The Boxer

The Boxer is a medium-sized, square built dog of good substance with short back, strong limbs, and short, tight-fitting coat. The broad, blunt muzzle is the Boxer’s distinctive feature. As a “people dog”, the Boxer is a playful and fun-loving, and one of the delightful qualities that sets the Boxer apart is the unique mobility of his expressive face. The skin furrowing of the forehead, the dark, "soulful" eyes, and at times almost human attempts to "converse," make his replacement by another breed difficult for one who has owned a Boxer. He mimics the mood of his master and can spend hours quietly lying at his feet. Boxers particularly love children.

The Boxer's official classification in the working group of dogs is a natural. His keen sense of hearing is enhanced by the cropped, erect ears and makes him an instinctive guard dog, always alert. He has also been used as a courier during war time, and as a seeing-eye dog for the blind. Developed to serve as guard, working, and companion dog, he combines strength and agility with elegance and style. Today, the Boxer is considered the "dog for all seasons," suiting the need for household guardian, attractive companion, and children's playmate and loyal friend.

As a hearing guard dog, the Boxer’s bearing is alert, dignified, and self-assured. With family and friends, his temperament is fundamentally playful, yet patient and stoical with children. Deliberate and wary with strangers, he will exhibit curiosity, but, most importantly, fearless courage if threatened. Boxers bond closely with the family, and get along especially well with children.

Because it learns quickly, the Boxer is ideal for various sporting activities. Exercise within a fenced area or on a leash should be adequate. It also prevents a potentially unpleasant encounter with a neighbor's dog or an overly effusive greeting that may frighten the small child who may not have had the chance to know how instinctively tolerant the Boxer really is.

The Boxer is sensitive to temperature extremes and does not enjoy drafts, summer heat, or cold. He should definitely not be kept outdoors. He should have a fenced yard to roam in, but will do in a city environment if walked daily.

The Boxer requires very little grooming and it can easily be done by the owner. Coat is short and smooth and can be kept in good condition by brushing occasionally. Nails must be trimmed regularly unless naturally worn down on a hard surface. An occasional currycombing and/or bath should suffice---the Boxer has a natural tendency to keep himself clean.

The Boxer is prone to heart disease. It can be inherited or can be caused by bacterial, viral or parasitic agents. It is also prone to cancer and brain tumors which can cause seizures later in life. Other conditions include dysplasia and hypothyroidism.

...you may also enjoy the playfulness and alert, expressive face of the Bull Mastiff. The Boxer, in fact, was bred from a Mastiff before it became popular in the 1930s.