Dog Breeds :: Boxer

Owning
The Boxer is an alert, self-assured, and fearless dog. The Boxer is a playful and fun-loving dog who is often called the ''Peter Pan'' of the dog world as they seem to maintain that youthful exuberance. The Boxer's coat is short and only requires a quick weekly brushing.

Characteristics
Height--Adult males 22½ to 25 inches; females 21 to 23½ inches at the withers, preferably, males should not be under the minimum nor females over the maximum: however, proper balance and quality in the individual should be of primary importance since there is no size disqualification. Proportion--The body in profile is of square proportion in that a horizontal line from the front of the forechest to the rear projection of the upper thigh should equal the length of a vertical line dropped from the top of the withers to the ground. Substance--Sturdy with balanced musculature. Males larger boned than their female counterparts.

Temperament
These are of paramount importance in the Boxer. Instinctively a ''hearing'' guard dog, his bearing is alert, dignified and self-assured. With family and friends, his temperament is fundamentally playful, yet patient and stoical with children. Deliberate and wary with strangers, he will exhibit curiosity but, most importantly, fearless courage if threatened. However, he responds promptly to friendly overtures honestly rendered. His intelligence, loyal affection and tractability to discipline make him a highly desirable companion. Faults--Lack of dignity and alertness. Shyness.

Did you know?
The Boxer is a working dog developed in Germany from several other breeds, including the Bulldog and Great Dane. It is called a Boxer because it strikes out with its front paws when it fights. The first AKC registration of a Boxer was in 1904, and the first championship was finished in 1915. 11 Boxers were registered with the AKC in 1930, 1,024 in 1940, 21,238 in 1950, 14,228 in 1960, 11,483 in 1970, 14,901 in 1980, and 23,659 in 1990.

AKC Recommends
The American Kennel Club recommends that anyone interested in a breed should take the time to thoroughly learn about that breed, talk to responsible and knowledgeable breeders and seek out the resources of the AKC national club formed by individuals devoted to preserving and protecting their breed for future generations. The AKC offers links to the official national Club of this breed - the club's officers, breeder referral, and breed rescue contact persons.