Do you know how the Boxer got its name? Watch a Boxer jump up with his forepaws in the air – it reminds you of a boxer in the ring. Boxers are mischievous, cheerful, lively dogs who enjoy life to the fullest – no regrets!
History
The Boxer’s history can be traced back to the early 20th century where they were bred down from the German Bullenbeisser. The Bullenbeisser was used for hunting large game like boar, elk, bear, and bison. The Boxer, today, is as versatile as his ancestor. They are used as police dogs, war dogs, cattle dogs, guide dogs, and watchdogs.
About the Breed
Nutrition
High-quality diets that are wholesome, balanced and nutritious can help a Boxer grow well into adulthood. Remember, however, that diets must be age-appropriate to ensure optimum growth and in accordance with activity level to avoid obesity. In addition to diets, it is best to add calcium supplements to a Boxer’s daily meals to prevent osteoarthritis.
Grooming
A Boxer’s short coat requires very little attention. A bi-weekly brushing and a weekly de-shedding should keep him looking his best. Bathing is occasionally needed since they are generally relatively clean and odourless. Unless worn down on a hard surface, nails need to be trimmed once a month along with a monthly teeth brushing to prevent the build-up of tartar.
Exercise
Boxers thrive on exercise to let out all their unused energy. In fact, Boxers are best known for their endless energy, so much so that they won’t feel tired even after three hours of fetch! That said, Boxers cannot live in apartments or small houses. They need room to roam even if you give them sufficient daily exercise. Boxers excel at all kinds of sports – agility, fly ball, drafting, herding, swimming, running etc.
Training
Start training them, and they’ll give you the ‘I’m not doing it’ look. Boxers are, by nature, independent and rather carefree. As stubborn as they are, they are excellent problem solvers and very intelligent. Training a Boxer isn’t easy, especially if they’re older than six months. But, with consistency and positive reinforcement, you can have a well-behaved dog.
Health
Boxers can overheat easily and hence need to be kept indoors with lots of water or fed a wet food diet during hot days. They are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, cataracts, thyroid deficiency, heart disease, respiratory problems, and cancer.
Temperament
Boxers need good socialisation from day one to be mild-mannered house dogs. They can be good family dogs if introduced to everything from a young age.
Is the Boxer right for me?
Boxers are versatile breeds
They are low maintenance
They make excellent watchdogs
Boxers are always entertaining to watch
They are loyal to a fault
Why might this breed be unsuitable for my lifestyle?
Boxers need to be exercised often
They can be boisterous and stubborn at times
They need room to roam
Boxers are aggressive chewers
They can suffer from respiratory and other health complications
Boxers are affectionate, intelligent, enthusiastic and rather interesting breeds who take pride in being one of a kind!
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