Unique Physical Features
- Expressive eyes
- Large, deep chest
- Lots of jowls, which means lots of drool!
- The underbite
- Flat faces (brachycephalic)
Unique Personality
You’ll always know how a Boxer is feeling! They’re expressive, fun-loving, and silly. But if they feel like their family is in danger, they’re excellent guardians and protectors. Full of energy and seemingly boundless joy, this breed is ready to go-go-go. They were bred as working dogs but make loving companions - quite adept at snuggling on the couch, many think they’re lap dogs. Though their medium size makes this a bit difficult, that doesn’t stop them from trying. As great contortionist, a Boxer will twist their body into a donut or pretzel shape and try their best to fit in your lap so they can be closer to you.
Preferred Lifestyle
Energy Level
With Kids
Labs are known to do very well with children.
With Other Pets
Having other pets in the household is just fine with Labs. Be sure to socialize Lab puppies with other animals to set them up for success.
Environment
They do best in a home with a yard and active family but can adapt to city life if they’re given appropriate outlets for their energy.
Average Lifespan
(Range)
8 to 12 years
Average Size
(Range)
50 - 80 pounds
Breed Group
Working
Similar Breeds
- English Bulldog
- Bull Mastiff
- Great Dane
- Dogue de Bordeaux
- Staffordshire Bull Terrier
History of the Boxer
The Boxer breed was developed in Germany toward the end of the 19th century. They’re descendants of the Bullenbeiser, a breed used for hunting large game. The Boxer’s ancestry can be traced back even further to the Molossian dogs of 2000 B.C., who were the foundation for many European breeds like the Great Dane, Mastiffs, Bulldogs, and terriers. Molossians were a strong, large-headed breed used in Assyria for hunting and as war dogs. They made their way across the European continent over time, particularly during the Roman conquest. Over time, the Molossian breed evolved into the Bullenbeisser, which became popular in Germany and Belgium due to their versatility and skill taking down large game.
Changes Over Time
Before the Napoleonic wars, the Bullenbeisers were primarily kept by nobility who could afford to care for large packs of hunting dogs. But after 1800, these dogs began working for butchers and cattle drivers. Over time, they grew smaller in size and took on the role of family dog and guardian. In 1895, the first Boxer breed club was formed in Munich, Germany. This club created the breed standard and held the first dog show exhibiting the Boxer .
U.S. History of the Boxer Over Time
While the American Kennel Club recognized the breed in 1904, it didn’t gain popularity in the States until the mid-20th century. According to the American Boxer Club, Boxers bred in the United States can trace their lineage back to the “Four Horsemen of American Boxerdom,” four male Boxers imported from Germany named Sigurd, Dorian, Utz, and Lustig. One of Dorian’s descendants, named Bang Away, won Best in Show at the Westminster Dog Show in 1951 and the breed’s popularity in the United States took off. As a result, they’ve consistently ranked in the top 10 most popular dog breeds.
While not much has changed in the breed standard since the original was created in 1895, the cropping of Boxers’ ears when they are puppies has fallen out of fashion. The cropped ear is usually only seen in Boxers bred for the show ring, but in 2005 the American show standard began to allow the natural ear. More and more Boxer puppies are also being left with their full tail in Europe and around the world.
Boxer Behavior and Training
Boxers were bred as working dogs and have been used in a variety of roles over their history, from police dogs to therapy dogs. It’s important to provide them with appropriate outlets for their energy and give them the attention they crave. Boxers love being with their people and are known for being both guardian and comforter.
Boxers are a smart breed that might lose interest in training unless it’s varied, fun, and positive (which is better for human learners too!). The breed’s lineage includes mastiffs, bulldogs, and terriers, bred to be hard-working and able to think independently. It’s all about building solid, positive training habits from puppyhood and knowing your Boxer’s motivators.
Boxers do best with consistent positive reinforcement training. Many love working for food (who doesn’t?), but also find toys and play with their human very rewarding.

