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Breed Brief - History - Appearance - Temperament - Exercise - Grooming - Training - Health
Is Breed Right For Me? - Breeders/Puppies For Sale - Dog Names - Pictures - Further Info - Clubs/Rescues

Example of a handsome Boxer dog.

Common Misspellings for Boxers

Germanshepherds, Boxers, German-Shepherds, Boxers, German Boxers, German Sheppards, Germanshepherds, Germansheperds

Alternate Names For Boxers

Boxer Dog Breed Brief

Origin: Germany

Height: 21.5 - 23.5 inches at the shoulder for females and 22 -25 inches high at the shoulder for males
Weight: 55-70 pounds
Exercise Needs: High
Grooming Needs: Low
Life Expectancy: 12-14 years average
Good With Kids: Yes
Trainability: Can be headstrong and stubborn
Common Misspellings: Boxxer, Boxxers

Alternate Names: German Boxer, Brindle Boxer

Boxer History

A beautiful dog that developed in the country of Germany, the Boxer is a descendant of Tibetan fighting dogs, known as the Molossus. Recognized for their incredible courage, strength and stamina, these magnificent dogs are believed to have created such dog breeds as the Spanish Alano of Andalusia and the Matin de Tercira from the Azores, two dogs which are debated to either be either ancestors of the modern day Boxer or, perhaps, a very closely-related line. Others claim that the Brabant Bullenbeisser is, in fact, the ancestor of the Boxer; created for the purpose of hunting game and holding on to the prey until the huntsman would arrive. Seeking dogs that had the desired upturned nose and wide muzzle to perform this task, this helped to set the wheels in motion to create the Boxer’s uniquely beautiful profile. Adding in the blood of the Bulldog and various terriers, the end result would be an uncommonly strong and courageous dog, loved for his loyalty as well as his beauty and intelligence. While many believe that the breed’s name came from his uncanny tendency to stand on his hind legs and use his front legs much like a boxing human, the truth of the matter is that it is highly unlikely that the German dog would have been named as such. More likely, is that his name is a corruption of the name “Boxl,” a name meaning either “short trousers” or “underwear,” but also acknowledged as a nick-name of the Bullenbeisser dog breed. A string of Munich dogs, known as Bierboxer, also developed around the same time as the Boxer - the product of crossing the Bullenbeisser with a variety of different dogs. While he was allowed to develop and gained little recognition for many years, the Boxer made his mark during World War I. Brought in for military work, this magnificent breed served as an important deliverer of messengers, a pack carrier, guard, and a vicious attack dog. Following World War II, he would eventually catch the eye of the rest of the world when the returning soldiers would bring these unique dogs home with them and introduced first Europe and then the United States to this incredible breed.

Boxer Appearance

Few will debate with the fact that the Boxer appears to be a breed that "has it all."  Proud and strong in stance and build, they are one of the most recognizable breeds of dog in the world and for good reason - the Boxer possesses a body that is easily intimidating and features that can either be fierce or heart-wrenching.  He can be both awe-inspiring and comical, and he is almost always loving and loyal.

Squarely built, the Boxer possesses a muscular and balanced body, set well upon legs that are all at once long, straight, and powerful.  His Bulldog ancestry is noticeable in this noble breed's stance, depth of chest, and his beautifully dished profile and upturned nose.  Wrinkles that appear on the Boxer's forehead when his ears are perked, help to add to this dog's uniquely expressive features, as well as helping him to escape nearly any form of scolding during those adorable puppy years.

Boxers can be found in two colors - fawn and brindle, though the varieties of these two colors are so widely ranged that the possibilities seem almost endless.  While most Boxers have uniquely black masks and white markings, it is not uncommon for them to have no white at all.  One thing to be avoided, however, are white Boxers or those dogs where white covers more than 2/3 of their bodies - not only is this a serious fault according to the breed standard, but there is a higher risk of genetic disorders and deafness in the piebald or extreme white gene.  Because of this, white Boxers were often euthanized at birth though, in recent years, most breeders offer them to pet-only homes, once they have been spayed or neutered.  While not all white Boxers have health problems, it's estimated that at least 18% of all white Boxers have hearing loss in one or both ears and Boxer rescue organizations report nearly double that amount. 

Boxer Temperament

The Boxer is a very friendly and intelligent dog that thrives on companionship.  It is often recommended that, if you have a busy lifestyle and have to be gone during the day, your Boxer will do best with another canine for companionship.  While they aren't picky who keeps them company, they do want someone to pal around with!  Failure to provide your Boxer with ample company can result in behavioral problems and destructive behavior.

