Boxer

Liz Phillips, Lawrence, KS

energy level:       requires a backyard for exercise
kids under 5:        maybe
kids 5 to 10:         yes
ease of care:        Medium shedder, short coat
house trainability: Can be stubborn, especially in bad weather
trainability:      very high, but the trainer MUST be smarter than the boxer
lifespan:          8-10 years
size:              22-27 inches; 45-85 pounds
This breed is described as being: affectionate, eager, single-minded, protective, stubborn, possessive.

Boxers are a very exuberant breed and show their love to their families in active motion, and as such can be dangerous for 'toddlers' as they often knock them down. A family environment is best for the boxer, however the families with small children must be willing to treat the toddler and the boxer on an even playing field, as equals and be prepared to help the toddler understand the 'space' needs..

Boxers are notorious for 'kissing' and squeamish families that do not like to have their children's faced 'washed' by the boxer, are best served looking at another breed.

limiting disorders: Cardiomyopathy and sub-aortic stenosis (heart); Cancers; Thyroid problems

non-limiting disorders: Spondyolosis (spine); Allergies

breed quirks: Flatulence (gas)..can be room clearing; Propensity to lick; Some pedigree lines have large jowls that lead to drooling

other info: Boxers were bred to be guard dogs and to defend the bulls and livestock in Germany. Over the years, that 'work' has diminished but they retain a protective instinct. They are not normally aggressive, but their alert features, often upright ears and feet-planted 'stance' can cause some uneducated to fear them as aggressive. The boxer takes a family that is willing to spend alot of time with their pets as they can become bored when left alone, and will find less than appealing ways to amuse themselves (digging, chewing, etc).

The boxer is strong-willed, very smart, but can be stubborn. They are an indoor dog that also needs the benefit of a large fenced yard or consistent extended walks to ensure they get the exercise they need.