Boxer
Often silly, sometimes stubborn
Boxers 101
Working groupThe Boxer is playful and loving with family and protective toward strangers. This muscular breed adapts well to most situations, although bouncy Boxers may be too physical for small children or unsteady seniors. Regular, strenous exercise will take the edge off their unending supply of joyous energy.
What we love about Boxers
Throws a punch now and then, but only playing
The Boxer will make you laugh and may hit you with a right cross when you least expect it – all in play. “Four on the floor” training is highly recommended. Trick-training is a natural for Boxers, who love to be the center of attention, but keep treats to a minimum to prevent obesity. As with other short-nosed breeds, Boxers need to be monitored in warm weather to prevent overheating.
Very vocal
Talkative
As needed
My pet’s health plannerSM
Mature adult Boxer
Risk level for common Boxer conditions
Skin cancer
Cruciate ligament tear (knee)
Corneal (eye) ulcer
Senior Boxer
Risk level for common Boxer conditions
Neurologic cancer
Lymphatic cancer
Skin cancer
Boxer puppy
Risk level for common Boxer conditions
Allergic reaction
Foreign body ingestion
Gastritis
Young adult Boxer
Risk level for common Boxer conditions
Allergic reaction
Foreign body ingestion
Skin allergies
Mature adult Boxer
Risk level for common Boxer conditions
Skin cancer
Cruciate ligament tear (knee)
Corneal (eye) ulcer
Senior Boxer
Risk level for common Boxer conditions
Neurologic cancer
Lymphatic cancer
Skin cancer
Boxer puppy
Risk level for common Boxer conditions
Allergic reaction
Foreign body ingestion
Gastritis
Young adult Boxer
Risk level for common Boxer conditions
Allergic reaction
Foreign body ingestion
Skin allergies
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Get your Boxer’s health information in a free report
The Boxer was one of the first dogs used for military service, valued as a messenger dog, pack-carrier, and protector. One of the most famous of World War II was Babe, who warned U.S. Marines about an approaching enemy attack during the Battle of Guam. Her bravery and loyalty earned her the rank of Sergeant and a well-deserved place in history.
Boxer coat care and colors
The Boxer’s coat is easy to care for: Sleek and short, all it needs is weekly brushing and an occasional bath to keep it in perfect condition. Boxers come in both fawn and brindle, with black masks and varying degrees of white, typically on the chest and front legs and paws. The Boxer is a large dog, and that means large nails that need to be kept short. Avoid wrestling matches with adult dogs by acclimating puppies to having their feet handled and nails clipped. Some dogs better tolerate nail grinding rather than trimming, so experiment with which method works best.
Do Boxers shed a lot?
All dogs shed, some a little and some a lot. Boxers are at the low end of the scale. The perception of how much a dog sheds is typically related to how much fur ends up on clothing, furniture and carpets. Regular brushing will keep shedding to a minimum.
What can I do to minimize shedding and keep my Boxer's coat healthy?
Brushing your Boxer's coat a couple of times a week will reduce shedding, as will warm baths as needed.
How can I protect my Boxer from skin allergies and irritation?
A healthy diet and good parasite control will help keep many skin issues at bay. If your Boxer has persistent skin issues, visit your dog's veterinary healthcare team for advice and treatment options. They may have an underlying health concern like food or environmental allergies.
Boxer exercise & training
Boxer fun facts
Top girl names for Boxers
of Boxers are female
of Boxers are male
Top boy names for Boxers
Nationwide loves Boxers of every name, from Aaron to Zog the Destroyer
Other breeds like Boxers
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