Boxer

• Breed Origin: Boxers originate from Germany and are relatives to almost all Bulldog types. Their distant descendants are believed to have come from fighting dogs bred in Tibet. Boxers were initially bred to be working, hunting and guard dogs.

• Coat Colors: Fawn, Brindle, White

• Description:The Boxer, is a member of the Mastiff family and is a medium sized, energetic powerhouse of a dog. They have an extremely well-developed muscular frame, which is visible underneath their taught skin. They have wide, short, black muzzles which are the characteristic trait of the breed. Breed standard specifies that their muzzles should be one third the length of the head and two thirds the width of the skull. They have an arched skull and a slightly indented forehead with a distinct end at the muzzle. They have beautiful dark brown eyes and a black velvety nose. Another distinctive, inherent characteristic of the breed is a noticeable slight under bite. The Boxer’s ears are usually cropped and the tail is almost always docked. They have a super short, sleek, shiny coat which comes in variations of fawn or brindle.

• Exercise Requirements: The Boxer requires a lot of physical activity in its day. Long daily walks and plenty of time to run are vital to keeping a Boxer physically and mentally fit. They should not, however, be exercised too heavily in hot weather as they are know to suffer from heatstroke. They can live in condos or apartments, as long as there is a daily commitment to exercise. Boxers need to be constantly entertained. If not engaged in physical activity, they should have a generous amount of mental stimulation as well. Plenty of chew toys will keep them occupied and entertained throughout their day.

• Grooming: The Boxer’s short coat is effortlessly managed. They are super clean dogs who groom themselves, much like cats do. A weekly brushing will keep their year-round shedding under control and occasional wipes with a chamois cloth will keep the coat glossy and shiny. Boxers only need to be bathed as needed, which should be no more than every few months.It is suggested that Boxers get their teeth brushed on a weekly basis to keep tartar, gum disease and bad breath at bay. Additionally, weekly ear cleaning with a veterinarian approved cleanser can prevent ear infections. Active Boxers tend to wear down their toenails naturally, but if their nails click on hard flooring, it’s time for a trim.

• Hereditary Disorders:
  
  • Cardiac disease has been estimated to affect an astonishing 50% of Boxers. Veterinarians strongly recommend screening a puppy before purchase. If a murmur is detected, an ultrasound may be needed to clarify the problem. Most Boxers can live with minor problems but there will some that are seriously affected.
  • Cancerous tumors are common for Boxers, so any lumps or bumps detected should be shown to a vet immediately.
  • Ulcerative colitis is a bowel condition which can occur at any age and causes chronic diarrhea. It can be treated with cortisone.
  • White Boxers are at risk of blindness, deafness and skin cancer.

   

• Height: Female: 21–24 inches (53–60 cm), Male: 22–25 inches (56–63 cm)

• Hypoallergenic: No

• Life Expectancy: 10 to 12 years

• Living Area Requirements: Boxers can live in happily in apartments, but there must be a commitment to daily exercise. Boxers are fairly active indoors and would do best with at least an average-sized yard.

• Temperament: Playful, Intelligent, Friendly, Devoted, Loyal, Energetic, Calm, Fearless, Confident, Cheerful, Brave and Bright. There are few dogs with a more playful nature than the Boxer. They are strong, boisterous, active and have a very positive personality.Boxers are energetic, fun, intelligent and inquisitive. This dog is in ever-ready mode, when there is a chance of a game or adventure to be had. The Boxer thrives on a challenge with passion and delight. The Boxer breed is know to be the eternal puppy, bouncy, outgoing and energetic. Boxers take about two to three years to be of a mature age. They adore attention and may become destructive or problem barkers if neglected However, the other side of the Boxer’s personality is very serious and deliberate, and tells of the breeds working dog history. The Boxer is valiantly brave, with a high sense of devotion to its family, and though the dog is not naturally vicious or aggressive, it will oppose a perceived attack against its masters with boldness and courage. For this reason, the learning of appropriate socialization skills is very important. The Boxer is neither overly friendly with nor aggressive toward strangers; if the dog detects that its master approves of the stranger, it will take on an accepting and slightly guarded attitude toward the newcomer. This response is also common with strange dogs, though the Boxer tends to be a bit more aggressive in this area. The Boxer is usually respectful of other household pets and playful and protective with children.

• Weight: Female: 23–27 kg, Male: 30–34 kg