In today’s post, I’m going to show you about the boxer dog breed.
In Fact: European boxer dogs
Let’s dive right in.
Before moving to the European boxer dog breed, let’s look at the common boxer dog breed.
Boxer is a breed of dog, developed in Germany. They are medium-sized dogs and short-haired dog breed. But their exceptional agility and muscular appearance made them famous. Due to their protective nature, he does his job of protecting his family members very responsibly. Moreover, they are recognized as an excellent companion for children. Considering these factors, it’s not surprising that they are among the 10 most popular breeds in the US.
What most people don’t know is that boxers have a variety of types. Of these, American boxer and European boxer breeds stand out the most.
Let’s go ahead and talk about it in detail.
Appearance of Boxers
The most striking feature of boxers is their wide face. They have short hair and strong square jaws. Because the lower jaw is longer than the upper jaw, the underbite arises, resulting in a unique and appealing face. Moreover, their body is made up of strong muscles. Boxer dogs are also brachycephalic because of their square mouth and wide short skull. This helps to give them a wider and deeper look.
Boxers often have white specks on the chest, face, and paws. Boxers can have several colorings, including the fawn Boxer and brindle. Although some dog owners have traditionally clipped the ears, their ears create a floppy framing around their faces.
Boxers have a soft, short, and glossy coat to the touch. This coat is not suitable for extremely cold weather, and they are not advisable to stay outside on a hot summer day. They are more susceptible to heatstroke because of this. Ensure to give them plenty of clean, cold water and keep them indoors for their protection.
Boxers have narrow waists and deep barreled chests, and they have lengthy, muscular legs that give them a colossal appearance. Male boxer dogs typically grow to be bigger than females. Boxers range in weight from 50 to 80 pounds and stand between 22 and 24.5 inches tall at the shoulder.
History of Boxers
Almost all bulldog breeds are linked to boxers. They are a breed that originated in Europe in the 16th century. However, During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the breed was perfected in Germany. Boxers are descended from extinct bullenbaiser breeds mixed with mastiffs, bulldogs, Great Danes, and possibly even terriers.
According to some breed historians, boxers get their name from the German word “boxl”. Some argue that the name boxer comes from the way they play with their forepaws, sparring in the manner of a human boxer. After World War I, boxers were not brought to the United States. The breed became one of the most popular in the United States after 1940.
Boxers were originally used for dogfighting. However, they later evolved into hardworking and faithful dogs used as hunters, protectors, battle dogs, blind guide dogs, and police dogs.
The American Kennel Club recognized the breed in 1904, but it was not until the 1930s that it began to acquire popularity in the United States. The breed is now ranked 14th on the American Kennel Club’s list of most popular dog breeds of 2020. However, they are bred as friends and watchdogs, and are undoubtedly the most popular as dependable family pets, particularly for children.
Boxer Temperament and Personality
Boxer is popular as a guard dog. Also, the Boxer dogs are devoted and caring dog breed. They are especially friendly with small children. That is why boxer dogs are now used to protect small children. They’re also intelligent, which means they can be obstinate. However, they can be very well-behaved with the proper training.
Boxer dogs are loyal companions who will strongly guard their family and house from strangers. They prefer to be in the company of their owners. Not only that, but boxers are also good listening and attentive dogs. Strangers are treated with suspicion, whereas friendly people are greeted with politeness.
Boxers, like all dogs, require socialization. They are patient and protective when properly socialized. Having good socializing from an early age is very important for your boxer. Socialization helps ensure that your boxer grows into an outgoing, friendly dog and stays that way. Regularly inviting visitors over and taking them to crowded parks, dog-friendly stores, and strolls to meet neighbors will help them improve their social skills.
If a boxer barks, there’s a good reason for it. On the other hand, many boxers are vocal and emit a growling noise that is essentially the dog’s way of communicating.
What are the 3 Types of Boxer Dogs?
1. German Boxer Dog (European)
German Boxers are also called European Boxers. The European boxer is a shorthaired dog that ranges from medium to large. The breed is the first, oldest, and, according to some, the only “official” boxer dog. European Boxers’ bones are massive and dense. Of the three breeds, it is the largest and stockiest. Their massive bodies are a tribute to their forefathers’ origins.
The distance between the skull and the snout is a distinguishing trait of German Boxers. The length of the German Boxer’s muzzle and the size of its head must always be in a 1:2 ratio.
Male European boxer dogs stand between 22.4 to 24.8 inches tall, while females stand between 20.9 to 23.2 inches tall. Males weigh on average 66lbs, while ladies weigh on average 55 pounds.
A German boxer puppy weighs nine to fifteen pounds at eight weeks of age and is considered fully developed between 12 and 18 months. It lives for nine to twelve years on average.
2. United Kingdom Boxer Dog
The British Boxer, or English Boxer, is another name for this breed. The Kennel Club of the United Kingdom (KC) recognized it as a pure breed in 1948. The English Boxer is the tiniest of the Boxer breeds and the most graceful. Breeders in England developed a Boxer that is more attractive, elegant, precise, and graceful.
