BREED PROFILE: BOXER

The boxer is a German breed, developed in the late 1800s from mastiff-type dogs known as bullenbeisers (bull-baiters). These dogs were selectively bred for hunting and holding prey – and the independent thinking ability required for that task remains a feature of the breed today.

The modern boxer is a medium sized dog, short haired, energetic and muscular. Males stand between 57-63 cm (23-25 inches) tall and weigh around 30-32kg (66-70lb), and females 53-59 cm (21-23 inches) weighing around 25-27kg (55-60lb).

The boxer is a brachycephalic breed – meaning that it has a very short muzzle with the lower jaw extending beyond the upper jaw (undershot). While this gives the dog a very secure ‘bite’ (remember the breed was first developed for hunting and holding prey) it also means he has difficulty in regulating body temperature, and does not do well in very hot or cold conditions – he may also snore.

Technically speaking, there are only two colours – brindle and fawn. Boxers may or may not also have white markings (known as "flash"). Fawn boxers have a solid fawn colour coat, in shades ranging from pale tan to deep deer red. Brindle boxers have the same fawn ground colours, overlaid with various degrees of dark striping. Black boxers do not exist – the colour gene responsible for black coat colour does not exist within the boxer breed. If you see a black boxer, it must either be a very dark brindle or a mixed breed.

The boxer breed is prone to several serious genetically-inherited health conditions that need to be screened for prior to breeding. These include aortic stenosis, boxer cardiomyopathy and hip dysplasia. While health screening of breeding stock can’t absolutely guarantee a puppy won’t be affected by these conditions, it substantially reduces the risk. Your breeder should be able to provide you with hard copies of the satisfactory test results for both parents. If they can’t (or won’t), find another breeder.

Boxer dogs are big, strong and highly intelligent. They need both physical and mental stimulations to keep them even-tempered and dignified while still keeping their impish spirit and fearless courage in tact.

Their high prey drive (some owners called it play drive) needs proper outlets or they could get destructive as house pets, and tend to fight among themselves especially if the other family Boxers are of the same sex. The female, it seems, is often more aggressive than the male.

Keeping Boxers busy is the best way to keep them out of trouble! Tire them out with long walks, 3 times a day if possible. Give them plenty of exercise, play with them, especially the inquisitive puppies or they will tear up your home out of boredom, pent up energy and frustration. For all your love and caring, be prepared for wet slobbery drool and kisses and love in return!

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