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The typical Boxer is a medium, squarely chiselled dog of good substance with short back, strong limbs, and short, tight coat. Well developed muscles appear smooth, and firm under his taut skin.
Boxer dog sleeping
The Boxer's motion denotes energy. The gait is firm, yet elastic, the stride free and ground-covering, the carriage proud. Developed to serve as guard, working and companion dog, he combines strength and agility with a distinguished elegance. His expression is alert and temperament steadfast and tractable.
History/Origin:
Boxers originated in Germany in the 19th century. George Alt is reputed as the father of the breed since it was he who brought a Bullenbeiser female. He had brought the Boxer from France to Germany. He bred the dog emphasizing stable personality and strength. Each litter seemed to be an improved version of the dog. Breeders tried to avoid white puppies. Such dogs were discarded for the fear of deafness. This condition is traditionally linked to the coat color of the dog. In fact, puppies with white coat color were rather common due to the breed's close ties to the English Bulldog. The first standard for the Boxer appeared in 1902. The modern Boxer standard is a replica of the first one with some minor specifications. The Boxer made it way to the United States in 1903. The Stuttgarter Kennels was the first to recognize the potential of the breed and imported the dog to America. The AKC recognized Boxers in 1904. Bit by bit, a Boxer type was established. Breeders had more or less a vivid picture of what the breed should look like and what qualities should be stressed during breedings. It was time to develop the official breed standard for the new breed. Breed fanciers formed a club in 1896. The German Boxer Club started to promote the breed and did it rather successfully. It is worthwhile saying; the Boxer thrived thanks to their efforts and its temperament qualities. The breed was popularized rapidly, especially after the standard had been developed.
Height: Males: 22.5 to 25 inches; Females: 21 to 23.5 inches
Weight: 65 - 70 lbs.
Colors:
The colors are fawn and brindle. White markings are allowed, but no more than 1/3 of the coat.
Coat:
Short, shiny, lying smooth and tight to the body.
Temperament:
Instinctively a "hearing" guard dog, his bearing is alert, dignified and self-assured. In the show ring, his behavior should exhibit constrained animation. With family and friends, his temperament is fundamentally playful, yet patient and stoical with children. Deliberate and wary with strangers, he will exhibit curiosity but, most importantly, fearless courage if threatened. However, he responds promptly to friendly overtures honestly rendered. His intelligence, loyal affection and tractability to discipline make him a highly desirable companion.
Care and Exercise:
The Boxer's coat is short and only requires a quick weekly brushing.
Health Issues:
Usually healthy. May have problems with heart murmurs, skin tumors, digestive problems and hypothyroidism. Boxers are predisposed towards tumors that arise near the heart and lungs.
Category: Working
Registries: UCA, AKC, CKC, FCI (Group 2), UKC
Living Environment: Either Indoor or Outdoor
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