This breed of boxer has a slim musculature and a stylized body. It allows them to move with better quickness and precision. These pups are also regarded as the tiniest, with shorter and thinner legs. This does not, however, imply that they are slow or weak.
Male English boxer dogs stand between 22.5 and 25 inches tall, while females stand between 21 and 23 inches tall. Males weigh between 66 to 70 pounds, while ladies weigh between 55 to 60 pounds.
When an English boxer puppy is eight weeks old, it weighs between nine and fifteen pounds and is considered fully developed between 12 and 18 months. It lives for nine to twelve years on average.
3. American Boxer Dog
The Boxer line’s final variant was the American Boxer. But it was the first one to be given official recognition in 1904 by American Kennel Club.
American Boxer is distinguished from the other two by their skin lack of wrinkles. Due to its tight skin, this is the case. In addition, their coat is denser, brighter, and stronger than that of English and German Boxers. They are identical to the English Boxer, but their larger paws and smaller knuckles are significantly taller and stand differently.
Male American boxer dogs stand between 22 and 25 inches tall, while females stand between 21 and 24 inches tall. Males weigh between 60 to 80 pounds, while ladies weigh between 50 to 65 pounds.
At eight weeks of age, an American boxer puppy weighs between nine and fifteen pounds, and at 12 to 18 months of age, it is considered fully developed. It lives for nine to twelve years on average.
Nutrition of Boxers
Boxers require a lot of exercises; thus, their diet should be rich in high-quality calories. Lean animal protein, such as lean chicken, turkey, lamb, and fish, should be the primary source of these calories. Owners should be mindful of the number of goodies offered when on a high-calorie diet, as this can lead to obesity. When choosing how many treats are suitable, owners should consider the food to snack ratio ingested by the Boxer. Raw fruits and veggies are some healthful snacks.
As well as your dog should always have access to fresh, clean water.
Consult a veterinarian if you have any concerns about your dog’s weight or nutrition.
How Long is a Boxer’s Lifespan?
Healthy Boxer dogs have a life expectancy of 10 to 12 years, according to the American Kennel Club (AKC). The life expectancy is similar to that of most canines of similar size. By comparison, small dogs have an age range of 14 years and up.
The Boxers’ health at age 10 varies enormously, much like people. Many factors influence their longevity, some of which are beyond their control, such as genetics. However, as with any dog breed, the amount of attention and care you provide will have a significant impact on how long your Boxer dog lives.
What Do Boxers Usually Die From?
The University of Georgia has conducted a 20-year study of 70,000 dogs of 82 breeds. Unfortunately, as a result, cancer is the leading cause of death in boxers, accounting for 44.3% of deaths. Some of the most common cancers diagnosed in this breed include lymphoma, mast cell tumors, and brain cancer.
However, keep in mind that the study is nearly two decades old.
The investigation into the causes of canine cancer is still ongoing. According to a study undertaken by the American Kennel Club Canine Health Foundation (AKCCHF), environmental pollutants may affect a role in the development of lymphoma in Boxers.
Because the causes of cancer in dogs are difficult to determine, the best thing you can do for your Boxer is to keep him as healthy as possible. You should also keep an eye out for changes in its behavior and look.
Are European Boxers Aggressive?
European Boxers are lovers, not fighters. But they can be aggressive dogs. That is due to their natural desire to be the dominant animal in most situations. Even when they aren’t around other dogs, they want to be the alpha.
However, their enormous size and playful attitude may hurt children if not properly trained. These robust canines require physical activity as well as social engagement. It is protective and, if not appropriately socialized, can become harmful.
Your behavior affects their behavior. They learn from you. When they behave, be pleasant and promise them that everything will be fine. They’ll eventually understand what they can and can’t do.
Some exercises include long daily walks for more sedentary Boxers and active daily romping for high-energy individuals. But breeds of boxers including European boxers are more prone to heatstroke than most dog breeds, thus they should not be used in hot weather.
Boxers require stable leadership. After all, they come from a line of strong-willed working dogs. But it would be best if you approached them positively and appealingly. Yes, boxers are obstinate, but they are also sensitive and proud.
When seeing a stranger, most Boxers react with enthusiasm, bouncing up and down and wagging their tails. Other Boxers are warier of outsiders, neither adoring nor threatening them. Socialization is critical for your Boxer to establish a steady temperament.
European Boxer Puppies
How Much Does a European Boxer Puppy Cost?
Fully registered European Boxer puppies with the American Kennel Club range from $1,000 to $3,000. Remember that each breeder is different, and some puppies may be less expensive than others. Paying $3000 for a boxer puppy is uncommon. But we can’t say the high price puppy is always healthy. Feeding and caring for a boxer cost average of between $600 and $1800 a year.
A trustworthy dog breeder should always offer a health guarantee, current vaccinations, a licensed veterinary check-up, a travelling cage if the dog is delivered, and registration documentation. It will cost more to buy from a reputable breeder, but it will save you money in the long run.
“Backyard breeders” are notorious for creating sick and untidy puppies, which frequently result in medical concerns that will cost you money in the long run.