TRAINING MYTH
Many people describe Boxers as being a “headstrong” and tough-to-train breed, but this just isn’t true! It all comes down to knowing what motivates them and using it to your advantage. They’re descendants of the bulldog and terrier breeds, created specifically to work independently and not give up, so a little hard-headedness is to be expected. With positive reinforcement training methods and consistency, a Boxer is a joy to train and will be an excellent companion. Boxers can also be sensitive to harsh scolding or yelling. Punishments, whether verbal or physical, not only damage the relationship between a Boxer and their owner but also tend not to work in the long run. Often, it creates long-term behavioral issues. By focusing on teaching a Boxer what to do, rather than on unwanted behaviors, they’ll be well-behaved and happy dogs!
Plays Well with Others?
- Boxers are natural guardians, making them somewhat cautious and reserved when meeting new people. But once you’ve become a friend, they’re much more comfortable showing you their goofy side. Due to their protective nature, proper proactive exposure to new sights, sounds, people, dogs, and other animals as a young puppy is essential for their socialization skills.

TRAINER TIP
Pair meeting new people or animals with high-value training treats or a favorite toy, and keep introductions short and sweet so it doesn’t get overwhelming.
- Boxers are a frequent breed choice for families with children. They’re playful, protective, and can tolerate the physical handling of young kids when properly socialized. Their medium to large size might be a bit overwhelming for small children, and their exuberant Boxer nature could lead to the occasional knock down. Introducing your Boxer to children as a puppy will help set them up for success. Young children and dogs should always be supervised, and it’s helpful for a dog to have their own “safe space” where they can go when they need some quiet time.
- When it comes to animal buddies in the home, it’s once again, all about socialization. Boxers can enjoy and benefit from the companionship of other animals. But be aware, they’re high-energy, rough-and-tumble players that can overpower and scare other dogs. They also have prey instincts that can make it difficult to pair them with cats or smaller animals. Start teaching proper play behaviors while your Boxer is a puppy. And it’s important to always supervise play between a Boxer and other dogs to keep it fun for everyone.

Exercise Requirements
Daily exercise is so important for this bouncy working breed. Boxers need more than just a daily walk. They make good jogging partners. Just be cautious with exercise in warmer temperatures or high humidity, and provide lots of breaks and water. Boxers, like all flat-faced breeds, should always be monitored for heatstroke symptoms, which often include: heavy panting, drooling, bright red tongue or gums, rapid pulse, and wide, panicked eyes.
Speak with your veterinarian about appropriate exercise for a Boxer puppy. Until they are full-grown (bone growth plates typically all close by around 12 to 18 months of age), avoid jogging or running beyond what they would do on their own. This helps minimize risk of damage to the growing bone and cartilage, which can cause pain and future joint issues.

VETERINARIAN TIP
While a tired dog might be a good dog, puppy exercise shouldn’t be forced or “pushed” in any way. Follow your puppy’s lead in the amount of activity they are able to do. If they’re slowing down, and certainly if they stop and sit down, it’s time for some rest and recovery. In some cases they might have FOMO (fear of missing out) and try to “keep up” with you or another dog in the family. Keep a watchful eye and make sure to not let them push too far or over-exert themselves.
Mental Enrichment Needs
A variety of mental enrichment is essential for a happy and well-behaved Boxer. They are always looking for what to do next. It’s important to keep their focus on acceptable behaviors, otherwise, they might decide digging up your backyard or chewing a hole in your wall is a great idea.
You can work their brains by teaching new tricks, attending obedience classes, joining a dog sport, and providing dog puzzles and interactive toys. Boxers are athletes and love to play fetch — tap into their strengths and sign up for Flyball!
Activities Boxers Enjoy
- Flyball
- Agility
- Nosework
- Therapy Dog
- Rally Obedience
- Search and Rescue
Boxer Coat Type
Boxers have a short, smooth, single-layer coat that’s easy to maintain. But this short fur doesn’t provide much insulation, so it’s a good idea to bundle them up with booties and a sweater or jacket when it’s cold. They come in fawn (ranging from red to tan), brindle, or white colors and patterns. White Boxers are more likely to be deaf, as the same piebald gene that causes white coloring is also linked to congenital deafness.
Shedding Level

