Boxers are Dogs of Strength, Loyalty and Absolute Love!

Boxers are a breed of dog that have been beloved by families for generations. They are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and playful nature, making them an ideal pet for any family. Boxers are also incredibly loyal and protective of their owners, making them great guard dogs as well.

Boxers have a unique look that sets them apart from other breeds. They have short muzzles, large heads, and muscular bodies. Their coats are usually short and smooth, and come in a variety of colors including fawn, brindle, and white.

Boxers are a breed of dog that originated in Germany. They are known for being friendly, outgoing, and athletic. Boxers are very intelligent, and can learn tricks fairly easily. They are also very obedient and willing to please. They are very good at playing games, and will enjoy running around and playing fetch with you. They are also very active, and will enjoy going for walks.

Boxers are very loyal and affectionate, and will enjoy spending quality time with their family. They are also a very friendly breed, and will enjoy meeting new friends.

They are very good watchdogs, and will let you know if anyone comes to your house. They are very agile, and will enjoy agility training. Because of their athleticism, they will excel at games like Frisbee and fetch.

Boxers are an active breed that loves to play and explore. They need plenty of exercise to stay healthy and happy, so they make great companions for those who enjoy outdoor activities like hiking or running. Boxers also love to play fetch and tug-of-war, making them great family pets.

Boxers are considered medium to large size dogs. You can expect to pay about $750-$2500 for a healthy Boxer puppy.

Boxers require patience while in training and thrive on praise. An owner who is attentive to their Boxer will be rewarded with affection.

For those who are new to owning a dog, Boxers are an excellent choice. They are relatively easy to train and have a gentle nature that makes them well suited for first time owners. Boxers also tend to be very tolerant of children, making them a great addition to any family.

Overall, Boxers are a great breed for those looking for an intelligent, loyal, and playful companion. They make wonderful family pets and are sure to bring joy to any home.

Boxer Information

Average Height: 21.5 to 25 inches
Average Length: 30 to 35 inches
Average Weight: 55 to 80 pounds
Coat Type: Short length
Coat Appearance: Short, shiny and smooth
Coat Colors: Fawn, brindle, and white
Grooming Needs: Low
Shedding: Moderate Shedding
Brushing Requirements: Once a week is enough
Sensitive to Touch: No
Excessive Barking: Moderate
Tolerance to Heat and Cold: No
Good Pet: Yes, they are loyal to the family
Safe with Children: Yes
Good with Other Dogs: Moderate
Good with Other Pets: Moderate
Suitable to live in an Apartment: Yes
Good for Less Experienced Pet Owners: Yes if given proper house training
Training: Patience and firmness is required to train them
Exercise Needs: High
Weight Gain: Moderate
Health Concerns: Cancer, eye diseases, diplopia, heart conditions like boxer cardiomyopathy (BCM) and aortic stenosis, hypothyroidism, hereditary deafness
Allergies: Environment and food-related
Average Life Span: 10 to 12 years

Physical Appearance of Boxers

a Boxer with its attention focused on something in the distance

Boxers have a large and muscular build. They have strong legs, short backs, and a deep chest. Boxers are square-headed and often have what can only be described as a curious look on their face. Their face is mostly black but some dogs will have a white streak. The white streak looks like white paint was poured between their eyes and it ran down their nose and covered both sides of their snout.

Their snout looks more compact than other breeds’ snouts. Their lower jaws are also slightly narrower as well as shorter. Their ears are folded and lightly lay against their head naturally, but stand erect when they have been cropped by their owner.

Boxers with full length tails usually curl upwards and their tail will point down. There are a few that have their tail go straight up, then curl behind it and point down. Just like with their ears, some owners choose to “dock” the tail where they amputate all but a few inches. For Boxers who have been docked, they have a short tail which usually goes up and straight out behind them..

Their coat length is short and shiny. With tight skin, their coat has an athletic look. Their coat can be one of two colors, brindle or fawn. The Brindle color has a striking look with black stripes just like a tiger-striped pattern. The fawn color ranges from light tan to mahogany. There can be white patches on the body of the Boxers. They also have white patches on their feet and chest.

Some boxers are predominantly white, but they are not usually desired as pets. White boxers are associated with deafness.

