Boxer
Other names: German Boxer, Deutscher Boxer

The Boxer is a very energetic dog that, while naturally skilled in protecting and being a watchdog, is just as predisposed to being an excellent companion dog. Considered one of the best babysitters of his species, he loves children and can seamlessly integrate himself into family life. Active by nature, this molossian loves joining his owner in various activities, especially since he’s not too keen on solitude.
Key facts about the Boxer
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Origins and history
He is a descendant of the ancient ‘Bullenbeisser’ (‘bull-biter’), and particularly the Brabant variety, which is a less stocky, nimbler version of the Bullenbeisser. The Boxer is thus the result of a cross between the famous Bullenbeisser and the English Bulldog. The breed’s first club was created in Germany (his native country) at the end of the 19th century, in 1895- just before the publication of the breed’s first standards in 1902. Used by the army during the First World War in his capacity as a working dog, he took part in the first ever championships for police dogs in 1924. It is a few years later, in 1936, that the British Boxer Club saw the light of day.
Physical characteristics of the Boxer
Adult size
Female : Between 21 and 23 in
Male : Between 22 and 25 in
Weight
Female : Between 53 and 71 lb
Male : Between 66 and 84 lb
Coat colour
The coat can be fawn or brindle. White patching is admissible on condition that they constitute less than a third of the overall base colour.
White Boxers- which have more substantial and dominating white patching- do exist. They are recognised by the FCI but are not recognised by the Kennel Club. There are also black Boxers, but more often than not, they quite simply are a very dark brindle.
Type of coat
The coat is very short.
The coat is coarse, shiny, and close-lying.
Eye colour
The eyes are very dark.
Description
Of medium size, this dog is robust but also proportionately-built and elegant. The head is square-shaped with a muzzle that is short in comparison to the rest of the skull: the ratio is roughly 1:2. He is a prognathous dog, with the lower jaw delicately protruding beyond the upper jaw. This kind of ‘underbite’ is often considered a defect in most breeds, but it constitutes part of the official standard for this breed. The ears gently fold over forward. The tail is set high and is of medium length.
Good to know
Since it is a very popular breed, pups are easy to come by. Which means they aren’t always bred properly. It is therefore highly recommended to seek out a good breeder, as poorly bred dogs could be lacking in the breed’s wonderful, aforementioned personality traits.
Temperament
Behaviour of the Boxer
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Compatibility
Price
The price of a Boxer varies depending on its origins, age, and sex. You have to count an average of £1130 for dogs subscribed to the Kennel Club.
With regards to the monthly budget required to meet the needs of a dog this size, you have to estimate an average of £50 per month.
Grooming
This short-haired dog does not require much maintenance, but you are advised to brush him once a week to avoid any excessive hair loss.
What’s more, his eyes and ears must be closely monitored and cleaned on a regular basis.
Shedding
Shedding is moderate, save for moulting seasons, during which brushes will have to be daily.
Nutrition of the Boxer
The Deutscher Boxer is very gluttonous, he should therefore be fed twice a day: a light meal in the morning, and a more substantial one in the evening, to encourage better digestion and avoid the risk of gastric torsion.
In order for the pup to develop correctly, it is advised to feed him 4 meals a day up until his fourth month, before eventually limiting them to three, and then two.
Otherwise, this dog is not difficult and can be satisfied with commercially available food, as long as it is high quality.
Health of the Boxer
Life expectancy
Life expectancy is 10 years on average.
Strong / robust
He is an overall robust dog, but does have his own set of problems related to his size and constitution (the short nose, in particular).
Withstand heat
As is the case of all dogs with short noses, the Boxer can suffer from respiratory problems when it gets too hot.
Withstand cold
He can reside in the garden, even during the winter, provided he has some sort of suitable shelter at his disposal. He does, generally, prefer to live indoors, by his owners’ side, on account of his extremely sociable nature.
Tendency to put on weight
Since this dog is very greedy- ravenous, in fact- it is important to supervise his weight in order to avoid the risk of obesity. Regular, physical exercise will also allow him to shed weight and keep his intended shape.
Common illnesses
- Cardiopathy
- Hypothyroidism
- Spondylosis (form of arthrosis)
- Respiratory issues
- Hip dysplasia
- Aortic Stenosis
- Gastric Torsion Syndrome
- Deafness in white Boxers