Let's talk Boxers

Known for their playful and friendly nature, Boxers are full of bouncy exuberance. A little boisterous at times, they have an abundance of energy and a great zest for life. With early training, Boxersalso make loyal and devoted companions, and develop a deep attachment to their human families. Really deep. In fact, they like nothing better than being right by your side –and will even fall asleep on your knee, if you let them.

Official name: Boxer

Other names: German Boxer, Deutscher Boxer, American Boxer

Origins: Germany

Close-up of Boxer puppy looking away in black and white

Drooling tendencies		Warm weather
Grooming needs		Cold weather
Shedding level		Suited to apartment living
Barking tendencies	Medium	Can stay alone
Energy Level (high, low, medium) *	Medium to high	Family pet *
Compatibility with other pets

* We advise against leaving pets alone for long stretches. Companionship can prevent emotional distress and destructive behaviour. Speak to your veterinarian for recommendations.

Every pet is different, even within a breed; this snapshot of this breed specifics should be taken as an indication.

For a happy healthy and well-behaved pet, we recommend educating and socializing your pet as well as covering their basic welfare needs (and their social and behavioral needs.

Pets should never be left unsupervised with a child.

Contact your breeder or veterinarian for further advice.

All domestic pets are sociable and prefer company. However, they can be taught to cope with solitude from an early age. Seek the advice of your veterinarian or trainer to help you do this.

1 m 59 cm - 1 m 64 cm Height

30 kg - 31 kg Weight

1 m 55 cm - 1 m 60 cm Height

25 kg - 26 kg Weight

Baby age	Birth to 2 months
Puppy age	2 to 15 months
Adult age	15 months to 5 years
Mature age	5 to 8 years
Senior age	8 to 18 years

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Get to know the Boxer

All you need to know about the breed

Renowned for their boundless energy, Boxers have a friendly and fun-loving temperament with an enthusiasm for just about everything around them. There’s just so much to be excited about in life – or at least that’s their excuse and they’re sticking to it.

But they are also a very gentle, affectionate breed of dog who form strong bonds with their owners. Also good with children once they’ve had a bit of training, Boxers are normally very careful and respectful to those around them. As they can sometimes be a little more boisterous than they intend, though, it’s best to keep very little ones away – just in case – but otherwise they are renowned for being a very trustworthy dog.

Protective and loyal as a breed, Boxers will bark fearlessly at anything they perceive to be a threat to their human pack. Even if they are more likely to lick a stranger than anything else. They make good watchdogs, nonetheless.

Originally descended from hunting dogs in Germany, where they would help to pin down prey, Boxers were later crossed with a smaller, mastiff-type breed from England. The name stems from the way they spar with their front paws – literally like a fighter – when playing. This does mean they can be a bit prone to jumping up, but training can help.

In terms of their appearance, Boxers have a short, sleek coat, distinctive blunt muzzle and intelligent, dark-brown eyes. As their colouring can range from a dappled brindle to a rich red to pure white, every dog has a distinct look of their own. With their muscular, athletic build, they also have a graceful, powerful movement.

On that note, it’s important to be aware that Boxers need at least two hours of exercise a day. They will also benefit from some training classes early on in their lives to help keep that bouncy Boxer buoyancy in check. But as long as they have those two things, along with plenty of affection from their owners, Boxers will reciprocate with great devotion. It’s not for nothing that they are regarded as one of the most perfect family pets.

Close-up of Boxer with only eyes and snout visible

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2 facts about Boxers

1. A canine Peter Pan

One of the many interesting facts about Boxer dogs is that they have one of the longest puppyhoods of any breed. Although they are classed as an adult from around 15 months, it takes them about three years to reach full maturity. So, perhaps it’s no surprise they retain their youthful enthusiasm for life.

2. Two of a kind

Not commonly known is that there are actually two types of Boxer dogs. As well as the standard Boxer breed, there is an American variant that has slightly different physical characteristics. For example, the body of the American Boxer is less bulky, with tauter lines, and the neck is more arched. Also the muzzle and ears are both slightly longer in the American.

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History of the breed

It’s hard to believe that the Boxers we know and enjoy today have their origins in ferocious hunting dogs. And yet, if we explore their history, that’s exactly what happened.

Originally descended from the old fighting dogs of Tibet – to go back to their very distant roots – the Boxer dog of today hails from Western Europe. To pick up the story, we need to visit the Germany of the 1800’s where we meet the Bullenbeisser (‘bull biter’) dog. Used by the German aristocracy to chase and pin down hunting prey, these hardy animals tackled everything from deer and boars to bears.