Temperament of a Boxer

Naturally Boxers are alert and characterized as hearing dogs. Many Boxers become service dogs for this reason. They are watchful and loyal with their family and home. Boxers are distrustful when dealing with strangers. If they become aggressive and bark, it is only because they are being protective of their family. Because of their desire to protect, many regard them as a great guard dog.

Their natural temperament is curious and playful. It can be affected by many factors like training, parenting, and early socialization. Early socialization can help cultivate playful instincts which will make them more approachable to strangers and other pets.

Boxers can hold grudges against other dogs and can get aggressive, especially if they are from the same sex. Once a boxer considers someone an enemy, it is difficult for them to change that perception. When taking out adult Boxers for walks, be careful with their interactions with other pets. Unless you know they will listen to your commands it is best to keep them leashed on walks.

Training a Boxer

a Boxer outside leaping into the air as its running

Boxers are smart and are high energy dogs. Their bouncy and energetic personality can make them jump on people and hurt them if not trained to control their actions. To train them well you need to be a little firm in your approach. Use praise and rewards during the training to keep them interested and happy. Try not to overly discipline them if they misbehave, as they can become angry and might get aggressive.

Boxers can be stubborn at times which means that you must be consistent when training them. If you do not show consistency it will send them mixed messages on what you want and they will continue to display unwanted behavior.

Early Socialization Training

Early socialization is absolutely necessary for Boxers. They need exposure to different sounds, places, people, other dogs, and pets right when they are a puppy. By being hypothyroidismexposed to so many things it will help interact more confidently with others and not be so skittish with strangers or other dogs.

Obedience Training Classes

Obedience training classes are a great way to help your dog learn some basic instructions. Obedience training isn’t just for your dog, it also helps owners learn to teach and control their new dog. These classes can teach you as an owner the best ways to teach your puppy. The amount of time you spend trying to stop your Boxer’s barking at strangers can be a lot less if you know the best way to teach them. Because Boxers love barking at strangers, with or without obedience training you will likely spend a good deal of time teaching them to be quiet.

Clicker Training

a tan colored Boxer looking at something

Boxers are known to misbehave fairly often, especially as puppies. They need to be trained to understand what is good behavior and what is not OK. Clicker training will help them understand what is good behavior. Clicker training has you make a noise with the clicker when the desired action is done. In addition to the click you’ll give them a treat, at least while you train them. Every time your dog hears the click they’ll know they did a good job and you are happy.

If your dog misbehaves, try not to punish them because it can discourage them. Instead, remember the clicker training and divert their attention to something else. You might have to do this several times to help your dog understand that they are not supposed to do the undesired activities.

Kennel Training

Kennel training works very well with Boxers. If done right they will see the kennel as their safe space, and a place that they can relax and sleep. Most dogs enjoy small spaces and will find a sense of security while inside it. Getting them comfortable in a kennel early on will save you a lot of headaches. You know that they can’t get into trouble while you’re sleeping or at work if they’re in their kennel. It’s also a great place for them to dry off after they come into the house when it’s wet outside.

Their Compatibility with Children

Boxers love to be around children. They are playful and patient with kids. Occasionally to show their fondness, they will even lay with the kids. Their goofy and playful personality is something that attracts children.

Boxers love to run, jump, and play outdoors with kids. Their breed does not tend to bite or become aggressive with children. Boxers can sometimes do things that will get them into trouble, and this is one reason why children often love them.

A Boxer’s compatibility with children also depends on how they have been raised. If they have been raised in a family with kids, they will be comfortable spending time with them. If they were not raised with children, they might shy away from children.

Teach your kids the best ways to interact with Boxers. Children should not disturb them when they are eating because they might get bit because your dog thinks their food is being taken away. Until you know how your children and new puppy will react its best to have an adult supervise their interactions. Supervision is the best way to prevent accidents from happening.

Best Climate for Boxers

Boxers are most comfortable in a moderate climate. Because they have short coats they can stay out in the cold for too long. If you plan on taking them out in chilly weather you should consider getting them a sweater.

a boxer laying outside in the grass and flowers

They also don’t handle hot weather very well. Boxer bodies with their shorter snout do not have an efficient method to keep them from overheating. On hot days they’ll need water to drink and a nice cool place in the shade to rest to try to keep cool. They should not stay in hot weather for more than 30 minutes without a cool place to rest.

