If you looking for a “high” energy, fun dog that won’t only be a great guard dog, but also be a good dog you can have around your kids, chances are, you’re going to want to take a good hard look at the Boxer Breed.
That said however…
Despite the fact that the Boxer is a great “family” dog, because of his size and energy levels, he may not be the right “fit” for everyone. This is why in this article, we wanted to take a moment and discuss some of the Pros and Cons of owning a Boxer so that if you do decide to purchase a Boxer puppy, six months from now you wont be disappointed with that decision!
So, without further ado, let’s dive right into it.
Boxer Dog Breed Fast Facts
Country of Origin: Germany
Original Purpose: Companion Dog, Sporting Dog
Height: 21.5 to 25 inches tall
Weight: 50 to 70 pounds
Life Span: 8 to 10 years
Dog Breed Classification: Working Dog
Origins of the Boxer Breed
The Deutscher Boxer or the German Boxer that we know and love today is actually the result of an effort that German hunters made back in the 1830’s to create a “super” hunting dog.
What they decided to do…
Was breed the “bull baiting” dogs which were generally large Mastiff/Bulldog mixes with local “terriers”. The desire was to create a tough and agile dog like a “Bullmastiff” with the tenacity of a terrier.
And that’s…
Exactly what they got. As opposed to there larger/slower parents, the Boxers combined the “best” of both breeds quickly securing their place among hunters, and the “bull baiting” establishments throughout Germany.
Now…
At this point we should probably explain what “bull baiting” was. You see, this was a practice whereby a dog, in this case a Boxer would be tasked to “fight” or “herd” a bull to slaughter or castration.
In cases where…
The bull was being led to slaughter, it was believed that the “beef” would taste better if the bull was “baited” before slaughter. In cases like these, the Boxer would be encouraged to bite the nose of a bull and hang on while the bull thrashed around in pain/anger.
Sounds horrible, right?
We’ll we here at IndulgeYourPet think so, but back in the early 17 and 18th century, this was actually considered quite entertaining. Fortunately, the practice was ultimately outlawed in the middle 1830’s, but sadly, that was still a good 200 to 300 years later!
The good news is that…
By this point in time when “bull baiting” lost it’s appeal, the Boxer had already establish himself as being more than just a “fighting” or “baiting” dog. And by 1895, the breed was generally accepted as a “separate” breed from their parents and ultimately became one of the first German police and military dogs providing further evidence on how much trust the German people had in this fine animal.
Boxer in America
The Boxer was brought to America in the early 20th century and was quickly “officially” recognized by the the American Kennel Club (AKC) shortly afterwards in 1904.
Surprisingly…
The Boxer was not an “overnight” success within the United States when he was first brought here. You see, back in the early 1900’s being “German” in the United States wasn’t such a “good” thing. And this prejudice extended to anything “German” including it’s dogs!
But that wasn’t his fault, after all!
Which is why, it was only a matter of time before the Boxer eventually made it “big” in the US. Eventually shortly after the allied victory in World War II, the Boxer finally started to get the credit he deserved within the US, and even stated to become “featured” by magazines such as Life and Esquire (Which was a really bid deal back then).
Physical Characteristics of the Boxer.
Despite the obvious difference in size (one being much larger while the other much smaller), the Boxer is often compared with other popular breeds such as the Great Dane and Bulldog, which is why we here at IndulgeYourPet like to refer to Boxers as a “Goldilocks” breed for those who just can’t decide because in our opinion, their not too small and their not too big…
“They’re just right!”
They also seem to have an appearance of being dissatisfied, a bit weary, and perhaps a worried about something.
But…
This “grim” expression shouldn’t worry you, because this is simply something he puts on for “show”, as he is naturally a very jovial, happy and graceful breed. That just happens to have a very square jaw, combined with a very proud demeanor and athletic walk.
In our opinion, they also have the greatest expression of “confusion” of any dog.
And what we mean by this is that…
When you, their owner does something that just doesn’t make any sense at all, you’re Boxer is going to give you this sweet look saying…
“Did you really mean to do that?”
