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First Impressions
The Boxer has a powerful, muscular and athletic build. The docked tail is carried high and the ears, which are usually docked in the United States, are carried erect.
The History Of The Boxer
Originated in Germany during the 1800's.
During the 1880's, George Alt from near Munich, bred a new working dog by crossing a Bullenbeisser with an English Bulldog. The Boxer was a second generation of that cross. Boxers combines power and agility with intelligence. It has been a favorite of police departments, military trainers and guide dog organizations. American Boxers are lighter than their European cousins.
Description Of The Boxer
The Boxer is compact and powerful. The glossy, close-fitting coat can be colored, brindle, white and various shades of red, with white markings. White Boxers may be disallowed registration at some Kennel Clubs. The tail is usually docked. Ears may be cropped.
The Boxer’s head should be proportional to its body and with no wrinkles. Its lower jaw is undershot with neither the tongue or teeth showing when the mouth is closed. They have large black noses and dark eyes.
Dogs are 22 - 25 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh 60 - 70 lbs. Bitches are 21 - 24 inches tall, weighing 53 - 65 pounds.
Coat & Grooming
The Boxer's smooth, short coat is easy to groom. Use a firm bristle brush and bathe only when necessary. Boxers are clean dogs. grooming themselves like a cat. This breed is an average shedder.
Temperament and Boxer Training
The Boxer is vert intelligent, eager and quick to learn, with a stubborn streak. The Boxer is a good choice for competitive obedience competitions. They are loyal, affectionate and get along well with children. An willing and dog to train.
As with all dogs, Boxer training should be started as a puppy. To prevent behavioral problems later in life, training should follow a recognized training regime. Either enroll in a certified local dog training school or read this.
Life Expectancy and Health
The average life span for a Boxer is around 11-14 years.
Some major concerns are cardiomyopathy, sub-aortic stenosis, and hip dysplasia. Sometime strains are prone to epilepsy. From the age of eight onwards, they are more prone to tumors than other breeds. Tendency towards allergies. Boxers may drool, snore and have excessive flatulence. White Boxers are prone to deafness.
Make sure a bad diet is not killing your dog - click here.
Please read our page on health problems by clicking here.
Preferred Environment and Exercise Requirements
Boxers will be fine living in an apartment given plenty of regular exercise. They are quite active indoors. They prefer an average size yard. Boxers prefer temperate climates as they are not suited to extremes of temperature.
They are active and athletic and need daily exercise, as well as long brisk, walks.
For More Information on the Boxer
To get more information, check out the Boxer web site:
www.americanboxerclub.org
There may also be rescue dogs available. Check for details on:
www.americanboxerrescue.org
Summary
Long lived. Great with children. Easily trained. A great family dog.
:: Boxer Training ::
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