History: The breed originated from two Mastiff type dogs that were used in Germany in the Middle Ages for hunting Boar, Bear and Deer and their ancestors were later used for bull-baiting. In the 19th century the Mastiff type dogs were crossed with a Bulldog and the Boxer was created.They became very popular in Europe but weren’t registered with the Kennel Club until 1933.
Class: Working
Height: Dog 57cm – 63cm / Bitch 53cm – 59cm
Weight: Dog 30kg – 32kg / Bitch 25kg – 27kg
Lifespan: Average 7 – 10 yrs
Coat: Short shiny and smooth. Low moulting. Grooming with a rubber hand mitt once a week is sufficient. The colour is from red to fawn, brindle and some white markings usually on the chest, feet and face. Some Boxers are completely white but are not favoured in the show ring
Health: Generally a hardy dog,but some are prone to Lymphoma, Heart murmur, Inherited epithelial dysplasia. As with all deep chested dogs they can suffer from bloat, dividing the daily intake into 2 and feeding twice a day instead of one big meal can help prevent this.
Temperament: Intelligent, loves busy households, can become destructive if left alone for long periods. Usually a good family dog. Not aggressive towards other dogs but will defend itself if need be. High energy dog needs plenty of exercise approx 2hrs per day, loves chasing balls and frisbees. Known for staying like a playful puppy all its life so can be a handful.
Viewpoint by Alfie’s owner, Hayley
This is my boxer he is called Alfie he’s from Dogs Trust Leeds. When we took home he was 8 years old, we have had him just over 1 year. From day one we knew he was right for us. He is the world’s most laid back boxer he just loves to curl up on our bed and snore! His most loved toy is his pooh bear. When we come home from work Alfie is always there with his little stub of a tail wagging like mad. He loves children and people as they always want to come say hello and give him a cuddle, he would stay for a cuddle all day. He gets on with some dogs, he has a few doggy friends his best friend is Poppy my mums Jack Russell cross. She bounces off his head, chases him and follows him everywhere. He is like her bodygaurd when on walks, he looks out for her, he did have another boxer companion but we lost him a few months ago. Alfie is a young lad at heart when he is out at the park he LOVES to swim and will drag you to the water. He walks lovely on lead and when he’s off lead he makes us laugh out loud as he goes crazy!! He gives us so much love and makes our walks a lot more enjoyable. We love him so much and wouldn’t change him for the world.
