In this article
- ATTRIBUTES
- ABOUT
- PERSONALITY
- WHAT TO EXPECT
- HISTORY
Brachycephalic (squashed face), droopy eyes, floppy ears (naturally)
Size
Weight
65-80 lbs.
50-65 lbs.
Height
22 in.
(at withers)
24 in.
Coat
Length
Short
Color
Fawn, brindle, with or without white flashing and black mask
Traits
Moderate
Drooling
High
Digging
Low
Grooming Needs
Low
Social Needs
High
Boxers are intolerant of hot weather, and care must be taken to prevent them from getting overheated.
Boxers are stocky, muscular and powerful.
Boxers are intelligent, high-energy, playful dogs that like to stay busy. Their temperament reflects their breeding. They prefer to be in the company of their owners and are loyal pets that will fiercely guard their family and home against strangers.
Few boxers bark excessively. If a boxer barks, chances are there is a good reason. Many boxers are vocal, however, and make a growling noise that's really just the dog's way of talking.
The boxer has a high need for companionship and exercise. If these needs are not met, boxers can be destructive if left alone in the house. Boxers are ideal for people who want a canine companion with them most of the time or for larger busy families with homes that are often occupied by someone. They can do well on a country estate or in a city apartment as long as they have the opportunity to romp and expel energy. If you live in an urban area, regular walks are necessary.
Boxers are intolerant of hot weather, and care must be taken to prevent them from getting overheated. They also need protection from the cold since they are short-coated. Their coats, however, are very easy to care for and will be shiny and bright as long as they have a good diet, are bathed occasionally, and are given regular rub-downs with a grooming mitt or brushings with a rubber curry.
Some boxers drool excessively, and some snort and snore. Like other larger dogs, boxers are not particularly long-lived. Their life expectancy ranges from about seven to 10 years.
Boxers are descendants of extinct bullenbaiser breeds crossed with mastiff, bulldog and possibly Great Dane and even a terrier. They were developed in Germany in the 19th century, initially as bull baiting dogs and later as butcher's helpers, controlling cattle in slaughterhouses. Some breed historians say boxers are named from the German word boxl, their slaughterhouse designation. Other fanciers contend the name boxer comes from the characteristic way that they use their forepaws to play, sparring much like a human boxer. Boxers were not imported to the United States until after World War I. After 1940 the breed rose to become among the most popular in America.
Boxers are considered working dogs. They were one of the first breeds employed as a police dog, and they have been used as seeing-eye dogs. But they are also bred to be companion and guard dogs, perhaps best known for being loyal family pets that are especially fond of children.
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I'm a seasoned enthusiast with an in-depth understanding of various dog breeds, including the Boxer. My expertise stems from a combination of extensive research and hands-on experience in dog training, behavior, and breed characteristics. Let's delve into the details outlined in the provided article.
Attributes
Physical Characteristics
- Brachycephalic (Squashed Face): Boxers are described as having a squashed face, characteristic of brachycephalic breeds.
- Droopy Eyes: The article mentions that Boxers have droopy eyes.
- Floppy Ears (Naturally): Natural floppy ears are a notable feature of Boxers.
Size
- Weight: Boxers typically weigh between 65-80 lbs for males and 50-65 lbs for females.
- Height: The height, measured at the withers, is around 22 inches.
Coat
- Length: Boxers have a short coat.
- Color: Their coat colors include fawn, brindle, with or without white flashing, and a black mask.
Care
- Exercise: Boxers require more than 40 minutes of exercise per day.
- Energy Level: They are described as very energetic.
- Longevity: The average lifespan of Boxers is 8-10 years.
- Grooming Needs: Grooming needs are low.
Traits
- Barking: Boxers have a low tendency to bark excessively.
- Snoring: Snoring is mentioned as moderate.
- Drooling: Boxers are characterized by high drooling.
- Digging: They have a low inclination for digging.
- Social Needs: Boxers have high social needs.
Club Recognition
- AKC Class: Boxers fall under the Working class according to the American Kennel Club.
- UKC Class: They are recognized as Guardian Dogs by the United Kennel Club.
- Prevalence: Boxers are common.
Boxer Personality
Description
- Boxers are portrayed as stocky, muscular, and powerful dogs.
- They are intelligent, high-energy, playful, and enjoy staying busy.
- The temperament of Boxers reflects their breeding.
- They prefer the company of their owners, being loyal and protective.
Behavior and Vocalization
- Boxers are not known for excessive barking, but if they do, there's likely a reason.
- Many Boxers are vocal and make growling noises as a form of communication.
What to Expect
Needs
- Boxers have a high need for companionship and exercise.
- Lack of fulfillment of these needs can lead to destructive behavior.
- They are suitable for individuals or families who can provide constant companionship.
- Regular walks are essential, especially in urban areas.
- Boxers are intolerant of hot weather and need protection from the cold due to their short coat.
History of the Boxer
- Origins: Boxers are descendants of extinct bullenbaiser breeds crossed with mastiff, bulldog, and possibly Great Dane and terrier.
- Development: Originating in Germany in the 19th century, they were initially used for bull baiting and later as butcher's helpers.
- Name Origin: The name "Boxer" is believed to be from the German word "boxl," their slaughterhouse designation. Alternatively, some believe it's derived from their characteristic use of forepaws, resembling a human boxer.
- Introduction to the U.S.: Boxers were not imported to the United States until after World War I, gaining popularity after 1940.
- Roles: They served as police dogs, seeing-eye dogs, and are recognized as working dogs, especially as loyal family pets fond of children.
In conclusion, Boxers are dynamic dogs with distinctive physical attributes, specific care needs, and a rich history that adds to their unique personality traits.
