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History
The Boxer probably originated in the mid-1800's from powerful ancestors of the Mastiff and Bulldog. Early on, these dogs were prized for hunting, bull baiting, and for pulling carts. A bit farther down the family tree, Boxer ancestors became cattle dogs, and were used to round up livestock. They were also popular circus and theater dogs because they learned tricks so easily. Breeding was rather indiscriminate until the first Boxer stud book was started in 1904, stabilizing the breed standard. Though early Boxers may have been quite ferocious, the breed today is a very gentle, loving family companion.
Description
The Boxer is a firmly muscular, medium sized, squarely built, energetic dog of the Mastiff family. Muzzle proportions are important for this breed. The muzzle is wide and blunt, and should be in good balance with the rest of the dog. The top of the skull is slightly arched. The head should not be round like a Bulldog. The forehead is slightly indented between the eyes with a distinct stop where it meets the muzzle. The eyes are dark brown and the broad nose, black. The teeth should meet in an undershot bite, with the lower jaw extending beyond the upper jaw and curving slightly upward. The ears are generally cropped, and the tail is docked and held upward. The topline slopes smoothly and slightly downwards from the withers. The chest is broad with a deep brisket, extending to the elbows. The Boxer has a sleek short-haired coat in fawn or brindle, sometimes with white markings. The skin is tight-fitting.
Talents
Watchdog, guarding, police work, military work, search & rescue, competitive obedience, Schutzhund, and performing tricks.
Personality
A highly intelligent, exuberant, playful and energetic breed. Easily trained—a good obedience dog. Very devoted to family, good with children. Quiet, but alert and protective. Generally reserved with strangers. Not generally combative with other dogs unless challenged.
Behavior
Children: Excellent with children.
Friendliness: Loves everyone.
Trainability: Easy to train.
Independence: Needs people a lot.
Dominance: Moderate.
Other Pets: Generally good with other pets.
Combativeness: Can be a bit dog-aggressive.
Noise: Not a barker.
Notes
Beware of puppy mill dogs. May drool a little and snore. Don't overfeed. Best in temperate climates as the breed can chill easily in cold weather and have trouble cooling off in very hot weather. The Boxer is very clean; he grooms himself like a cat.
Grooming
Grooming: A little grooming needed.
Trimming & Stripping: No trimming or stripping needed.
Coat: Short coat.
Shedding: Average shedder.
Docking: The ears are customarily cropped, and the tail is customarily docked.
Exercise: Needs lots of exercise.
Jogging: An excellent jogging companion.
Indoors: Fairly active indoors.
Apartments: Will be OK in an apartment if sufficiently exercised.
Outdoor Space: Best with at least an average-size yard.
Climate: Does well in most climates.
Owner: Good for novice owners.
Longevity: Average (10 to 12 years).
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