Boxers are a breed originating in Germany in the 19th century. They are known for their distinctive, muscular head, short, smooth coat and docked tail. Boxers are intelligent, loyal and energetic dogs that can be trained for tasks such as protection, police work and therapy.
General details
The Boxer is a medium to large sized dog that usually weighs between 25 and 32 kilos and measures between 53 and 63 centimeters at shoulder height. The average life expectancy of a Boxer is 10 to 12 years. According to the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI), it belongs to Group 2, which includes Pinscher and Schnauzer type dogs, Molossers, mountain type dogs and Swiss Cattle Dogs.
Breed history in brief
The Boxer is a working dog breed originating in Germany, where it was developed in the late 19th century. The Boxer's ancestors were hunting and working dogs, and its lineage is believed to go back to the mastiff dogs of the Assyrians and Babylonians, which were used in warfare.
Over time, the Boxer became a very popular companion dog, thanks to its loyalty, intelligence and playful temperament. In 1895 the "Boxer Klub" was founded in Germany. In World War I, many Boxers were used as war dogs by the German army, where they were valued for their courage and their ability to search for and rescue wounded soldiers. In World War II it was used again by the Germans in what almost led to the disappearance of the breed.
Breed characteristics
The Boxer is a breed with an athletic and muscular appearance. They have a broad, square head with a strong jaw and a short, broad muzzle. The eyes are dark and round, with an alert and lively expression. The ears are small and V-shaped, and are usually cropped so that they stand erect. The tail is short, and is also often docked further to avoid future injury.
The coat is short and glossy, close to the body and smooth. The coat coloration is usually brown, with some white markings on the face, chest and legs. The usual color is brindle or fawn, with white underbelly and legs.
They are very docile and affectionate dogs with their family, they also stand out for their treatment with children, being protective and vigilant as well as patient and calm. In addition, due to their large size, they can harm other dogs while playing, so it is recommended to teach them to socialize from a young age. They are dogs that enjoy company, surprisingly playful, and it is advisable to offer them enough activity and exercise, as they can develop destructive behaviors.
Common health problems
Like all dog breeds, the Boxer is susceptible to certain health problems. Some of the most common health problems in the breed include hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, volvulo-gastric dilatation, epilepsy, entropion and cardiomyopathy.
In addition to the above conditions, the OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) Canine Health Information Center (CHIC) recommends a cardiac evaluation exam, as well as a series of tests to assess the following diseases: autoimmune thyroiditis, degenerative myelopathy and right ventricular arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy.
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