify the cause of anxiety.

Understanding your Boxador's anxiety is essential to being a great pet parent and getting a good grasp on the dog breed. If you aren't sure where to start, ask yourself questions like:

"Is there a noise that happens regularly that might scare my dog?"

"Is she alone at home more often than usual? Does she have less space than usual?"

"Does my dog have a new animal companion?"

If you can't figure out what has changed about your dog's environment, take them to get additional support. Whether you have a service dog, a guard dog, lapdogs, or a sweet companion, finding support is essential.

And try the 11 activities outlined in the next section to support their anxiety.

11 Outdoor Activities to Help Your Boxador Overcome Anxiety

 

According to the American Kennel Club, a Boxador dog needs plenty of physical and mental stimulation.

Boxers can be prone to anxiety and trying these 11 outdoor activities to help your Boxador overcome anxiety can help.

Try New Things Outside Like a Hike or a Running Trail

It's important to pull them out of their shell and try some fun activities that will help keep their mind off of whatever negative feelings they might be experiencing. And usually, a fenced yard is not enough. A Boxador dog needs human interaction and exercise, so you can't leave them home alone for long periods. Boxers, in particular, are incredibly clingy and can be destructive. So instead of chewing up your decorative pillows, you should consider putting them outside to do some activities. For instance, try going for a hike or running out with your Boxador.

Dog with his owner in the sunset

Play With Toys Outside

Boxadors love to play outside because it allows them to burn off stress and sniff out new dirt piles.

 

Dog toys

Go For a Walk

When your Boxador dog needs a little help to relax, it's important to remember that sometimes the best medicine is a good walk. A walk can be just what your fur baby needs to get out of their own head and into the world. An excellent way to encourage walks is by rewarding behaviors that eventually lead to a walk. For example, reward them with a treat if your labrador mix sits calmly in a down-stay for a few seconds. Then gradually increase the time expected for the down-stay before you can reward them.

Walks are also an excellent way to meet other Boxador owners and exchange playdates with other dogs—it's a great way to start new friendships!

Adventure To New Places Together

Do you have some favorite places to go in your neighborhood? Make a list of them and share them with your Boxador. They'll love checking out new places with you!

Find Treats That Help Relieve Anxiety

If you don't have the time to take your dog on a walk or to get some exercise, calming treats like Zen Chews can help support their anxiety with ease! They help your dog relax whenever they're feeling stressed or anxious or about to be in a stressful situation.

Bowl of dog treats

Join a Boxador Meetup Group

Boxadors love meeting other furry friends, so consider joining a dog-centric meetup group. They're fun ways to meet local people with similar interests as yourself.

Enroll in Training Classes Together

If you're looking for something more structured, try enrolling your Boxador in obedience training or agility classes. These activities will bolster confidence in your Boxador and provide regular sessions where they can engage in positive experiences and learn at the same time.

Set Up Your Own Agility Course

If they love agility equipment, try buying an agility course or setting up your obstacle course in the backyard. This will provide exercise and mental stimulation while helping your Boxador lose weight, if that is needed. You will probably see improvement in their behavior and increased energy because they exercise.

Socialize Your Boxador Regularly

While Boxadors are gentle giants, they can quickly run over small children. Therefore, socializing your Boxador with strangers, including children, cats, and other dogs, is essential. In addition to taking them to puppy classes, try taking your Boxador for walks and playing fetch with other dogs. Keeping an eye out for strangers and using your dog's senses to find toys and treats will make them feel more comfortable in unfamiliar situations.

Play Hide and Seek

Playing hide and seek is another excellent activity for Boxadors to burn off energy. Boxadors love to play outside. Playing freeze is also great for controlling hyperactivity. Then, hide and seek will allow your Boxador to burn off excess energy and learn how to obey you.

Go On a Picnic and Hike Together

Finally, try bringing your Boxador to go on a picnic or hike to a nearby lake. Bring dog food to share with your Boxador.