Boxers should not be left outside on days with extreme temperatures. They really need to be inside your home to make them feel comfortable and relaxed. Puppies handle extreme temperatures even less than adult Boxers.

The Attention a Boxer Needs

Boxers tend to be affectionate towards their owners and do not like being alone. They require plenty of exercise and running which means they are best suited to active families. Try to take them out for walks or let them play in the backyard or at the parks, twice a day. They want to be around their family and other dogs. Having other dogs in your house will help give them the attention they need even when you can’t.

Health Issues

Though Boxers are considered healthy, but like all breeds they have certain health issues. Other diseases include hip dysplasia, intestinal problems, and epilepsy.

Cancer

The most common health complication in Boxers is cancer. Mast cell tumors are usually what will develop if they get cancer. Other forms of cancer include brain tumors and lymphoma.

Boxers with white patches are more susceptible to being sunburned which could lead to cancer. As strange as it sounds, you should apply sunscreen to them when taking them out as a precaution.

Aortic/subaortic stenosis (AS/SAS)

Canine Aortic/Subaortic Stenosis (AS/SAS) is a congenital heart defect that affects the heart’s left ventricle. It’s caused by the aortic valve or subaortic area narrowing, which restricts the flow of blood from the left ventricle to the aorta. This can lead to an increased pressure in the left ventricle, which can cause symptoms such as exercise intolerance, fainting, and even sudden death.

AS/SAS is most commonly seen in large dog breeds, particularly Boxer and Bulldog breeds. It’s also seen in some smaller breeds such as the Chihuahua and Pomeranian. The condition can be diagnosed through an echocardiogram, which is an ultrasound for the heart.

It’s important to note that AS/SAS can be managed with proper treatment and care. It’s also important to know that this condition can be fatal if left untreated. It’s important to have your pet examined by a veterinarian if you suspect they may have this medical problem.

Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism is a common health condition in dogs that causes weight gain, behavioral changes, skin and coat problems. The condition occurs when a dog’s thyroid gland isn’t creating enough thyroid hormones to regulate their body’s metabolism.

The thyroid gland is located in their neck, close to the windpipe. The gland is responsible for regulating the metabolism. When the thyroid becomes underactive their metabolism slows down and hypothyroidism occurs.

Hypothyroidism is caused by two diseases. One is lymphocytic thyroiditis, an immune-mediated disease where the dog’s immune system mistakes the thyroid as foreign and starts attacking it. We don’t know why this happens but lymphocytic thyroiditis is the most common reason for hypothyroidism in dogs.

The other disease that causes hypothyroidism is idiopathic thyroid gland atrophy where their fat tissue replaces the normal thyroid tissue. The cause of this disease is also unknown.

95% of hypothyroidism is caused by these two diseases, and the other 5% by rare diseases like thyroid gland cancer. Whatever the cause, the symptoms and treatments of hypothyroidism are usually the same.

Gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV)

Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV) is a life-threatening condition that affects dogs. It’s caused when their stomach becomes distended with gas, twisting over on itself, and cutting off its own blood supply.

Symptoms of Canine Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV)

The most common symptoms of canine Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV) include:

Restlessness
Excessive drooling
Abdominal pain
Pale gums
Rapid heart rate
Shock

Other signs may include vomiting, loss of appetite, and an enlarged abdomen. If left untreated, GDV can be fatal. If you suspect your dog is suffering from GDV it’s important to seek veterinary care immediately.

Canine Diplopia

Canine diplopia, also known as double vision, is a condition associated with seeing two images of a single object. Similar to humans, dogs can have this visual impairment due to various underlying causes. Canine diplopia can significantly impact a dog’s quality of life, hindering their ability to navigate their surroundings and potentially causing discomfort or confusion. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for canine diplopia is crucial in giving them the care that they need.

A person holding a clipboard with the word diagnosis written on it.

Symptoms of Canine Diplopia

Symptoms of diplopia can include:

Double vision: Dogs with Canine diplopia will see two images of the same object, leading to difficulty navigating their environment.
Difficulty walking or running: The misalignment of their eyes caused by Canine diplopia can affect a dog’s coordination and balance, making it challenging for them to walk or run smoothly.