It should also be noted that…
The Boxer is a large dog weighing up to 70 pounds or more. He has this very noticeable black mask on his face, and while female Boxer may be a bit smaller than the male, they too are quite large as well.
The Boxer coat…
Comes in shades of tan and brindle. You can also get white boxers from certain breeders, but that’s not a popular color with these dogs. The reason is white Boxers are sensitive to the sun and at risk of sun cancer.
The good news is that…
Grooming is easy when it comes to the Boxer. He has a short coat and does shed, but nothing to be concerned about. Just some light brushing every week or so should be enough.
Boxer Temperament…
The Boxer is a funny, sweet, friendly and happy dog who is very loyal to his human family. He is also very understanding and perceptive (which means that you’re going to get that “look” from your Boxer a lot!).
It’s almost like…
He knows what you are thinking. He is a very intelligent dog, and great with kids. But, he can get bored when he doesn’t get enough exercise, so if you do decide to adopt a Boxer, you’re going to want to be sure to take him or her on plenty of walks or be sure that you have a yard or park where you can take him to get his exercise.
In general…
Boxers are calm and relaxed around strangers, and never seem to get “too” aggressive or shy and because they are so large, most folks with bad intentions aren’t likely to give you any problems despite that fact that you’re Boxer is a sweetheart!
That and because…
The Boxer is a real fighter that will go to any length to defend his family against an attack. He is brave, courageous and smart, and will typically have the “uncanny” ability to discriminate between the “good guys” and “bad guys”.
He is also a wonderful companion dog…
You will love taking him out on a walk, or playing with him. And while he is an active dog and requires a lot of exercise, he just as comfortable watching your favorite TV shows with you, sitting beside you on the couch (that is of course after he has had his time to play!)
“Ok, by now it should be obvious that we here at IndulgeYourPet really love this dog breed”
But is he the one for you?
Of course, you couldn’t get a better dog than the Boxer. But there are so many wonderful dog breeds out there, and Boxer is by no means the only great dog you will find. There is something good and wonderful about very dog.
Which is why…
It’s important to remember that the Boxer is a big dog. So if you don’t properly take the time to train him or her properly, what you’re going to have at the end of the day is a large rambunctious dog that likes to run and jump all around. Or in other words, you’re going to have a “wrecking ball” living with you.
So… A Word on Boxer Dog Training your Boxer
The Boxer is so smart that he can learn virtually any trick, and because he is eager for your affection they generally make good students. Which is great!
You just want to make sure…
That you’re training includes things that he or she will be interested in including agility training, obedience training and a special focus on teaching him or her to avoid “herding” everyone that they meet. Also make sure your boxer wears a muzzle when you take him out, especially when they are young and just a puppy.
Are there any health concerns related to the Boxer?
The Boxer is generally a healthy dog, but there are always exceptions.
For this reason…
You’ll want to be sure and ask your breeder to produce a CHIC Certification and proof of DNA testing that shows that he comes from healthy parents.
Because here’s a list of health problems a Boxer could develop…
- Spondylosis Deformans
- Aortic Stenosis
- Bloating or Gastric Dilatation Volvulus
- Hypertrophic Osteodystrophy
- Colitis
- Cardiomyopathy
And the cost of the treatment for most of these ailments can vary from $500 to $3,500…
“That’s NOT cheap!”
Which is why…
We here at IndulgeYourPet also recommend that any new pet owner take a moment and see what it might cost for you to purchase a pet insurance policy for your new animal.
Now will a pet insurance policy be right for everyone?
No, probably not. But until you fully understand what these policies “will” and “won’t” cover and how much these pet insurance policies cost, how will you know if one might be right for you?
For more information on who we feel currently offers the “best” pet insurance policies out there, we would encourage you to check out our Best Pet Insurance Policies article.
I want to adopt a full blooded boxer puppy.
Edward,
We can’t blame you for making that decision!
Good luck,
IndulgeYourPet.
I really want to get a boxer puppy , My friend as 3 of them there very cute , I’m just worried about training them .