The Boxer was originally bred in Germany during the late 19th century. The Boxer’s ancestral roots trace back to the Assyrian Empire, as far back as 2,500 B.C. The modern Boxer is a direct descendant of two fighting breeds, the Bullenbiesser (now extinct) of the Mastiff family and the English Bulldog. During the medieval times, the Bullenbisser was Germany’s prized big game hunter, used to hunt bear, wild boar and deer. As the focus on hunting started to fade, Boxers took on other working roles such as guard dogs, service dogs and in police and military. Today, Boxers are still used in a variety of working roles, though they’re mainly kept as loving companion dogs.

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Boxer Appearance 

The Boxer is a medium-sized dog with a strong muscular body and distinctive square head. Boxers are a deep-chested breed that can grow to be 21-25 inches tall. Male Boxers can weigh between 65-80 pounds while female Boxers typically weigh 15 pounds less than males.

Boxer Temperament 

Boxer dogs are intelligent, high-energy and very affectionate. Their gentle and playful spirit have earned them a reputation as a great family dog. Boxers are incredibly loyal and prefer to be in the company of their owners. They also make great guard dogs and are always ready to protect their family when needed.

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Grooming Your Boxer

Boxers have a sleek, short-haired coat that comes in two standard colours, fawn or brindle. Boxers shed moderately throughout the year, which means they require minimal grooming. It’s recommended that you brush your Boxer weekly using a rubber curry brush or a brush with rubber ends. The rubber nubs will help stimulate and massage your Boxer’s skin and hair. Boxers also need regular nail trimming, ear cleaning and dental care.

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Training & Exercise for Your Boxer 

Boxers require proper training and early socialization in order to positively channel their energy and exuberant personalities. As a highly intelligent breed, Boxers are easily trainable, but can be stubborn. Boxers respond well to positive reinforcement and reward-based training.

Health Considerations for Boxers

The Boxer is a generally healthy breed with a lifespan of 10-12 years. To ensure your Boxer gets the most out of these years, it’s important to be aware of what signs of illnesses to look for so you can quickly address any health concern. Some of the common health issues Boxers are susceptible to include allergies, brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS), heart disease, hip dysplasia and hypothyroidism. 

Allergies 

Boxers are prone to both environmental and food-related allergies. When it comes to diet, Boxers are especially sensitive to dog food containing wheat or corn. Your Boxer’s skin may show a reaction with symptoms such as obsessive licking, scratching and chewing of problematic areas. There are many treatment options available if your Boxer develops allergies such as a change in dog food or medication. Your veterinarian can help determine the best treatment options to ensure your Boxer continues to live a healthy and comfortable life. 

Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus Syndrome (GDV or Bloat)

Bloat, also known as Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus Syndrome, is a life-threatening disorder most commonly seen in large, deep-chested breeds including the German Shepherd. This condition is caused when the dog’s stomach fills with air and twists. This cuts off the circulation of blood and can be deadly if not corrected. Some of the signs of bloat to be aware of in your Boxer include salivation, obvious pain, a distended abdomen and retching. Ways to prevent this condition from happening to your Boxer include encouraging slower eating, providing easy to digest dog food and refraining from exercise immediately after eating. If you suspect that your Boxer has bloat, immediate veterinary attention is required. 

Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BAOS)

Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BAOS) is a combination of upper airway abnormalities that cause partial obstruction to a dog’s breathing. As a result of the Boxers’ wide, short skulls, square muzzle and underbite, they are more prone to this particular condition. Boxers that are affected may experience a range of symptoms such as loud breathing, difficulty handling exercise, heat intolerance and difficulty eating.

Heart Disease

Subvalvular aortic stenosis (SAS), is a congenital heart murmur found in Boxers. This condition occurs when abnormal tissue forms just below the aortic valve, creating an obstruction that causes the heart to work harder to pump blood. Boxers with SAS can appear asymptomatic; however, some symptoms to be aware of include lethargy, shortness of breath, exercise intolerance and fainting. 

Hip Dysplasia

Canine hip dysplasia (CHD) is one of the most common canine ailments. It’s a genetic condition that causes an abnormal formation of the hip socket, which can eventually lead to lameness and arthritis of the joints. This hereditary disease can be magnified by factors including excessive growth rate, age, types of exercise and improper weight and nutrition. While mild conditions can be managed with prescription medication and physical therapy, more severe cases could require surgery. To prevent or reduce the severity of hip dysplasia, it’s important to ensure your Boxer gets a proper diet and the right amount of exercise.

Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism is an inherited condition that is caused by a deficiency of the thyroid hormone. Due to the thyroid's widespread effects on the body, symptoms of hypothyroidism can vary. Some of the common symptoms to be aware of in your Boxer include obesity, lethargy, depression, anemia and weakness of the joints. Your Boxer should have their thyroid levels tested annually as this condition can develop at any time. If your Boxer is diagnosed with hypothyroidism, treatment is fairly simple and effective. With the assistance of medication your Boxer can go on to live a full life. 

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What Makes a Boxer Unique? 

Boxers have long tongues

A Boxer named Brandy holds the Guinness World Record for the longest dog tongue in the world. Brandy’s tongue measured a record breaking 17-inches long. For comparison, the longest human tongue measures at 3.97 inches.

Police training in Germany

With a long history as a working breed, Boxers have been put to work in various roles such as service dogs, police dogs, and military companions. The Boxer was one of the first breeds selected in Germany for police training.

War Dogs

During World War I, Boxers were used to assist German Soldiers in battle. The Boxer was utilized as a messenger carrier, pack carrier, attack dog and guard dog. It wasn’t until World War II that the Boxer breed became popular around the world.

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