Considering getting a Boxer? Makes sure you know the characteristics of the breed. We've put together the following Boxer breed information and facts to create a profile of this dog so you have the critical information necessary to make a decision.
The boxer is a breed of dog that was developed in Germany. It is generally considered to be medium in size with a stocky body. The boxer coat is smooth and usually comes in a fawn or brindle color. Often they will have white markings of their chest. They have a strong mouth that allows them to hold onto their prey. In the United States they are considered to be the sixth most popular breed.
The head of the boxer is the strongest feature with folds that are present at the placement of the nose. The lower jaw should extend out a little from the upper jaw, giving them a majestic look of confidence. It has been customary to dock the boxer's tail but that practice has come under scrutiny from animal rights groups. It is also customary to crop the ears and attach wires to make the ears stand up. In recent years the AKC dog organization has allowed show dogs to appear without the cropped ears but they still frown on one that does not have the docked tail.
Boxer puppies are born with sturdy little bodies that often have rolls of fat or loose skin. When they reach their mature weight they should weigh between 55 and 70 pounds. The adult male will stand a little taller than the adult female.
Boxers are a short haired breed with a smooth and shiny coat that fits tight against the body. They range in color from a light to dark fawn or brindled, which makes them look as if they are stripped. The dark fawn color gives the appearance of rich honey. White markings are accepted as long as they do not cover over one-third of the boxer body. Occasionally the boxer puppies will be born almost solid white but this is not an accepted standard for the breed. Boxer puppies that are white must be kept out of the sun since they can actually burn.
If you have bought a Boxer you will realise they are intelligent with a gentle nature. They are faithful to their masters and will defend their master if the need arises. They are brave with an honesty that makes them desirable as pets. They may show an initial distrust of strangers but they are usually won over easily.
The boxer is playful and energetic and they tend to be good with children. They are active and require daily exercise to help them from getting bored. They tend to respond well to positive reinforcement instead of dog obedience training. They are usually good with other dogs and are especially fond of small dogs. They generally do not want to be alone, preferring the company of a human or another dog.
The boxer is sometimes prone to the development of dog diseases like cancer, heart disease, hip dysplasia, and hypothyroidism. They can also be prone to suffer from allergies but most of these conditions can be avoided with a healthy diet and the proper amount of exercise. Rarely they will have a malformed eye that requires surgery to correct. When this condition appears the dog should not be used for breeding since it can pass this condition on to its offspring. Because they are athletic, it is important that they get enough exercise to keep them in good health. They do not like heat or humidity and should not be heavily exercised in either of these conditions. They are friendly and make a lively companion and tend to be a great family dog. They have a life span of 10 to 12 years.
