Boxer Photo

Boxer Dog Breed Info & Pictures

The goofy, extremely active, and expressive Boxer dog is strong and versatile. The Boxer has a distinct, chiseled head with wrinkles along the eyes and muzzle that are especially noticeable when the dog is alert. Their ears are generally cropped to stand up and come to a point, but left uncropped, they naturally lay flat and close to the cheek when relaxed. Their muzzle is blunt and topped with a wide, black nose, and they have a bit of an underbite which helps them keep a firm hold on prey.

The Boxer has a square build with a long, round neck that blends smoothly into their short, powerful, slightly sloping back. Their tail is set high and usually docked. They have short coat that lies close to the body and features an eye-catching sheen. Boxers come in colors like brindle or fawn with white markings on the face, chest, legs, and feet. They also have a black mask that outlines their features.

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Boxer Fast Facts

Working
8 - 10 years
Germany
19th century
65 - 80 lb
50 - 65 lb
22 - 25"
21 - 24"
Boxter, Boxxer, or Bockser
None

Photos

Temperament

A Boxer dogs temperament is, arguably, their most winning quality....

They are an interesting juxtaposition of serious and happy-go-lucky. Boxers are often dubbed the eternal puppy, but they are also quite deliberate at times due to their working dog history.

Boxers are incredibly brave and devoted to their family. Although they're not naturally aggressive, the Boxer will step in with surprising ferocity if they think their family is threatened. This makes socializing Boxer puppies a high priority. Generally, Boxers are accepting of strangers, but they will be a bit standoffish. Introduce your puppy to a range of positive experiences with new people, animals, and environments so theyll grow into content adults.

These playful pooches are great with kids, but Boxers may be too rambunctious for young children. They also have a healthy respect for other pets and will love being able to run around with other dogs!

Caring For a Boxer

As can be expected from a high-energy dog, the Boxer needs stimulating exercise on a daily basis....

Challenging games in the park can just as satisfying to these dogs as nice jog. Just be sure to keep an eye on the weather: Boxers don't do well in either hot or cold temperatures. Their short coat is poor protection from freezing weather, and their short snout can make breathing difficult on hot days.

Boxers tend to be very clean dogs without distinct odors. Their coat requires minimal maintenance, and a weekly brushing is usually enough to keep up with their needs. If their playtime doesnt naturally wear down their nails, trim them monthly.

The Boxer has a couple major health concerns, including subvalvular aortic stenosis, boxer cardiomyopathy, and canine hip dysplasia. Other health issues to keep in mind are colitis, low thyroid, corneal erosion, and gastric torsion.

Boxer History

Breed History

In the 1820s, German Bullenbeisers were crossed with Mastiffs, terriers, and English Bulldogs in attempt to make the perfect bull baiting dog the Boxer....

Luckily for the bulls, bull baiting became outlawed throughout Europe, so the Boxer ended up being utilized for a variety of different tasks including guardian, police dog, military dog, and all-around work dog.

The breed spread through Europe in the 19th century and was eventually introduced to the United States and recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1904. Despite this recognition, Boxers were slow in gaining any popularity with the American people. However, people seemed to have a change of heart about the Boxer after World War II, when popularity of breed began to steadily increase. They now get bragging rights as one of the most popular breeds in the US, landing in the top 10 list of most registered breeds year after year.

The origin of the Boxer name is still subject to debate. Some believe the word comes from the German word Boxl, which was a term used for dogs who worked in slaughterhouses. Others believe the term Boxer refers to the dogs habit of rearing back on their hind legs and boxing their front paws when theyre either playing or cornering prey. Whatever the origin, it seems this enthusiastic dog will continue to win peoples hearts with their enthusiasm and loyalty.

Bouvier Des Flandres
Briard