by Jennifer Arthur

Created on: July 05, 2009   Last Updated: July 06, 2009

After a horrible experience ending in my very old dog turning on my son, which left him with a bit on the side of his face and a massive fear of dogs.

Twenty five years ago when this happened l found myself studying different breeds of dogs to assist me with joining together to have a positive outcome for my son. So he could once again have that special bond with what would become his best mate.

After months of resourcing many different breeds to arrived at a Boxer and never looked back.

I am not going to mentioned the breed of dog which bit my son, as l feel that would be unfair, my dog was very old with ongoing painful medical conditions. It was not a good mix a young exploring child and a very old dog.

For all the people who are not knowing of the Boxer, I will fill you in . Boxers are energetic, alert and intelligent. I would also go as far as saying they are still like puppies till the day they pass away. Completely full of love & fun. Excellent guard dog also a very tolerant family member. The Boxer, descended from the German Bullenbeiser (bull-biter) breed . Which claims have been made that there was a possible cross with Bulldogs and Great Danes to create a tough working dog.

Boxers love to be busy and live for human company. Training can be at the highest level as they love to please .

Boxers have been trained to such a high level, they have worked with police & military.

Temperament . They are very alert, playful to the end, very patient and very good with children of all ages as well as our older generation.

Size & weight - Height at withers 21-25 inches (53-64cm) weight 55-70lb (25-32kg)

Exercise needs - Considerable each day best with mate to play and exercise each other.

Grooming minimal

Life expectancy 11-12 years

Points to consider: deafness/small percentage) Heart and hip problems. I have found cancer a major problem.

If l can now move on to the Mastiffs, heavy and have been said to be the most imposing dog in the world. Mastiffs have an ancient linage.

Romans took them to Britain, the Anglo-Saxon word MASTY meaning "powerful"

Temperament . They are excellent watchdogs and demonstarate great loyalty and affection for their owners from a very early age.

Mastiffs are a dignified breed and very calm and easy going pet.

Size & weight : Height at withers27-30in (69-76cm) weight 175-190lb (79-86kg)

Exercise - Moderate

Life expectancy 9-11 years

Points to consider: quality diet for major growth . Would not suggest suited to hours holds with young children due to the size. Best suited to large amounts of space.

I am now the proud owner of a mixed breed puppy after years of purebred "Boxers crossed with Dogue De Bordeaux (French Mastiff).

Her name is Myrt and Brindle in colour. 4 month old girl and l could not be happier.

This mixed breed puppy who is our latest member of the family is already demonstrating strong signs of loyalty. Great companion loves to play. She is also very intelligent and responding well to training .

I do find this to be a good blend of breeds.

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