Later, as times changed and estates were broken up, traditional hunts fell out of favour. In fact, for a while, things looked a little precarious for the Bullenbeisser. But then everything changed when they were crossed with a smaller, mastiff-type breed from Britain – and, by the late 1800’s, we had the first modern-day Boxer dogs.

In 1904, the breed was registered with the American Kennel Club. There, they went on to become one of the most popular dogs in the country – and frequently appear in lists of ‘top 10 breeds’ to this day.

Back in Germany, meanwhile, Boxers were one of the first breeds to be used by police – and they were also enlisted by the military during both World Wars. Today, despite their tough-guy origins, the Boxer dog is regarded as one of the friendliest breeds around.

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From head to tail

Physical characteristics of Boxers

1. Body

Body is robust and powerful with an athletic build and exceptionally high muscle mass.

2. Head

Head is distinguished by dome-shaped skull, short, blunt muzzle typical of the brachycephalic family and expressive brown eyes.

3. Fur

Smooth, glossy fur is close-fitting and can vary from brindle to red and white.

4. Deportment

Known for good deportment, the breed stands proud and alert.

5. Tail

Set high, tail is naturally long and rarely stops wagging – and their whole body can wiggle at times.

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Things to look out for

From specific breed traits to a general health overview, here are some interesting facts about your Boxer

Breathing problems can be an issue

As Boxers belong to the brachycephalic family of breeds, which means they have a wide skull shape, flat face and short nose, they can be prone to a few potential health issues. In particular, occasional breathing problems if they get too excited (not unusual for Boxers, let’s face it) or over-heated in hot weather. In severe cases, this can result in fainting. The best advice is to choose a responsible breeder, who will be trying to develop a healthier Boxer dog. Also, keep an eye on their weight as this can exacerbate the problem. If needed, seek out advice from your vet who will be able to offer further tips.

Healthy diet, healthier dog

Puppy

Adult

Senior

When choosing food for a Boxer, there are many factors to consider: their age, lifestyle, activity level, physiological condition, and health including potential sickness or sensitivities. Food provides energy to cover a dog’s vital functions, and a complete nutritional formula should contain an adjusted balance of nutrients to avoid any deficiency or excess in their diet, both of which could have adverse effects on the dog. Clean and fresh water should be available at all times to support good urinary regularity. In hot weather and especially when out exercising, bring water along for your dog’s frequent water breaks. Energy intake may also have to be adapted to the climatic conditions. A dog that lives outdoors in winter will have increased energy requirements. The following recommendations are for healthy animals. If your dog has health problems, please consult your veterinarian who will prescribe an exclusive veterinary diet.
A Boxer puppy’s requirements, in terms of energy, protein, minerals, and vitamins, are much greater than those of an adult dog. They need energy and nutrients to maintain their body, but also to grow and build it. Until they are 15 months old, Boxer puppies’ immune system develops gradually. A complex of antioxidants - including vitamin E - can help support their natural defences during this time of big changes, discoveries, and new encounters. Their digestive functions are different from an adult Boxer’s, too: their digestive system is not mature yet so it is important to provide highly digestible proteins that will be effectively used. Prebiotics, such as fructo-oligosaccharides, support digestive health by helping balance the intestinal flora, resulting in good stool quality.
It is important to choose a kibble with an appropriate size, shape, and texture to make it easier for them to grasp with their teeth and eat. This growth phase also means moderate energy needs. Large-breed puppies, such as Labrador Retriever puppies, whose growth period is long and intense, are especially susceptible to skeletal and joint problems, including limb defects, bone deformities, and joint lesions. The first part of growth is mainly concerned with bone development, although the muscles also start to grow. Limiting the energy concentration of a food for Labrador Retriever puppies and feeding a correct daily amount will help control the speed of growth and minimise the risk of excess weight. Neutering is a factor in overweight dogs.
The brachycephalic nature of the Boxer is an important factor that needs to be taken into account when choosing the size, shape, and texture of kibble to make it easier for them to pick up and to encourage chewing. This growth phase also means moderate energy needs. Large-breed puppies, such as Boxer puppies, whose growth period is long and intense, are especially susceptible to skeletal and joint problems, including limb defects, bone deformities, and joint lesions. The first part of growth is mainly concerned with bone development, although the muscles also start to grow. This means that a puppy that eats too much - takes in too much energy - will put on too much weight and grow too quickly. This extra weight on the skeleton will increase the risk of bone deformity and joint problems, or dysplasia. Limiting the energy concentration of a food for Boxer puppies and feeding a correct daily amount will help control the speed of growth and minimise these risks. An adjusted protein content and L-carnitine will support muscle development. Concentrations of other nutrients should be higher than normal in a specially formulated growth food. Although the calcium content in the food needs to be increased for large-breed puppies, they are more sensitive to excessive calcium intake. It’s important to understand then that adding any ingredients to a complete food formulated for the growth phase is at best unnecessary and at worst dangerous for the animal, unless prescribed by a veterinarian. It is recommended to split the daily allowance into three meals a day until they are 6 months old, then to switch to two meals per day.

