Boxer
Boxers have long been famed for their devotion and loyalty to their family, as well as their vigilance and unshakeable bravery as defenders.
About the Boxer
Boxers are fearless, self-assured, calm and well balanced. Although they pose no threat to their family, they’re often suspicious of strangers and know no fear when riled.
Boxers are obedient, making them easy to train. Undemanding, clean and loyal, they are as suited to the role of family and companion dog as that of defence and utility dog.
Source: key facts and characteristics sourced from Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)
Breed specifics
- Group
- FCI Group 2, AKC Working Group
- Size category
- Large
- Avg life expectancy
- 9–10 years
Alert / Confident / Enthusiastic / Even-tempered / Friendly / Independent / Loyal / Lively / Protective
Key facts
Origins of the breed
Boxers are directly descended from Bullenbeissers, which were bred by huntsmen to help catch game. The dogs’ jaws therefore had to be as wide as possible, with widely spaced teeth for biting firmly and holding on tight.
Bullenbeissers that had these characteristics were used as breeding stock; function and utility were the only breeding criteria at the time. The results of this selection were dogs with broad muzzles and upturned noses – the Boxer as we know the breed today.
Origins of the breed
Boxers are directly descended from Bullenbeissers, which were bred by huntsmen to help catch game. The dogs’ jaws therefore had to be as wide as possible, with widely spaced teeth for biting firmly and holding on tight.
Bullenbeissers that had these characteristics were used as breeding stock; function and utility were the only breeding criteria at the time. The results of this selection were dogs with broad muzzles and upturned noses – the Boxer as we know the breed today.
Health condition
Boxers belong to the brachycephalic family that have as physical features a flat face and short nose due to their flat and wide skull shape. These anatomical attributes can cause some health issues like skin, eye and breathing problems as well as a poor ability to tolerate heat. For all brachycephalic breeds, we advise you to choose a dog with physical features that are not over-exaggerated, to buy from a responsible breeder and to seek counsels from your veterinarian.
A healthy start to life
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Lifetime of health
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