Boxer

Boxers were first developed in Germany in the 1800’s from the now extinct Bullenbeisser (literally: bull-biter) hunting dog. The modern Boxer’s ancestry may also include the Great Dane and English Bulldog.

While the breed was developed for hunting, the end of the 1800’s saw a decline in its use as a hunting dog and the Boxer found a new position as a family companion and protector. Its strength, combined with its great loyalty and bravery when confronted with danger, also saw the breed put to work as a guard dog.

The first Boxer club was formed in Munich, Germany in 1895 and it published the first breed standard in 1902. At the outbreak of the First World War, Germany took the Boxer to the front, utilising it in a number of roles, from pack and message carrier to attack dog. The breed’s courage was especially notable during this time, even through heavy artillery bombardment.

The Boxer’s international popularity soared at the conclusion of the Second World War. Allied troops from all over the world, impressed with the strength and enthusiastic disposition of the breed, left Europe with Boxers they acquired there.

Over the years, Boxers have performed many jobs: athlete, cattle dog, police dog, war dog (in both world wars), watchdog, protection dog, and guide dog for the blind. The breed has long held a place within the ten most popular breeds in America and continues to do so.

Boxers are active, energetic dogs who show high levels of enthusiasm for play and exercise, but it doesn’t have to be over the top. A daily walk of 30 minutes is ideal and they won’t mind if they miss out occasionally. Very strong, inquisitive and energetic, they love exploring new places and fetching just about anything you throw for them. Exercise should be undertaken on leash or in a securely fenced area; they should not be allowed to run loose because of their heritage as a chaser of wild game.

Boxer puppies spend a good deal of time jumping and leaping about, and are constantly in need of reminders to teach them to stay ‘down.’ Early socialisation and puppy training classes will help direct the their energy and exuberance in a positive way. They are generally willing to please and to obey commands, but if not provided with training and boundaries, particularly in their first year, they can become strong-willed and unruly.

Firm, consistent discipline is essential for this breed. With their playful attitude, they will not respond positively to harsh words, and patience will be needed. Highly trainable with the right approach, they are excellent problem solvers who can become bored with repetition. They excel in a wide range of canine sports, including obedience, agility, and herding, and they can be trained as service, assistance, and therapy dogs, and in roles such as drug detection and search-and-rescue.

A low maintenance breed, Boxers shed relatively little hair and their short, shiny coat requires very little grooming. A good once-over with a soft brush, mitt or  hound glove once or twice a week is recommended.

Their short snout and fairly long jowls mean they are prone to slobbering and some are very messy eaters. Apart from this, they tend to be clean dogs, needing a bath only occasionally.