Boxers are medium-sized dogs that originated in Germany where they were primarily used to hunt such game as wild boar, bears and deer. They are known by a few different names including Boxers, German Boxers and Deutscher Boxers. If you have been searching for a pet for your home, read on to learn if the Boxer may be the dog for you. Boxers have been in existence since about the 19th century. The first members of the breed were created by crossing Bullenbeiszers with Barenbeiszers. These dogs were powerful, German mastiff-type dogs. Results of these crosses were then crossed with such breeds as Bulldogs and English Mastiffs. Boxers got their name because of the way they used their front paws to fight their opponents. Early Boxers were most often used to hunt such game as wild boar, bison, bears and deer. However, they were also used for a variety of other purposes including dog fighting, bull baiting, cattle dogs and cart pulling. The first standard for the Boxer was written in 1904.
The Boxer is a very strong and agile dog breed with square proportions and very muscular body. It has a large head and has a short and glossy coat. It needs to be brushed now and then to remove dead hair. The boxer does not tolerate heat. The Boxer is a medium-sized dog that can be anywhere between 55 and 70 pounds after it fully matures. It is a short-haired breed that can be fawn and white with black markings, brindle and white, or solid white. While solid white is not rare, it is not an acceptable color for conformation showing. The reason for this is because most white Boxers are born deaf. The ears of the Boxer can be cropped or left natural. Natural ears are long, rounded and reach to just below the cheeks. The tail can be docked short or left long. This is a regal-looking dog with a muscular body and strong legs. The eyes are dark brown, and the nose is black. The muzzle is short, and the jaw is undershot.
Personality
This dog is very loyal, playful, and very confident but sometimes stubborn. They are perfect dogs for children because they love to play and enjoy an active family. They need daily exercise in the form of a long walk or a jog. They hate to be alone and can get destructive if left alone for too long. They are sometimes aggressive towards strange dogs. Boxers have many different personalities. There are times when they can be quite serious and protective, and then there are times when they can be playful and clownish. They love children; however, since they can be quite active at times, they may be too rambunctious for toddlers. Although Boxers are very intelligent dogs and learn rather quickly, if they become bored, they can be loud and/or destructive. As such, if you choose to add a Boxer to your family, you will want to be sure to provide it with plenty of exercise, toys and space to run and explore.
Breed Characteristics
| Type: | Pure |
| Family: | Mastiffs |
| Function: | Working |
| Origin: | Europe |
| Preferred Climate: | Any Climate |
| Group: | Working |
| Life Span: | 12-14 Years |
| Nicknames: | German Boxers, Deutscher Boxers |
| Hypoallergenic: | No |
Boxer Build Information
The Boxer is a very strong and agile dog breed with square proportions and very muscular body. He has a large head and has a short and glossy coat. He needs to be brushed now and then to remove dead hair. The boxer does not tolerate heat. The Boxer is a medium-sized dog that can be anywhere between 55 and 70 pounds after he fully matures. It is a short-haired breed that can be fawn and white with black markings, brindle and white, or solid white. While solid white is not rare, it is not an acceptable color for conformation showing. The reason for this is because most white Boxers are born deaf. The ears of the Boxer can be cropped or left natural. Natural ears are long, rounded and reach to just below the cheeks. The tail can be docked short or left long. This is a regal-looking dog with a muscular body and strong legs. The eyes are dark brown, and the nose is black. The muzzle is short, and the jaw is undershot.
| Size: | Large |
| Length (Male): | 22-27 in. |
| Length (Female): | 22-24 in. |
| Weight: | > 65 lbs |
| Litter Size: | 5 – 10 Puppies |
| Tail Dock or Crop: | Both |
Behaviour and Personality
This dog is very loyal, playful, and very confident but sometimes stubborn. They are perfect dogs for children because they love to play and enjoy an active family. They need daily exercise in the form of a long walk or a jog. They hate to be alone and can get destructive if left alone for too long. They are sometimes aggressive towards strange dogs. Boxers have many different personalities. There are times when they can be quite serious and protective, and then there are times when they can be playful and clownish. They love children; however, since they can be quite active at times, they may be too rambunctious for toddlers. Although Boxers are very intelligent dogs and learn rather quickly, if they become bored, they can be loud and/or destructive. As such, if you choose to add a Boxer to your family, you will want to be sure to provide him with plenty of exercise, toys and space to run and explore.
| Activity Level: | Very Active |
| Affection Level: | Very Affectionate |
| Aggressiveness Level: | Moderate |
| Barking: | Quiet |
| Dominating or Submissive?: | None |
| Energy Level: | Very Active |
| Good to Other Pets: | Friendly |
| Guardian Skills: | Yes |
| Independant: | No |
| Kid Friendliness: | Very Friendly |
Appearance
The Boxer is a breed that is very easy to take care of when it comes to grooming. If you choose a Boxer for your family, your pet will only need a bath once or twice a month if he becomes dirty. Furthermore, you will only need to brush your pet on occasion using a bristle brush or hound glove. It is essential to note that you will need to check your pet’s ears often and check for wax buildup or redness. If there is excess wax in your dog’s ears, gently wipe it out with the end of a damp rag. If it becomes necessary to clip your pet’s nails, use a pliers-style nail clipper and make sure that you do not cut into the veins that grow inside each nail.
| Colors: | Black & White, Fawn, Mahogany, Tan, Tan Brindle |
| Shedding: | Moderate |
| Grooming: | Low Maintenance |
| Coat Type: | Water-Repellent |
Boxer Common Health Conditions
The Average life span for a Boxer in perfect health and condition is about 11 to 14 years. While most Boxers are generally healthy dogs that never develop any serious genetic health issues, there are some conditions that have been associated with the breed. These conditions are as follows: Various Heart Problems, Skin Allergies, Reverse Sneezing (Difficulty Breathing), Epilepsy, Mast Cell Tumors, Hip Dysplasia, Arthritis, Deafness (White Boxers), and Hypothyroidism. Are you looking for a terrific family dog or simply a great companion? If so, you may want to consider adding a Boxer to your home. Boxers are all-around fantastic pets that excel in many different areas. From excellent watchdogs and loyal companions to outstanding hunting dogs and gentle family pets, the Boxer is a perfect choice for most any household.
Boxer Pet Insurance
When adding a dog or cat to your family you want to make sure your pet is happy, healthy and protected. During its lifetime your pet is exposed to many illnesses and diseases and some breeds are affected by a congenital disease which is a condition existing at birth. At these moments when your pet is ill or maybe needs surgery, you want to be protected for the unexpected and high veterinarian costs.
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Breed Talents and Facts
Today’s Boxers excel in many areas including search and rescue, tracking, Schutzhund, obedience, agility, protection, military and police work, and companionship. Due to their short snouts, Boxers have a hard time breathing in very hot or cold weather. About 20 to 25 percent of all Boxers are born white, and approximately 18 percent of all white Boxers are born deaf.
| Training: | Easy |
| Hunting Companion: | No |
| Jolly for Jogging: | Yes |
| Sighting Capabilities: | No |
| Ideal for Tracking: | No |
| Retrieving Skills: | No |
| Pointing Breed: | No |
| Herding Skills: | No |
| Dutiful Watchdog: | Yes |
| Security Guard Capable: | Yes |
| Police Performer: | Yes |
| Wet Water rescues: | No |
| Assist Disable Owners: | No |
| Dog Sledding: | No |
| Able to Perform Dog Carting: | No |
| Agile/Zippy: | No |
| Fun with Lure Coursing: | No |
| Obedient: | Yes |
| Possible Schutzhund Work: | Yes |
| Trainable for Tricks: | Yes |
