Boxer

Deutscher Boxer
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Face-On View
3/4 View
Sideways View
Standing View

Summary

  • Boxers are energetic and playful dogs, known for their loyalty and affection towards family. They are a working breed that require daily exercise, consistent training, and early socialization.

Origin and Purpose

  • Developed in Germany in the 19th century from the now extinct Bullenbeisser and the English Bulldog. Initially used for bull-baiting, they later became butcher’s assistants, cattle dogs, guard dogs, and message carriers in times of war.

Appearance

Dimensions

GenderHeightWeight
Female21-24 inches (53-61 cm)55-70 pounds (25-32 kg)
Male23-25 inches (58-63 cm)65-80 pounds (29-36 kg)

Coat

AttributeNotes
Color
  • Fawn
  • Brindle
  • White markings are common
Type
  • Short
Length
  • Short

Care

AttributeNotes
Shedding
  • Average
Grooming
  • Low
Drooling
  • Moderate

Body

AttributeNotes
Head
  • Proportionate to body, with a distinct stop.
Skull
  • Slightly arched
Ears
  • Set high, either naturally dropped or cropped to stand erect
Eyes
  • Dark brown, not too small or protruding
Nose
  • Broad and black
Muzzle
  • Strong and broad, well developed
Teeth
  • Strong and correctly aligned
Neck
  • Strong, muscular, and slightly arched
Forequarters
  • Well-muscled and broad
Fore Legs
  • Straight and strong
Hindquarters
  • Strong and muscular
Hind Legs
  • Muscular with good angulation
Feet
  • Compact, cat-like
Tail
  • Set high, often docked. If left natural it tends to be carried upward
Gait
  • Powerful and efficient, with a long stride

Temperament

  • Energetic, intelligent, loyal, and can be very playful, especially with children. They are known for their patience and love of family, and make devoted companions.

Social

AttributeNotes
Affectionate with Family
  • Very Affectionate
Good with Children
  • Good
Good with Dogs
  • Generally Good (Can be variable)
Good with Cats
  • Can be Good (with proper training)
Openness to Strangers
  • Can be wary of strangers (Protective Nature)
Playfulness Level
  • Very Playful
Protective Nature
  • Protective
Adaptability Level
  • Adaptable

Working Roles

  • Guard dog
  • Service dog
  • Police dog
  • Military dog
  • Show dog
  • Family Companion

Exercise Needs

  • High (Requires daily physical and mental exercise)

Health

  • Prone to certain health conditions including hip dysplasia, heart conditions such as cardiomyopathy and aortic stenosis, hypothyroidism, and cancers such as mast cell tumors, lymphoma and others

Additional Notes

  • Boxers require consistent training and socialization from an early age due to their strong will. They are sensitive and respond well to positive reinforcement. They can be prone to heatstroke and should not be left outside in hot weather.

References