For centuries, Boxer dogs were developed as medium-sized guard dogs. Even though Boxers belong to the AKC's Working Group, the majority of them end up in loving homes with families. However, they still have a lot of energy and require a lot of physical activity.
Dogs of this breed, with their square jaws and muscular build, are like the George Clooneys of the canine world: handsome with a heart of gold. In addition to their love for their people, these dogs will welcome constant training that does not rely solely on harsh punishments.
Dogs of this breed are known for their high energy levels and willingness to play with their owners, making them an excellent choice for families with children. Boxer features and facts are shown here.
Highlights
- A lot of exercise is required for Boxer dogs due to their high level of energy. Take the time, desire, and energy to provide your children with the play and activity they require to grow up healthy and happy.
- It's not uncommon for a boxer to squeal with joy when meeting a new person.
- Before your Boxer grows too big, it's vital that you begin training him early and consistently.
- Boxers are not "outside dogs," despite their size. In hot and cold weather, their small noses and short hair make them inconvenient, thus they must be kept indoors.
- After several years of being rowdy puppies, boxers begin to mature.
- It's not enough for a Boxer to enjoy spending time with his family; he needs it! They can become irrational and destructive if they are left alone for an extended period of time or confined to the backyard alone.
- It's common knowledge that boxers are known for their drooling habits. Boxers are notorious for their loud snoring.
- Because of their short hair, Boxers shed more frequently in the spring.
- Boxers are smart and react well to training that is both firm and fun. Moreover, they have a strong sense of self-reliance and don't appreciate being yelled at or treated unfairly. The most effective way to train your Boxer is to make it enjoyable for both of you.
- Some Boxers take their guarding responsibilities a little too seriously, while others may not show any guarding instincts at all.
Characteristics
Social Appearance
Adaptability
It's a common misconception that a little dog is better suited to living in a limited space. Many tiny dogs have too much energy and are too yappy to live in an apartment building. An apartment dog's best attributes include being quiet, low energy, somewhat peaceful indoors, and respectful to the other inhabitants. Your dog's personal space in your apartment can be improved by purchasing one of these fantastic dog cages.
Sensitivity Level
Depending on the dog, a strong rebuke can be taken in stride by some, while others regard even the tiniest hint of disapproval as a personal attack. If you have a loud or pushy owner, a chaotic home, or a routine that is unpredictable or variable, your low-sensitivity dog, often known as "easy-going," "tolerant," "resilient," or even "thick-skinned," will be able to handle it better. Do you have young children, host a lot of parties, or have a hectic lifestyle? Choose a dog that isn't overly sensitive.
Intensity
You can't tell from looking at them whether or not they're hyperactive, but when they do anything, they do it vigorously. They tug at their leashes (unless you teach them not to), they push their way through barriers, and they down their meals in huge, gobbling gulps. A home with young children or an elderly or feeble person may not be the best place for these dynamos to learn proper etiquette. On the other side, a dog with poor vitality adopts a more reserved demeanor.
Potential for Playfulness
The playful nature of certain dogs never fades away, and they're always ready for a game, whereas the reserved and serious tendencies of other dogs develop through time. Think about how many times a day you want to play fetch or tag with your dog, and whether or not you have children or other dogs who can act as substitutes.
Personality Appearance
Intelligence
In the same way as working dogs, such as those that herd sheep, are bred for intelligence and decision-making, working dogs like those who run all day need to exercise their bodies. The two most common activities that a bored pet engages in are digging and chewing, both of which require mental stimulation. There are several ways to keep a dog's brain active, including obedience training, interactive dog toys like tug of war, and dog sports like agility and search and rescue.
Energy Level
Energy-draining dogs are always on the lookout for a new activity. There are several jobs that require a lot of stamina from dogs, such as herding livestock or recovering prey for hunters. Children are more likely to engage in activities such as jumping, playing and exploring new sights and smells as a result of this change in their environment
A low-energy dog is more like a couch potato than a dog that needs a lot of exercise. Think about your level of physical activity and whether or not you find a hyperactive dog irritating before making your final choice.
