Learn About the Playful and Popular Boxer (2024)

History of the Boxer

The boxer's history harkens back to the 1800s and a German dog breed called the Bullenbeisser, a hunting dog big enough to take on large game (boars, bulls, and even bears). That breed waned in popularity in the later part of the century, and the Bullenbeisser was later bred with the English bulldog and other smaller breeds to create the boxer we know today.

The leaner, smaller boxer spread throughout Europe and then the United States in the late 19th century. The loyal canines were employed on farms, as guard dogs, as service dogs, and in the police and military.

The American Kennel Club recognized the breed in 1904, and today boxers are the 16th most popular dog breed in the U.S.

Boxer Care

The athletic boxer has high exercise needs and needs plenty of human attention. Proper training also is a must to keep the breed's energy in check. Fortunately, the boxer is relatively low-maintenance when it comes to grooming.

Exercise

Most boxers have a lot of energy, which means they need ample exercise each day. It’s ideal to take your boxer for a 30-minute walk at least twice daily. Jogging, hikes, fetch, and other active play also will keep the dog fit and mentally stimulated. Because they are people-oriented dogs, boxers would prefer doing something active with you rather than being left alone in a yard.

Keep in mind that boxers aren't very tolerant of either cold or hot weather. Their short coat doesn't give them insulation against the cold. And because of their short noses, boxers can't pant well to cool themselves off in heat. So it's best to exercise boxers primarily indoors during extreme weather, hot or cold. In hot weather, plan walks for the coolest time of the day.

Grooming

Because boxers have very short coats, they have relatively simplegroomingneeds. Brush them weekly with a curry brush to remove any loose fur and debris from their coat. When the weather changes in the spring and fall, except heavier shedding and brush more frequently to compensate for the increase in loose fur.

The coat also stays fairly clean, generally requiring a bath only every couple months. But keep in mind that many boxers are droolers, so their fur might need some cleanup with a damp cloth around their mouth.

Nail trims will be necessary roughly every month, depending on how much the dog naturally wears down its nails. Moreover, it's ideal to brush the dog's teeth every day.

Training

Boxers can become hyperactive and unruly if they aren’t properly trained and socialized. This is simply a result of their exuberant personalities. Boxers often love to jump up on people—a carryover of how the breed would jump while hunting game—and ideally they should have consistent training from a young age to curb this behavior.

It’s best to start a boxer puppy in a puppy training class as soon as they meet the age requirement. There, they'll learn basic obedience and how to socialize politely with other dogs and people.

Expose your boxer to different people and situations, and make sure everyone who meets them uses positive reinforcement on good behaviors. Enrolling in dog sports, service dog courses, or similar classes also can help your dog work on their obedience and strengthen your bond.

Common Health Problems

In addition to their intolerance to extreme temperatures, boxers also are prone to some common health conditions.

• Hip dysplasia: This occurs when dogs' hip joints don't develop properly. It's more common in larger breeds and can cause limping, an unusual gait, pain, and muscle loss.
• Heart conditions: For boxers, these can include aortic stenosis and cardiomyopathy.
• Thyroid problems: This can affect the body's organs, including the heart, but it can sometimes be treated with medication.
• Degenerative myelopathy: This genetic condition affects the spinal cord, leading to weakness in a dogs' rear limbs and, eventually, paralysis.
• Cancer: These dogs are at risk for several kinds of cancer, including in the brain, heart, thyroid and skin. Veterinarians can offer several options for treatment, depending on the cancer and its severity.
• Chronic kidney disease: Boxers may be predisposed to this condition, which can lead to kidney failure and eventually death.
• Underbite: This may require extra care for your dog's teeth. Your veterinarian can tell you more.

Some believe that primarily white boxers are more prone to health issues, but a study on boxers in the United Kingdom did not find a "substantial health difference" between white boxers and ones with darker coats.

Diet and Nutrition

Feed a quality, nutritionally balanced dog food, and always provide clean water for your boxer. Follow your vet's instructions for the quantity and variety of food, as this can vary with age, activity level, and other factors. Regularly monitor your boxer's weight to prevent obesity and other health issues.

Furthermore, like other deep-chested dogs, boxers can be prone to bloat, which can lead to the stomach dangerously twisting itself. Eating from an elevated bowl, eating slowly, and consuming smaller meals can help to prevent bloat.

Where to Adopt or Buy a Boxer

Check out local animal shelters and breed rescue groups to find a boxer in need of a home. Because the breed is so popular, boxers are relatively easy to find. If you're looking for a puppy from a reputable breeder, expect to pay around $1,000 to $2,500, though this can vary widely depending on bloodline and other factors.

Some groups that can help you in your search for a boxer include:

• American Boxer Club
• U.S. Boxer Rescue Websites (via American Boxer Club)
• Across America Boxer Rescue

Boxer Pros and Cons

Still need to decide if a boxer is right for your family? Consult this pros and cons list to help make your decision:

Pros:

• Great family dogs
• Affectionate
• Loves to play
• Loves children
• Limited grooming needs

Cons:

• Some drool excessively
• Can be hyperactive
• Some like to jump up on people
• Can't tolerate extreme temperatures

More Dog Breeds and Further Research

As with any breed, if you think the boxer is thedog for you, do plenty of research before you get one. Talk to veterinarians, other boxer owners, reputable breeders, and rescue groups to learn more.

If you’re interested in similar breeds, check out:

• Staffordshire bull terrier
• Bullmastiff
• Boston terrier

There’s a whole world of potential dog breeds out there—with a little research, you can find the right one to bring home!