Boxer

Boxer Hair & Coat

Boxer Health & Care

Boxers are generally a healthy breed of dog. However, before getting a new puppy it will be advised that all medical history of the parents of the pup is referred to rule out any genetic or hereditary disorder that might inflict the pup.   Some of the common health issues that Boxers might be prone are:

Cancer - For reasons unknown, Boxers are more prone to developing cancer than any other breed. Excessive white marking on a Boxer makes it more prone to developing skin cancer and tumours. As a precautionary measure, apply sunscreen to your dog, especially on the ears, muzzle and paws to protect them from the harmful sunrays.

Hip Dysplasia - Hip Dysplasia is a genetic disorder where the hip bone has a defect in connecting with the hip joint as a result of which the dog may experience pain or lameness in either of the rear legs. As the dog grows, he / she may also develop arthritis. Before getting a puppy, check the medical documents of the parents to rule out hip dysplasia.

Aortic Stenosis - Aortic Stenosis is a cardiac defect that is found in most Boxers. Due to Aortic Stenosis, Boxers may feel lethargic all the time and have have episodes of fainting. When a dog has Aortic Stenosis, the heart works at twice the normal rate to pump blood. The defect in the aorta narrows the aortic valve to enable a smooth blood supply. When you get a boxer have a veterinary doctor check the heart for any murmur. Aortic Stenosis can prove lethal for the dog.

Hypothyroidism - Hypothyroidism is another condition that inflicts Boxers. In hypothyroidism, the hormone gland of the dog does not function well and as a result, the growth and the development of the dog gets affected. Common symptoms of hypothyroidism include dull fur, extreme lethargy, obesity / weight loss and mental dullness. A full blood check up will be required to diagnose the problem.

Deafness - According to research, Boxers, especially white Boxers are prone to deafness. Studies have shown that about 18% of white Boxers are born deaf either in one ear or both. In case your dog is deaf or has become deaf overtime, do not breed them.  

Corneal Dystrophy - Corneal Dystrophy is an inherited disease that inflicts most dogs, and is especially common in Boxers. In this disease, the cornea of the dog is either underdeveloped or is opaque. This might cause loss of vision to the dog. Gastric Dilatation Volvulus or Bloat - This is a common problem in deep chested dogs. Bloat can be lethal in nature if not detected early as it causes organ, especially gastric failure. In case of Bloat, there is a sudden buildup of gas in the digestive system and then causes the organ to twist.

Boxer Behavior

Boxers are one of the most playful and happy dogs. Extremely alert and watchful, German Boxers are also very poised, loyal, obedient, affectionate and self assured in nature. They have been blessed with a patient yet protective temperament making them very good family dogs.    Boxers require at least 1 - 2 hours of vigorous exercise that will engage them physically and mentally. Owners who will not be able to spend adequate amount of time with their Boxer should not consider this breed as a pet. The lack of exercise can lead to destructive behaviour such as chewing on furniture or digging in the yard.   Like all dog breeds, early socialisation with children, other human beings and pets will ensure a well developed and gentle temperament.

Boxers do extremely well in both apartment and large houses. However, pet parents who live in an apartment will have to ensure that their dog is getting ample amount of exercise everyday to expend the excess energy and to stay healthy.    Due to their large size, Boxers may knock small pets or children and even things off while they are exploring around the house.    They are very sensitive to extreme heat and cold. So if you live in areas with extreme temperatures, extra precaution will have to be taken for regulating temperature so that your dog does not fall ill.

Considered one of the intelligent breeds, Boxers do well with a strict training regime. First time owners of a Boxer may want to seek professional help from Canine behaviorists or Dog Trainers to ensure that a comprehensive training regime is designed for Boxers that keeps them engaged and also meets the characteristics of a working dog breed. Boxers respond extremely well to positive reinforcements and activities that allow it to think independently.For years Boxers have been trained for agility, obedience and other trainings that suit a working dog breed. As parents to a Boxer, be ready to spend a lot of time training and playing with your Boxer. All forms of training for your Boxer puppy should start at an early age. It will be imperative for new pet parents to start house training as soon as the puppy arrives so that there are fewer incidents inside the house.

Boxer Breeding

Boxers are a healthy and sturdy breed and become mature by the age of 3 years. If you are going to mate and breed your Boxer, make sure that you understand thoroughly the medical histories of his / her mating partner and also the medical history of the Boxer’s parents so make sure that they are not suffering from any serious genetic disorder that may be deterrent to the overall growth of the new puppies.   If you are a first time pet parent, seek medical advice to ensure that the mating and breeding process is comfortable for both the dogs.

An average litter size of a Boxer varies between 2 - 10 puppies with an average life expectancy of 11- 14 years.    When the puppies are born, it will be imperative to vaccinate them and to train them from early own as they are extremely active and if not monitored may destroy furniture and other things that might catch their attention.

Boxer Appearance

Boxers are a rare combination of intimidating looking yet extremely friendly dogs. The brachycephalic skull of the Boxer is one of its most prominent features. The length of the muzzle to that of the body should be in a ratio of 1:3. Boxers also have a well defined underbite i.e. their lower jaw protrudes beyond the upper jaw.   A full grown Boxer male will stand anywhere between 56 cms - 63 cms and weighs between 27 - 32 kgs while a fully grown female Boxer stands anywhere between 53 - 61 cms and weighs between 24 - 29 kgs.    Boxers come in three distinct colours - fawn, brindle and white with markings. In many Boxers, the chest will have a prominent white marking. Boxers have long and sturdy legs that come useful when they run and also, when they go on their hind legs and play or “box” with their forelegs.   In many countries, the ears and the tail of Boxers are docked and cropped. However, through the help of Animal Welfare Associations and Humane Societies, there has been a ban on docking and cropping of ears and tails of Boxers.