Boxer Dog Picture 

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History and origin: This breed can be traced to the old holding dogs of Mollossus or Mastiff types. Perfected in Germany during the 19th century, the Boxer was developed by crossing Mastiff, Bulldog, and terrier bloodlines and was once used for fighting and bull baiting. Similar to the Bulldog, his jaw is undershot, a trait commonplace in bull-baiters.

Today's Boxers do not possess the ferocious temperament of the bygone dogs.

Description: The Boxer stands 21 to 25 inches at the shoulder and weighs 55 to 75 pounds. Strong and thickly muscled, he has a short muzzle, a docked tail, and cropped or uncropped ears. The shedding coat is short, stiff, rather prickly to the touch, and of very low maintenance, requiring only an occasional brushing. His color may be brindle with white or fawn with white.

About the breed: The Boxer is a courageous, faithful, clownish dog who loves children and makes a lovely guard dog. He is a friendly, headstrong, high-energy dog that is truly affectionate but quickly distracted. A busy, inquisitive breed, the Boxer needs firm, well-defined obedience training from an early age in order to manage his limitless vitality, but the training ought not be domineering or rushed.

He can be suspicious of strangers and, in some cases, may be dog- or people-aggressive, particularly the male. Everyday exercise is important. This dog makes an outstanding jogging partner and agility dog. The Boxer is usually acceptable with children, but care should be taken that this powerful dog does not knock over and hurt a child. Roughhousing, wrestling, and chasing ought not be permitted. He is a strong, spirited dog who tends to wag his whole body when delighted.

The Boxer has slight cushioning on his body and needs a blanket or bed to lie on. He has no body fat and consequently gets cold quickly and does not do well in cold climates. He is also inclined to respiratory problems, is a awful snorer and sneezer, and can be flatulent.

This breed is open to heart troubles and bloat and usually lives just ten to twelve years.

Feeding: Recommended feeding for the Boxer is 1 and a half to 2 and a half cans (13.3oz) of a branded meaty product with biscuit added in same amount or 5 cupfuls of a complete, dry food.

Ideal home: A house with a fenced yard is necessary. The owner of a Boxer should be an active, strong, adequate leader who has the time and tolerance to work, socialize, and exercise this spirited, many times stubborn breed.

Children are okay as long as no roughhousing occurs. Men and women who are very laidback or slow-moving should sidestep this breed, as should those who are nervous, cautious, or overbearing. The elderly and the disabled may have a tough time governing this breed and may produce a dominant dog that lacks confidence.