Hereditary Deafness

Hereditary deafness in dogs is caused by a genetic mutation that affects the development of their inner ear. This mutation can be passed down from parent to offspring, or it can occur spontaneously in a single pup. The most common form of hereditary deafness is known as congenital sensorineural deafness (CSD), which is caused by a mutation in the gene that codes for a protein called connexin 26. This protein is essential for normal hearing and when it is mutated, it can lead to deafness.

Symptoms of Canine Hereditary Deafness

The most common symptom of canine hereditary deafness is a complete lack of response to sound. This can be difficult to detect in puppies, because they may not yet have developed the ability to hear. Other signs that may indicate deafness include:

Unresponsiveness to verbal commands or hand signals
Lack of startle reflex when loud noises occur
No reaction to clapping or other sounds
Unusual head tilting or ear movements
Excessive barking or whining

Periodontal Disease

Domesticated cats and dogs can get periodontal disease if their oral health is not taken care of. Periodontal disease is a tooth and gum condition that can become serious in a few ways. One of the biggest problems is that this disease can destroy the gums and teeth of your pet if left untreated.

Another major problem if the bacteria in the mouth enters the bloodstream. Plaque build-up in the mouth can damage the gums and let bacteria enter the bloodstream. If this happens it can cause kidney and liver diseases and narrow their blood vessels which can lead to heart problems.

One of the easiest ways to prevent periodontal disease is to regularly brush your pet’s teeth. More than likely they won’t like it, but regular brushing is the best way you can prevent plaque buildup in your pets mouth.

Boxer cardiomyopathy (BCM)

Boxer Cardiomyopathy (BCM) is a heart condition that affects Boxers. It’s an inherited disorder that causes the heart walls to become thickened, making it difficult for their heart to pump blood efficiently.

The exact cause of this mutation is unknown, but it appears to be more common in Boxers than other breeds of dogs.

BCM is a serious condition that can be life-threatening if left untreated. It is important for Boxer owners to be aware of the signs and symptoms of BCM so that they can get prompt medical attention if their dog has any signs of the disease. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential in order to give dogs with BCM the best chance at a long and healthy life.

Symptoms of Boxer Cardiomyopathy (BCM)

The symptoms of Boxer Cardiomyopathy (BCM) include:

Coughing
Difficulty breathing
Exercise intolerance, and fainting

These symptoms can be indicative of other heart conditions as well, so it’s important to get veterinary care immediately if any of these are observed.

Bathing, Coat, and Cleaning

Boxers need minimum grooming because they take good care of themselves. They have short coats that should be brushed once a week. A bristle brush works great while grooming them. There is no set rule as to bathing them weekly or monthly, but less often is better for their sensitive skin. If they tend to play and get dirty, you can give them weekly baths, otherwise when they start to stink is a good time.

As with all pets, you should not use human products on Boxers. Canine shampoo and conditioners will be gentler on their skin. Bathing them too often can make their skin dry and itchy.

If you can brush their teeth, once a week will help keep their oral health good. If you are like most pet owners and don’t feel comfortable brushing their teeth it’s a good idea to schedule a vet visit every 3 or 4 months. Letting them clean their teeth a few times a year will still keep their teeth in better shape than not cleaning them.

Check their nails to keep them short, they should be trimmed twice a month. Keeping their nails short will prevent the nails from hurting you, or scratching up any hard floors in your home.

Every week it is important to check their nose, paws, and other areas of your dog while brushing them for signs of redness or other infections. If you see any signs of infection, call your vet immediately.

Feeding A Boxer

Boxers need 4-5 cups of food each day that should be split between two feedings. They can have treats, but it should be something small. It’s a good idea to try to allow two hours between feedings and exercise or sleep so their food can get digested correctly.

Avoid feeding table scraps to your Boxer. If you want to feed them people food, consult your vet before giving them any. People food can cause bloat or digestion problems in Boxers. Eating more than what they are supposed to can cause them to put on weight or lead to negative health conditions.

To keep your Boxer’s weight in check, look at their ribs. If you can count the ribs, it means the dog is underfed. You should ideally be able to feel the ribs when gently rubbing over it. Adjust the amount of food you feed your dog accordingly.

Boxers