Boxer
Group: Working
Lifespan: 11-14 Years
Pups per Litter: 2-10
Average Weight: 50-70 lbs.
Average Height: 21-25 inches
Exercise/Actvity Level: Moderate
Temperment with:
Children 
Other Dogs Other Animals
History
The Boxer was originally bred in Germany. The were created by breeding two types of German Mastiff, the Barenbeiszer and the Bullenbeiszer. They were then cross bred with a Bulldog and a Mastiff . The name itself comes from the fighting style the dog has, it looks as if they are punching their opponents. They were used as fighting dogs, hunting, for pulling competition, and bull baiting. These dogs were very aggressive, but have had that characteristic bred out, and today are so loving and sweet that it is hard to imagine these dogs were the same breed!
Traits
The Boxer is an extremely affectionate dog. They are sweet, happy dogs that think they are lapdogs! Great with children and other pets, the boxer is a perfect family pet. The Boxer thrives on human attention and contact, they are not dogs that should be left alone often as the live for affection from their family. They make excellent guard dogs and are trained today even in Schutzhund, which is a German guard training sport for dogs.
Appearance
Weighing in at 53-70 lbs (24-32 kgs) and averaging between 21-25 inches high, the Boxer is an athletic strong dog. They have a short muzzle, and the face looks as if it was squished in. The jaw is strong and they have an under bite. Boxers have a short, smooth coat that can come in white, red, brindle, and fawn. They have floppy ears, but some owners prefer to crop them. The also have long tails but those as well are docked for show purposes. Their neck is very strong and muscular which was used to pull carts for competition.
Health
The Boxer, being a short faced breed, is prone to breathing difficulties. Also since they are deep chested dogs, they are prone to Bloat, Cardiomyopathy, Sub Aortic Stenosis, and heart problems. Boxers are also prone to skin allergies and Hip Dysplasia.
Training
The Boxer is a bright and responsive breed and will need consistent clear training. They will need to be socialized well as puppies as some can have dominance problems if that is not straightened out at an early age. They tend to pick up tricks and obedience quickly and would excel in obedience, agility, and weight pulling contests.
Care
The Boxer is a low maintenance breed as they have a short coat and only need to be brushed once every week or two. They shed an average amount of fur and are relatively clean animals, often compared to cats!
Breed
This breed is categorized in the Working Group. They would do well in an apartment if they are given daily exercise or if they had access to a yard to run around in. Boxers are climate sensitive, so they will become very cold or very hot quite easily so extra attention should be brought to them in those situations. The average lifespan of a Boxer is 11-14 years. They have on average 2-10 pups per litter. When obtaining a puppy Boxer, keep in mind that every puppy is different and to research your breed before bringing the baby home!
Reference pages for Information:
http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/boxer.htm Boxer Breed Information
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Boxer_(dog) Boxer Information
http://www.boxer-rescue-la.com Boxer Rescue
http://www.americanboxerclub.org Boxer Club of America
http://www.akc.org/breeds/boxer/ Boxer AKC Standards