Not only is there an initial expense to owning a puppy, but there are also maintenance costs. You’ll need to maintain your puppy’s vaccines up to date, buy high-quality food, and acquire him other accessories like collars, leashes, and toys. If this appears too costly for you, check a Boxer shelter to see if any European Boxer pups or older dogs are available for adoption.
How to Find a Reputable European Boxer Breeder?
You may learn more about some fantastic European Boxer breeders and the pups they sell by clicking on the links below.
Euro Boxx Boxers – https://www.euroboxxboxers.com/Euro_boxx_home.html
JCS Boxers – https://jcsboxers.com/
Euro Dream Boxers – https://www.euro-dream.com/index.htm
Mountain Crest Boxers – http://www.mountaincrestboxers.com/
European Boxer vs American Boxer
Are there differences between them? In short, yes.
In a nutshell, American Boxers are considered elegant dogs, but European Boxers are described as having broader bones and skulls.
The head is the first distinction between the European Boxer and the American Boxer. The European Boxer has a broader, square head and a shorter mouth than the American.
The European Boxer’s neck is bigger and more muscular, whereas the American Boxer’s neck is sleeker more extended.
European Boxers are highly active and require us to supply them with activities or toys to play with. European Boxers were bred to work and retain their working/prey instincts. But American boxers tend to be calmer.
Is it more difficult to train American boxers than European boxers?
Boxers are known for their temperament, intelligence, and trainability. American Boxers are just as intelligent as their European Boxer counterparts, but they are less focused, less determined, and more easily distracted. The majority of this is due to the environment and training. However, genetics may be playing a role.
Uses of Boxers
Boxers are famous as family dogs since they are sociable and energetic. And they are very loving to their family. They are formidable guard dogs because of their distrust of outsiders, vigilance, agility, and power. They also sometimes appear at flyball events.
These powerful and clever animals have also been utilized as service dogs, blind guide dogs, therapy dogs, police dogs in K9 units, and herding cattle and sheep on occasion. The military recognized the adaptability of Boxers early on, and they have been utilized as essential messenger dogs, pack carriers, assault, and security dogs in times of conflict.
Children and Boxers
Boxers like kids and are excellent playmates for energetic older children. However, they can sometimes be rude to toddlers.
Always educate children on how to approach and touch dogs and monitor interactions between dogs and small children to avoid biting or ear or tail tugging on either party’s side. Teach your child to never approach a dog that is eating or sleeping, or to try to steal the dog’s food. A child should never be left alone with a dog.
Taking Care of Your Boxer
Your Boxer needs to be healthy and happy to live the life you want him to live, so it’s important to know how to care for him properly, especially if you just got him from a breeder or you rescued him from an animal shelter. Here are five tips that will help keep your Boxer as healthy as possible.
5 Tips to Keep Your Boxer Healthy
1. Make sure you feed your boxer on time
One of the most important ways to ensure that your boxer is healthy is by making sure you feed them on time. Dogs are naturally very active creatures, so you don’t want them sitting around while they’re waiting for their next meal. Get used to feeding your boxer at specific times each day and train them to associate food with meals and treats, not as a random gift whenever you come home from work.
2. Always take your boxer out for walks
Taking your boxer out for regular walks is a great way to bond with and keep your dog healthy. A daily walk will help him relieve pent-up energy, socialize with other dogs, and get his daily dose of fresh air and sunshine. It’s also a great way for you to stay in shape; if walking isn’t your thing, take advantage of community dog parks or hiking trails nearby where you can all go together!
3. Take him to see the vet regularly
Visiting your vet once a month is necessary for taking care of your boxer’s health. The vet will check up on his overall wellness and make sure that he has no health issues or infections.
They’ll also help you prevent health problems by advising you on what diet or exercise regimen will work best for your Boxer’s lifestyle. If you notice any changes in his behavior or habits, especially concerning appetite, it’s important to take him to see his vet right away; it could save his life.
4. Know when it’s time to take him in
While most dogs can be left alone for a few hours, it’s not recommended that you leave your dog home alone all day. If your dog spends a lot of time outside, he may be more susceptible to weather changes and other environmental hazards.
If you want him inside during working hours or while you’re away from home (even if just for a couple of hours), Make sure you give him enough toys so he doesn’t get bored.
Make time for regular vet visits: While some Boxers will have health issues related specifically to their breed—such as brachycephalic syndrome or hip dysplasia—other ailments may appear due to poor nutrition, insufficient exercise, exposure to extreme temperatures and other factors.
5. Train him using positive reinforcement
Positive reinforcement is a dog training method that uses treats and praise to reward desired behaviors. It’s more effective and enjoyable than punishment-based training, which often uses corrections with prong collars or other forceful tools.
In addition to being more humane, positive reinforcement can make it easier for you and your pup to form a better bond. It also helps avoid some typical behavior problems such as housebreaking issues, jumping up on people, pulling on leashes, barking at passersby, or fighting with other dogs.
If you want to learn how to train your dog using positive reinforcement, ask your vet or an experienced trainer for advice.
This guide to owning a European Boxer dog should provide you with all of the facts you need to make an informed decision about whether or not a European Boxer would be a good fit for your household. The European Boxer is an intelligent dog breed, with lots of energy, which will require plenty of exercises.