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Boxer History

The Boxer is part of the Molosser dog group, developed in Germany in the late 1800s from the now extinct Bullenbeisser, a dog of Mastiff descent, and Bulldogs brought in from England. In 1894, three Germans by the name of Roberth, Konig, and Hopner decided to stabilize the breed and put it on exhibition at a dog show. This was done in Munich in 1895, and the next year they founded the first Boxer Club, the Deutscher Boxer Club. The Club went on to publish the first Boxer breed standard in 1902. During World War I, the Boxer was used for military work,acting as a messenger dog, pack-carrier, attack dog, and guard dog. It was not until after World War II that the Boxer gained worldwide popularity when soldiers, returning home from the War, brought them home. Boxers were officially recongized as a breed by the AKC in 1904

Boxer Temperament

Boxers are an energetic, intelligent, playful breed that thrives on human companionship. They are a high energy breed that loves to play and needs plenty of exercise. They are well known to be excellent with children and are wonderful, loyal family pets. Boxers get along well with other animals and small pets, but can be same sex dog aggressive at times. They do have a stubborn streak at times and can be somewhat willful, so early obedience training is a must. Boxers are one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States and make an excellent choice for a first time dog owner.

Boxer Appearance

Boxers are a substantial medium sized dog that usually weigh between 50 to 85 pounds and stand 21 to 26 inches at the withers. Theyhave a "square" body type and a distinctive large head with a short muzzle. Their tails ears are traditionally cropped, but some breeders opt not to do this and go for the natural look. Boxers have sleek, short coats with acceptable colours of fawn and brindle, often with a white underbelly and white on the front or all four feet. These white markings, calledflash, often extend onto the neck or face, and dogs that have these markings are known as "flashy".

Boxer Grooming

Boxers require very little grooming, a quick wipe down with a damp cloth will suffice. They do seasonally shed and will need to be brushed during that time.

Boxer Life Expectancy and Health Problems

Common diseases that affect boxers are cancer, heart conditions, Hypothyroidism, Hip Dysplasia, Cherry Eye and Degenerative Myelopathy. Since the Boxer is a deep chested breed, the are prone to Bloat. The average lifespan of a Boxer is 8 to 12 years.

Boxer Pros and Cons

This simplified list may help you decide if a Boxer might be a good fit for your lifestyle

Do You Want

• an energetic dog that loves to play?
• a dog that is good with children?
• a dog that is easy to care for?

Do You NOT Want

• a dog powerful, energetic dog?
• a dog that farts a lot?
• a dog that wheezes and snores?

Useful Boxer Links

The American Boxer Club

The Canadian Boxer Club

The British Boxer Club