Boxer
- Size
- Medium to large
- Height
- Males: 23 to 24 inches; Females: 21.5 to 23.5 inches
- Weight
- Males: 60 to 80 pounds; Females: 55 to 65 pounds
- Coat
- Short
- Energy
- High
- Activities
- Agility, Obedience, Conformation, Rally
Although the Boxer was bred for dog fighting and hunting big game, the breed now thrives on human companionship. With a patient and protective nature, Boxers make excellent family dogs.
Temperament
The Boxer is a spirited, energetic breed. As such, he needs daily exercise. Long walks, runs or play time in a fenced yard will help him stay physically fit.
As a highly intelligent dog, he’s a skilled problem solver and may find repetitive training boring. Early socialization and training is critical for this powerful breed, however.
Although he’s patient and protective of children, he’s wary of strangers and fearless when threatened.
Characteristics
Boxers have an athletic build and a wrinkled, expressive forehead when alert.
Lifespan
10 to 12 years
Colors
Standard breed colors are fawn or brindle with white markings.
Shedding
The Boxer’s short coat requires little grooming and sheds on occasion.
Health
Boxers have a risk for various health conditions, including hip dysplasia, heart conditions, thyroid deficiencies and certain cancers. Responsible breeders screen regularly for such conditions to help develop a healthy breed.
Additionally, Boxers do not do well in extreme heat or cold, so be mindful of this when exercising a Boxer outdoors.
Best Dog Food for Boxers & Boxer Puppies
An adult Boxer will thrive on a high-protein dog food to support his high energy levels and active lifestyle. Boxer puppies need a complete and balanced puppy food to support their growth and development.
History
Boxers were developed in 19th century Germany, but their ancestors date back to 2,500 BC. The breed is thought to have descended from the medieval Bullenbeisser, a German large-game hunter of bison, bear and wild boar.
By 1865, big-game hunting died out, leaving the Bullenbiesser unemployed. That’s when German dog fanciers began developing what we recognize today as the Boxer.
The American Kennel Club (AKC) registered its first Boxer in 1904. Boxers grew in popularity after Bang Away won the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show in the 1950s. Since then, the breed has sat firmly in the top 10 most popular breeds in America.
Facts
- Boxers were one of the first breeds trained for police work in Germany.
- The breed gets its name for the way they play or defend themselves with their front paws.
- Boxers are related to almost every other type of bulldog.