The Boxer is a member of the Working Group and is currently America's eighth most popular dog breed. This playful and energetic breed originates from Germany and was Germany's first police dog and a fierce bull-baiter. Today, they are content to relax with their owners or enjoy a playful romp in the backyard.

History

The Boxer originated in Germany when two German Mastiff dogs, the Bullenbeiszer and the Barenbeiszer, were crossed, and then later crossed with the Bulldog. These early Boxers were used for bull baiting, as cattle dogs, pulling heavy carts, and dog fighting. After dog fighting was made illegal and their use for bull baiting died down, the Boxer declined in popularity. Three Germans took the initiative to keep the breed from going extinct and put them on exhibit in Munich in 1895. Their popularity surged once again, and a breed standard was developed in 1902 and the American Kennel Club recognized the breed in 1904.

The Boxer was highly utilized in Germany during both World Wars as a messenger and carrier of ammunition and other supplies. The breed was also commonly seen in family circus shows, causing families to see their potential as great pets and surge in numbers.

Description

The following is based of the AKC standard:

• Coat: Their coats should be short and smooth. Its colors can be fawn, brindle, black, mahogany, tan, and have white markings.
• Head: The skull should be proportionate to the rest of its body, with a short muzzle and a pushed in nose. The nose is black and has wide nostrils. Boxers should have under bites and eyes that are dark brown. The ears must be set high on the head and can be either natural or cropped.
• Body: They are a medium to large sized breed, weighing from 60-70 lbs. The body should be muscular, compact, and masculine looking. The forelegs should be straight and strong. The tail must be docked.

Defects:

• If the dog is short by 1 inch or taller than 1 inch standard size.
• If the dog has a nose any other color than black.
• Eyes must be dark brown.
• The tail cannot be natural.
• Cannot appear aloof or shy.
• Cannot have a pure black coat.

There are two different body types of Boxers:

American Boxers: The American Boxer is sleeker than its German counterpart and a bit more hyper.

German Boxers: The German Boxer is more muscular and has a larger head. In addition, it is slightly more laidback than the American Boxer but has a tendency to be more aggressive to other dogs.

Temperament

The Boxer is a lively and playful breed that can be incredibly goofy at times. Despite this, they have a reputation for being good guard dogs and are alert and watchful. They can also be headstrong, making training somewhat difficult. Boxers should be trained early so that they do not become high strung and uncontrollable. The breed loves to be affectionate towards its family and especially children, but they can be aggressive towards other dogs, especially ones of the same sex. Boxers are sweet dogs of average intelligence and are happy being active or cuddling with its family members.

Care

Apart from Boxers needing ample exercise, their care is minimal.

• Grooming: Their short hair is easy to groom and should only be bathed when necessary.
• Living Situation: They are better suited for house living and enjoy plenty of room to romp around. This breed does not do well in extreme temperatures.
• Exercise: The Boxer should get daily exercise of at least 60 minutes, but is also happy to relax with their family.
• Approximate Lifespan: 9-10 years
• Common Health Problems: The breed is susceptible to cancer, allergies, gastric issues, and cardiomyopathy.

The Rundown: The Boxer is a rambunctious puppy, but make great family pets when they are properly trained and if you don't mind a bit of drool. They have minimal grooming requirements but they are more susceptible to health problems and have a shorter lifespan.