Boxer puppies are energetic and playful pets.
Initially bred for fighting and controlling large game during hunts, the boxer originated in 19th century Germany. Introduced in the United States following World War I, boxers became popular pets. Today, boxers are frequently kept as pets, and offer a set of characteristics that make them appealing for families interested in raising a dog.
Appearance
Full-grown boxers are medium sized and described by the American Kennel Club as being a "square-built dog of good substance with short back, strong limbs, and short, tight-fitting coat." Adult male boxers stand 23 to 25 inches and females stand 21 1/2 to 23 1/2 inches, measured at the dog's withers. Boxer puppies often have loose, wrinkled skin, featuring a coat of either solid of multi-colored hair. Coat colors range from brindle to fawn, may include various shades of red and can include white markings.
Temperment
As puppies, boxers are extremely energetic and playful. This exuberance often requires careful obedience training in order to control the temperament of the dog and instill manners and self-control. Slow to mature, boxers remain playful throughout most of their lives, although they develop into more reserved and stoic dogs as they age. Boxers are generally very good with children, exhibiting patience when interacting with small children.
When socialized effectively as puppies, boxers can be very friendly and well-natured with large groups of people. Boxers, however, are also effective guard dogs, and can react with aggression to strangers depending on their level of socialization when young.
Care
Early on, caring for a boxer puppy involves heavy focus on obedience. The authors of BoxerPuppies.org emphasize that early in the puppy's life, the dog must understand that his owner is the alpha, so establishing dominance and control over the puppy is important. Once a boxer has respect for its owner, everyone will be happier, including the puppy.
In addition to obedience training, regular visits to a veterinarian are important to ensure health in the puppy. Letting the dog live indoors also increases the health of the dog. The authors of BoxerPuppies.org explain that frequent opportunities for outdoor exercise are important, but because of the boxer's inability to breathe effectively in extreme temperatures, they are primarily inside dogs.
Boxers do not require frequent grooming, because they have short coats. Norma Bennett Woolf of Dog Owner's Guide recommends occasional brushing and wipedowns using a soft chamois cloth to maintain the quality of the dog's coat.
Health Issues
Unfortunately, boxers are prone to numerous health problems. The authors of BoxerPuppies.org and and Norma Bennett Woolf from The Dog Owner's Guide warn that because of these health problems, regular visits to the vet are crucial for keeping a boxer healthy. Heart problems, hip dysplasia, eye problems and hypothyroidism are common problems in boxers. Congenital deafness is also present in boxers marked with primarily white coats of hair. White boxers should not be bred because of the increased likelihood of genetic defects.
Boxers, especially those with deep chests, are also prone to bloating. Woolf suggests taking care to control the dog's diet, feeding it twice a day with premium foods and allowing ample time to digest before exercise decreases the likelihood of bloating. Dogs displaying any symptoms of bloating should be taken to the vet immediately.
Should You Choose a Boxer?
Michelle Welton of YourPureBredPuppy.com suggests that potential boxer owners consider what they are looking for in a dog prior to making a choice. Owners looking for energetic, medium-to-large dogs with a willingness to play and very little required grooming will find boxers an effective choice as a pet. Boxers have a tendency to be stubborn, however, can be aggressive toward other dogs, and are characterized by drooling, constant noises and occasional flatulence. For potential pet owners looking for quiet, calm-natured dogs, boxers are unlikely to be a good choice. Finally, beyond temperament, anyone considering a boxer should be aware of the increased potential for health problems, leading to the dog's relatively short lifespan of eight to 12 years.
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