ORIGINS
The Boxer originated in Germany in the late 19th century when a beer trader was tired of being constantly robbed by thugs. He wanted a dog that was strong enough to protect him but also one that was agile and fast. And the Boxer managed this task just fine!
The origins of the name are not very clear. Some claim that it was the name of one of the first boxers around. Others believe that this dog gets its name from “boxing” because of its strength and courage.
PHYSICAL ASPECTS AND STANDARDS
Boxers are molosser type dog breeds meaning that they have a mighty and vigorous aspect. The chest and neck are very muscular while the legs are very long and agile. This gives boxers a very elegant yet muscular look. Male boxers weigh between 30kg to 38kg while the females around 25kg to 30kg.
The boxer is brachycephalic meaning that it has a large head with sharp edges, a wide mouth and short snout. Another important characteristic is that boxers have an underbite. This means that the lower jaw is longer than the upper one so it always looks as if they’re angry!
In the past, it was common to cut their ears and tails – a barbaric act which is now highly illegal in Italy.
Boxers have a short fur and no undercoat and therefore need special care. They are mainly fawn or brindle with a darker snout. You also get white Boxers but they are not entirely considered standard. In fact they cannot take part in expositions and its pedigree cannot be used for reproduction purposes. Lovers of white boxers are fighting for these dogs to be fully recognised because 20% of the pups born have white fur. Food for thought: the first boxer had white fur!
CHARACTER
Boxers have a strong personality, they’re stubborn and extremely brave. They form a deep bond with people who are close knit to the family and his family becomes his point of reference. They are very protective of their owner and they become their shadow. This however, can also be a downside because it limits their independence and they hate staying alone. So, if you cannot spend a lot of time with your dog, then the Boxer is not a suitable choice for you. They are very easy to train and respond well to commands.
Boxers are very vivacious, always ready to play and they’re full of energy! This doesn’t mean they need a garden or large space to live in because they live perfectly well in apartments too as long as you take your Boxer often outside in the fresh air, for walks and to play and socialise with other dogs. They need to be stimulated at play times to avoid boredom and laziness. This breed is especially suitable for work and sport, and fair well in IGP (Internationale Gebrauchshund Pruefung) – activities which strengthen the relationship with between the dog and its owner.
Boxers are ideal pets for children because they are so attached to the family, they’re affectionate and playful. They’ve been dubbed “babysitter dogs” to no surprise!
Boxers are very sweet and loveable with their family but don’t approach one if you don’t know him! Always ask if you can pet one! That adorable face can trick you. They’re dogs that historically were used for personal protection and defence and not all are sociable with those they don’t know!
PARTICULAR CARE
Even though Boxers are brachycephalic, they don’t suffer from any particular breathing problems. But be careful with the heat! Because of the squashed snout it takes them longer to cool off. So, in summer, take them out for very short walks under the sun, keep them in cool places and make sure they always have fresh drinking water available. They tend to easily get heat strokes compared to other breeds.
The folds in their necks don’t require any special care or attention as opposed to their cousins, the Bulldog. Some Boxers, however, may have excessive tear formation which can easily be resolved with specific products to clean the eye area daily. Common genetic disorders in Boxers are heart disease, and hip and elbow dysplasia. Precautions including vet check-ups, and first and foremost, getting a puppy by a certified Boxer breeder are highly recommended. A good breeder can guarantee the health and well-being of the parents and thus also of your puppy!
Thank you @boris_the_white_boxer for this wonderful blog on Boxers!
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