Did you know?

These dogs were named for the way they play. At the beginning of play with another dog, a Boxer will stand on his hind legs and ‘box’ using his front paws.

Boxer

Inside every Newfoundland, Boxer, Elkhound and Great Dane is a puppy longing to climb on to your lap. – Hellen Thomson

“Kash”

Developed at the end of the nineteenth century in Munich, Germany, Boxers are the result of crossing a mastiff-type breed with the English Bulldog. They were created to be a medium sized security dog but were also once used for fighting and bull baiting.

The Boxer is a versatile dog, serving multiple purposes of guard, working and escort dog. He has the speed, dexterity and jumping ability required for arduous hiking, riding expeditions, and police or military duty.

Projecting an appearance of elegant power, over the years Boxers have become loyal, affectionate pets and fearless guard dogs.

Photos displayed courtesy of Jean and Darwin Hayes, Eclipse Reg’d, Saskatchewan

Standing up to 25 inches (64 cm) tall at the shoulder, Boxers are medium-sized, strong, and agile dogs with short, smooth coats. They may be any shade of fawn or brindle with white markings. Typically they have their ears cropped as in the adult picture above. However, new legislation forbids the cropping of tails and ears. As a result we are seeing more and more dogs with their natural floppy ears.

This breed is exuberant, energetic, and active, and therefore should have a fenced yard to play in, but will be fine in a city environment if walked daily. While they are playful, affectionate, and friendly, Boxers are also headstrong and high-energy. They should be socialized from an early age and will benefit from obedience training. Boxers are very intelligent and this, coupled with their dynamic personality, can make training interesting. You must be a patient master who will persist with the training even when he’s at his most frustrating!