Boxer

Overview

Dignified yet very playful, a Boxer is a dog that is able to inspire great loyalty from people who have had a chance to own them. It originates from Germany, but the breed's history can be traced back to Tibet in the 16th and 17th centuries. They are easy to care for and maintain and love being in the company of people. They can be wary of strangers and can get very defensive as well. The Boxer is always a lively and energetic dog; often active, they should be kept busy to avoid problems.

Characteristics

The Boxer's head is very distinctive and is its unique feature. They are usually fawn or brindle colored although they are sometimes all white bodied. Many of them feature white patches all over their bodies. The adult Boxer will weigh between 55 to 70 pounds while their heights vary by their sex. Male Boxers can be 22 to 25 inches tall whereas the females can be 21 to 23 inches tall. Boxers used to be a "cropped and docked" breed, but this technique has been banned by animal right groups and the general public in many European countries.

Temperament

Temperament is of paramount importance in the Boxer. With people and children it is fundamentally playful, but the Boxer can also be patient and tolerant. It is usually deliberate and worried of strangers and may exhibit curiosity. It is also fearless and riotous when threatened. However, these dogs respond to friendly overtures. The Boxer has great hearing and does quite well as a guard dog. It’s always very alert and exhibits great strength and vigor, although dignified and self assured. It is a desirable companion: very intelligent, loyal and easy to train. However, if it exhibits evidence of shyness and not being alert or dignified, it should be controlled.

Care

The Boxer has a very smooth, glossy, and short haired coat that is very easy to groom. A firm bristle brush should be used to brush the coat regularly and bathing should be also included when necessary to ensure tidiness. It is recommended to avoid unnecessary bathing for this kind of breed. This is because it is always a very clean dog and likes to groom itself by licking itself. The dogs shed hair averagely which does not cause a nuisance.

Training

By nature the boxer is generally a passionate dog and very powerful too. The owner needs to therefore learn and understand how to train it, so they can harness its courage, loyalty, and reliability. The boxers make exceptional watch dogs because they do not back down from anything. They also make great family dogs as they get along very well with children. They will always need a lot of exercise and should always be taken on walks.

Health

There are four genetic conditions that could severely affect the boxer breed: hyperthyroidism, boxer cardiomyopathy, corneal dystrophy, and aortic or the sub-aortic stenosis (AS, SAS). Apart from this infection that the boxer is generally prone to, it is definitely a strong and powerful dog.

Pets4You offers listings of Boxer breeders with puppies for sale.