Boxer

Overview

Although often thought to be an English breed, the Boxer originated in Germany where it was one of the first breeds used for law enforcement work. The name comes from the breed's tendency to stand erect on the hind legs and "box" with the front legs.

Height

21 to 25 inches

Weight

50 to 80 pounds with males heavier than females

Color

Boxers are fawn to red with a black mask and muzzle, and white on the chest, legs, and feet.

Coat type

The coat is short and smooth.

Grooming

The coat should be brushed weekly with a soft bristled brush. The ears and teeth need to be cleaned weekly and toenails trimmed on the same schedule. Boxers with wrinkles on the face will need to have those skin folds cleaned daily.

Life expectancy

9 to 11 years

Temperament

The Boxer was bred to be a working dog and needs a job to do, even if that simply means bringing in the newspaper every morning. They are intelligent, funny, and love to play although they can also be stubborn at times. Boxers are protective and very watchful of their house and people. Puppies can be too rowdy for small children but overall, Boxers are a wonderful family dog. Male Boxers can be aggressive towards other male dogs.

Activity level

Boxers love to work and play. They need daily exercise, although during the heat of the summer they should exercise in the cool of the morning or evening. Because of their short muzzle they can have problems breathing in hot, humid weather.

Training

Boxers should begin puppy classes as soon as their vet gives them clearance to do so, and they should remain in training until grown up. This provides socialization to other puppies and people, and gives the working dog a job to do and teaches him household rules and social manners.

Common health problems

• Hip dysplasia
• Bloat and torsion
• Breathing problems
• Cardiomyopathy
• Degenerative myelopathy