[Lwood]

Hi. I am a new member and am seeking your advice. I am considering adopting a 14 week old spayed female boxer/shepard from our local shelter (Maine). I haven't met her yet and am trying to verify what I should look for when I do. She had a brother and was raised by humans, according to the shelter. I have no idea how careful the humans were or what breed the mother was yet but I intend to ask. I know that she has missed dog socialization and I have a 2 1/2 year old lab mix spayed male who will be a great socializer for her. He is playful but not dominant and has lots of dog socialization.

I intend to look for agression and dominance (how does she like to be placed on her back, for example) but does anyone out there have any experience or thoughts about this for me? Thank you for your help!

[Durbkat]

Every dog is different but its not going to be easy because your going to have to be like the mom and the pups. Like let out a loud ouch if he bites to hard and stop playing with him.

[Shalva]

I wouldn't worry,

this is a 14 week old puppy and if it is a responsible shelter/rescue they have already temperament tested her. I think you will find that she fits into your home very well and is people oriented.... keep in mind that she probably doesn't speak dog very well and just watch for when your older dog is giving cues that the pup doesn't pick up on.... even in pups thats mother survives... many moms don't discipline pups the way that they should.... and let them get away with murder.... I wouldn't worry...just enjoy the new baby..... just watch her for inability to understand dog language which could make her not be able to understand pack behavior and thus dog parks and other really doggy social areas could be difficult for her... but as a nice pet she is probably goign to be just fine.
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