Easy To Train
Easy to train dogs can more easily form associations between a cue (like "sit"), an action (like sitting), and a reward than dogs that are more difficult to train. Dogs that require more time, patience, and repetition are more difficult to train.
Getting your dog interested in training will require incentives and games because many breeds are intelligent but have a "What's in it for me?" mentality when it comes to learning new things.
Family Affection Level
Affectionate With Family
Since puppyhood, some breeds remain aloof and independent; others form deep bonds with one individual but are uninterested in the rest of the family; still other types shower their entire family with affection. Canines raised in homes with people tend to be more open to human interaction and develop stronger ties, regardless of their breed or upbringing.
Kid-Friendly
Kids-friendly dogs are calm, strong enough to bear the hefty hugs and pets kids can dish out, and have an unfazed attitude about rushing, scream-inducing children. There are several names you may not expect to see on the list: Fierce-looking Both Boxers and American Staffordshire Terriers are regarded as family dogs (which are considered Pit Bulls). Chihuahuas, which are small, sensitive, and potentially sharp, are not always family-friendly.
Dog Friendly
Dog friendship and human friendship are two entirely different things. The fact that a dog is friendly with humans doesn't mean it's immune to aggression or aggression from other dogs; some canines choose to play rather than fight; others will just run away. The type of animal isn't the only consideration. Dogs who have spent a lot of time playing with their littermates and their mother at the age of six to eight weeks are more likely to be socially competent.
Physical Appearance
Amount of Shedding
Having a dog in the house means that you'll have to deal with some level of dog hair on your clothing and in the home. It's worth noting, however, that shedding varies widely among breeds. Some dogs shed all year long, while others ``blow" just during specific times of the year, and still others don't shed at all. If you're a stickler for cleanliness, you'll need to choose a breed that sheds less or lower your expectations. You can use a deshedding tool to keep your house a little cleaner.
Drooling Potential
While greeting you, some dogs may cover their arms with ropes of drool and create large, wet patches on your clothing. If you don't mind a little drool, go for it; but if you're a stickler for cleanliness, you may want to look for a dog with a low drool rating.
Easy To Groom
Some breeds of dogs can simply be brushed and left alone, while others require frequent washing, trimming, and other grooming in order to maintain their health and appearance. If you don't have the time or money to take care of a dog that requires a lot of grooming, you may want to look into hiring a professional.
Exercise Needs
Evening walks around the neighbourhood are perfectly acceptable for some breeds. Others, particularly those trained for physically demanding vocations like herding or hunting, require regular, rigorous exercise.
They can gain weight and release their pent-up energy in ways you don't like, including barking, chewing, and digging, if not given enough exercise. Those looking to train their dog for an energetic canine activity, such as agility, should consider getting a dog that needs a lot of exercise.
Average sizes and life expectancy of the breed
Weight
60 to 70 pounds
Lifespan
10 to 12 years
Height
21 to 25 inches at the shoulder
History
They are ancestors of extinct bullenbeisser breeds that were bred with mastiff, bulldog and perhaps even a Great Dane. Butcher's dogs were originally developed in Germany during the nineteenth century to control cattle in slaughterhouses and then as bull baiting dogs. The German word "boxl," which was used to designate the dogs at the butcher, is cited by some breed historians as the origin of the boxer's name.
Others believe the word "boxer" comes from the way they spar, which is quite similar to a boxer's use of his forepaws in real life. After the outbreak of World War I, the United States received its first boxer imports. After World War II, the breed became one of America's most popular.
Boxers are regarded as working dogs in the canine community. These dogs have served as police dogs since the early 1900s and as seeing-eye dogs in the past. As a result, they are also bred to serve as devoted family pets who enjoy spending time with young children, as well as watchdogs.