When Do Dogs Experience Anxiety?

 

If you've ever wondered, "When do dogs experience anxiety?" you're not alone. A change in schedule or routine can cause anxiety in dogs.

As a dog owner, you might notice that stress increases when you're not home. Whether you have a German shepherd, Australian shepherd, American bulldog, an American Staffordshire terrier, a pit bull, golden retriever, boxer puppy, or Boxador, anxiety may strike.

Some dogs may even be afraid of being alone for long periods. But, whatever the cause of your pet's anxiety, it is essential to know how to treat your dog's anxiety.

Although dog owners may think they know their dog better than anyone else, they can still spot signs of anxiety in their pups.

Dogs can display anxiety symptoms either when they suddenly become nervous or when they're triggered. By watching their body language, owners can determine what triggers their dog's anxiety. Generally, a change in activity, environment, or routine can trigger stress. Some of the most common causes of dog anxiety are fear, separation and aging.

Anxiety can also develop at any time during your dog's life. However, most dogs show signs of anxiety in the first year and a half of life, so you should get support right away if your dog exhibits unusual behaviors.

A trained support expert will look at your dog physically and determine if a medical condition is causing the symptoms. Be sure to discuss the history of your dog and its temperament when receiving help.

Also, creating a safe space at home can help your dog's anxiety. Often, a comfortable bed in a quiet corner can do the trick.

How Do Dogs Show They're Suffering From Anxiety?

 

There are many ways to detect that your dog is suffering from anxiety, from unusual or excessive barking to excessive searching or hiding. Sometimes, these symptoms can be mild at first, but as your dog's anxiety levels increase, they may lead to more severe problems. In addition, dogs who suffer from anxiety often show signs of aggression, either directly or indirectly. Indirect aggression is when your dog displays aggressive behavior toward another dog or a human. Either way, these behaviors can be highly undesirable for your dog and you.

There are many signs of anxiety in dogs, and some breeds are more susceptible to stress than others. A traumatic event can cause pressure, lack of socialization, illness, pain, overheating, and separation from its owner. Dogs' classic signs of anxiety are frequent yawning, lip licking, and panting. In addition to these symptoms, your dog may also become more aggressive, pacing in place or scratching its ears.

Although these signs may seem subtle, it is essential to monitor your dog closely. When your dog is anxious, you may want to avoid handling it or give it some time alone. And you may want to try calming techniques to help alleviate the anxiety.

What To Remember About Your Boxador's Anxiety

 

Anxiety is a normal part of owning a Boxador. But if you don't support your Boxador when he experiences it, he could worsen. So, here's some advice to remember: Boxadors are social animals. They get along with cats and other dogs of the same breed. So, if you want to introduce your Boxador to cats, you should start when he is young.

 

Black Boxador puppy

Anxiety is Normal

A Boxador is a relatively new addition to the world of dogs, and we associate some health issues with its parent breeds. One health concern for Boxador pups is dysplasia, abnormal development of the joints, especially the hips and elbows. Genetics, a wrong diet and improper exercise can cause this problem. It is essential to be aware of these issues, as these can be dangerous for your Boxador.

If you plan to leave your Boxador at home alone for long periods, he may exhibit separation anxiety. While this breed loves human company, it can be highly boring when left home alone and may find ways to entertain itself. For example, he may destroy your sofa or try to empty your bin.
It's important to supervise your Boxador's behavior around other dogs to prevent him from exhibiting aggressive behaviors. Moreover, if you plan to travel for a long time, consider another breed.

You Can Support Your Boxador's Anxiety.

Early socialization is vital to reducing your Boxador's anxiety toward children. These dogs get along well with other dogs of the same breed. While they are typically not aggressive towards small children, you should carefully supervise your Boxador's interactions with children. Proper socialization is also crucial for Boxadors and other pets, including cats. While most Boxadors are great with children, older dogs may be uncomfortable around children and need more training.

Back to Blog