2 out of 5 piles of fur
Grooming Requirements
- Low Maintenance

Boxers need weekly brushing, which helps evenly distribute the natural oils in their coat and remove any dirt and shedding fur. Regular bathing is recommended for this breed as well, with special care to keep their face wrinkles clean and dry, which keeps the yeast and bacterial populations in check and prevents uncomfortable and recurrent infections. Introduce your puppy to the grooming experience from a young age to create a positive association and make lifelong grooming easy for everyone.
Best Brush for a Boxer: Bristle brush, rubber curry brush
Famous Owners of the Boxer
- Justin Timberlake & Jessica Biel (Singer, Actress)
- Kate Upton (Model)
- Lauren Bacall & Humphrey Bogart (Actors)
- Billie Holiday (Singer)
- Jennifer Lopez (Singer/Actress)
- Greg Biffle (Race Car Driver)
- Chelsea Handler (Comedian)
- Bette Davis (Actress)
- Tom Hardy (Actor)
- Luke Perry (Actor)
Famous Boxers
Punch and Judy were a heroic duo who received Dickin Medal awards for saving British officers during World War II.
Non-Endorsement Statement: The social media posts displayed here do not imply any endorsement of these people or products, nor does it imply they endorse Trupanion or our product.
Common Health Conditions for the Boxer Breed
Use the chart of Trupanion claims data below to find out what health conditions happen most frequently for Boxers. Every Boxer is unique, but understanding what health conditions are likelier to occur can help you be a more prepared pet owner.
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Kelly
Groton, CT
Condition: Sarcoma
The Trupanion policy paid: $18,522.39
"My golden Kelly was young when I found a softball-sized lump on Kelly’s left hind leg. Four weeks straight of radiation, six rounds of chemo and checkups every three months, including x-rays and full blood panel were needed. Because of Trupanion, I didn’t have to address the biggest deciding factor that most people face—can I afford this? I can honestly say Kelly is alive today because of the financial support Trupanion provided."
- Lori

Axl
Ontario, Canada
Condition: Pneumonia, Hip Dysplasia, Lameness
The Trupanion policy paid: $2,084.01
"At two, our German shepherd Axl was diagnosed with pneumonia. Trupanion took care of all our financial concerns. At four, his hip issues led to pain medications, rehabilitation and rest, which all resulted in improved pain-free movement. I’m so grateful that we chose a plan that not only covers the cost of his treatment but also any physical therapy or rehabilitation he may need."
- Nanette K.
Bella
Ellijay, GA
Condition: Cushing’s disease, tumor, cruciate rupture
The Trupanion policy paid: $15,283.83
"Bella was treated for Cushing’s disease and a pituitary tumor with radiation therapy. Had we not had insurance for her, the decision for her medical care would have been more difficult, as each treatment was expensive. However, because we have Trupanion, these decisions were easier. Rather, we could focus our attention on her treatment and recovery instead of the financial impact these procedures would have on our family."
- Jason P.
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Sources
The information in the Trupanion Breed Guide is robust and always expanding. You can learn more about this breed by exploring this list of all the resources used in its creation:
https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/
http://www.fci.be/en/Nomenclature/
https://www.wikipedia.org/
https://dogtime.com/dog-breeds
http://www.vetstreet.com/
https://www.petfinder.com/
https://www.hillspet.com/
https://www.ckc.ca/en#
http://ankc.org.au/
https://www.ukcdogs.com/
https://wagwalking.com/breed/
https://www.dogster.com/dog-breeds/
https://www.youtube.com/user/AnimalPlanetTV
https://www.youtube.com/user/NationalGeographic
https://adbadog.com/
https://ckcusa.com/
https://americanboxerclub.org/