i leave my boy in his crate for only 3 hours at a time whilst at work in the morning. I know he kicks off as i can hear him when i leave, but when i come back he is usually quiet and i take reassurance from a night of peace and quiet, that he only shouts for attention for a little while till he knows that i wont be back immediately!!!

As for crating your boxer, i was a little concerned about 'a cage' at first, but we had no real option as we live in a rented property....if you decide to do it, take your time intoroducing it, feed him in it, entice him with treats and his fav toys so its not as stressful when you leave him in it. He will get used to it. It will also be a useful tool for hime to escape your forthcoming family addition in the future!!!