The main nutritional goals for adult Boxers are:
Maintaining an ideal body weight and muscle mass with an adapted protein content and L-carnitine that promotes fat burning
Helping support good cardiac function with an adapted content of minerals, EPA-DHA, taurine, L-carnitine, and antioxidants
Helping to support the health of their bones and joints, with glucosamine, chondroitin, and antioxidants
Promoting optimal digestibility with high quality protein and a balanced supply of dietary fibre
Helping preserve the health and beauty of the skin and coat with the enriched addition of essential fatty acids (especially EPA-DHA), essential amino acids, and B vitamins.

After 5 years old, Boxers will start facing the first signs of ageing. A formula enriched with antioxidants will help maintain their vitality, and specific nutrients, such as chondroitin, and glucosamine, will help support healthy bones and joints. Ageing is also accompanied by the modification of digestive capacities and particular nutritional requirements, so food for older Boxers should have the following characteristics:
Higher vitamin C and E content. These nutrients have antioxidant properties, helping to protect the body’s cells against the harmful effects of the oxidative stress linked to ageing
High-quality protein. Contrary to a widely held misconception, lowering the protein content in food brings little benefit in limiting kidney failure. On top of it, older dogs are less efficient at using dietary protein than younger dogs. Reducing the phosphorus content is a good way of slowing down the gradual deterioration of kidney function
A higher proportion of the trace elements iron, copper, zinc, and manganese to help maintain good condition of the skin and coat.
A higher quantity of polyunsaturated fatty acids, like borage oil and fish oil, to maintain the quality of the coat. Dogs can normally produce these fatty acids, but ageing can affect this physiological process
As they age, dogs increasingly suffer from teeth problems. To ensure they continue to eat in sufficient quantities, the size, shape, and texture of their kibble needs to be tailored to their jaw.
Throughout their life, it is important to avoid feeding Boxers human foods or fatty snacks. Instead, reward them with kibble taken from their daily meal allowance, and strictly follow the feeding guidelines written on the package in order to prevent excessive weight gain.

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Caring for your Boxer

Grooming, training and exercise tips

With their seemingly limitless energy, Boxers need at least two hours of physical activity a day. Yes, two. This can be spread between regular walks, playing in the garden or a run in the park. In fact, they are a perfect breed for those looking for a jogging partner. In any event, daily walks are preferable to one long run at the weekend. Also, with their playful personality, Boxers enjoy games in the garden too. One thing to bear in mind is that Boxers don’t do well in hot weather. As a brachycephalic breed, they can sometimes struggle with their breathing. And remember to wait at least an hour after feeding before exercise.

With their short, glossy coats, one of the advantages of having a Boxer is the minimal grooming required. However, because they tend to shed all year long and their short prickly hair sticks to carpets and upholstery, a daily grooming/stroking with a glove will reduce the vacuum-cleaner use. They will only need a bath very occasionally – though be prepared for a bit of drooling. Like most breeds, Boxers’ teeth should be brushed regularly – daily if possible – and will require professional dental cleaning from time to time. Nails should be clipped as needed and ears checked weekly. Other than that, they should be good to go.

With the Boxer’s naturally boisterous nature, and tendency to jump up, early training is a good idea. Puppy classes are a helpful part of the socialisation process – especially as male Boxers in particular like to show other dogs who’s boss, so this can improve their tolerance towards other canines. Intelligent and keen to please (for the most part anyway!), Boxers learn quickly and respond well to gentle encouragement. They will also benefit from the continued mental stimulation, too, as boredom can lead to destructive behaviour such as chewing. On that note, they don’t deal well with being left on their own. Boxers make great therapy dogs too.

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