Personality and Temperament
Boxer dogs are loyal, affectionate, and agile. This sturdy, muscular breed is well-suited for families with active lifestyles who want a canine companion. As long as they have been properly socialised, Boxers may be a wonderful addition to any family, especially those with small children or other pets, such as cats.
In return for their owners' devotion, Boxers are known to be one of the most loyal breeds out there. With their high-energy personality, Boxers require a lot of exercise and playtime in order to keep them from getting into trouble!
Boxers can be apprehensive of outsiders because of their loyalty, but they are unlikely to engage in any sort of combative behaviour.. As a result of early socialisation, your Boxer will be more comfortable when meeting new people and other animals. For some reason, Boxers believe they are lapdogs, and will do whatever it takes to be as near to you as possible for maximum hugs and kisses.
Types
- Black or Reverse Brindle Boxer
- Fawn Boxer
- Brindle Boxer
- English Boxer
- White Boxer
- German Boxer
- American Boxer
- Boxador
Care
Because of his competitive nature, the boxer has a high demand for physical activity and a strong desire to engage in physical play. In order to manage the breed's high levels of activity, proper training is a necessity. Fortunately, taking care of a boxer isn't too time consuming.
Health
It takes a Boxer between 10 and 12 years to mature. The UK Kennel Club presently classifies it as a Category 1 breed, meaning there are no known health issues. Despite this, the breed's brachycephalic structure might cause breathing issues. UK Kennel Club strongly encourages breeders to participate in the following programmes for Boxer-related health issues:
Hip Dysplasia
One or more anomalies in the hips of a Boxer might lead to joint problems as the dog ages. As they get older, veterinarians begin looking at their hips for any abnormalities.
Higher scores indicate more severe symptoms, and both hips can be combined to get an overall maximum score of 106. Hip dysplasia is a condition that can be caused by both genetic and environmental factors.
Brachycephalic Syndrome
Dogs with a characteristically short skull can develop BOAS (Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome), a condition in which there is insufficient room for internal structures, resulting in respiratory problems. In heated or stressful settings, this condition's consequences are more noticeable. In the event that a dog has difficulty breathing, it is important to keep it cool and avoid stressful situations.
Progressive Axonopathy
It is a rare neurological condition that causes a lack of coordination and has no recognised cure. Even in puppies less than a month old, the disease can cause paralysis, but many dogs are still able to move and lead a normal life as pets.
Juvenile Kidney Disease
Symptoms of kidney failure might be seen in young dogs with this condition. The kidneys are assumed to be the cause of this condition. There is a direct correlation between the amount of renal function loss and survival. There is no treatment for kidney disease, but a low-protein diet may alleviate some of the pressure on the organ.
Boxer Cardiomyopathy
Also called arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy, this disorder affects the heart rhythm (ARVC). If the heart's rhythm is out of whack, blood and oxygen can't circulate properly around the body, and this might harm the brain.
Antiarrhythmic medicines are typically used to treat the disorder, which can be diagnosed through electrocardiograms and echocardiography. For breeding purposes, Boxers with Boxer Cardiomyopathy should be avoided at all costs.
Cancer
The Boxer is one of the dog breeds that has been proven to have a greater incidence of cancer than other breeds.
Recommended Health Test
- Cardiac
- Hip
- Blood
- Thyroid Tests
- X-Rays
- MRI
- Eye Examination
Nutrition
Feed a quality, nutritionally complete dog food, and always offer clean water. Follow your vet's directions regarding the quantity and type of food, as this might change with age, level of activity, and other variables. Keep monitoring your boxer's weight to avoid obesity and other health risks.
Boxers, like other dogs with large chests, are prone to bloating, which can cause the stomach to twist dangerously inward. Bloating can be minimised by eating from an elevated dish, taking your time, and being served smaller portions.
Grooming
Because boxers' coats are so short, their grooming requirements are quite simple. Brush them with a spice brush once a week to remove stray hair and other dirt from their coats. Brush more frequently in the spring and fall to keep up with the increased amount of loose hair that comes with the change in weather.
