I currently had a lab and want to add a boxer to the family. I have come across a breeder who has a 7month that she said she was planning on using for breeding, but she decided that it did not have all the correct physical features to use for breeding. (I don't mind this at all, I am not looking for a show dog, just a good companion.)
1. Should I be wary of this explanation, or is this something that happens often?
2. With a 7 month old dog, will it be difficult for her to adjust and become part of the family, and will she still be able to be trained very well?
I want to spend a lot of time with the pup, but I would like to know if there should be any red flags that I am not aware of that I should look out for.
The only wary thing you need to address is the breeding behind the 7 month old. Since this is the breeder selling them, ask to see copies of the health testing done on both parents. A responsible breeder will do full health testing and openly discuss those results with a prospective buyer. It does not matter if it is an older pup <g>.
As to her getting along with your Lab, that will be up to the dogs. Have them meet each other on neutral territory or perhaps on the breeder's front lawn. See what reception they both give. Watch their body language. A 7 month old Boxer is still a puppy and probably would love to meet a new playmate.
But study the breeder first and then the breeding behind the pup. It is not uncommon for a show breeder to rehome a dog. But it is also not uncommon for a con artist to lie about such thing in the efforts to make a puppy look more financially valuable. There are so many irresponsible breeders out there, trying to pass themselves off as responsible. Just beware and be informed.
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