Boxer puppies are ideal for socialization with other pets and children and, if properly done, will usually grow into dogs that are well-adjusted, loyal to the family and tolerant of their smaller human friends.  They love to play and are very energetic dogs, making them well-suited playmates for children that will play endless games of fetch and tug-o-war.  While they may tend to be a bit aggressive and territorial towards other dogs, early socialization can help to alleviate this problem.

Boxer Exercise Needs

The Boxer is a busy and energetic dog that needs a good amount of exercise.  Failure to provide him with adequate opportunity to stretch his legs can often result in destructive behaviorisms that can vary from chewing shoes, tearing up furniture, or annoying habits such as excessive barking or jumping up.  To give your Boxer puppy proper exercise, it's recommended that you provide him adequate access to either a fenced in back yard or, at the very least, several long daily walks a day and a trip or two to the dog park each week.

Boxers excel in activities such as agility training and frisbee catching.  If you have an overly active dog, such things may help to burn off excess energy, as well as providing both you and your beautiful Boxer quality bonding time and fresh air.

Boxer Grooming Requirements

Boxers require little special treatment when it comes to grooming.  A bi-weekly or monthly bath will suit your Boxer puppy well, and a simple brushing with a stiff bristled brush will help to remove any dead hair or dander, as well as giving his coat a glossy sheen.  This can be done once a week, which gives you and your dog essential hands-on time and will help you to observe him for any sign of potential problems.

The ears of the Boxer should be monitored for any sign of redness or foul odor.  Being that they are a fold-ear breed, careful examination should be done on a weekly basis and the outer edges of the ear can be cleaned and maintained with a cotton swab or Q-tip.  It is essential that you do not put the swab down into your dog's ear canal, however, for doing so can not only cause him great discomfort, but can also affect his hearing.

Nails should be neatly trimmed on a regular basis and your dog's teeth should be observed regularly for any sign of dental problems.

Boxer Training

The Boxer can be a very easy individual to train, provided they believe that they need that  training that you're trying to give them.  Notoriously stubborn and keenly intelligent, these dogs seem to have a will of their own and react adversely to a strong hand.  Persistence is essential when dealing with the Boxer (if you break routine and let him get away with something, rest assured that he will make the most of the opportunity).  Positive reinforcement and regular routines are essential to the training of a Boxer dog and many owners report great success with clicker training these magnificent dogs.

Obedience training is essential for your Boxer, not only to teach him basic commands, but also to promote good socialization with other people and animals. Taking the time to teach your dog properly will not only make things easier for you, as his handler, but also easier for him as it will help him to better understand what, exactly, it is that you want.  Boxers are, above all else, dogs that thrive on companionship and praise.  Treat him well and there's nothing your Boxer puppy wouldn't do for you. 

Boxer Health Information

Is the Boxer Dog Breed Right For You?

When properly socialized, the Boxer is a wonderful companion for both the single dog parent and for the loving family.  They do well with cats and other pets, as well as making good first pets for families with children.  An energetic and loving dog, the Boxer is easily adaptable and loves to play.

One downfall of the Boxer, however, is this incredible energy.  If they do not receive the proper exercise they need, they can often turn to destructive behaviorisms or develop annoying habits in order to keep themselves amused.  Similarly, Boxers also have a high desire for companionship and do not do well if left alone for extended periods of time - if you have to work a lot of hours, it's highly advisable that you either consider a playmate for your Boxer, prepare to hire him a sitter, or consider a pet that requires less time and energy.  If, however, you're prepared to make this generous time and emotional commitment, you may find that the Boxer is the perfect dog for you! 

Finding A Responsible Boxer Breeder

A beautiful Brindle and white Boxer puppy

Now that you have decided that the Boxer is the right breed for you, it's time to start the process of finding a responsible Boxer breeder from which to buy a healthy, well-socialized puppy. Not all breeders are alike; there are good breeders - and bad breeders. Don't be in a hurry to buy the first Boxer puppy you find at the cheapest price available! To buy a puppy from a responsible Boxer breeder, you may need to pay more and wait longer. The additional money and waiting time will be well worth it. Buy a puppy in haste from a newspaper ad, pet store or "backyard breeder", and you'll likely also purchase a great deal of additional expense and heartache, since you will likely end up falling in love with a puppy with health and behavioral problems that will likely need special care, plenty of veterinary visits, regular medication - or even euthanasia. But do your homework and find a responsible, caring Boxer breeder who home-raises their puppies with love, screens their breeding dogs for health problems, offers a health guarantee and post sale support, and who genuinely loves the Boxer breed and is in it for the love of the breed, rather than profit, and you can be fairly well assured of getting a healthy, happy, long lived and affectionate family companion that will provide you and your family with many years of joy, laughter and companionship.