In addition, the coat only has a bath every few months or so to keep it clean. But keep in mind that many boxers are droolers, so their fur could need some cleansing with a damp cloth around their lips.
The frequency of nail trimmings will depend on how quickly the dog's nails naturally wear down. Additionally, brushing the dog's teeth on a daily basis is recommended.
Exercise
As a result, most boxers require a lot of exercise every day. You should walk your boxer at least twice everyday for 30 minutes. Other forms of physical activity, such as hiking, fetch, and jogging, will also help keep the dog physically fit and psychologically engaged. Boxers are sociable dogs, so they'd rather be out and about with you than in a fenced-in yard.
Boxers aren't known for their extreme cold or heat tolerance. Their lack of warmth is exacerbated by the fact that they have such a short coat. Boxers can't effectively cool themselves off in hot weather due to their small nostrils. As a result, it's ideal to train boxers indoors during extreme weather conditions, whether it's hot or freezing. If you can, try to go for a stroll during the hottest part of the day.
Training
If they aren't socialised and taught properly, boxers can become energetic and unruly. Exuberant personalities are to blame here. Boxers are known for their tendency to leap on people, which is a direct result of the breed's tendency to jump while looking for food.
As soon as a boxer puppy reaches the minimum age requirement, it should begin puppy training classes. Basic obedience and polite socialisation will be taught at the facility. Make sure everyone who meets your boxer gives positive reinforcement on good actions and exposes them to a variety of people and circumstances. Enrolling in dog sports, service dog training, or other classes can also assist your dog improve its obedience and deepen your relationship with it.
Children and Other Pets
Even active older children will enjoy playing with a Boxer. Toddlers, on the other hand, may find them too rowdy and get knocked down in the course of normal play.
Always teach youngsters how to approach and touch dogs, and supervise any interactions between dogs and small children to prevent any biting or ear or tail pulling on the part of either party. No child should ever approach a dog that is eating or resting and try to steal its food. A dog should never be left alone with a child, no matter how old they are.
As long as they're raised with other dogs and cats, boxers can get along well with them.
Puppies
Before introducing a Boxer puppy into your home, it is important to puppy-proof your house. This will keep your new puppy safe and ensure that you don't lose a treasured item in the process. The sooner you get started on toilet training your Boxer puppy, the better. Make sure your dog is on a regular feeding schedule and watch for indicators that they're ready to need to go outside.
Prepare for the fact that Boxer pups will need to feed more frequently than adult Boxers, so make sure you can meet this schedule. The more frequently they eat, you'll need to take your Boxer out to the restroom more often.
It is critical that you visit the veterinarian as soon as possible after bringing home your new Boxer puppy, that you have acquired all the supplies and food your dog will require, and that you set aside time each day to play with him or her and satisfy his or her daily activity needs.
Dog breeds similar to Boxer
Breeds that are comparable to the Boxer Bulldog include Dogo Argentinos and American Staffordshire Terriers.
Bulldog
Dogs of the bulldog and boxer breeds are both medium- to large-breed. Boxers tend to be a little heavier, with males weighing an average of 65 pounds. Male Bulldogs weigh an average of 54 pounds. Bulldogs and Boxers frequently have a similar coat colour. A fawn or a brindle coat is an option for either of these breeds. Boxers, as opposed to Bulldogs, are significantly more active and fun.
Dogo Argentino
Boxers are smaller in stature, while Dogo Argentinos are taller. While boxers weigh an average of 65 pounds, they weigh an average of 93.5 pounds. They have short, easy-to-groom coats, which makes them a great choice for apartment living. Both of them are capable of serving as good watchdogs.
American Stronghound Terrier
Boxers and American Staffordshire Terriers are both bright dogs who enjoy playing. The weight of an American Staffordshire Terrier is comparable to that of a Boxer, but the latter is a couple of inches shorter in stature. While a male Staffordshire Terrier stands at an average height of 18 inches, an average boxer measures 23.5 inches tall.
