Boxer
Complete Breed Guide
"Throw the ball!!!"
Quick Facts About Boxers
Working
65–80 lbs
21–25"
No
Based on current listing prices on Puppies.com. Results may vary.
Overview
Boxers may seem serious, but their looks are deceptive. Behind that long face is a playful, clownish pup that wants to be the family's best friend. They’ll often follow you wherever you may roam, waiting for any opportunity to fetch a ball, gobble up a treat, or give you a big, wet kiss.
Don’t let the serious face fool you. Behind that long expression is a silly companion that’s ready to play—anytime, anywhere. Boxers are cheerful, intelligent, and protective of their families. They love being right by your side and filling their bellies with yummy treats, so be prepared for them to get rowdy whenever food is near. In fact, they may just jump up and grab it themselves if you aren’t fast enough to pull it away. Boxers’ jumping talents and overall agility also make them great at sports, which they enjoy and learn quickly. When they do a good job, be sure to give them lots of love. They can never get enough!
Temperament and Behavior
Boxers are smart, happy-go-lucky friends that will stay by your side through thick and thin. They make wonderful guardians and become very close to their families, often following them wherever they go with a toy in tow. Boxers’ faces may make them seem serious, but once you interact with them, you’ll see their high-energy, playful side (accompanied by slobbery, drool-filled kisses). Snoring and flatulence are also common in Boxers, so get your ear plugs and nose plugs ready.
Coat & Grooming
Boxers have a short, shiny coat that’s smooth to the touch. Their most common colors are fawn (light tan, yellow, or light reddish), brindle (light or dark stripes), and red. Most Boxers have a black mask around their noses and jaws. Some dogs also have white markings called “flashings” on their stomachs, chest, and feet. This breed is an average shedder that only needs occasional brushing, which helps removes dead skin from their coat too.
Lifestyle & Living Conditions
Boxers love human companionship and get along well with kids and other pets. However, they’re naturally inclined to protect you, so they may be aggressive toward foreign dogs and strangers. This breed is powerful and mischievous, so early training and socialization will help them develop good habits from a young age. Female Boxers are known for fighting each other on occasion, so keep an eye on them to prevent them from taking it too far. These dogs aren’t fans of extreme weather (either hot or cold), so they should live indoors with you and your family.
Exercise & Activity
Boxers need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. They love long walks every day and space to run around. These dogs also enjoy playing fetch or other games. They can live in apartments if they get enough exercise, but they prefer homes with yards so they can run and play. Lonely Boxers that aren’t active can become stressed and destroy things, so the busier you keep them, the happier they’ll be.
Characteristics at-a-glance
Ratings are on a scale of 1–10, based on breed standards and typical temperament.
Boxer FAQs
Common questions about the Boxer breed, answered by our editorial team.
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