Further information about choosing a responsible breeder...

Here are a few breeder directory sites that we recommend. These sites attempt to screen advertisers to ensure that the breeders listed are responsible and sell healthy, home-raised German Shepherd puppies to carefully screened buyers. There are many, many sites now online that advertise dog breeders - many are a Mecca for puppy mills and backyard breeders. We recommend that you steer clear of these resources in favor of sites that are more selective in the breeders whom they allow to advertise.

We Highly Recommend:

• Boxer Puppies For Sale
• Boxer Breeders Showcase
• Boxer Puppy Finder on Pet Net
  
  

Breed Brief - History - Appearance - Temperament - Exercise - Grooming - Training - Health
Is Breed Right For Me? - Breeders/Puppies For Sale - Dog Names - Pictures - Further Info - Clubs/Rescues

Boxer Names

Choosing a name for your Boxer puppy can be a daunting task! There are so many names to choose from that it can take a lot of thought and research to find just the right name for your Boxer. Usually, it's best to get to know your puppy for a few days or weeks. Often your puppy's personality will help you decide on just the right name to choose. Does he have a sense of humor? A serious side? A goofy way of cocking his head to one side? A strange love of cantaloupe? By observing your new Boxer puppy over the first days or weeks, you should at least have a clue about what type of name you want to give. There are a ton of dog names and pet names web sites on the internet. Some are wonderful information resources, while others, unfortunately, are just "garbage" sites set up with the sole purpose of cashing in on visitor hits for this popular subject.

We recommend the following sites to assist you in choosing a name for your new Boxer puppy. These sites offer inventive, unique, original and creative pet names suggestions that have helped thousands of new puppy owners in selecting just the right name for their new baby!

• Dog Names
• Choosing A Name For Your Dog Or Puppy
• Unique Pet Names
  
  

Breed Brief - History - Appearance - Temperament - Exercise - Grooming - Training - Health
Is Breed Right For Me? - Breeders/Puppies For Sale - Dog Names - Pictures - Further Info - Clubs/Rescues

Boxer Pictures

Boxers are a very photogenic dog breed. By looking at Boxer pictures, you can usually gain more insight into what these dogs and puppies are like as a breed, and this can help you decide if you really want to become an Boxer owner. The following sites below offer pictures of Boxer dogs, Boxer puppy photos, funny Boxer photos and more. Enjoy!

• Boxer Dog Pictures
  
  

Breed Brief - History - Appearance - Temperament - Exercise - Grooming - Training - Health
Is Breed Right For Me? - Breeders/Puppies For Sale - Dog Names - Pictures - Further Info - Clubs/Rescues

Additional Boxer Information Resources

There are a wealth of resources online that can help you learn more about the Boxer dog breed. We've compiled a list of Boxer information sites to assist you in quickly locating quality information about the Boxer dog breed, while avoiding the "garbage" sites that are nothing more than poor attempts to capitalize on the popularity of dog breeds in general. If you know of an Boxer information site that offers unique, quality information and photos of the Boxer breed, please contact us with the URL and a brief description so that our editors can consider it for inclusion in our list below.

• Wikipedia - Boxers

Breed Brief - History - Appearance - Temperament - Exercise - Grooming - Training - Health
Is Breed Right For Me? - Breeders/Puppies For Sale - Dog Names - Pictures - Further Info - Clubs/Rescues

Boxer Clubs and Rescues

Boxer clubs and rescues web sites can help you learn even more about the Boxer dog breed, help you locate a responsible Boxer breeder, or help you find an German Shepherd dog or puppy in need of a second chance for a loving, forever home. We've compiled the following list of Boxer clubs and Boxer rescues web sites for your convenience:

• Deutscher Boxerklub (Germany)
• American Boxer Club
• The British Boxer Club
• Clube do Boxer do Rio de Janeiro (Brazil)
• Sociedade Paulista do Boxer (Brazil)
• Boxer Club Bulgaria (Bulgaria)
• Boxer Club de España (Spain)
• Boxer Club de France
• Boxer Club de Portugal
• Italian Boxer Club
• Boxer Club D´Italia
• Boxer-Club de Suisse (Switzerland)
• Svenska Boxerklubben (Sweden)
• Boxer Club of Canada Inc
• Boxer Club of New South Wales
• Boxer Association of Victoria
• Queensland Boxer Club
• Northwoods Boxer Club (Minnesota)
• Polish Boxer Club (Poland)
• Legacy Boxer Rescue (Dallas/Ft. Worth)