With such a fierce face, a Boxer might seem like an unfriendly breed, however they are actually very active dogs who desire companionship and love. Originating in Germany in the late 1800s, Boxers were bred from the Bullenbeiser breed, known for assisting big-game hunters. Once big-game hunting lost popularity in Germany, a sleeker, more elegant dog was sought. The Boxer breed was born. If you are looking for a larger, high-energy dog, you should check out these facts on Boxers. You just might find it is the breed for you.
Temperament
Boxers are highly intelligent, active and playful dogs who love to stay busy. They have a strong sense of loyalty toward their owners and often feel the need to fiercely guard their loved ones and homes from strangers. It is important to socialize boxers from a young age so they understand that not all strangers are threatening. If trained and socialized correctly, they get along well with other animals and humans. They are also bright and alert dogs who can be playful and silly but will demonstrate courage in nearly every situation.
Health
One of the most important things to remember about Boxers’ health is their intolerance to heat and extreme cold. They are not meant to be outdoor dogs for this reason and should never be left in the heat or cold for long periods of time. Boxers live an average of 10 to 12 years, stand 21 to 25 inches in height and weigh 65 to 80 pounds, with females averaging 15 pounds less than males. Like many other breeds, Boxers can experience health issues such as hip dysplasia, heart conditions, thyroid deficiency and certain cancers. Proper breeding practices and routine trips to the vet can help prevent these from occurring. They are also known to drool and snort, and some will snore as a result of their “squashed” facial structure.
Trainability
In order to channel a Boxer’s energy in a positive way, early training and socialization are vital. While they are highly intelligent, they can become easily bored with repetition, so keeping training fun and different will help spark their interest. In addition to basic training, Boxers excel in canine sports such as obedience, agility and herding. They work well as service and therapy dogs and in roles such as drug detection and search-and-rescue.
Exercise Needs
Boxers need more exercise than many other breeds because of their high-energy nature. They need room to run and play every day, whether on a leash or in a fenced backyard but should not be allowed to run loose. Their heritage as chasers of wild game means they are great at jumping and must be reminded as puppies to stay down. While they mean well, they may not be great at channeling their energy in positive ways as a puppy, which is why it is important to keep an eye on them and never let them roam the house when you are not home.
If you are looking for an energetic and loving companion, a Boxer might be a great fit for you. They love to play and are among the most loyal breeds, but they also require a lot of attention. If you have the time to dedicate to training and socializing a new puppy, it might be worth your time to research Boxers further.
